Azores - Covid Travel information
From 4 July 2020, Madeira and the Azores are exempt from the FCO advice against all non-essential international travel. This is based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks. However, the requirement to self-isolate on return to the UK from Portugal, including Madeira and the Azores, remains in place. This section will be updated as soon as this advice is updated. Last Updated: 27JUL2020
Azores - the location, language, time difference
All the nine islands of the Azores Archipelago are located in the North Atlantic. These volcanic isles are scattered along a 600 km stretch of ocean from Santa Maria to Corvo. The islands of the archipelago are divided in three geographical groups: the Eastern Group, comprising Santa Maria and São Miguel, the Central Group, including Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico and Faial, and the Western Group, composed by Corvo and Flores. Each island has its own individual atmosphere and distinctive flair. Typically, the best months for divers are May to October, when the marine life is at its most exciting and the water temps climb to 20-24C.
- GMT -1
- Portuguese, most speak English
Azores - weather and climate
The weather in the Azores is changeable! The islands enjoy a mild temperate climate throughout the year and benefit from the Gulf Stream; a current of warm water that heads north east from the Gulf of Mexico. The average air temperature varies between 11 and 26°C depending on the time of year and the surrounding ocean averages between 15 and 23°C. Being so far out in the Atlantic, the islands are prone to rainy days at any time of year, and without these showers of course, you could not enjoy the beautiful flora on the islands.
Azores - Currency and Tax
Euros
A transaction fee is usually levied on all credit or debit card payments
How do I get there?
There are weekly direct flights from the UK with a flight time of 3½ hours with Ryan Air and daily flights via Lisbon from Heathrow and Manchester with TAP. Depending on which island you are staying on, you may find you need a night en route in San Miguel before catching your onward Air Azores flight to Faial or Santa Maria.
If you are flying with TAP, you can also add a night or two in Lisbon, Portugal en route.
Are there any extension options?
It is easy to move between the islands in the Azores. You can combine a trip to Faial, San Miguel and Santa Maria islands in a single trip. Speak to your travel consultant, who will create a bespoke itinerary for you. There are loads of land activities so we heartily recommend adding a few nights on one of the islands to experience all the Azores has to offer on land too. This can include bird watching, horse riding food and wine tours, cycling, hiking and walking through the hills, visiting waterfalls and lakes, local markets and whale watching... to name but a few!
Passports and Visas
Passports - Must be valid for 6 months from return date
UK passport holders do not need a visa for the Azores. Do ensure your passport has 6 months validity from your return date to prevent any issues with your airline. It is your responsibility to ensure your passport is valid and you fulfil entry requirements. Regulations can change: please review current FCO advice: click here
Preparing to fly
Depending on your airline, you may be able to complete check in online to print your boarding pass. If not, we will email your flight tickets to you in advance. You must print your ticket coupon.
You will be able to manage your booking online once you have been ticketed (after you have paid your holiday balance). Most airlines will now enable you to select your seating at this point. There may be a small charge for prebookable seating before online check in opens. Please speak to the airline for more information about charges.
An airport lounge is a great way to start your holiday or to while away flight connections in comfort. Scuba Travel works with Lounge Pass to offer a huge range of affordable airport lounges around the world click here
Prebook your airport parking to save money! If you have a long way to travel, why not also look at booking an airport hotel. These aren't as expensive as you might think. click here
Alcohol and tobacco for personal use are permitted when travelling between EU countries Allowances can change without notice - please reconfirm before travel.
What do I need to arrange before I go?
UK passport holders do not need a visa for the Azores. Do ensure your passport has 6 months validity from your return date to prevent any issues with your airline. It is your responsibility to ensure your passport is valid and you fulfil entry requirements. Regulations can change: please review current FCO advice: click here
Scuba Travel requires all of our customers to have diving insurance. Please make sure that you have appropriate cover for your diving activities. We also strongly recommend you have travel insurance. It's worth taking out travel insurance once you have paid your deposit to ensure you are covered for unforeseen events and cancellation. Find out more about our combined dive and travel policy click here
Please speak to your local GP or check out the latest NHS advice on travel immunisations: click here
What happens when I arrive?
On arrival please make your way through baggage claim and immigration. There will either be a rep to meet you or you will have full details of your where to meet your transfer (with a confirmation voucher) in your travel documentation. If you have any issues on arrival, please contact us. We have an emergency contact, manned by a member of the team here in the UK. Please call 0044 7747 488 002. We will be able to help your rep locate you in the airport.
Transfers are included in your holiday. You will be advised in your travel documentation of how to find your transfer.
What happens on departure day?
At the end of your holiday, your return transfer details will be advised locally. EU passport holders do not need to pay a departure tax.
Plugs and Electricity
220V-240V European style 2 pin plugs