Science trip to The Azores Azores
6 Days from £980pp
based on a group size of 45 students and 5 free teacher places
We provide transparent and realistic pricing that reflects a full itinerary of engaging activities. As former teachers, we know your time is valuable, so we focus on giving you clear, honest quotes from the outset.
The Azores are a scientist’s playground.
Whether learning about the biodiversity of microscopic life in the hot springs, unlocking Azores’ volcanic past and present at an observatory or whale watching with a marine biologist on hand, this itinerary is packed full of activities that not only compliment the curriculum, they also genuinely wow students.
You can also combine your itinerary with another subject, like geography and depending on your budget and group size, our travel specialists will be able to recommend an itinerary which not only meets your expectations but also offers excellent value for money.
What's included
- Return flights from Heathrow to Ponta Delgada via Lisbon
- Hold Luggage
- 6 nights' accomodation
- Breakfast and dinner all days of your stay and packed lunch for 4 days.
- Professional Guides providing outstanding knowledge of Azores
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
Day
1
Arrive Ponta Delgada
Fly into Ponta Delgada, the capital city on the largest island in the Azores, Sao Miguel, and have an afternoon at leisure. Soak up the culture on a walking tour of the city centre or visit the Museum Carlos Canto Andre (payable locally). You will see bright coloured buildings, cobbled streets and don’t forget the stunning harbour!
Day
2
Furnas Village and Lake, Microbial Observatory, Terra Nostra Botanical Gardens, Tea Plantation
Your tour begins in the Geothermal village of Furnas, a must-see for scientific explorers!
Surrounded by lush vegetation, Furnas is best known for its bubbling mud pools and its caldera lake, where you can witness evidence of the volcanic activity in the area.
Visit the Microbial observatory where students will learn about the biodiversity of microscopic life in the Azorean hot springs.
Explore the picturesque Terra Nostra Botanical Gardens and take a dip in the geothermal pool that can be found here.
Finish your day with a visit to a local tea plantation where students will learn how tea is picked, dried, and prepared using traditional machinery.
Day
3
Lagoa do Fogo, Caldeira Velha, Volcanic and Geothermic Observatory, Renewable Energy Forest Trek with Waterfalls and Hydroelectric Station Viewings
Start your day with extensive views across the island, at Lagoa do Fogo (Fogo Lake), a crater lake atop the central ridge of the island.
Located in the forest just below lies Caldeira Velha, a waterfall of warm iron-rich volcanic water and thermal pools. Students can take a relaxing soak or learn about volcanic rock in the interpretation centre.
Next up, a visit to the Volcanic and Geothermic Observatory, where you will learn about the formation and landscape of the Azores. A wide collection of geological samples unlocks the story of the Azores’ volcanic past and present.
An afternoon trek through the forest will give students views of geothermal energy and hydro-electric power plants, a great opportunity to see the contrast of how Azoreans once produced electricity and how it is done today.
Day
4
Whale watching, Sete Cidades, Ponta do Escalvado viewpoint, Mosteiros and Gruta do Carvão
The most famous landscape in the Azores, Sete Cidades can’t be missed. The distinctive green and blue lakes are situated in one of the largest volcanic craters of the Azores.
From the Ponta do Escalvado viewpoint students can enjoy views of the west coast, before descending to the village of Mosteiros
Head out to sea in search of the oceans giants, the Whale! Accompanied by marine biologists, students will learn about the conservation and migration of these marine mammals.
Once back on land, head towards Boca da Inferno crater lake viewpoint which offers breath taking views of the twin lakes, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lake) and Lagoa Verde (Green Lake). The viewpoint is situated at the top of the larger caldera, which is formed by volcanic activity
The final stop of the day cannot be missed; Gruta do Carvão, Sao Miguel’s longest lava tube.
Day
5
Mountains, Ravines and Waterfalls of the Nordeste region
Nordeste, the oldest part of Sao Miguel. Formed 4 million years ago, the region is known for its mountains, ravines, and thick vegetation and is considered to be one of the most beautiful parts of the island. Students can admire the spectacular views along the rugged coastline and the biodiversity along one of the walking trails.
Day
6
Fly from Ponta Delgada
Transfer to the airport ready for your return flight home. Adeus Azores!
Trip notes:
This itinerary has been based on a group of 40 students and 4 teachers.
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