TAP flies several times a day between Funchal and Porto Santo in the Madeira
group, and on the Azores, flights are operated by SATA.
Flights to Flores and Corvo are often disrupted by adverse weather
conditions, so for extensive island hopping it is a good idea to insure
against delays. SATA flights should be confirmed at least 72 hours before
take-off.

The most useful ferry connections are between the five central islands of the
Azores, especially the Faial-Pico run.

Buses operate throughout Madeira, but cater mainly for islanders’ needs.
However, companies such as Intervisa  and Blandy  organize coach trips around the island. Taxis can be hired
by the day or half-day, but car hire offers the most flexibility. Book well ahead and allow
plenty of time for journeys: roads are steep, tortuous and full of potholes.
The new road along the south coast was finally finished in 1999, but many
places are still accessible only on foot.

Cars can be hired on all the Azores except Corvo, from firms such as Ilha Verde Rent-A-Car . Charges are high compared to the
mainland and the roads are precipitous, so it may be more restful, at least
on the smaller islands, to take a tour by taxi. Many drivers speak English,
and they often make memorable companions. Before setting off on a day trip,
you should agree a price, itinerary and return time. You should also offer
to pay for the driver’s lunch. Check the weather beforehand: if the
mountains and calderas are concealed by clouds, there is no point setting
out. Buses are cheap but, as on Madeira, of little use to visitors. Tourist
offices can supply information on coach trips by Agência
Açoreana de Viagens  and others, and also on boat trips along the
coast. Bicycles can be hired, but the mountainous terrain makes cycling
difficult. On the smaller islands you can usually hitch a lift with
ease.

The best way to enjoy the Azores is on foot. Taxi drivers are willing to drop
visitors off at the start of a route and pick them up further on. Detailed
maps of the Azores are hard to find, so try to acquire one prior to arrival.
Some routes are described in the specialist guidebooks sold locally.