The Soul of
S. Miguel
- 3 days, 2 nights
- Limited Group
- Self-Drive Guided Expedition
- Ponta Delgada - Sete Cidades - Rabo de Peixe - Gorreana - Furnas - Tronqueira - Ponta Delgada
Three Days of Authentic Discovery
The pleasure of driving. The thrill of discovery.
Explore the island at nature's pace, traversing back roads, volcanic landscapes, and places few visitors ever get to see. An expedition designed for those seeking an authentic experience in the Azores.
“An expedition traversing the best trails of this lush Atlantic island, exploring its traditions, landscapes, and experiences.”
Ricardo Leal dos Santos — Founder of DRIVEXPLORE®
Program overview
The Expedition's Journey
A three-day program designed around discovery, flavors, and the pleasure of exploring extraordinary landscapes.
1
Day 1
The volcano crater: a visit to the Blue Lagoon
The expedition begins with vehicle assignment, a test drive, and an initial briefing, before we head to our first major encounter with the volcanic landscape of São Miguel. The off-road route takes us to the Vista do Rei Viewpoint—one of the island's most iconic vistas—before we descend into the crater of the dormant volcano.
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 travel through the iconic fishing village of Rabo de Peixe before concluding the day with a gourmet dinner and an overnight stay in Ponta Delgada.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Lunch and dinner included
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
2
Day 2
Gorreana, the oldest tea plantation in Europe
The day begins with breakfast at the hotel and a briefing, followed by the ascent of Monte Escuro, where we will traverse magnificent green landscapes, high-altitude trails, and scenery that reveals the island's natural power. The route then leads us 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 all of Europe. Amidst lush green fields, family tradition, and unique aromas, we discover one of São Miguel’s most distinctive experiences before arriving in Furnas.
Duration of Activities
Full day
Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
3
Day 3
When nature surprises
The final day begins with breakfast at the hotel and a briefing for the day, before we ascend to the Salto do Cavalo viewpoint and the Graminhais area. Amidst expansive landscapes, lush vegetation, and privileged views over the island, the route reveals some of São Miguel's most breathtaking scenery.
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
Breakfast and lunch included
Accommodation
4 and 5 star hotels
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 Soul Of S. Miguel |
|
Duration |
3 Days – 2 Nights |
|
Location |
São Miguel Island, Azores — including regional exploration and coastal landmarks |
|
Format |
Self-drive guided 4x4 expedition in premium off-road vehicles |
|
Minimum group |
Minimum departure: 2 participants and one self-drive 4x4 vehicle, accompanied by a lead vehicle |
|
Difficulty |
Moderate — approximately 75 km per day on unpaved roads and 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
Gastronomy
Enology
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 Off-Road Discovery
Drive state-of-the-art 4x4 vehicles through carefully selected landscapes that reveal the character of each destination. Adventurous yet fully guided and supported.
Gastronomy and Enology
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
Discover cultural and heritage landmarks, traditional villages, monuments, local stories and regional crafts. The focus is on understanding the identity and atmosphere of each destination.
Selected Stays
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
- 2-night stay in 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.
* Internet connectivity may be limited in certain more remote areas.
Fleet
Next-Generation Vehicles
DRIVEXPLORE® operates a fleet of over 17 premium off-road vehicles—out of a total of 50—prepared for off-road driving and equipped for maximum comfort.
Participation
Participation Requirements
Designed for active travelers who value adventure, authenticity, and premium experiences.
| REQUIREMENT | Customer Guidance |
|---|---|
|
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. |
|
Weather conditions |
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® expeditions 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. |