The enchanted Island
- 5 days, 4 nights
- Limited Group
- Self-Drive Guided Expedition
- Ponta Delgada - Sete Cidades - Ferraria - Furnas - Nordeste - Vila Franca do Campo - Ponta Delgada
Hiking trails, volcanoes, and nature
A carefully planned expedition through one of Portugal's most extraordinary landscapes.
The Enchanted Island is a five-day expedition across São Miguel, designed for discerning groups seeking a more authentic Azores experience: stunning volcanic landscapes, Atlantic wildlife, thermal waters, exquisite hospitality, and self-guided exploration in all-terrain vehicles.
The trip strikes a balance between adventure and comfort. Guests transition from the cosmopolitan energy of Ponta Delgada to crater lakes, coastal viewpoints, tea plantations, rural culture, and the geothermal atmosphere of Furnas—all with expert guidance from DRIVEXPLORE and carefully planned moments along the way.
Ricardo Leal dos Santos — Founder of DRIVEXPLORE®
Program overview
The Expedition's Journey
A five-day program designed around discovery, flavors, and the pleasure of exploring extraordinary landscapes.
1
Day 1
Grand Encounter with the Seven Cities
The expedition begins with vehicle assignment, a "drive fit" session, and an initial briefing, followed by the "push start" that marks the beginning of the journey to discover São Miguel. The off-road route takes us to the Vigia das Baleias Viewpoint in Feteiras, where the Atlantic reveals itself in all its vastness.
We then continue along the Cumeeiras Altas, enjoying superb views of the Sete Cidades Lagoon—one of the island's most iconic landscapes. After lunch, the afternoon concludes with a dip in the natural thermal pools at Ponta da Ferraria, followed by sunset and dinner.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Lunch and dinner included
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
2
Day 2
The volcano crater: Blue Lagoon
The journey takes us to the Vista do Rei Viewpoint, the starting point for one of the expedition's most memorable experiences. From there, we descend into the crater of the dormant volcano, traversing lush green landscapes and paths that reveal the island's volcanic origins.
After lunch, the afternoon brings us closer to rural Azorean life through an experience involving interaction with dairy cows and traditions linked to local production. We then continue through the iconic fishing village of Rabo de Peixe before concluding the day with a gourmet dinner.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
3
Day 3
In pursuit of the giants of the sea
This stage swaps dirt trails for the Atlantic on a nautical expedition dedicated to whale and dolphin watching. Amidst the deep sea and the marine biodiversity of the Azores, the morning offers one of the trip's most memorable encounters.
After lunch in Vila Franca do Campo, we visited its islet, one of São Miguel’s most iconic natural landmarks. The return to the hotel marks the end of the day, concluding with a wine dinner designed to highlight the island's flavors.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Pequeno-Almoço, Almoço e Jantar incluídos
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
4
Day 4
Gorreana, the oldest tea plantation in Europe
The journey of discovery continues toward Monte Escuro, traversing lush green landscapes, high-altitude paths, and scenery that reveals the natural power of São Miguel. The route then leads to the coastal area of Caloura, where lunch highlights local flavors and the proximity to the Atlantic.
In the afternoon, we stop by the São Brás Lagoon before heading to the Gorreana Tea Plantation—the oldest still-operating tea plantation in Europe. Amidst lush green fields, family tradition, and unique aromas, we discover one of the island's most distinctive experiences before arriving in Furnas.
An exclusive dinner at one of the island's most highly recommended venues.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Pequeno-Almoço, Almoço e Jantar incluídos
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
5
Day 5
When nature surprises
The final stage reveals some of São Miguel’s most striking scenery, featuring the ascent to the Salto do Cavalo Viewpoint and the Graminhais area. Amidst sweeping landscapes, lush vegetation, and commanding views of the island, the route reinforces the profound connection between nature, altitude, and silence.
After lunch, we traverse Tronqueira Natural Park, one of the island's wildest and most pristine areas. The afternoon concludes at Terra Nostra Park—amidst historic gardens, tropical vegetation, and thermal waters—followed by the return of the vehicles, a farewell gift, and the conclusion of the expedition.
Duration of Activities
From morning to afternoon
Meals
Pequeno-Almoço & almoço incluídos
Routes and operational details are adapted based on weather, logistics, the group's profile, supplier availability, and local conditions.
Expedition overview
At a Glance
| ELEMENT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
|
Expedition |
The Enchanted Island |
|
Duration |
5 Days – 4 Nights |
|
Location |
São Miguel, Azores, Portugal — including regional exploration, offering an exclusive getaway where pristine landscapes and rare natural beauty come together to create a truly distinctive experience |
|
Format |
Autonomous guided off-road trip in premium off-road vehicles |
|
Group base |
Minimum of 2 participants and one 4x4 vehicle on a self-drive basis, accompanied by a lead vehicle |
|
Difficulty |
Average — approximately 75 km daily on unpaved roads + 70 km on paved roads |
|
Support |
Professional DRIVEXPLORE® guide and dedicated 4x4 support vehicle |
|
Pillars of Experience |
Adventure · Culture · Gastronomy · Wine · Nature · High-End Hospitality |
Off-Road Driving
Food & wine
Nature
Local Culture
Premium Stays
Highlights of the Experience
Our Experiences
Every moment of the expedition was designed to connect you with the authentic character of the Azores—through the driving, the cuisine, the culture, and the landscape.
Scenic Discovery "Off Road"
Drive state-of-the-art off-road vehicles through carefully selected environments that reveal the character of southern Portugal. The experience is adventurous, yet fully guided and assisted.
Gastronomy and Wines
The program celebrates the region's gastronomic and wine culture through carefully selected meals, tastings, and regional references—reserved for after all driving activities are completed.
Culture, Heritage and Authenticity
Access cultural and heritage references, traditional villages, monuments, local stories and regional crafts. The focus is on understanding the identity and atmosphere of each region.
Nature
Accommodation options are selected to reflect the character and culture of the region — boutique hotels, historic properties, charming rural hotels, and wine tourism projects.
Package Details
What's included
Included
- 5 night stay at selected hotels
- Pre and post-expedition programs with preferential rates through our partner network
- Expedition vehicles, fuel, and tools
- Professional guide and operational team
- Scheduled meals featuring regional cuisine
- Non-alcoholic beverages with meals
- Cultural and gastronomic activities
- Entrance fees for monuments and guided tours
- Water, snacks, and Wi-Fi during the trip*
- Liability and personal accident insurance
Not Included
- International airfare and transfers
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
- Upgrades, spa treatments and additional services
- Private chauffeur service (available upon request and prior quotation)
Note
Additional rooms are available upon request and subject to an additional charge.
* Internet connectivity may be limited in certain more remote areas.
Fleet
Next-Generation Vehicles
DRIVEXPLORE® operates a fleet of over 30 premium off-road vehicles, prepared for off-road driving and equipped for maximum comfort.
Participation
Participation Requirements
Designed for active travelers who value adventure, authenticity, and premium experiences.
| REQUIREMENTS | DETALHES |
|---|---|
|
Eligibility to Drive |
Drivers must have a valid and legally recognized driver's license in Portugal, with at least 5 years of driving experience. DRIVEXPLORE® may refuse vehicle authorization if safety concerns arise. |
|
Physical Conditioning |
A normal level of physical fitness is recommended for active travel. Participants should be comfortable with road trips, light walking, exposure to inclement weather, and itinerary flow. |
|
Clothing and Equipment |
It is recommended to bring comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, waterproof gear, personal medication, and compact luggage. |
|
Baggage |
One checked bag weighing up to 23 kg, one carry-on bag, and one backpack per participant. |
|
Responsibility for Health |
Customers must report any medical conditions that may affect participation and complete the mandatory Health and Fitness Form. |
|
Travel Insurance |
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory, covering trip cancellation, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, civil liability, and repatriation. |
|
Meteorology |
Certain activities are subject to weather conditions and may be adjusted for safety, comfort, or logistical reasons. |
|
Children |
Children aged 8 and older are permitted. |
|
Driving |
Participants must comply with local laws, safety instructions, and guide's instructions throughout the expedition. |
General Conditions
General Conditions
The following conditions apply to all DRIVEXPLORE® shipments and form part of the commercial agreement.
| Condition | Detail |
|---|---|
|
Itinerary flexibility |
The itinerary order may be adjusted due to logistical issues, traffic, or adverse weather conditions. |
|
Supplier Flexibility |
Hotel and restaurant options may vary depending on partner availability; a high level of excellence is guaranteed in all regions. |
|
Support Team |
All expeditions are led by a professional DRIVEXPLORE® guide in a dedicated 4×4 support vehicle. |
|
Private driver |
Private driver services can be arranged upon request and prior quotation. |
|
Alcohol and Driving |
Alcohol consumption is permitted only after driving has ended. Zero tolerance policy for drunk driving. |
|
Daily Kit |
A daily kit containing water and snacks is provided for each vehicle. |