Azores Dip & Explore

19 Sep – 25 Sep 2026
Azores, Portugal
From £1,769pp

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With volcanic crater lakes, thermal waterfalls, dramatic coastlines and natural hot springs, the Azores are a captivating open-water swimming destination. Journey with us to the "Hawaii of the East".

Duration

6 Nights

Distance per day

0-2km

Water temperature

17-20°C

Max. group size

Ability level

All Abilities

Swim type

Lake, Open Water, Sea

Non-swimming Partners

Welcome - 10% discount

Technique coaching

Included

This trip is a ‘Dip and Explore’ trip, allowing us to experience a fantastic variety of swimming experiences – thermal waterfalls, lake dips, natural spa pools, stunning bays, sea pools and more. Swims will be short in length but not rushed in time.

The Azores, a breathtaking archipelago of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, are a hidden gem for open water swimmers. Part of Portugal, the Azores are renowned for their dramatic landscapes: lush greenery set against blue and emerald crater lakes, rugged coastlines and otherworldly waterfalls.

Highlights

Emerald-green isles

The unique microclimate and volcanic landscape of the Azores makes these islands a lush, tropical paradise. Expect all four seasons in one day, every day!

An array of swims

From waterfall plunges to thermal pools, you'll be in swimmers' heaven with the jam-packed itinerary.

Epic marine life

More than 20 species of whales and dolphins either live or migrate here, offering some of the best whale and dolphin watching in Europe.

Your lovely guide, Ella

Your guide will be Outdoor Swimmer editor Ella Foote, a friendly and knowledgeable guide who knows the Azores intimately.

Itinerary

Day 1

Cold sea to hot pools

This morning we head to the large harbour of São Miguel - where we will complete our acclimatisation swim in the clear Atlantic waters, surrounded by the bustling energy of the town. After lunch, we will set off to the hot waterfall springs. Expect a lush, jungle-like setting where warm water cascades into natural pools heated by volcanic activity. A unique swim experience after the cooler waters of the Atlantic this morning..

Day 2

See whales and dolphins

This morning, join us for an incredible whale and dolphin watching trip. Please note, swimming with whales and dolphins in the Azores is strictly forbidden, however it is amazing to see them in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, we will enjoy a relaxed sea swim.

Day 3

Hot springs and thermal pools

Today we head out to the Furnas ('Furnace') region of São Miguel – home to hot springs, fumaroles, and boiling mud pools. This morning we will visit the rejuvenating thermal baths at Poça da Dona Beija, before having time for a traditional lunch traditional "cozido," a delicious Portuguese stew slow-cooked underground using the natural heat of the earth) and a relax in the Terra Nostra Botanical gardens, famous for its large thermal pool and beautifully manicured gardens.

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Accommodation

WIFI RESTAURANT BAR POOL & SPA AIR CON EN SUITE DEPOSIT BOX

Hotel Marina Atlântico offers stunning views of the marina and Atlantic Ocean. Its prime location is ideal for this jam packed week of exploration. Enjoy spacious, contemporary rooms, a wellness spa and an indoor pool.

Rooms

The base trip price is based on you sharing a twin or double room. If you are travelling solo we'll pair you with a same-sex roommate, or if you’d like a room to yourself, choose a sole use room when booking.

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What's included

Included

Accommodation for 6 nights at the Hotel Marina Atlantico, based on twin / double share standard rooms
Jam-packed swimming / dipping itinerary
Two SwimQuest guides
Swim coaching and video analysis
Breakfasts
Transport to and from swim locations on the island
Transfers from the airport to your hotel
SwimQuest swim cap and SwimQuest poncho
VAT
ABTOT Financial Protection

Not included

Travel to and from São Miguel (we will pick you up from the airport)
Wetsuits / fins (optional)
Lunches & Evening meals
Alcohol
Single room supplements / room upgrades

Getting there

We will meet at 4pm on Saturday for introductions and safety briefing.

Fly to São Miguel

Fly to João Paulo II Airport (PDL). For help finding flight information and prices,

you may wish to try a flight search engine such as Skyscanner or Kayak.

Transfer to the hotel

- If you are on the 3.30pm arrival into Ponta Delgada, we will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.