Breathed in by the gods and certified by nature, it is perhaps the best way to describe the Azores. An archipelago of wonders, surprising and breathtaking, that arouses the interest of travelers from all over the globe. Nine islands and nine worlds, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, with their characteristics and specificities, knowledge and ways of life, which make the trip magical and unforgettable. Perhaps for this very reason, after a year of restrictions imposed by a pandemic, the tourist flow is favorable and with a growing trend, with the Region being increasingly appreciated as a safe destination, where nature and health tourism is promoted. and well-being.

It was not by chance that the Azorean islands were recently distinguished and awarded as Best European Destination for Adventure (2020), as one of the 50 Best Islands in the World (2021), by Big 7 Travel, and recognized with the 3rd position in the top by Euronews Travel, as Best Destination of 2021. In addition, they are the first archipelago in the world to achieve the International Certification of Sustainable Destination, and continue to appear on the green list of safer destinations “European Best Destinations (EBD)”, distinguishing itself for the security it provides to its visitors.

Know that, when traveling to the Azores, you will be tested on arrival, and the test may be carried out in the country or region of origin, in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Likewise, you can be confident that the hygiene rules will be complied with, as well as the proper safety distances being maintained, as this destination offers a variety of outdoor activities. 

Enjoy the best experience and feel what it is like to be an islander

Visitors to the Region can expect a wide range of excellent regional products, ranging from typical fruit to regional food, including confectioners, infusions, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, among many other tasting products, to handicrafts made by artists hand with secular wisdom. At the same time, it will also be possible to attend and participate in manifestations of the cultural heritage of the Azorean people, whether these are religious or profane.

Traveling to the Azores is also to revisit the past.

Living with nature is a permanent and inexhaustible reality. Inspired by stunning landscapes, fauna and flora, tourist entertainment companies have created numerous activities that promote contact with the elements. Among them, we can highlight: canoeing; geotourism; golf; yachting; dive; whale watching; bird watching; paragliding; horseback riding; walking tours; surfing; sport fishing; thermal baths; health and wellness activities.

Knowing the Archipelago is a complete rediscovery of the senses, in which aromas and flavours, contacts and interactions, colors and sounds merge.

With regard to accommodation, the offer increases from year to year, with the quality of services and available options being reinforced. In addition to hotels and guesthouses, there is an increasing diversity between local accommodation, hostels and rural tourism. To prove this, we present some statistical data that reflect the preference for overnight stays in recent years, namely from 2019 onwards, when, according to the Tourism Observatory of the Azores (OTA), 3 million overnight stays were exceeded in the Region. for the first time.

That year, there were around 971,516 guests, distributed as follows:

• Traditional Hospitality - 66.3%
• Local accommodation - 28.1%
• Campsites - 2.2%
• Rural Tourism - 1.9%
• Holiday Camps and Youth Hostels – 1.5%

The Azores reached high levels of notoriety, cementing tourism as a fundamental part of its economy. For this, the work and effort of various agents and resources, from businessmen, local population and regional government contributed greatly. As a sustainable destination, they combined the traditions and exclusivity of regional products with a new offer of tourist activities and accommodation, projecting the islands worldwide.

However, in 2020, the numbers plummeted and a deep crisis affected world tourism. As a result, the annual number of guests dropped to 292,703, with the following distribution:

• Traditional Hospitality - 68.1%
• Local Accommodation - 28.4%
• Rural Tourism - 1.9%
• Holiday Camps and Youth Hostels – 0.9%
• Campsites – 0.8%

In 2021, given the developments in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 and the increase in measures to support the sector, expectations are that the 2020 values will be exceeded and that there will be a continuous and gradual increase in the number of visitors and overnight stays. Up to the month of June, around 152,362 were accounted for, distributed as follows:

• Traditional Hospitality – 52.9%
• Local Accommodation – 40.6%
• Holiday Camps and Youth Hostels – 4.9%
• Campsites – 1.6%

Although, still far from the 2019 numbers, the prospects are encouraging and confidence seems to be back. The World Tourism Organization points to a slow and gradual recovery by 2024.

For all this and more, if you still have questions when booking your trip, don't hesitate. Travel to the Azores in complete safety and tranquility and discover one of the best kept secrets in the Atlantic.