Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about my tours. If you don’t see what you need, feel free to contact me directly. 

 

booking, payments & cancellation policy 

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How do I book a tour? 
To book a tour, contact me by email or phone, or use the booking request form on my website. I’ll confirm availability and provide all payment details.

 

How do I pay for my tour? 

I prioritise bank transfers at the time of booking to secure your reservation. Payment details will be provided when your booking is confirmed. Other payment options may be available upon request. 

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What is your cancellation policy? (Terms and conditions) 

• More than 7 days before the tour: Cancel or reschedule at no cost. 

• From 7 days up to 72 hours before the tour: 50% of the total estimated value is charged. 

• Within 72 hours of the tour: 100% of the total estimated value is charged. 

Note: Rates with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour are available at a higher price. 

 

customisation 

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Can the standard tours be customised? 
Absolutely. All tours are private, so the itinerary can be adjusted to your interests. Just let me know your preferences in the booking form, and I will tailor the day to suit you. 

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Can we change the tour starting time? 
Tours do not start earlier than scheduled. If an earlier start is important, it may be possible for an additional fee, depending on availability. 

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Can we change the meeting point? 
Yes, it’s possible to change the meeting point for an additional fee. The price for an alternative pick-up and drop-off location is €30 (this includes both pick-up and drop-off). 
Note: For the “2 Days on Pico” tour, pick-up and drop-off are included. 

 

pricing 

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What is included in the tour price? 
The tour price covers all services listed in the tour description. This typically includes transportation, a certified guide, insurance, entrance fees (when applicable), and a picnic lunch. 

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What is not included? 
Personal expenses, optional activities, and anything not explicitly mentioned as included in the tour description. 

Wine tastings are not included by default. The cost is €30 per person for three wines, as shown on the website. 

 

We’re travelling as a group. How does pricing work? 
There is a fixed price per person for groups of 1 to 8 people. For larger groups, please get in touch and I will prepare a customised offer, including suitable transportation. 

 

transportation & comfort 

 

What type of vehicle is used for the tours? 
Transportation is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned Toyota Proace with seating for up to 8 passengers, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout the day. 

 

I’d like to book a car tour, but I don’t want to spend the whole day driving. Is that the case? 
Not at all. Although Pico is a big island and some driving is unavoidable, I carefully plan the route to minimise time in the car. Along the way, we make frequent stops and enjoy short walks, to fully experience the island. 

 

wine tasting 

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Does the tour include a wine tasting? 
Wine tastings are not included by default. The prices listed for tours and hikes do not include wine tasting, but it can easily be added to any programme. The cost is €30 per person for three wines, as shown on the website. 

 

Is it worth adding a wine tasting to the tour? 
Yes, Pico has a centuries-old winemaking tradition that is an essential part of the island’s identity. The unique volcanic terroir produces wines rarely found outside the Azores. While a wine tasting isn’t necessary, I highly recommend tasting at least one Pico wine before you fly home. 

 

Which wines are included in the wine tasting? 
The standard tasting generally includes three white wines from traditional Pico grape varieties: Verdelho, Arinto dos Açores, and Terrantez do Pico. If you prefer red wines or a different selection, just let me know. 

 

Which wine cellar do we visit for the tasting? 
Pico has a number of wonderful adegas. My usual choices are Lucas Amaral, Adega do Vulcão, or Entre Pedras, but we can visit any cellar you prefer. Some cellars also offer more technical visits for a deeper winemaking experience, which may have an additional cost. 

 

What is the minimum age for the wine tasting? 
In Portugal, the legal age for alcohol consumption is 18, so guests must be 18 or older to take part. 

 

about the picnic 

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What is included in the picnic lunch with local flavors? 
The picnic usually includes: 

• cheese platter with local cheeses & a homemade spread 

• bread, seasonal salad from my biological vegetable garden, and nuts 

• homemade dessert 

• bottle of white wine (children receive a local soda) 

Menu may vary slightly depending on season and availability. 

 

I have a special diet. Can the picnic be adapted? 
Yes, of course. Please let me know your dietary requirements when booking, and I will adapt the picnic to suit your needs. 

 

about the guide 

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What does “certified guide” mean? 
A certified guide is a professional who has completed official training and holds valid certification. I am a certified mountain guide and have completed the Azores Natural Parks course with a specialization in Pico Island. My official registration number is RRAAT 07/2025/RAA. Certification ensures that I meet safety standards and have expert knowledge of the local environment, culture, and history. I also update my training regularly, as I believe in never stopping learning. 

 

practical details 

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What do we need to bring for the tour? 
After booking, I send all practical details and a full packing list. In general, please bring: 

• comfortable walking shoes 

• sun protection (hat + sunscreen) 

• refillable water bottle and a small snack 

• swimwear if you’d like to swim 

• warm layer (temperatures on higher ground can be up to 10°C cooler) 

• light rain jacket (weather can change quickly) 

 

insurance 

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Am I insured during the activities? 
Yes. To operate with an official licence, I comply with all required insurance policies for tourism activity providers. Mandatory coverage includes personal accident insurance and civil liability insurance, meeting the legal minimum limits. My insurance is provided by Allianz. 

 

Why do I need to share full names and birth dates? 
This is necessary for the insurance policy. It ensures all participants are correctly registered and fully protected during the activity. 

 

local recommendations 

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Can you recommend some great places to find souvenirs on Pico? 
Yes! Pico has many talented artisans and local producers, making it a wonderful place to find unique souvenirs. Below are some of my favourite addresses: 

• Azulejos da Ponta da Ilha – Hand-painted azulejos inspired by Azorean culture. 

• Barro & Barro – Handmade pottery, earrings, functional decorative pieces and much more.

• O Oleiro – Traditional workshop with authentic ceramic creations. 

• Azorean Fish Print – Unique prints, clay sculptures, and watercolors inspired by the Azores’ marine life. 

 

If you’d like personalised recommendations based on your interests, just let me know when you book. 

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