2022 AZORES - Wild Earth Expeditions
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2022 AZORES
AZORES
ISLANDS, VOLCANOS, SHARKS & RAYS
26 AUG – 11 SEP 2022 ● 17 DAYS ● 8 GUESTS
The Azores' breathtaking islands are a mix of nature's finest, with a unique culture, stunning island
landscapes, and epic marine life. Immerse yourself in the abundance of life above and below the
water on this incredible small-group island adventure.
Uninhabited until the 15 th century, the Azores are situated where the North American Plate, the
Eurasian Plate, and the African Plate meet, creating a unique and diverse set of volcanic islands in
the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Thanks to their unique location and upwellings, the Azores have
some of the most diverse marine life found anywhere in the world. The Atlantic's clear waters that
surround the islands are cultivated from the subtropical oceanic climate, combined with the Gulf
Stream's nutrient-rich waters, full of krill, plankton, and shoals of small fish providing the perfect
hunting ground for larger predators. 28 species of whales and dolphins and over 460 different fish
species have been recorded in the Archipelago.
Spend 8 days island-hopping, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and culture of the
Archipelago. See picturesque shorelines with dramatic cliff- and rock formations that drop vertically
to the sea. Stroll through lush green pastures, dark forests, and abundant vineyards. Observe
glistening streams, springs, and volcanic lakes. Enjoy a vast diversity of flora, including cryptomerias,
ferns, fuchsias, azaleas, and several types of climbers. Explore striking volcanos and lose yourself
in complex cave networks and lava trails. Take a dip in thermal pools, cascading waterfalls, and
magical lagoons. Learn about the Azores' history as you visit the oldest city in the Archipelago, idyllic
fairytale towns, and remote fishing villages. Eat local delicacies, including a meal cooked on the heat
of a volcano, and participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Azorean dishes.
Embark on our privately chartered luxury catamaran for the next week to explore the diverse marine
life of the Archipelago. Limited to 8 guests only, experience the best dive and snorkel sites of the
European Atlantic with excellent visibility and a wealth of fish and marine mammals. Explore dramatic
encrusted walls, spectacular seamounts, caverns, and canyons covered in fish life. When sailing in
between sites, observe resident Sperm whales and playful pods of dolphins ride the yacht's bow.
These waters are home to a wide variety of fish from the macro to the might. Mantas and Mobulas,
hammerheads and blue sharks, marlin, moray eels, schools of tuna, barracuda, jacks, and even
whale sharks are frequent visitors in summer.
Take the plunge at world-famous Princess Alice Banks, a very remote seamount in the middle of the
Atlantic that is host to an underwater symphony of pelagic life, especially famous for close blue shark
encounters and schools of hunting Mobula rays. Find yourself amid schooling triggerfish, jacks,
barracuda, tuna, and watch mantas and sharks glide past you at the pinnacles of Formigas and
Dollabarat. With our bespoke itinerary, experience the best marine life that the Azores has on offer
in comfort and style from our intimate catamaran.
Post-Extension Mount Pico Volcano Trek or Tour of Pico.
The tallest peak of Portugal, Mount Pico, situated at 2'351 m above sea level, is one of the highest
Atlantic mountains. For the fit and adventurous, finish your Azores expedition with a trek to summit
the peak and witness spectacular sunrise views across the islands from the volcano's rim. For
those not interested in trekking we can organize a Pico island tour.
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Add-On a City Break in Lisbon As the capital of Portugal, Lisbon is both historic and cosmopolitan. Hailed as one of the most photogenic cities in Europe, it has a rich history and culture dating back to the golden age of the 15 th and 16th centuries. Why not take a few days to find out what makes this city so unique on a bespoke add-on to your Azores adventure? Add-On a Discovery of Azorean Birds The Azores, and São Miguel in particular, have become an internationally recognized hot spot for bird watching. São Miguel is where most of the 30 endemic Azorean bird species can be found, including one of the rarest birds of Europe: the Azores bullfinch. Why not enjoy the unique summer flux of endemic birds and be guided by a birding expert for a couple of days and tick off a few special species on your life list? AZORES – Islands, Volcanos, Sharks & Rays 26 AUG – 11 SEP 2022 ● 17 DAYS ● 8 GUESTS Day 01 | Aug 26 Depart Home / En Route to Sao Miguel, Azores Day 02 | Aug 27 Arrive in Sao Miguel / Sete Cidades / Welcome Cocktails Day 03 | Aug 28 Furnas Valley-Volcano / Hot Springs Day 04 | Aug 29 Ponta Delgada / Fly to Terceria Day 05 | Aug 30 Explore Terceira Day 06 | Aug 31 Fly São Jorge / Nature walk Day 07 | Sep 01 Explore São Jorge Day 08 | Sep 02 Faial / Explore Horta / Cooking class Day 09 | Sep 03 Faial Island Discovery / Embark SY SailDive Day 10-15 | Sep 04-09 7-day dive, snorkel and sail adventure Day 16 | Sep 10 Disembark SY SailDive / Fly home or travel to Pico Day 17 | Sep 11 Arrive home POST-EXTENSION – Mount Pico Volcano Trek or Tour of Pico 10 – 12 SEP 2022 ● 3 DAYS ● 8 GUESTS Day 01 | Sep 10 Ferry to Pico / Explore Pico Day 02 | Sep 11 Volcano Climb or Tour of Pico Day 03 | Sep 12 Fly home / Arrive home ADD-ON – Lisbon 4 DAYS suggested (can be extended and personalized as a pre or a post to the main trip) One of the oldest cities in the world and hailed as one of the most photogenic cities in Europe, Lisbon has a rich history dating back over 2700 years and is home to two UNESCO sites. The exquisite charm and history are enhanced by the abundance of excellent wine and food with an eclectic mix of flavors. Take a few days to experience the history and vibrancy of this extraordinary city, hailed by Lonely Planet as one of the top ten cities in the world to visit! ADD-ON - Sao Miguel Birding 1-2 DAYS suggested São Miguel is where the majority of the 30 endemic Azorean bird species can be found during summer, including one of the rarest birds of Europe: the Azores bullfinch. The Azores, and São Miguel in particular, have become an internationally recognized hot spot for bird watching. WWW.WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM 3 INFO@WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM
HIGHLIGHTS • Dive and snorkel spectacular remote seamounts and rocky pinnacles covered in schools of fish. • Get close to blue sharks and swim alongside mantas and Mobula rays. • Watch resident Sperm whales and dolphins ride the bow. • Enjoy island hopping from the comfort of a catamaran. • Witness spectacular island scenery and enjoy volcano and nature walks. • Swim in natural thermal pools, waterfalls, and magic lagoons. • Experience authentic Azorean island life. • Delight in culinary delicacies and fresh regional food and overnight in historic accommodations. • Tour significant historic sites and visit quaint fishing villages. • Climb Mount Pico for spectacular sunrise views or Tour of Pico • Explore the historic, vibrant, and unique city of Lisbon. WWW.WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM 4 INFO@WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM
ITINERARY
AZORES – ISLANDS, VOLCANOS, SHARKS & RAYS
Day 01. Aug 26, 2022. Depart Home / En route to Ponta Delgada, Azores
Depart your home and journey to Sao Miguel, arriving at Ponta Delgada international airport. We
highly recommend arriving at least a day before the expedition departure so that you can acclimatize,
are well-rested, and most importantly, don't miss the trip. We can assist you with additional hotel
nights at the White Suites 4-star boutique hotel.
Day 02. Aug 27, 2022. Arrive in Sao Miguel / Sete Cidades / Welcome cocktails
On arrival at Sao Miguel's Ponta Delgada international airport, you will be met and transferred to the
White Suites. A 4-star boutique property located outside of Ponta Delgada, the White Suites is a
beautifully preserved old manor building, a fusion of sophistication and glamour showcasing the
historical architectural features, coupled with breathtaking views over the ocean.
Meet your Expedition leader and Wild Earth Expeditions CEO and founder Thomas Baechtold and
the rest of the Explorers for lunch, before starting your exploration of Sao Miguel. Travel to the west
side of the island and to the rim of the caldera of Sete Cidades (Seven Cities). The land around the
town is made up of craters created by volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. The natural
scenery created by this volcanic activity makes it one of the most unique in all of the Azores. The
area is also known for its stunning multicolored lakes. Depending on the clouds and sun exp osure,
their color changes dramatically. Visit the beautiful twin lakes of 'Lagoa Azul' and 'Lagoa Verde'
before traveling to the crater's small dirt ridge to get a stunning panoramic view of the lakes and the
surrounding area. Take a swim in a natural pool heated by the volcanic fissure in Ferraria before
returning to the White Suites for a special welcome dinner.
Overnight: White Suites & Villas – Suite (L, D)
Day 03. Aug 28, 2022. Furnas Valley – volcano / hot springs
After breakfast, bid farewell to the White Suites. It is time to explore the eastern and central part of
the island and the mystical Furnas valley, including the Lagoa de Fogo. Walk through Vila Franca
do Campo, the island's first capital, during the 15th and beginning of the 16 th century. Sample the
local delicacy 'Cozido' for lunch, a mix of a variety of vegetables and beef, pork, or chicken cooked
with the natural heat from the volcano. Continue to Lagoa do Fogo (fire lake). An immense blue lake
that stretches over 2km and 1km wide, with beautiful, tranquil transparent waters and distinctive
mountainous vegetation. Finish the day by relaxing in a natural thermal water pool surrounded by a
botanical garden as you listen to the bird song around you—overnight in a very special boutique
hotel, and enjoy a traditional Azorean meal surrounded by nature.
Overnight: Furnas Boutique Hotel (B, L, D)
Day 04. Aug 29, 2022. Ponta Delgada / Fly to Terceira
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and relaxing morning at the thermal pools and spa at the Furnas Boutique
Hotel before heading back to Ponta Delgada for a walking tour of the historical downtown. Pass
through the Praca 5 de Outubro on which the Convento e Capela de Nossa Senhora da Esperanca
is located. Hear about the history of the 'postcard image' of Ponta Delgada – the three-arched gate.
As you take in the historical sites, savor some local delicacies from the various local cafes,
restaurants, and local merchants before heading on to the airport for your flight to the island of
Terceira. Check-in at the Pousada De Angra Do Heroismo, set on a clifftop; this historical
accommodation dates back to 1555 and was used to host soldiers, sailors, and pirates as they
passed by on their expeditions, making it the perfect base for our Terceira exploration.
Overnight: Pousada de Angra Do Heroismo (B, L, D)
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Day 05. Aug 30, 2022. Explore Terceira Forming part of the central group of islands, Terceira was the third island of the Azores archipelago to be discovered, becoming populated in the 15 th century. The magnificent contrast between the natural beauty of this volcanic island and the historical centre of Angra do Heroismo, means it is now classified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Visit the viewpoints on Monte Brasil and Porto Martins on route to Praia da Vitoria which boasts a large bay with a long idyllic sandy beach. Praia da Vitoria was founded in 1456 and was given its present name by Queen Maria II in 1837 in remembrance of the first victory of the Liberals over the Royalists, a battle that took place on the town’s shores in 1829. With narrow streets and alleys, lined with colourful and unique houses and architecture, a charismatic town. Step inside the prominent Igreja Matriz de Santa Cruz parish church, with elaborate gilded woodcarvings throughout the church and chapel. Walk through to the main square and see the Paços do Concelho and enjoy the atmosphere and ambience of this historic city. Continue to Serra do Cume, and enjoy panoramic views of the Praia da Vitoria Bay, before visiting Algar do Carvão caves, considered a geological nature reserve, before finishing your tour day with a dip in the natural pools of Biscuits. Overnight: Pousada de Angra Do Heroismo (B, L, D) Day 06. Aug 31, 2022. Fly to São Jorge / Nature Walk After breakfast, head to the airport for the short flight to the next stop on your adventure, São Jorge. Check-in at the tranquil Quinta Magnolia Suites. A quaint property that has maintained its ancient features with local basalt stones that have been laboriously chiseled by generations to create the characteristic appearance. After you have checked in and refreshed, head for a delicious lunch created from locally sourced ingredients at a local restaurant overlooking the neighboring islands. Refreshed and refueled, it is time to discover São Jorge, an island filled with cliffs, crags, and fajãs (small plains originally created by lava or landslides). There are over 40 on São Jorge, which has earned it the nickname “island of fajãs” São Jorge is also considered the greenest island in the archipelago. Spend the afternoon, enjoying nature at its finest and immerse yourself in the symbolic natural beauty and isolation that has dominated the history of the island. With a network of trails, take a gentle walk within the coastal lagoons, and along the lava trails. After your afternoon exploration, return to the hotel for a delicious meal overlooking the surrounding mountains. Overnight: Quinta Magnolia (B, L, D) Day 07. Sep 01, 2022. Full Day Tour São Jorge Visit Sete Fontes forest, one of the most important nature reserves in the Azores. This heavily wooded area includes streams, springs, and lakes and is home to a wide variety of plants, including Cryptomerias, ferns, Fuchsias, Azaleas, and several different types of climbers. Take in the breathtaking views at Faja dos Cubres and visit the traditional villages of Urzelina & Velas, the highest point on the island and one of the oldest settlements that can be traced back to 1647. Experience the magic of Faja do Ouvidor village, with stone houses, three-pane sash windows, surrounded by streams, lakes, stunning waterfalls. Rated as one of the most spectacular natural pools in the Azores, take the plunge at Simao Dias natural pool. After a full day of exploring, enjoy a delicious traditional dinner at a local restaurant before retiring for the night at the Quinta Magnolia. Overnight: Quinta Magnolia (B, L, D) Day 08. Sep 02, 2022. Faial / Explore Horta / Cooking workshop After breakfast, take the ferry across to Faial. Faial is known as the 'blue island' due to the Hydrangea flowers' omnipresence all over the island. Check-in and freshen up at the historic Pousada Forte da Horta, located close to the marina of Horta and classified a National Monument in 1947. Spend the afternoon discovering the capital of Faial, Horta. Learn about the historical events that have occurred in Faial since the first settlers arrived in the 15th century. Horta used to be a port city of high significance during the 19 th and beginning of the 20 th century. It has a very colorful history, evident in the surrounding architecture and ambiance. Today Horta's marina remains a popular layover point for yachts crossing the Atlantic. After working up an appetite, it is time to take a culinary WWW.WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM 6 INFO@WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM
journey into the Azores' cuisine. Learn about the local ingredients used and the traditions behind the classic dishes as a local chef guides you through the process of preparing a tasty three-course Azorean meal. After a full day and a full stomach, return to the Pousada Forte da Horta to retire for the evening. Overnight: Pousada Forte da Horta (B, L, D) Day 09. Sep 03, 2022. Faial Island Discovery / Embarkation Sail Dive Today discover the highlights of the island of Faial. Faial was once a big whaling community, which came to an end in the late 1970s. The islander's strong connection to the ocean can still be felt throughout. Stop at the Caldeira of Faial with stunning views across the islands. Visit the west coast and Capelinhos, an area that emerged in 1957 after a volcanic eruption. The lighthouse of Capelinhos is now a museum, showcasing the history of the eruption and the geological formation of the Azores. Travel through Praia Norte, with a section of isolated beaches with dark volcanic sand. Late afternoon it is time to embark on your home for the next week, our privately chartered catamaran SY SailDive. Overnight: Sail Dive - Lagoon 450F Catamaran – Double cabin with ensuite (B, L, D) Day 10-15. Sep 04-09, 2022. Dive & Snorkel the Islands of the Azores Our intimate, comfortable, easily manoeuvrable, and fast French-built Lagoon 450F catamaran is the perfect base for our Azores dive and snorkel adventure, with a week-long bespoke itinerary to ensure that you experience the very best of the marine life that the Azores have to offer. Enjoy delicious meals and quality service on this 8-passenger catamaran. The best time to dive the Azores is from June-October, so we’re there during peak time to hopefully see Mantas, Mobulas, sharks, turtles and possibly Whale sharks and Marlin. Below are a few examples of some of the sites we hope to snorkel & dive around Faial, Pico, and Sao Jorge. Please note: the sailing itinerary and dive sites are very much subject to sea and weather conditions. All sites and locations will be determined depending on sea and weather conditions to offer maximum comfort and enjoyment of your sailing adventure, but Princess Alice Banks will be a top priority. Pico, Faial and Santa Maria are home to fantastic dive sites, beautiful topography, healthy reefs, and a wealth of interesting critters, from slipper lobsters to spiny lobsters to table-sized stingrays and sharks. Princess Alice Banks is arguably the most famous dive site in the Azores. Roughly 75kms off the coast of Pico island, it attracts divers to see the Mobula rays and other pelagics. In good weather conditions our catamaran gives us easy access to this incredible, very remote seamount, where visibility often exceeds 50m. The crystal-clear water is jam-packed full of pelagic fauna, hammerhead sharks, blue sharks, schools of barracuda, dolphins, Mobulas, tuna and there’s even a chance to spot black marlin, which is awe-inspiring even to the most experienced of divers. It is not uncommon to see dolphins playing in the boat's wake, but dip below the water, and you'll be greeted by Mobula rays that flip and dance around you. Condor Banks or Pedra de Sousa are great places to slip into the deep blue to see blue sharks up close and personal. Condor banks is a submerged 1800m mountain that stretches for 39kms and is 200m at its shallowest point. Shrimp Cave has boulders and overhangs and a small cave which is filled wall-to-wall with Narwhal shrimps. Baia de Entre Montes (or Bay Between Hills) is a coastal site frequented by crabs, nudibranchs, and moray eels. Descend past rocky outcrops until you reach the sandy floor at around 20 meters, looking out for wide-eyed flounders, pearly razorfish, and common stingrays lurking in the sand. WWW.WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM 7 INFO@WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM
Santa Maria is another one of the top sites in the Azores, Ambrosio boosting incredibly varied marine life, including huge schools of jacks, barracudas, turtles, and sometimes schools of 10-50 Mobula rays. Santa Maria also is known as one of the best places in the archipelago to see whale sharks. Baixa de Maia boasts excellent visibility and lots of marine life, including slipper lobsters, nudibranchs, barracudas, schooling triggerfish, jacks, parrotfish, hundreds of Turkish wrasses and lots of nice caverns, caves, and canyons. Overnight: Sail Dive - Lagoon 450F Catamaran – Double cabin with ensuite (B, L, D) Day 16. September 10, 2022. Disembark Enjoy your last breakfast onboard before heading to the airport for your flight back to Sao Miguel and your international flights home, or if you’re participating in the Pico Volcan climb continue your travels to Pico. (B) Day 17. Sep 11, 2022. Arrive home ITINERARY Wild Earth Expeditions will make every reasonable effort to operate the expedition as advertised, but alterations may occur, usually due to weather, tides, wildlife sightings, or flight schedule changes. We will discuss our planned itinerary daily with our local expert guides and always choose the best available option. Accommodations and arranged tours are subject to change or cancellation at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond Wild Earth Expeditions control. Please note that 2022 flight schedules and airfares will only be released 11 months before the end of the expedition. WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS Although we have reported honestly and accurately about our sightings and experiences, we would like to point out that we are working in the wilderness, and despite all our good intentions and utmost preparation, Mother Nature may not cooperate with us at times. We believe that with good planning and a realistic approach, you will have a successful time witnessing the natural behavior of the wildlife we have set out to see. WHAT TO EXPECT All Wild Earth Expeditions are very active, and participants need to be in good general health. For most activities, a moderate to good level of fitness is required. This expedition is very active and will include snorkeling and scuba diving seamounts and blue water where currents will be present; hiking nature trails on sometimes rough terrain, climbing in and out of boats, and other physical activities. Onboard the catamaran there are 3 crew members, plus our Wild Earth Leader. Expect to do 2-3 dives per day (12-14 dives total). The Post-extension to Pico Mountain requires you to have a very good level of fitness as it is a steep and challenging hike. The weather in the Azores can be erratic, so even during summer, you will likely experience some rain or windy conditions. Accommodations we have chosen are at upmarket hotels and very comfortable; Onboard the S/Y SailDive- Lagoon 450f Catamaran cabins are comfortable, but small double cabins (can be twin or double beds), all with hot water and ensuite bathroom facilities. Detailed Pre-departure information will be sent to you 6 months before the expedition. Your expedition will be led by 1 Wild Earth Expeditions leader, our CEO and Founder Thomas Baechtold and the best, most experienced local guides. WWW.WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM 8 INFO@WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM
POST EXTENSION ITINERARY
MOUNT PICO VOLCANO TREK
Day 1. Sep 10, 2022. Pico Island
After breakfast, bid farewell to our friends onboard the S/Y SailDive and disembark the catamaran
in Faial. Take a short ferry ride across to stunning Pico Island, dominated by the highest peak of the
Azores. After lunch check-in at the exclusively hired Atlantic Heritage Luxury Villa. Since your night
will be very short, prepare for your big hike by getting some rest and packing your essentials. Enjoy
lunch in a local restaurant an afternoon tour before a relaxing dinner and hitting the hay early to get
some sleep before your big trek.
Overnight: Atlantic Heritage Luxury Villa (B, L, D)
Day 2. Sep 11, 2022. Volcano Climb or Tour of Pico
In the middle of the night, start your ascent to Portugal's highest mountain. Pico mountain sits at
2,351 meters above sea level and is surrounded by jaw-dropping panoramic views of the ocean and
the surrounding islands. A perfect place to watch the sunrise. Start your climb around 2am to reach
the crater before sunrise. The 8km trail is demanding but well worth the effort when you reach the
volcano's summit. On a clear day, the 360-degree view allows you to see five of the Azores islands,
as well as the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a picnic breakfast and feel like you are on top
of the world. If you are in shape, it takes roughly 4hrs to climb up to the rim of the volcano and slightly
less coming down. After your big trek and great achievement, head for lunch and a rest back at the
wonderful Atlantic Heritage Luxury Villa. Unwind in this luxury villa, take a dip in the infinity pool, and
simply watch the world go by. Spend your last evening enjoying some celebratory wine at the local
vineyard and a delicious final meal made with fresh local produce before retiring for a good night's
sleep.
OR - If you would like to join the Pico extension but are not interested in participating in the trek, we
have exclusively hired a gorgeous private villa and can easily arrange a nice tour around Pico while
the others are trekking. Please enquire if you’re interested in this option.
Overnight: Atlantic Heritage Luxury Villa (B, L, D)
Day 3. Sep 12, 2022. Fly Home
After a last breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to the idyllic islands of the Azores and travel to the
airport for your flight back to Sao Miguel and your international flight home.
(B)
Please note: a good level of fitness is required for this Mount Pico Post-extension trek. The trail is
over 8km in length with a high level of difficulty. The trek is not recommended for people with knee,
joint, heart problems or visual impairments. This 9-10hr activity is considered tough and physically
demanding. The duration of the trek will very much depend on the group’s ability and speed.
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4 days suggested
Visit Alfama, Lisbon’s most emblematic quarter, an ancient and characteristic district with medieval
alleys and breath-taking views, all set in shadow of the 8 th century BC Sao Jorge castle. The narrow
streets are all lined with whitewashed
houses, wrought-iron balconies that
are adorned with flowers and
traditional craft shops and cafes. A
beautiful combination of culture,
history and everyday Portuguese life,
a photographer’s dream!
Be seduced by the romantic palace
and magical forests of the mysterious
and magical Sintra, and enjoy the
ambience of the cosmopolitan
Cascais, a former fishing village with
a lot of authentic local flavor. Sample
the local wines and some of the top
vineries in the area, and feast on local delicacies in quaint street side cafes.
Take in the stunning views at Cabo da Roca, the most westerly point of Europe, and enjoy a tour of
Bairro Alto, the picturesque working quarter that is a bohemian hub for artists and writers. Eat and
drink at some of the best restaurants in Lisbon and listen to the traditional melodies of Fado.
Lisbon has something for everybody, top restaurants, quaint cafes, World Heritage Sites, and a rich
history. Take a short city break before or after your Azores adventure to enjoy one the world’s
greatest and most photogenic cities.
We recommend staying a minimum of 4 nights in the heart of the historic center of Lisbon in one of
the historic boutique hotel properties. Let us tailor-make this Lisbon add-on to your needs.
Contact us for details and pricing.
DISCOVER THE BIRDS OF THE AZORES!
1-2 days suggested
São Miguel is a bird-watching spot of high significance, as this is where the majority of the 30
endemic Azorean bird species can be found, including one of the rarest birds of Europe: the Azores
bullfinch, which lives in the eastern
part of the island. The Azores, and
São Miguel in particular, have
become an internationally recognized
hot spot for bird watching. Originating
from all ends of the world, looking for
food and rest after their exhausting
migrating trips. In total, there have
been close to 400 different species
registered that made their way to the
Archipelago.
Due to our trip's summer timing, more
resident species are frequently seen
(whereas the more foreign birds come
to the Azores towards the end of the winter or springtime). With the highest population of Cory's
Shearwaters and Rosy Tern, covering approximately 75% of the species' global population, with the
remaining populations found on Madeira, the Canary Islands, or the Berlengas Islands. Why not add
an extra day or two in São Miguel and let an expert bird guide take you on a full-day bird watching
adventure? Contact us for details and pricing.
WWW.WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM 10 INFO@WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COMS/Y SAILDIVE The 14m long ocean catamaran S.Y. Saildive from the Lagoon 450F series was built in France in 2018 and is a very stable and comfortable ship for a select few. 8 passengers are accommodated in four double cabins. The stern cabins are slightly larger than the bow cabins. All cabins can be reached from the saloon. The elegant and efficient design of the 4 double cabins creates the perfect accommodation and means to get to some of the more remote pinnacles and seamounts like Princess Alice banks. All cabins can be configured as double or, using a small partition board, as two-individual beds for twin sharing. The cabins, typical of a catamaran and naturally somewhat small, are the perfect place to watch videos on the cabin's flat screen, listen to music, read, or just sleep in complete privacy. The large hull windows ensure that you always have everything in view and create a bright, light-flooded cabin in addition to a pleasant atmosphere. Each cabin has a separate small bathroom with a hand basin, shower, and toilet. Clean towels are always at your disposal. Each cabin also has a USB connection and bedside lamps. Air conditioning is not necessary in the Azores. Whether you spend your day diving, snorkeling, reading, sunbathing, or just relaxing onboard the S.Y. SailDive, you will always feel well taken care of. The trampoline foredeck is a great place to look for Sperm whales, and dolphins often play in the bow waves. There are several well-kept lounge areas on the foredeck and the cabin roof, a small lounge area in the salon, and the covered and shaded seating area at the stern. Two small engines with 57 hp each ensure that the S.Y. Saildive can quickly make its way between dive sites. However, with its 129m² of sail area, it shoots across the water when the engines are not used. The ship is state-of-the-art in terms of safety and technology: satellite phone, VHF radio, deep sonar, radar, GPS, EPIRB, ocean life raft, oxygen & first aid kit are available, as well as WiFi, boat sound system, 220V, and USB in all cabins. A small 3.6m dinghy with 30hp accompanies the vessel. On this elegant catamaran, you can simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery while enjoying the warm hospitality onboard. Sit back and enjoy this lovely yacht, gently swaying in the waves as you pass by the volcanic islands. You can expect to do 2-3 dives per day while onboard. The ship has 3 crew. WWW.WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM 11 INFO@WILDEARTHEXPEDITIONS.COM
COST & INFO
AZORES – Islands, Volcanos, Sharks & Rays
26 AUG – 11 SEP 2022 ● 17 DAYS ● 8 GUESTS
Double Occupancy: USD $13,790 per person sharing
Single Supplement Surcharge: USD $9,970 per person
POST-EXTENSION – Mount Pico Volcano Trek
10 SEP – 12 SEP 2022 ● 3 DAYS ● 8 GUESTS
Double Occupancy: USD $1,770 per person sharing
Single Supplement Surcharge: USD $380 per person
ADD-ON – Lisbon (either pre or post to the main trip) / or Sao Miguel Birding
Contact us if you’re interested in a Lisbon add-on or would like to add birding in Sao Miguel before
or after your Azores adventure.
INCLUDED
All accommodations in twin/double share rooms or cabins as outlined in the itinerary; Exclusive
catamaran charter; All group meals; Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions; Soft drinks, drinking
water, tea and regular filter coffee during lunch and dinner; a local beer or glass of house wine with
lunch and dinner during the land portion only (not onboard catamaran); Drinking water in
rooms/cabins and while on tours; All group transfers and baggage handling; All tours, excursions,
diving and snorkeling as outlined in the itinerary; Exclusive services of English speaking professional
guides and naturalists; Services of 1 Wild Earth Expedition Leader (including Expedition Leader/Dive
Guide); All gratuities to porters, guides, drivers, dive crew, yacht-, hotel- and wait staff; Government-
Service- and Room taxes; All permits, harbor fees, entrance and marine park fees; Complimentary
slideshow; Dive tanks/weights for Scuba divers. Donation to a marine conservation project.
NOT INCLUDED
All international and domestic airfares (please note Domestic flights must be purchased through Wild
Earth Expeditions as they are group flights on small aircraft); Any airport arrival and departure taxes;
Passport and visa fees; Immunization costs; Meals outside the group travel itinerary; Mandatory
Travel insurance (including medical, medical evacuation and accident); Excess baggage charges;
Personal items, such as laundry, any alcoholic beverages or bar charges (unless specified above),
Wi-Fi, telephone, fax calls; Tips for your Wild Earth Leader and any non-group services; dive gear
rental.
Any sudden increase in price due to currency fluctuations, a steep hike in fuel cost, change in
government tax policy, or for any reason beyond our control will be adjusted with the final invoice
due 6 months before the expedition.
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
We only have one single space available on this expedition, and single occupancy rates apply. If
you want to share accommodations, a roommate will be assigned to you, and double occupancy
rates apply. If we cannot pair you with a roommate, the single supplement surcharge applies.
PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas & Natalia Baechtold, SailDive & Adobe Stock
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