The Azores are an autonomous chain of islands in Portugal that sit in the mid-Atlantic about 930 miles from Lisbon and about 2,400 miles from North America. There are nine individual islands, each one with its own unique character and landscape. If you plan on exploring any of the Azores islands, the very best way to do so is by renting a motorcycle.
The Azores islands are known for their dramatic landscapes spotted in blue hydrangeas as well as their quaint fishing villages. If you’re visiting the Azores islands for the first time, it’s probably best to start at Sao Miguel, the largest in the island chain. However, the island Pico is also a popular destination for travellers who enjoy hiking.
Regardless of which of the Azores islands you choose to visit, the best way to get the most out of your experience is to hire a motorcycle and explore the island at your own pace.
Here is everything you need to know about hiring a motorcycle in the Azores islands. Most things here can also be applied if you are renting a scooter or a quad/ATV. This guide includes:
- What it’s like to drive a motorcycle in the Azores islands
- Where to hire a motorcycle
- The cost of motorcycle rental in the Azores islands
- Whether you need an international driving permit in Portugal
- Places to go on a rental motorbike
Is It Easy to Drive in the Azores Islands?
If you’re from the United States or anywhere else in the world that drives on the right side of the road, you’ll be relieved to know that this is the same in all of the Azores islands. However, driving in the Azores islands is very relaxed, so even if you've never driven on the right before, it might not be a bad place to try.
There is very little traffic in any of the Azores islands, even in Sao Miguel, the largest and busiest island. Unlike some of Portugal’s cities like Lisbon and Porto where people tend to drive like maniacs, the people of the Azores islands seem to take a much more relaxed approach to driving.
The roads in the Azores islands can be quite narrow, so they’re easier to navigate on a motorcycle than in a rental car. However, the weather on the islands can change quite quickly, and driving a motorcycle might mean that you’re going to get rained on at some point during your stay.
Where Can You Hire a Motorcycle in the Azores Islands?
If you’re flying into the Azores islands, chances are you’ll be arriving at Joao Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel. Just a short taxi ride from the airport, you can find several different motorbike hire shops in the city centre of Ponta Delgada.
If you plan on visiting the island of Faial, there are motorcycle rental services located very close to Horta Airport, the only airport on the island. The island of Pico has an airport located just outside the town of Madalena where there is car rental available just outside the terminal. There are also services on Pico that will rent you a scooter. Unfortunately, there are no motorcycle hire companies on Pico.
As a general rule of thumb in the Azores islands, you will pretty much only be able to find vehicle rentals in or around the main metropolitan centres. These islands are so small that there isn’t much commerce going on outside of these areas.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Motorcycle in the Azores Islands?
While motorbike rental in the Azores can be as cheap as €30 per day, which is an outstanding rate for Europe, hiring a proper motorcycle will probably cost you a bit more. A 700cc motorcycle such as a Yamaha Tracer 700 will probably cost you around €70 per day to rent.
Many of the Azores islands are prime locations for off-roading, and if you want a motorcycle that can take on the mountains, you’re probably looking at around €100 per day to rent one. There are also many affordable off-road motorcycle tours in the Azores islands that make for a memorable experience.
Many rental agencies will give reduced rates for long-term rentals, so if you plan on staying on one of the Azores islands for a long time, that’s worth looking into. You also want to make sure your rental shop provides you with a helmet and insurance as part of the deal.
Do You Need an International Driving Permit in the Azores Islands?
Drivers from the United States and the United Kingdom are not required to carry an international driving permit with them while operating a motor vehicle in the Azores islands, including a motorcycle. However, if you want to save yourself the potential hassle of dealing with someone at a rental shop who isn’t aware of that, you might want to get an international driving permit anyway.
If you want to get an international driving permit, you can apply for one here. There is a $20 application fee and they usually take two weeks to arrive in the mail. Once you have your permit, it’s valid for one year.
The Best Places to Tour in Sao Miguel Island
Since most people reading this will spend the majority of their time in Sao Miguel while staying in the Azores islands, here is a list of the best places to visit by motorcycle in Sao Miguel:
Sete Cidades Lake
The island of Sao Miguel is spotted with many lakes, but perhaps the most magnificent is Sete Cidades Lake, located about a 35 minute drive northwest from Ponta Delgada. The water is a uniquely greenish-blue color that’s truly a sight for the eyes.
You can kayak around the lake, paddleboard, or just chill out on the shore. When you’re done at the lake, make sure to check out the hiking trails around the lake. You’ll find beautiful mountain trails that lead to breathtaking views.
Caldeira Velha Hot Spring
Some of the most popular attractions in Sao Miguel are the hot springs, and the hot spring at Caldeira Velha is among the most impressive. Located about 20 minutes northeast from Ponta Delgada by motorcycle, you park your bike and walk through lush vegetation and right into a surreal thermal pool.
The hot springs of Caldeira Velha are unique because they have waterfalls running into them, and getting into one feels like taking a natural hot shower.
Farol do Arnel
Many visitors to Sao Miguel fail to make it over to the Nordeste district on the eastern side of the island, but there are some incredible hidden gems in the region, including Farol do Arnel. The oldest lighthouse on the island, Farol do Arnel offers an unparalleled view of the rocky coastline and is a great place to have a picnic.
It will take you about an hour to drive from Ponta Delgada to Farol do Arnel, but the views along the way are well worth it.
Tour the Azores Islands by Motorcycle
Regardless of which of the Azores islands you find yourself on, try to find a motorcycle to hire and explore the island on your own terms. Take the backroads and get lost in a part of the island that tourists don’t normally go to. That’s the best way to experience what the Azores islands are all about.
Do you still have questions about motorcycle rentals in the Azores islands? No worries, you can always contact us by phone, email, or our website's live chat.
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