Geochemistry, Sustainability and Tourism of the Azores

The nine islands of the Azorean archipelago lie nearly equidistant from North America and Europe, at the intersection of three separate tectonic plates. These islands appeared on European maps as early as 1351 and were periodically explored before being claimed by Portuguese sailors into the early 15th century with the first settlement established in 1450.  

Today, the Azores have a vibrant economy which brings together tourism, rich history, and unique ecosystems of the islands. Students visit sites of interest unique to the Azores, exploring how tectonic and volcanic activity have led to the distinctive landscapes, agricultural production systems, cultural expressions, and the tourism industry. Some areas we may visit include:

• Sete Cidades. This volcanic area is home to twin lakes, Lagoa Verde, and Lagoa Azul, which formed after a massive volcanic eruption. While the two lakes are connected, the different geographic structures lead to two distinct colors of the lakes.
• Cha Gorreana. The Azores have the only tea plantation in Europe due to the soil from millions of years of tectonic and volcanic activity. 
• Furnas. The Azorean hot springs at Furnas are steaming vents in which the locals congregate every day to cook cozinho, an Azorean stew. We also visit natural hot springs are used as thermal baths.
• Observatório Vulcanológico in Lagoa. This institute tells the past, present, and future story of this tectonic archipelago.
• Nordeste. The eastern most part of the island is also the oldest part, sitting in an extinct volcanic caldera. Here are lush forests and unique mineral deposits. Students participate in a moderate hike through multiple geological features and diversity of local fauna.

Whether enrolled for general education or advanced credit, students enjoy an experience of a lifetime that is only a four-hour plane ride from Boston.