Overview of the Azores

Quick Overview

The Azores are an archipelago of 9 islands stretching across the Atlantic for nearly 600 km, at the same latitude as Lisbon and over a thousand kilometres from their metropole. These islands are divided into three groups: the eastern group (São Miguel and Santa Maria), the central group (Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, and Faial), and the western group (Flores and Corvo). All are of volcanic origin and subject to intense seismic activity. As a result, they have a very rugged relief; their highest point is the Pico volcano, on the island of the same name, which rises to 2,351 m.

While the archipelago covers an area of over 2,300 km², the size of the islands ranges from 747 km² (São Miguel) to just 17 km² (Corvo). São Miguel, which hosts the capital, is the most populous (140,000 inhabitants), followed by Terceira (60,000). Economically, the archipelago exports agricultural and dairy products, as well as goods from the food-processing industry and fishing.

Key Facts

• Type of place: region.

• Location: in the North Atlantic, over 1,000 km from its metropole.

• Latitude/longitude: 37°44' N, 25°40' W.

• Local time: Heure : 4363

• "Capital": Ponta Delgada (on São Miguel).

• Nature of the state: autonomous region of Portugal.

• Official language: Portuguese.

• Currency: euro.

• Population: 250,000 inhabitants (2014).

• Area: 2,333 km².

• Density: 107 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Ponta do Pico (2,351 m) on Pico Island.

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline:

• Driving: on the right.

Tourism

Better known for its anticyclone than for holidays, this Portuguese archipelago nevertheless has its share of enthusiasts. Beyond a few colonial remnants and specific traditions, it offers great opportunities for hiking in beautiful landscapes, as well as ocean-focused activities that are never far away.

With the opening of low-cost air links, the archipelago has seen its tourism grow recently, now approaching half a million visitors annually (427,000 in 2016), though it is still largely made up of Portuguese from the mainland.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner travellers.

• By air: France-Ponta Delgada.

• Entry requirements: ID card or passport.

• Currency to bring: euros.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks: almost none in terms of health and low in terms of security.

• Best period for climate/crowds/prices:

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★; Adventure ★/ ★★; Culture ★★; Relaxation-holidays ⊘/ ★.

Useful Addresses