Portugal: The Azores
8 days, 6 races, countless adventures!
OVERVIEW
MAP & ITINERARY
WHAT TO EXPECT
PLAN YOUR TRAVEL
BOOK YOUR TRIP
FAQ
Solitary, Serene, & Unforgettable
Solitary, Serene, & Unforgettable
Among snorkeling enthusiasts, the Azores of Portugal is one of the most coveted spots to explore under the sea. On land, this cluster of nine volcanic islands houses some of the best hiking and outdoor experiences around.
We'll spend our time on Faial and Pico islands, home to world class trails and Portugal's youngest (and largest) stratovolcano. Come along for a week of splendid scenery, colorful hydrangeas, and delicious wines and seafoods in "Europe's Hawaii."
TRIP DETAILS:
- Hotels, meals, and local transport included!
- International flight not included
- 8 days/7 nights all-inclusive trip
- Guided trail runs and hikes (7-12K each)
- Daily afternoon activities
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
"...you're guaranteed to leave with tired legs and a full heart."
- 2022 Global Adventurer
Meet Your Host Region: The Azores, Portugal
Nestled in the heart of the North Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are a stunning archipelago of nine volcanic islands. As an Autonomous Region of Portugal, the Azores have its own regional government and administration. Of course, some matters like foreign and monetary policy still remain under the central government of Portugal.
These charming islands are known for incredible hiking, world-class snorkeling, and cheerful hydrangeas that seem to grow everywhere on the islands. The Azorean culture is a harmonious blend of Portuguese traditions and unique island influences. From its vibrant festivals like the "Festas do Espírito Santo" to its delectable cuisine featuring fresh seafood and the famed Azorean pineapple, the Azores offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
MAIN ISLANDS
Saō Miguel and Pico
LANGUAGE
Portuguese
CURRENCY
Euro
WEATHER
63° / 52° in
May & Oct
LANDSCAPE
Volcanic mountains and valleys
KNOWN FOR
Whale & dolphin watching
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team On The Planet
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
Who Goes On A Global Adventure?
Solo Travelers
connect with your curiosity
You can arrive solo, but you're never alone. Surrounded by like-minded travelers, you just may find your new travel companion — and a new favorite hobby to boot!
Dating + Daring
Entertain novelty
You may be partners, but that doesn't mean you want the "typical" romantic getaway. You two are more of the high-adventure type.
Hop on in!
Best Buds
LET MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES
When's the last time your friends have had an excuse to get away? If smiling and laughing your butts off while exploring beautiful destinations isn't a good enough reason to get together, we don't know what is!
Turning a New Leaf
embolden your heart
Chin up and feet forward! You're looking for change or at least a week to turn your back on whatever you left behind. Escape, refresh, and leave with a new perspective.
Portugal: The Azores Itinerary
Please note that this is an example of activities and quality stays you will enjoy with us. Changes may occur based on weather, logistics, and new opportunities. We will always search for comparable alternatives when a change is made.
Scroll to explore!
Adventure Overview
- Day 1: Welcome to Faial
- Day 2: Horta town
- Day 3: Caldeira
- Day 4: Capelo & Capelinhos
- Day 5: Boat ride to Pico
- Day 6: Caminho dos Burros
- Day 7: Free time in Pico
- Day 8: Depart from Pico
Saturday (Day 1): Welcome to Faial, Portugal
Welcome to the Azores! You'll land on the island of Faial and then have a quick 15-minute car ride to the resort, the beautiful and quaint Azoris Faial Garden Resort. Grab a taxi at the airport for the easiest transfer. Get settled in and join us for our welcome dinner and presentation in the evening.
If you arrive early in the day and want to stretch your legs, walk around the resort grounds, or head into the town of Horta and check out the famous sailor's bar, Pete's Cafe Sport!
- Welcome dinner & orientation
- Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel
- Arrive in Faial, Portugal
- Event check-in: approx. 6:00pm
Planning your travel? Check out the Plan Your Travel tab for more info!
Sunday (Day 2): Exploring Horta town
Horta is a wonderful town because it's so walkable. We'll enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then take a short walk to our first run of the week! See the town and cliff top views on this grassy and gravely course. At the finish line, you can cool off with a swim in the ocean.
Work up an appetite yet? We thought so. Fill up on a tasty lunch with the group in town because we're going on a historic whaling experience. Here, you'll get to ride on an original whaling canoe and see what it was like to hunt for whale before modern technology.
These canoes were built locally and designed to hunt sperm whales with harpoons. This method of whaling persisted on the islands until 1984. Of course, today they are used for fun.
- Historic whaling tour
- Between Mounts Run (5K)
- Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel
- Horta, Faial
Monday (Day 3): Visit Caldeira Volcano
Day three starts with breakfast at the hotel, then a quick drive to Caldeira, the tall volcano on the island...technically the volcano is the island, but you get the point. This is an epic and thrilling run around the crater rim that will take your breath away. A picnic lunch in Parque Cabouco follows.
Back to Horta we go for more leisure! This time, we'll enjoy a walking tour of Horta and discover Azorean maritime history at the whaling museum. Afterward, we'll enjoy a relaxing and delightful dinner together.
- Museum visit
- Caldeira (6K)
- Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel
- Horta > Caldeira
Tuesday (Day 4): Diving in the Azores
Rinse and repeat! Fuel up in the morning and then get ready to run. We're heading to Capelo Capelinhos on the west side of the island. You may want your trail shoes for this one. It's got mud, grass, lava stones, sand, and roots. We couldn't pick a more varied terrain if we tried. Cool off with an ocean swim afterward.
After such a thrilling run, indulge in a rich barbecue lunch complete with a Chamarrita dance show! Chamarrita is danced to a 3/4 rhythm and usually features fiddle as well. You're in for a lively treat!
Take the afternoon off and relax or explore in your preferred travel language — whether that includes sunning yourself on the beach, hitting the water on a paddle board, snorkeling, or casting a line into the blue ocean, we can help you arrange an activity.
- Chamarrita dance performance, free time for water activities
- Capelo - Capelinhos Run (6K)
- Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel
- Horta > Capelo Capelinhos
Wednesday (Day 5): Journey to Pico's Vineyards
It's island hopping day. Luckily, this is a leisurely trip. We'll ride a boat from the island of Faial to the island of Pico and will look for dolphin and whale along the way. While wildlife is never guaranteed, this is one of the best spots to see these graceful sea mammals. Relax and keep your eyes on the horizon.
When we arrive on Pico Island, enjoy lunch, have a bit of down time, and change into your running clothes. We're embarking on a sunset run through local vineyards. And yes, you will get to dine and sample the wine after our run. Yum!
- Whale & dolphin watching, wine tour & tasting
- Sunset Vineyards Run (7K)
- Pico Terramar Hotel
- Faial Island > Pico Island
Thursday (Day 6): Running the Caminho dos Burros
El Caminho dos Burros. It's our longest run yet and you may wish you had a donkey to carry you to the finish line. Luckily, it's mostly downhill, so no pack animals are required. Take a dip in one of the island's natural swimming holes after your run, if you'd like.
In the afternoon, inviting blue waters gently rock our kayaks as we paddle around the sea. After kayaking, the afternoon is yours. Have dinner on your own with new friends that you've made. Ask us for recommendations!
- Kayaking, free time to explore
- Caminho dos Burros (11K)
- Pico Terramar Hotel
- Pico Island
Friday (Day 7): Free Time & Farewells
Our final race of the week takes us to our run, Mistérios do Sul. Enjoy your last jaunt around the island, stretch out those legs, and snap some epic running photos!
We'll enjoy swimming and lunch together after our run before chilling out for more free time. This is your chance to grab some souvenirs in town, explore a museum, and soak in the island life. We conclude our week with a farewell dinner at Cella Bar, known for its great food and unique architectural design. Together, we'll reminisce on beautiful landscapes, exhilarating trails, and memorable moments.
- Free time to explore, Farewell dinner
- Mistérios do Sul Run (9K)
- Pico Terramar Hotel
- Pico Island
Saturday (Day 8): Depart from Pico
We're sorry to say it but even this adventure must come to an end. You're free to stick around and explore some more on your own or head home to tell your friends and family about your week abroad. Either way, it's not "goodbye," it's "until next time."
Planning your travel? Check out the Plan Your Travel tab for more info!
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure
Get some insight on how a Global Adventure works from booking to farewells.
Quick Planning Guide
- Keep an eye out for emails from us three months before your trip - we'll send detailed packing and itinerary info and a group WhatsApp chat to get acquainted!
- Weather in the Azores can be temperamental. Pack layers!
- Bring some euros for souvenirs and snacks.
- Avg. 50-75 people per trip
Culture Kick Trip
While all Global Adventures include daily trail runs and active fun, this more relaxed trip focuses on giving you a backstage pass to life in the Azores. We'll learn about island history, enjoy tours & performances, and taste the local fare.
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure! After this initial email, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, a detailed trip itinerary, and more!
Keep an eye on your mailbox - we'll also send you a welcome packet with swag one month before your trip.
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT
Flights or other transportation to our host country are not included in the trip cost. You'll want to book these well in advance to get the best prices.
GET COVERED
We recommend having travel insurance to keep you protected while you're out enjoying each day. Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
While we no longer require participants to be vaccinated, we encourage you to understand the travel requirements of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once you register for an event in RunSignup, you'll have a traveler profile on your RunSugnup account. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
While each adventure is unique, the info below captures the daily schedule of a typical Global Adventure.
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
On most trips, we'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh outfit and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more active fun like glacier treks, rock-climbing, kayaking, and more.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
run difficulty & training
A typical Global Adventures trip includes 6 trail runs ranging from 7-12K in length. Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 20-minute trail pace on these runs.
portugal: the azores TRAIL runs
Exact trail runs may change based on permitting and weather!
Between Mounts (5K)
Route: Some elevation, point-to-point
Terrain: Dirt and sand trail, loose rocks and roots
Level: Moderate
We're off to a scenic start with this clifftop run, offering views of Horta town and aqua blue waters you'll be able to dive into at the finish line.
Around Caldeira (7K)
Route: Mostly flat, point-to-point
Terrain: Single-track dirt trail through the forest
Level: Moderate
Let's get volcanic! Today we'll run around an epic volcanic crater that offers views of the mountains, oceans, and even Pico island - our next stop.
Capelo - Capelinhos (7K)
Route: Point-to-point with two steep climbs
Terrain: Gravel and grass trail
Level: Moderate
This run takes us to two peaks, past a cave, and down to the ocean with a lighthouse finish!
Sunset Vineyards (6K)
Route: Mostly flat loop
Terrain: Mixed pavement, grassy and mud trail, and lava stone
Level: Easy
Welcome to Pico! We'll introduce ourselves to the island with a sunset run through the unique vineyard landscape of this island.
Caminho dos Burros (11K)
Route: Flat, downhill, point-to-point
Terrain: All of them! Pavement, grass, mud, stone, sand, etc.
Level: Moderate
Our longest run is a fast, downhill run towards the ocean.
Mistérios do Sul (9K)
Route: Moderate elevation, point-to-point
Terrain: Mixed pavement, grassy and mud trail, and lava stone
Level: Moderate
We'll follow this coastal trail down to our third picturesque swimming hole. Hey, who gets tired of a post-run swim?
Plan Your Travel
Now that you're as excited as we are, let's get down to the nitty gritty details of your adventure.
Travel Details
Arrival (Saturday):
- Please plan to arrive on Faial island mid-afternoon on the first day of your trip
- Horta Airport (HOR), Faial Island, Portugal
- Check in at our group hotel (Azoris Faial Garden Resort Hotel) & enjoy a welcome dinner! Taxi rides from the airport are an affordable ~15 minute ride costing ~20-25 euros.
Depart (Saturday):
- You may depart anytime on the last day of the trip
- Pico Airport (PIX), Pico Island, Portugal
- Check out of our hotel on Pico island (Pico Terramar Hotel). Taxis to the airport should be an affordable 15 minute ride costing ~20-25 euros.
Flight Tips & Tricks
VR Recommended flights to purchase:
all travelers:
The below recommended flights reflect the quickest and most economical way we have found to reach the Azores.
- International Flight: Round-trip between your home airport and Lisbon, Portugal
- Domestic Flight #1: Lisbon > Horta Airport (HOR) (~2hr 45min direct)
- Domestic Flight #2: Pico Airport (PIX) > Lisbon (~2hr 30min direct)
east coast u.s. travelers:
SATA operates flights from both JFK and BOS directly to the airports on Faial and Pico! These flights have one stop-over in São Miguel island, but are a good option for those who want to avoid a self-transfer in Lisbon.
Additional notes:
Two main airlines have flights to the Azores: SATA and TAP. Direct flights from Lisbon start at ~$46 each way.
We recommend booking a day or two in Lisbon to enjoy mainland Portugal and a pastéis de nata.
Packing & Prep
Coverage: You may want to consider travel insurance for such an epic adventure!
Travel Restrictions: Vacation Races does not require a COVID-19 vaccine to attend our trips. Please check with the local authority of your destination country to see the latest travel recommendations.
Kayak.com also maintains a useful tool for checking international travel restrictions.
Packing List: These are fast-paced events. We'll send you a packing list before the trip to help you feel ready to tackle...well, just about anything!
Training: Adventurers of various skill levels can enjoy our running adventures. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
Check out the the Azores trail runs for more info on what to expect!
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
Upcoming Trip Dates
2024 Dates
May 11-18, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
September 21-28, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
October 5-12, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
2025 Dates
May 17-24, 2025
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,800
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
September 20-27, 2025
8 Days | 7 Nights
Pricing TBD
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
October 4-11, 2025
8 Days | 7 Nights
Pricing TBD
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
Included in all Global Adventures
- Guided trail runs or hikes (7-12K each)
- Expert team of staff, guides, and a medic
- Daily activities and outings
- Hotels and lodging
- Most meals (and drinks!)
- Local transport
- Travel swag and race medals
Payment & Policy Info
Pricing Policy
Your registration fee includes the trip races, activities, and double occupancy accommodations. It also includes transportation within the host country, most meals and drinks, and swag items. Itinerary details are subject to change, but we will always offer a comparable alternative.
The Deposit
A deposit of $500 is due at registration. Solo travelers who opt to have a single room (aka no roommate) during the trip will also need to pay an additional supplement at the time of registration to secure a single room (single rooms are only available on select Global Adventures and vary in cost from $800 to $1,200 depending on the destination).
Making Payments
After registration and the initial deposit, you will receive an invoice for the remaining balance. The remaining balance is due 5 months prior to the trip. You will receive monthly reminder emails to pay the remaining balance. Invoice payments can be made online at any time and at any amount.
Using Credits
If you have accrued race credits that you would like to use toward your Global Adventures payments, you may do so. Credits are earned by volunteering at our domestic events. You can also transfer credits from one of our domestic events to use toward your Global Adventures registration. There is no limit to the amount of credits that can be applied.
Room Occupancy Policy
Trip pricing is based on double occupancy of all hotel rooms. If you register with a partner, you will be able to room with them. If you register as a solo adventurer, we will pair you with someone else of the same gender in a hotel room. We try to use factors like your age, location, and other information you provide to pair you with a compatible roommate.
Single Occupancy Upgrade*: If you prefer to have your hotel room to yourself, the additional cost will be between $800 and $1,200 to cover the additional hotel expenses (cost is dependent on location and will be detailed on trip booking pages).
*Single Occupancy Upgrades are only available on select Global Adventures.
Waitlist Policy
For select trips, a waitlist may become available in the event of a sell-out.
The purpose of the waitlists is to gather contact information for people who wish to receive updates about spots that may become available on that specific trip or any additional trips that may be offered for that destination.
If spots become available on the original trip, we will attempt to contact waitlist registrants, in order, by email or phone to offer the available spots.
In the event an additional trip is added, we will contact everyone on the waitlist via email to announce the new dates and provide information regarding registration. If all spots are not reserved by waitlist registrants within the specified timeframe, registration will then be open to the general public.
Refund & Transfer Policy
If you have registered for a Global Adventures trip and are no longer able to travel, you have a few options. Your options change as we get closer to the trip, so please be mindful of this.
Please also note that we are not responsible for unforeseen factors that may disrupt your travel (airline strikes, weather, personal illness, etc.) and we do not issue refunds or transfers for such cases. To protect yourself from these factors, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance before your trip.
If your travel is delayed and you arrive at the Global Adventures destination late, we will work with you to reunite you with the group as soon as possible.
If unforeseen circumstances prevent you from traveling, you may reach out to us to discuss potential options.
Option 1: Transfer your registration to another event
2+ month(s) before the trip:
You can transfer your registration to another trip with no additional transfer fees. This transfer is good for any location and must be used by December 31st of the following year of the original trip.
For example, if your original trip was scheduled for April 2023, you can transfer your registration to any event through December 31, 2024.
If the trip you transfer to has a higher value than the trip you transferred from, you are responsible for paying the difference. At times, it is necessary for us to amend our trip pricing due to changes in market costs. Latest trip pricing will always be listed on our website.
Less than 2 months before the trip:
You can transfer your registration to another trip but the value of your original trip will be reduced by $1,500 to account for non-refundable booking fees that we have paid our in-country hosts (these typically include payments for transportation, hotels, staff, meals and activities). This means you will owe additional payments on the new trip that you transfer to.
Less than 1 month before the trip:
You can transfer your registration to another trip but the value of your original trip will be reduced by $3,000 to account for non-refundable booking fees that we have paid our in-country hosts (these typically include payments for transportation, hotels, staff, meals and activities). This means you will owe additional payments on the new trip that you transfer to.
If the trip you transfer to has a higher value than the trip you transferred from, you are responsible for paying the difference. At times, it is necessary for us to amend our trip pricing due to changes in market costs. The most up-to-date trip pricing will always be listed on our website.
Option 2: Transfer your registration to another participant
You can transfer your registration to another person for free up until the start of the event. The responsibility is on you to find a recipient. If you had plans to travel with a friend and room together, the recipient will be placed with your original roommate. If you were traveling solo and requested to be paired with another traveler, we would pair the recipient with another guest of the same gender.
You and the recipient are responsible for squaring up financially.
If you are having significant trouble finding someone to receive your registration, please contact us and we may be able to help.
Option 3: Cancel + Receive a Refund
Refunds are only available for trips that are happening in the future. You cannot receive a refund for an event that has passed. Further, you cannot receive a refund for a deferred or transferred registration. If your registration meets these two criteria, your refund options are as follows.
3+ months before the trip, you are able to receive a full refund on your payment contributions minus a 5% processing fee (this fee covers non-refundable costs we incur from our booking platform and card payment facility)
Between 1-3 months before the trip, you are able to receive a partial refund. Your refund amount is your payment contributions minus a 5% processing fee and minus $1,500 to account for non-refundable booking fees that we have paid our in-country hosts (these typically include payments for transportation, hotels, staff, meals and activities).
Less than 1 month before the trip, you are still able to receive a partial refund. Your refund amount is your payment contributions minus a 5% processing fee and minus $3,000 to account for non-refundable booking fees that we have paid our in-country hosts (these typically include payments for transportation, hotels, staff, meals and activities).Frequently Asked Questions
Registration
Will I need a passport or visa?
If our destination country is different from your country of residence, yes, you will need a valid passport. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel. It is your responsibility to verify that your passport meets our destination country's criteria.
Visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. Please reference the state department website of the destination country to determine if a visa is needed. Ultimately, you are responsible for securing all necessary visas and documentation required by the destination country.
Will I need a COVID-19 vaccine?
While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover. Please visit the State Department website of your destination country to up-to-date travel information.
While on your trip, our staff medic will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
How much does a Global Adventures trip cost?
All Global Adventures trips include the cost of daily hotels, included group activities and entrance fees, domestic transportation in the host country, and most food and drinks.
The cost of your flight to and from the host country is not included to allow participants to choose the travel options that are right for them.
Looking for the exact cost of this trip? Head to the Book Your Trip tab!
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
Can I receive a refund for trip activities that I don't want to participate in?
No. We cannot offer partial refunds for unattended components of the trip. Our travel packages are thoughtfully curated, taking into consideration various factors to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants. This includes pre-booking accommodations, activities, meals, transportation and other components well in advance.
How can I complete my registration payment?
- Login to runsignup.
- Select "Manage Registration" next to the race
- Select "Add Ons" at the top of the page
- Update the selection for "Do you want to pay the remaining balance today?"
- Select "Continue" and complete payment.
How can I update my address in Runsignup?
- Go to your Profile
- See Upcoming Races
- Click Manage Registration next to the registration that you are editing
- Click the Shipping tab.
Trip Planning
Who goes on Global Adventure trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We can accommodate most dietary restrictions with some advance notice. Please fill out your traveler information in Run Signup after you register so that we can make plans successfully.
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Exceptions:
Japan - in Japan, restrictions are harder to accommodate and are not culturally normal. As such, most restaurants struggle to accommodate restrictions beyond vegetarian, pescatarian, or dairy-free diets. If you have a restriction outside of these three diets, please book a 15-minute call here.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Are there any age restrictions?
These trips are mainly enjoyed by adults, and as long as you are comfortable with the runs, activities, and group setting, we'll be glad to have you! For parents/guardians who may want to bring their children who also like to run, we recommend children be 14 years or older.
For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey tasting event is 21+
Will I receive swag items before my trip?
We ship all travelers a swag package about 3 weeks before the event. We are only able ot ship within the US at this time. You can update your preferred shipping address by following these steps in your RunSignup account:
1. Log into your RunSignup account
2. Under Upcoming Events, click Manage Registration for this event
3. Click the Shipping tab and update your shipping address
How much cash should I bring on my trip?
We recommend planning to spend $100 - 300 USD during your trip, exchanged to the local currency.
The truth is each destination is different regarding exchange rates and convenience of exchanging currencies. Once you sign up for a trip, the GA team will give recommendations on the best and most convenient way to exchange money.
Will we have phone service during the trip?
We recommend that you get an international phone plan in your home country before traveling. Many U.S. phone providers will offer an international plan that can be purchased online via your account.
If you arrive to the destination country with extra time, you may also choose to purchase a local SIM card or E-Sim. Airports usually have stores that can help you purchase and set up these SIM cards.
What kind of clothing should I wear after the runs?
After running we will usually be doing activities, we recommend always putting comfort first! Casual, active clothes for activities and tours, plus comfortable shoes to rest your feet. We also recommend one nice outfit for our celebration dinner or other evenings out.
Remember to pack light, we usually move a lot and carrying your bag to the buses might be a challenge if it is too heavy! 3 months out from the trip, you will receive a packing list to use as a reference!
What will the weather be like?
Check the weather here by typing in the places we go. Then 10 days before the trip, do it again so you can have more comfort in knowing what to expect and how to pack.
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will I get to shower after the runs?
With so much to see and do, most the days we won't be able to shower between your run and heading to lunch or an activity. We recommend packing body wipes and a change of clothes in your day bag each morning. There are typically bathrooms where you can freshen up and sometimes a lake or ocean to jump into!
Remember, a couple of weeks before traveling you will be receiving a day bag from us - among other cool and useful swag! You can use this day bag to carry your running clothes for clean ones and stay fresh during the day.
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventures trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails. They can join us as a fast hiker (20 minutes per mile) if they choose!
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
The Azores are waiting for you!
Join us for the all-inclusive running trip you never knew you needed.
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