Trip Code: TSZ Country: Portugal Amended: September 2013 Edition No: OP 1 2014 Valid from: Sep 2013 - Dec 2014 WALKING IN THE AZORES Trip Notes HIGHLIGHTS Visit & explore four unique islands Enjoy vineyards, volcanoes and hot springs Walk around the tranquil waters of Lagoa do Fogo SUMMARY It is hard to believe that the Azores are part of Europe. Born from the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean, this lush green archipelago of volcanic islands is a far cry from its mainland government of Portugal. Be it pocked with steep craters, a haven for wildlife or a place of historic interest, each of the nine islands is quite unique and ideally explored on foot. We visit the very best that these islands have to offer, walking through UNESCO vineyards, lava plateaux (or fajas ) and sunken volcanoes.. IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU? This is a moderate walking trip. No experience is necessary; those who take weekend hill walks in areas like the Peak District or Cotswolds at home should manage a moderate-grade trek; good health and reasonable fitness are important. These Moderately graded departures are either fairly easy medium-duration walks or harder, shorter walks. The paths we use are generally flat and well maintained but some of the routes cross rougher terrain with longer ascents and descents. Some of the paths are quite narrow with stony underfoot and require walking in single file. On some occasions you will be walking on more coarse volcanic rock, so it is advidsed to be used to walking in more durable walking boots, especially over these sections. The area is also subject to rain and high winds at any time so it is best to be prepared for this before you travel. On departures in May and September, it is best to bring warm clothes in case of colder weather. LAND ONLY ITINERARY The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the meals included (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Day 1 Start Ponta Delgada. Day 2 After breakfast we transfer to the airport for a short flight to Pico island. As you come in to land the imposing figure of Mount Pico, Portugal's largest peak, dominates the landscape. Pico is also known as the 'black island' due to the black volcanic earth which is used to construct the walls of many of the UNESCO vinyards that this island is famed for. After landing we then head out on our first walking tour of the Santa Luzia Vineyards. Azorian vinyards are a sight to behold. Built as a means to protect the precious vines from a battering of the harsh sea winds, the result is row after row of black horseshoe shapes that score the lush green coastline. What is more impressive is how the vine grows on the ground and through volcanic rock, rather than supported by a trellis though soil. There will be time to try the wine in the Lagido de Santa Luzia where you will be explained the typical ways of how wines and brandies are produced on the island. We will then take a ferry across to the neighbouring island of Faial where we check into our hotel in Horta, our base for the next 3 days (time of trekking: 3 hours). (B,L) Day 3 In the morning we transfer to the Sao Roque harbour back on Pico island where we take a short transfer by ferry (approx 35 minutes) to Sao Jorge island or the 'brown island'. Shortly after arrival in Velas we transfer to the start of the walking tour from Caldeira do Santo Cristo to Faja dos Cubres. Sao Jorge is a fascinating spearlike island that cuts through the ocean with steepsided cliffs, however it is the Fajas (low-lying areas of lava that were formed from the subsidence of the cliffs) that it is most famed for. Sao Jorge is also well known throughout the Azores for producing some delicious cheese, which Exodus Travels Grange Mills, Weir Road, London SW12 0NE Sales & Reservations: 0845 863 9616 E-mail: sales@exodus.co.uk
is one of it's main exports. After arriving at Faja dos Cubres we then take a transfer back to Velas and across the channel back to Pico and Faial (time of trekking: 2.5 hours). (B,L) Day 4 As today is a free day you have the chance to try out many of the other activities that the Azores have to offer. Apart from offering some unique walking opportunities, the Azores is perhaps one of the best places on the planet to spot whales and dolphins. There are 80 species of whales and dolphins and 25 of them have been sighted off the coast of the Azores, with the most common being Sperm Whale. There is also the chance to spot Bottlenose dolphin, Short-finned pilot whale, Sei whales, Atlantic spotted dolphin and the grail - the Blue whale. If you choose to go on an excursion, you will have the chance to observe the behaviour of these cetaceans and learn more about their habitat with the help of the knowledgeable local experts on board. We should always respect their environment and therefore during times of feeding or resting times, we avoid any interference and maintain our distance. If you feel that you would like to continue walking and have wondered what the view would look like from the top of Portugal's largest mountain then today is the perfect opportunity to attempt this. (B) Day 5 Today we explore the island we have been staying on for the last two days. Faial is known as the 'blue island' because of the large quantity of hydrangeas that bloom during the summer months. The trail begins at the forest park or 'Trupes do Capelo' and finishes at the Capelinhos Volcano. Rising forcefully from the sea this volcano shows off just how dramatic nature can be. It's unique formation has even earnt it the construction of a modern interpretative centre which helps us understand not only this volcano but the formation of the entire island. We then return to Horta for a late lunch at Peter's Café Sport, a traditional resting point for many sailors braving the Atlantic crossing. After lunch you will be guided round one of the largest scrimshaw collections in the world that shows the variations of designs with an art form that was prolific during the whaling period. In the late afternoon we transfer to the airport for our flight back to Ponta Delgada (time of trekking: 2.5 hours). (B,L) Day 6 After a hearty breakfast we head into the lush centre of Soa Miguel to Barrosa's mountain where we get a sense of why this island has earned its nickname the 'green island'. Today's walk begins with following a 'lavada' (small water channel) close to which you will find some well preserved species of endemic Azorian flora.the highlight of this walk is arriving at the viewpoint over the Lagoa do Fogo, one of the most beautiful volcanic lakes in the entire Azores network. In the afternoon we drive to Sete Cidades, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal. From Vista do Rei, we are rewarded with breath taking views of tranquil lakes, blue hydrangeas bordering the crater rim that contrast with the steep sides of the crater. On the return to Ponta Delgada we stop off at Caldeira Velha waterfall for a well earned dip in it's warm waters (time of trekking: 4 hours). (B,L) Day 7 On the final day we head to Furnas where we walk around the crater lake to volcanic vents, where food is cooked by the heat of vents after it has been buried in sealed pots in the baking earth. This traditional Azorian way of cooking is known as 'Cozido das Caldeiras' and will be served for lunch. In the afternoon we head into the Terra Nostra botanical gardens where we have time to wander through and admire exotic flowers and trees from all over the globe. Amongst the trees and bushes a series of aquaducts leads thermal spring water to a pool in the centre of the gardens, where for centries people have been bathing in its medicinal waters. On the return to Ponta Delgada we stop off at the tea plantations of Gorreana where we observe the plantation, the factory and taste some of the local teas (time of trekking: 2 hours). (B,L) Day 8 End Ponta Delgada ACCOMMODATION During the week our nights are split between two fantastic 4-star hotels. Nestled in the heart of Ponta Delgada is the Hotel Cameos. Only a short walk to the sea front, this hotel is ideally located to explore the capital of the Azores and offers a comfortble stay in a traditional part of town. On Faial we use the excellent Hotel do Canal. Affording spectacular views towards the neighbouring island of Pico, this modern hotel sits just 100 metres from the harbour and is the perfect place to relax after a days walking in and around the surrounding islands. Single Accommodation: Single rooms are available at a supplement of 280. FOOD & TRANSPORT Food All breakfasts and 5 lunches are included. Breakfasts are buffet style with a variety on offer including bread, jams cereals, and of course tea and coffee. Lunch is usually provided in pic-nic style, except for day 7 where we sample the traditional Cozido das Coldeiras. In the evening, the leader will recommend local restaurants that serve traditional Azores food, which can be a selection of meat or fish with vegetables and potatoes or rice. Vegetarians are well catered for in Azores as long as the hotels are advised in advance. Transport Transport to and from the airport is by private minibus, which will also transport baggage between hotels. Internal flights are in either 37 or 80-seater propeller planes. Between some of the islands we use the local ferry service. Please note transport for optional activities is not included but will be of the same quality. For Land Only clients, internal flights and transfers to and from the airport are included in the price of the trip. 2
WEATHER AND SEASONALITY Airport Transfers If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged to coincide with the arrival time of the group flight - please check the group flight details 2 weeks before departure. If you do not take this transfer, or miss it, you must make your own way to the joining point at your own expense. If you would like us to organise a private transfer, the cost is 15 (per person each way) and is payable before departure. Please ensure that you provide us with all relevant information at least 2 weeks before departure. Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. RESPONSIBLE TOURISM Azores enjoys a privileged climate with its temperate softened by gentle influence of the Gulf Stream. Temperatures do not vary by much and the average is 13 ºC in winter and 23ºC in summer. Water temperatures varies a little oscillating between 17ºC and 24ºC. Whilst light clothing is recommended for summertime, it is better to dress for cooler and damper weather for Spring and Autumn. Winters are mild yet it often rains meaning waterproofs and warm jackets are essential if travelling between November to February. JOINING THE TRIP IN THE UK 8 days, normally depart London Sat, return Sat Itinerary Start The group flight from London is a daytime flight departing on Day 1 of the itinerary. Flights from London We normally use the scheduled services of SATA (depending on availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly we recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm up-to-date timings. Please note timings may change at a later date and cannot be confirmed until approximately two weeks before departure. Internal flights during the trip are normally with SATA Air Azores. UK Regional Flights The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please visit www.exodus.co.uk/regionaldepartures for a useful overview of the options available, and contact our sales team for expert advice. If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international check in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1½ hours at Heathrow; this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is known to be subject to delays. Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan and operate our trips to the practices of Exodus as a company. Both companies used for our whale and dolphin watching tours respect the animals during times of feeding or resting by maintaining a distance and avoiding any interference. We use a small family-run company in Ponta Delgada who use small boats and in Horta the company plants a tree every time they go to sea to help reduce the carbon impact. Our hotels source as much local food as possible and conserve energy where possible. Leaders are employed locally and are very conscious of environmental concerns so they ensure clients follow them in the best practices to reduce our footprint. For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit: www.exodus.co.uk/responsible-travel PRACTICAL INFORMATION Passports and Visas All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay. It is your responsibility to have the correct personal documents and to obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the regulations of the country you are to visit. The information below is primarily for UK passport holders, and other nationalities should check with their travel agent or the relevant embassies. We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and any subsequent effects. No visa required for UK passport holders. Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required. Airport Transfers Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights. Please note that transfers are not included for clients arriving on any other flight, even if Exodus has booked it. Those arriving from London on non-group flights should read the airport transfer section below for information on reaching the start point. Please check with the Exodus office. JOINING THE TRIP IN PONTA DELGADA 8 days, normally start Ponta Delgada Sat, end Ponta Delgada Sat Itinerary Start Your trip normally starts at our hotel in Ponta Delgada in the evening of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions - sent approximately two weeks before departure. 3
Vaccinations and Health Travel health can often be something people forget about before going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad. There are no specific health risks on this trip. The above information can change at short notice; as we are not qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we strongly recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up-to-date information. Insurance - are you adequately covered? You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining a trip which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are resident in the UK we strongly recommend Exodus travel insurance, which is specifically designed to cover all activities on your trip. If you are a UK citizen and travelling in Europe you should obtain the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from your Post Office. This gives free medical care in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Local Time GMT - 1 hour Group, Staff and Support The group will generally be between 5 and 14 people. There will be a local leader and drivers and local guides where needed. You will have two leaders on this trip. One for the walks on Sao Miguel and one for the walks whilst we stay in Pico. The minimum age of clients on this trip is 16 years. Please note that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian. MONEY MATTERS Currency Information The national currency of Portugal is the Euro (EUR), with an exchange rate of 1.2 to the UK and 0.75 to the US$. Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication. ATM availability/credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques There are cashpoints in both Ponta Helgada and Horta, whilst the hotels also accept major credit cards. Extra Expenses and Spending Money Evening meals vary between 15 for a simple dish (excluding seafood) to 30 per person for an upmarket restaurant. Prices also fluctuate a lot for a simple meal in a café: between 7 and 12. Optional Excursions (approximate costs, depending on group sizes) Ferry from Horta to Pico Island: 3.40 per person one way Whale and dolphin watching: approx. 80. Prices include transfers São Roque do Pico / Madalena Harbour / São Roque do Pico with English Speaking guide; Whale watching in semi-rigid (zodiac boat) or catamaran with English Speaking Skipper & Biologist and entrance in the Whalers' Museum. Climbing Mount Pico: 175 (02/03 persons). 108.30 (04/07 persons). 86.10 (08/10 persons). Prices include transport, guide and pic-nic lunch. Swimming with dolphins: 40 per person (minimum 2 persons). This takes place out in the open ocean where the dolphins are completely wild. The process of choosing a pod to swim with can sometimes take time as it is important to choose a pod that will not become stressed with human interaction. Swimming with sharks: 130 per person for approx. 4 hours (minimum 4 persons - only in June, July, August & September) Minimum for the activity to be confirmed: 4 people Duration: 4 to 5 hours Swimming with sharks takes place in the safety of a cage. Whilst attacks are extremely rare this is just a precaution that is taken. Swimming is with snorkelling equipment provided (the cage will not be totally submerged). It is not necessary to bring diver's certificate. Swimming with Manta Rays: 178 per person for a full day (minimum 6 persons) Minimum for the activity to be confirmed: 6 people Duration: full day Swimming with Manta Rays is a snorkelling activity without a cage. It is not necessary to bring diver's certificate. Tipping (leader and local staff) Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus. Most of our clients wish to give a tip to their guides in appreciation of their help and friendliness. This, of course, is in no way compulsory and depends on the service received. WHAT TO TAKE Essential Equipment and Clothing Comfortable sturdy walking boots Small daypack and water bottle Hat, sunglasses, sun lotion Binoculars Swimming costume Waterproof shell jacket and trousers Warm clothes (or layers are best) for Spring and Autumn departures. Baggage and Baggage Allowance At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on the recommended international carrier for this trip is 0kg. We recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage. As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold luggage is subject to change, we suggest you check www.baa.com and/or the airline's website for the latest information prior to your departure. 4
JOIN THE EXODUS ONLINE COMMUNITY Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can view the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write-ups which have featured in the national media and take advantage of some special deals on travel gear and equipment. In the Compass Café forum you'll find the Departure Lounge where you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you depart. When you get back from your holiday remember to upload your images to the relevant trip page on our website. This helps other people see what our holidays are really like and you'll be entered automatically into our monthly photo competition. To make full use of the Compass Café you'll need to join My Exodus. It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting for? http://www.exodus.co.uk/community IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL CLIENTS Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which can be contacted on 0044 (0) 1582 644 100. Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or at www. exodus.co.uk/about-exodus/essential-information? Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons - climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary. As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and airlines manage their rates to match demand, it is proving harder than ever to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices. Although we endeavour to keep our website as accurate as possible, daily fluctuations mean that our Flight Inclusive price may be out of date. For accurate prices we recommend that you contact one of our Travel Experts, or your Travel Agent. Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of publication. The most up-to-date prices can be found on the Exodus website. Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO HOW TO BOOK YOUR TRIP 1. Check availability Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email. 2. Secure your place You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days. 3. Complete your booking and payment When you re ready to book, go to www.exodus.co.uk for online booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque. Book with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA - The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies paid to us for your trip are fully protected. 5