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How to Book a Hiking Trip to the Azores

How to · Travel

How to Book a Hiking Trip to the Azores

Use the shoulder season and an interest-free window to hike volcanic trails without the immediate $2,800 hit.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $2,800 before anything else
Across the 0% window $155.56/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $2,800 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

The Azores are a cluster of volcanic peaks in the middle of the Atlantic where the grass is impossibly green and the craters are filled with blue lakes. We recommend going during the shoulder season, like May or September. The weather is cool enough for trekking up steep ridges, and you won't be fighting for space at the hot springs after your hike.

A full trip usually runs about $2,800 when you factor in flights, gear, and a rental car. Instead of draining your savings all at once, we use a specific window to spread the cost. This keeps your monthly budget steady while you focus on the trails.

This isn't free money, it is a timed loan. If you still have a balance when the window closes, the 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening ends and a high standard variable APR will apply to whatever you owe.

The steps

  1. 01

    Target the shoulder season

    Look for flights in late spring or early autumn. You get the same dramatic views without the peak summer prices. It’s the best time for hiking because the trails are less dusty and the temperature stays mild.

  2. 02

    Base yourself in São Miguel

    It is the largest island and home to the most iconic volcanic hikes like Sete Cidades. Staying in one spot for a week saves you the cost and hassle of inter-island flights. You can find local guesthouses that are much cheaper than the main hotels.

  3. 03

    Grab the right gear

    Volcanic rock is sharp and the weather changes every ten minutes. You need broken-in waterproof boots and a reliable rain shell. Buying these a few months early lets you test them out on local trails before you leave.

  4. 04

    Use the 18-month window

    Put the $2,800 cost on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. It gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. By paying $155.56 each month, you finish the payments just as the interest-free period ends.

  5. 05

    Rent a small car

    You need a car to reach the remote trailheads where the best views are. Stick to a smaller model to navigate the narrow, winding stone roads. Booking this early is the only way to ensure you don't get stuck with a massive daily rate.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

When is the best time to hike the Azores?

May, June, and September are the sweet spots. You avoid the heavy winter rains and the humid heat of July and August.

Is it expensive to eat there?

Local food is actually quite affordable. If you stick to village tascas and local cheese, you can eat well for much less than you would in mainland Europe.

Do I need a guide for the volcanoes?

Most trails are well-marked for experienced hikers. You only really need a guide if you plan on summiting Mount Pico, which is the highest and most technical point.

What happens if I miss a payment on the card?

You will likely lose your promotional rate and have to pay interest on the full remaining balance. Set up an autopay for the $155.56 to make sure that doesn't happen.