2 Days Private Tour in São Miguel

Explore São Miguel in a Private 2-Day Tour with Expert Guides

This 2 Days Private Tour in São Miguel, priced at $810.32 per group (up to 7 people), offers a personalized way to experience the island’s highlights. With a dedicated driver and an expert guide, you get both comfort and deep local insights, making it ideal for those who want a flexible itinerary tailored to their interests.

Departing from Ponta Delgada’s meeting point, the tour runs over two days with carefully curated stops on both the West and East sides of the island. The tour uses a 9-seater van equipped with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey. Reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and flexibility, making this a popular choice booked 63 days in advance on average.

While the price covers most major highlights, note that park and hot spring entrance tickets cost between 8 and 10 euros and are paid separately. This trip suits travelers looking for a private, customizable experience that combines natural wonders, local culture, and delicious cuisine.

Key Points

• Private and flexible 2-day tour led by a driver and expert guide
• Visits to volcanic hot springs, lakes, and scenic viewpoints on both island sides
• Comfortable transportation in a climate-controlled van with Wi-Fi
• Includes stops at notable sites like Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Furnas
• Taste local dishes such as Cozido, prepared underground with geothermal heat
• Tickets for parks and hot springs are not included but are affordable at 8-10 euros

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

The tour begins at the Posto de Turismo de Ponta Delgada and ends back at the same location, providing a convenient starting point. The private nature means your group enjoys a tailored experience, with the flexibility to include specific locations if desired.

The 9-seater van comfortably accommodates up to 7 passengers, with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, making long drives pleasant. The tour operates daily, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, giving plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Exploring São Miguel’s West Side

The first day of this tour focuses on São Miguel’s breathtaking western landscapes. It starts with a visit to Ferraria, where you can swim in thermal hot springs right at the ocean’s edge. The free admission allows you to enjoy this volcanic coastline without extra costs.

Next, the tour stops at the Vista do Rei Miradouro, offering panoramic views of Sete Cidades, famous for its green and blue lakes nestled inside a massive volcanic crater. The views here are iconic, making it a favorite photo stop.

Following the viewpoint, the group heads down to Sete Cidades village, where there’s time to explore the area and have lunch. Visitors can soak in the peaceful atmosphere while appreciating the stunning lakes and volcanic scenery.

In the afternoon, the tour moves to Lagoa do Fogo, one of the island’s highest points and a nature reserve. Viewpoints such as Bela Vista and Pico da Barrosa provide spectacular vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape, highlighting São Miguel’s volcanic origins.

The day wraps up with a visit to Centro de Interpretacao Ambiental Caldeira Velha, where travelers can take a dip in geothermal hot springs amid lush, jungle-like surroundings. While entrance tickets are not included, the experience is one of the most relaxing highlights of the trip.

Day 2: Discovering São Miguel’s East Side and Local Flavors

The second day centers on São Miguel’s eastern attractions and culinary delights. It begins at Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, one of Europe’s few remaining tea plantations. Visitors can observe tea processing techniques and sample various teas, gaining insight into this unique local industry.

From there, the tour proceeds to Miradouro Pico Do Ferro, which offers stunning views of Lake Furnas. The scenic overlook provides a perfect spot for photos and appreciation of the island’s volcanic caldera system.

Next, travelers visit Caldeira das Furnas, where they see fumaroles and caldeiras. The thermal activity here is fascinating, and visitors can taste different water fountains as part of the geothermal experience.

The highlight of the day is Furnas village, where the group enjoys a traditional lunch of Cozido, cooked underground using geothermal heat. This hearty dish combines vegetables and meats and exemplifies local culinary customs.

Following lunch, the tour visits Parque Terra Nostra, a botanical garden renowned for its lush vegetation and geothermal swimming pool. The admission fee is not included but is well worth the visit for its exotic plants and relaxing hot waters.

Finally, the tour stops at Nossa Senhora da Paz, a scenic sanctuary overlooking Vila Franca do Campo, the former capital of São Miguel. This peaceful site offers a serene conclusion to the two-day exploration.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Personalization and Expertise

One of the key strengths of this private tour is the flexibility. The guides work with your group to customize the itinerary if you have specific interests, making it suitable for those who want a tailored experience.

The combination of a driver and an expert guide ensures you receive local knowledge, storytelling, and practical assistance throughout the trip. The small group size enhances comfort and allows for spontaneous stops or extra time at favorite spots.

The use of a modern van with Wi-Fi ensures that long drives are comfortable, and you can stay connected or share photos easily. The tour’s bookings are well in advance, reflecting its popularity among visitors seeking an intimate and comprehensive São Miguel experience.

Visiting the Hot Springs and Nature Reserves

Stops at Ferraria and Caldeira Velha highlight São Miguel’s volcanic activity, with hot springs and geothermal pools as main attractions. While admission tickets are extra, the free hot springs at Ferraria provide an unforgettable experience of swimming in natural thermal waters directly at the ocean.

The Lagoa do Fogo and Furnas Lake views showcase the island’s volcanic craters and calderas, offering spectacular scenery from multiple viewpoints. The scenic overlooks like Vista do Rei and Pico Do Ferro make for memorable photo opportunities.

Sampling Local Cuisine and Drinking Tea

The Cozido dish at Furnas stands out as a gastronomic highlight, prepared traditionally underground with geothermal heat. Tasting this authentic local dish is a memorable culinary experience.

At Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, visitors gain insight into tea cultivation and processing, with the chance to taste various teas. This small but significant industry is a unique feature of São Miguel, adding a cultural dimension to the tour.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Transport, and Accessibility

The tour starts at Posto de Turismo de Ponta Delgada and ends at the same location, simplifying logistics. The private nature of the tour means your group has exclusive use of the vehicle, ensuring personalized pacing.

The air-conditioned van with Wi-Fi provides a comfortable travel environment. The tour is accessible to most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the experience, and child seats are available if needed.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour covers many highlights, tickets for parks and hot springs are not included in the price, costing roughly 8 to 10 euros. Travelers should budget for these separately.

The itinerary is flexible but dependent on good weather; in case of poor weather, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled for a different date, with options for a full refund.

Why Choose This Tour: The Real Advantages

This private 2-day experience provides personalized service, expert guidance, and convenient logistics for exploring São Miguel’s top sights. The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, and the customizable itinerary appeals to visitors seeking a tailored experience.

The focus on volcanic landscapes, thermal waters, and local cuisine makes it a well-rounded way to understand both the natural beauty and culture of São Miguel. The positive reviews highlight the friendly guides and stunning views as key strengths.

Final Thoughts on the São Miguel Private Tour

This 2-day private tour offers a balanced mix of natural wonders, local culture, and scenic views. The expert guidance, flexibility, and comfortable transportation provide a hassle-free way to see the island’s highlights.

While the extra costs for park and hot spring tickets should be kept in mind, the personalized approach and careful planning make this tour stand out. It suits those who want an intimate, customized experience with the convenience of a private vehicle and knowledgeable guides.

Travelers who value stunning vistas, geothermal activity, and local culinary experiences will find this tour a rewarding way to explore São Miguel in two enriching days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The tour covers transportation in a climate-controlled van, a driver and expert guide, and Wi-Fi onboard. It does not include park or hot spring entrance tickets or meals.

How long does each day of the tour last?
Each day generally runs from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, providing enough time for sightseeing, meals, and short stops.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since the tour is private, guides are flexible and happy to include specific locations or interests you may have.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, child seats are available, making it suitable for families with young travelers.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Most stops involve walking or standing, and accessibility details are not specified, so travelers with mobility issues should inquire in advance.

What weather should I expect?
São Miguel’s microclimate means weather can vary; the tour operates rain or shine, but poor weather may lead to rescheduling or cancellations.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 63 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund available if canceled in this window.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to enjoy local dishes, especially the Cozido in Furnas.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The personalized service, expert local guides, and a well-planned but flexible itinerary make this tour a top choice for those seeking an intimate São Miguel adventure.