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Wildlife trips

This Portuguese mid-Atlantic archipelago is a haven of calm. Lush volcanic islands are surrounded by ocean that is home to an exceptional variety of whales and dolphins. No fewer than 26 species have been recorded in recent years, and almost any outing usually reveals six to eight different species.

2 recommended trips. Our trip ideas are offered to inspire you and can be tailored to suit your requirements.

Sperm Whales & Bottlenose Dolphins

Venture to the Azores to admire the wealth of cetaceans found here, including sperm whales and bottlenose dolphins. Arguably Europe’s premier whale watching destination, approximately one third of the world's known whale and dolphin species have been observed in the deep, azure waters. Find out more about Sperm Whales & Bottlenose Dolphins

  • Price (inc. flights): 6-10 days from £1,595
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
  • When to go:
    • M
    • J

Whales & Dolphins of the Azores

Situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the islands of the Azores are the finest location in Europe for whale and dolphin watching. During the spring months an astonishing 28 species of cetacean can be encountered here including some of the largest on Earth, such as fin, sei and blue whale. Find out more about Whales & Dolphins of the Azores

  • Price (inc. flights): 8 days from £2,795
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
    Tailor-made can be arranged
  • When to go:
    • M
    • A
    • M
    • J

Wildlife Locations

3 recommended locations. Please contact us for further suggestions.

Faial Island

Faial Island is part of the central group of the Azores, and offers good walking trails. The views from the caldera – the extinct volcano that created the island – are spectacular. The capital, Horta, is a base for whale watching trips to see species which include sperm and fin whales, plus bottlenose and Risso's dolphins. Find Out More

  • Where: Central Islands
  • Ideal for viewing: bottlenose dolphin, pilot whale, Risso’s dolphin, sperm whale, sei whale
  • Excellent for: Whale watching, Dolphin watching , Conservation holidays

Pico Island

Pico Island, named after the impressive volcano of Pico Alto that dominates it, is one of the most beautiful of the Azores archipelago. Over 20 species of cetaceans have been recorded off the island's coast, with whales and dolphins either inhabiting these waters or passing by on their migrations. Find Out More

  • Ideal for viewing: sperm whale, spotted dolphin, blue whale, minke whale, Sowerby’s beaked whale
  • Excellent for: Whale watching, Dolphin watching ,

São Miguel

In the midst of the Atlantic Ocean, São Miguel is the largest island in the Azores and is the gateway into this beautiful archipelago. This island in particular is renowned for volcanic peaks cloaked in verdant forests, shimmering lakes, rugged coastline and incredible whale watching. Find Out More

  • Where: Azores archipelago
  • Ideal for viewing: Risso’s dolphin, sperm whale, blue whale, bottlenose dolphin, Azores bullfinch
  • Excellent for: Whale watching, Birdwatching, Dolphin watching ,

View trips to these locations

When to go

Although the Azores are a year round destination, the whale-watching season from May to October is dictated more by weather than the migration patterns of whales and dolphins.

Seasons

  • Winter

    Nov to May: The climate is fairly mild year-round, but heavier rainfall and higher seas can be encountered.
  • Summer

    Jun to Oct: The summer months are the best time to visit the Azores, with warmer temperatures and calmer seas

Wildlife events

  • Nov to Oct: Sperm whales, bottlenose, striped and Risso’s dolphins
  • Mar to May: Baleen (blue, fin and sei) whales pass through
  • Jul to Aug: Beaked whale (Sowerby’s, Cuvier’s and Blainville’s)