Backpackers are going to get out there in the wilder lands of the Azores Islands and possibly take advantage of the free campsites around Sao Miguel, but what do you need to keep an eye out for? Are the Azores islands safe? I’ll go into detail below.
Long story short here, you don’t have much to worry about here in the Azores islands when it comes to dangerous land animals. The archipelago was pushed up from beneath the ocean through volcanic and tectonic activity therefore the island chain has no native land mammals aside from the Azores Noctule (a native species of bat) which is not in any way dangerous.
There are mammals here now but nothing you should worry about. Maybe the only two powerful species are humans and dogs, neither of which should bother you unless you are bothering them.
In the ocean? Yes there are some urchins that might spike your feet (remove spikes and wash with soap and fresh water) but aside from that if you’re swimming, snorkeling or diving then your main concern are jellyfish like situations, see below:
These are the two specific blobs to look out for. In the first photo you’ll see the Mauve Stinger (apply an ice pack to the sting for 10-15 minutes and reapply if the pain doesn’t subside) and on the second you’ll see the Portuguese Man O’ War (not specifically a jellyfish but that doesn’t really matter right now) and if this meanie stings you then don’t scratch the area and do rinse it with salt water (or vinegar if you have some) but pretty much prepare for hours of pain and seek medical attention if you’re vulnerable in any way because the stings have been known to be fatal.
Azorean people are a delight! What a lovely group, don’t worry about them they are kind and considerate.