VILA FRANCA DO CAMPO

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Glass Bottom Boat Tour, a guided tour that takes you on an immersive and educational journey through the Azores Sea. Your adventure begins at Vila Franca do Campo Marina, where a biologist will brief you on the itinerary and provide insight into the marine life, nature, and historical curiosities of the area. Learn about the volcanic past of the Azores, and how it has shaped the marine environment that surrounds the islands. Explore the marine life Discover the unique species that call the Azores Sea home, and gain a greater understanding of the importance of protecting this delicate ecosystem. The tour provides a complete and unforgettable adventure experience, with the opportunity to take a refreshing swim or snorkel in the sea and get up close with the wildlife you've been spotting throughout the journey.

There are a number of beautiful lakes on São Miguel Island, but Lagoa do Fogo is one of the largest and most remote. It is located within the crater of a volcano, on top of one of the island's highest mountains. The volcano, also known as Agua de Pau, is the youngest one on the island and was formed about fifteen thousand years ago. Guided Tour This full-day excursion takes you along the Lagoa do Fogo trail, arriving at the lake in time for a picnic lunch and free time for swimming and sunbathing. You will enjoy roundtrip transportation from your Ponta Delgada lodging. A dirt road leads to the beginning of the pedestrian path, which continues along a Levada for approximately 2 km and reaches a wider area with steep slopes on both sides up to the shore of Lagoa do Fogo. Ascend through Vila Franca do Campo with its islet and stop for a snack next to the lagoon. You will be able to take many fantastic photographs of this incredible lagoon. The trail back to Ponta Delgada passes through an area of endemic vegetation before streaming into pastures as you lower the altitude. There is a stop at the Caloura bathing area or Agua D'Alto beach on the way back to Ponta Delgada.

Ever wanted to dive into whaling history but never had a chance? Well, we’ve got you covered! On this tour, get a chance to deep dive into whaling history and witness an authentic Azorean Whaleboat as you learn about the ancient techniques and heritage of whale spotting. Arrive in Vila Franca do Campo Marina and make your way down to the water's edge and the Marina, which is home to the base and yellow boats. Start your tour with a briefing on the local whaling culture and how it developed. Get to see the original 1945 whaleboat "Senhora de Fátima", the only seaworthy and a completely operable relic of the time in São Miguel. Next, take a vehicle to the "Vigia da Furada'' whaler lookout. Here you will learn how to locate whales using antiquated methods that date back to 1830 and how Azorean whale watching came to be what it is today. Using specialist long-range binoculars to look for whales will be an entirely new and different adventure. Visit Ponta Garça's 1957 Lighthouse for a lighthouse keeper-led tour that will provide you with intriguing information about the structure, its significance for maritime activities and seafarers, and stunning views of the island and ocean.

Unquestionably one of the most exciting Portugual adventures Start your journey with a short, informative briefing introducing you to whales, dolphins, and local wildlife species. You will learn about their natural habitat, communication, migration, behavioral patterns, and also your onboard safety. Follow your guide and Skipper to board your assigned Zodiac boat, and head out to sea. With the help of Lookout, locate your friends and communicate via VHF, in order to get directions to where you will need to travel, initially at a high speed. While marine wildlife can be observed year long, there are over 25 cetacean species that you will come across. Try to spot the resident Sperm Whales and other species on this ride! As you approach your friends carefully, snap as many shots as you can to preserve this memory. Upon your return, stop at the Protected Nature Reserve of Princess Ring Islet of Vila Franca do Campo to get a close look at the volcanic marvel and resident wildlife. This is definitely a trip of a lifetime!