Travel Vaccines and Advice for Azores
Azores is one of Portugal’s autonomous regions. This region spans nine volcanic islands that cover 350 miles. Azores is an archipelago and is considered one of the world’s best kept secrets for tourists.
Each island holds a different and unique culture due to Azores’ long history of different waves of immigrants and settlements. The natural wonders created by the volcanic activity and lush forests provide tourists with unforgettable natural experiences.
The Azores has a distinct culture that meshes Portuguese culture with influences from various waves on immigration.
The capital of Azores spans through three different cities: Ponta Delgada, Angra and Horta. Each of these cities is a home to a different branch of government.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Azores?
Other Ways To Stay Healthy in Azores
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Azores?
What Is the Climate Like in Azores?
How Safe Is Azores?
Hot Springs in Azores
What Should I Take to Azores?
U.S. Consular Services in Azores
Do I Need Vaccines for Azores?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Azores. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Azores: hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Azores |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Azores |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It’s typically spread through contaminated food or water. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective immunization that protects against the virus, usually given in two shots for long-term prevention.
- Rabies – Preventing rabies involves avoiding contact with infected animals and ensuring timely vaccination. The rabies vaccine is a critical tool, offering protection through post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and preemptive vaccination for high-risk individuals like travelers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travelers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Preventing their transmission is possible through vaccination with the MMR vaccine. This two-dose vaccine not only safeguards individuals but also helps create herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks within communities.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways To Stay Healthy in Azores
Prevent Bug Bites in Azores
Safeguard against bug bites by following CDC-recommended practices like donning long attire and using EPA-registered repellents like DEET or picaridin. Be mindful of bug activity times and bolster your sleeping space with nets and screens. In the event of bug bites, clean the area, resist itching, and use over-the-counter treatments to help with itching. Be sure to seek medical help for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Azores
When abroad, ensure food safety by avoiding street vendors, practicing hand hygiene, and opting for thoroughly cooked dishes. Choose bottled or canned drinks with intact seals. To prevent travelers’ diarrhea, maintain hand hygiene, avoid raw foods, and dine at trustworthy restaurants.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Azores?
Travel visas are required for entry to Azores (Portugal). Non immigrant visas can be applied for at the U.S. Embassy in Lisbon. But, this location no longer processes immigrant visas or diversity visas. If you wish to apply for these specific kinds of visas, you must do so at the U.S. Embassy in Paris. A travel visa will be valid for 60 months after application.
All passports must be valid for three months beyond the intended travel dates.
Azores Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Azores? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Azores and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in Azores?
The Azores is a group of nine islands in the Atlantic Ocean. The weather is usually mild and stays about the same temperature all year round. It can rain a lot, so it’s important to pack for all kinds of weather.
The most popular islands to visit are São Miguel, Terceira, Faial, and Pico. On São Miguel and Terceira, it’s best to visit from May to October because it’s warmer and drier. Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira is a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful beaches. Faial is small, but pretty, and has a famous marina. On Pico, the biggest attraction is the volcano called Mount Pico, and it’s a good place to go whale watching.
The Azores are great to visit, but it’s important to pack for all kinds of weather because it can change quickly.
How Safe Is Azores?
Europe is vulnerable to potential terrorist attacks. Remain vigilant and conscious of personal security while traveling.
Avoid public areas where protests take place. This happens every once in a while in Portugal. Petty crimes are most common in Azores (Portugal) such as pick-pocketing. Keep you valuable close and in your sights at all times, especially in crowded areas.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.
Hot Springs in Azores
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Natural thermal pools can be found throughout the islands of Azores. Some of the most popular hot springs can be found on the island of Sao Miguel. Some hot springs to check out are Poça Dona Beija, Caldeira Velha or Terra Nostra. These hot springs are unique because they are often surrounded by lush forests.
The most popular hot springs is Terra Nostra. This hot spring is located in the Valley of Furnas, a dormant volcanic crater.
Hot springs are a perfect activity to plan for colder days, for the springs will always be hot. Make sure you wear an old swimsuit because sometimes the springs can leave behind an orange residue.
What Should I Take to Azores?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Azores:
- Hats and sunscreen to protect against the consistent sun.
- Swimsuit, especially if you plan on swimming in the natural hot springs.
- Light rain jacket, sometimes the weather can be unpredictable.
- Shoes for hiking, if you plan to hike.
- Mosquito repellent and clothing that covers bare skin to prevent mosquito bites and infections.
U.S. Consular Services in Azores
All Americans visiting Azores should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
There is no U.S. embassy in the Azores, but it is served by a consulate.
U.S. Consulate Ponta Delgada
Príncipe de Mónaco, 6-2 F
9500-237 Ponta Delgada
Phone: 351 296 308 330
Fax: 351 296 287 216
Email: ConsPontaDelgada@state.gov
If you have any questions about traveling to Azores or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Azores
“I was pleasantly surprised to be able to find an all-services clinic for my trip to Azores. Preparations and advice were first-rate, and all my travel needs were taken care of very efficiently. Great service.”
“Great experience! The nurse was amazing…she explained everything for Azores and was very gentle and caring. I would highly recommend her, and her company!”
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