São Miguel East: Full-Day Van Tour with Lunch

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $89 per person and lasts 8 hours.
• Convenient Pickup: Includes pickup and drop-off in Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a 9-seater van with air conditioning suitable for small groups.
• Unique Experiences: Visit the most active volcano, see geothermal mud pools, and enjoy hot springs.
• Local Cuisine: Savor the famous cozido stew, cooked slowly in volcanic soil, with lunch included.
• Expert Guides: Engage with guides known for their knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful demeanor.

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Exploring the Eastern Side of São Miguel in Comfort

This full-day van tour from Pure Azores offers a comprehensive look at the eastern half of São Miguel Island, a region renowned for its natural beauty and geothermal activity. At $89, the experience provides excellent value, combining scenic stops, cultural insights, and a delicious local lunch, all within 8 hours. The tour is designed for small groups of up to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned 9-seater van, making the journey smooth and enjoyable.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate stunning views, geothermal wonders, and authentic local cuisine. While it includes significant walking at stops like Furnas and Nordeste, the pace remains manageable, with plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and leisure. An important consideration is that water bottles are not provided to minimize environmental impact, so packing your own reusable water bottle is recommended.

Highlights of the Tour: From Volcanic Pools to Coastal Cliffs

The tour kicks off with a visit to Santa Iria Lookout, one of the island’s most breathtaking coastal views, offering expansive sights of the north coast. This spot sets the tone with its rugged cliffs and scenic ocean vistas, perfect for photos or simply taking in the landscape.

Next, the journey leads to Furnas, a hotspot for geothermal activity. Here, you’ll get a spectacular view over the lake and town, followed by a close-up look at the steamy mud pools and bubbling vents of the most active volcano in the Azores. The highlight is witnessing the holes where the cozido stew is buried to cook in volcanic steam, an experience that connects culinary tradition with geology. The cozido is then served at a local restaurant, offering an authentic taste of island life.

The Thermal Waters and Geothermal Fields of Furnas

In Furnas, travelers can choose between bathing in the hot springs (note the fee is not included) or exploring the geothermal fields and sparkling waters of the town. The hot springs are famous for their healing properties and relaxing warmth, making them a favorite stop for many. Alternatively, visiting the geothermal area offers insight into the island’s volcanic activity and natural heating sources.

The lunch is included after these visits and features the famous cozido, cooked in volcanic steam, providing a hearty and unique dining experience. The meal often impresses visitors with its local flavors and cultural significance.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Waterfall and Nordeste Cliffs

Following lunch, the tour continues eastward to Ribeira dos Caldeirões, where the charming waterfall provides a scenic backdrop perfect for photos. The lush surroundings and cascading waters highlight the island’s vibrant greenery and natural beauty.

The journey then takes you to Nordeste, the most rural part of São Miguel, known for its high cliffs and rugged coastline. The tour visits two lookout points over the cliffs, offering dramatic views of the East coast. These spots reveal untouched landscape and are prime for appreciating the wild beauty of the island’s eastern edge.

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Practicalities of the Tour Experience

The tour includes pickup and drop-off in key locations like Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande, making access easy for travelers staying in these areas. Entrance to Furnas Lake is included, allowing close-up views of the volcanic crater and its surroundings. For added flexibility, travelers can opt to visit the hot springs or the geothermal fields, depending on their interests.

The lunch, which encompasses food, drinks, dessert, and coffee, enhances the day with a taste of local cuisine. To prevent plastic waste, water bottles are not provided, so visitors should bring a reusable bottle.

The tour is guided in English and Portuguese, with knowledgeable guides like Max, Joao, Daniel, Hugo, Omri, and Manuel receiving praise for their friendliness, expertise, and engaging storytelling. The small group size ensures a more intimate and relaxed experience, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the scenery.

The Role of the Guides and Group Atmosphere

Guides such as Max, Joao, and Daniel consistently receive high praise for their friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive approach. They share interesting facts about the history, geology, and culture of the Azores, adding depth to each stop. Many reviews mention how guides go beyond expectations, offering helpful tips about the island, taking great photos, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable and engaged.

The small group format enhances the experience, creating a convivial atmosphere where everyone can interact and share moments. The guides’ flexibility and consideration for dietary needs—including vegetarian and pescatarian options—are noted as strong points.

Valuing the Hot Springs and Volcano Cooking Experience

A notable feature of the tour is the inclusion of the hot springs or geothermal field visits, which many find incredibly relaxing or intriguing. The hot springs at Dona Beija are especially popular for their natural volcanic pools at 39°C—a perfect spot for unwinding after a busy morning.

The cozido, cooked in volcanic steam and served during lunch, often becomes a highlight. Multiple reviews highlight its delicious flavor and authentic preparation, making it a culinary adventure as much as a sightseeing tour.

The Scenic Beauty of Nordeste and the Waterfalls

The Nordeste region surprises many visitors with its untouched landscapes and spectacular cliffs. The two lookout points provide dramatic views over the coastline and high cliffs, showcasing the island’s rugged nature. The Ribeira dos Caldeirões waterfall offers a peaceful natural scene, with lush greenery and cascading waters, perfect for a quick walk or photos.

These stops balance the geothermal and volcanic experiences with visual beauty, broadening understanding of São Miguel’s diverse environment.

Flexibility and Additional Options

The tour offers some flexibility, such as the choice to visit hot springs instead of geothermal fields. While the hot springs have an additional fee, many reviews emphasize their value in providing relaxation and a chance to soak in volcanic pools at a comfortable temperature.

The lunch options, which include local cozido stew, are generally praised for their authenticity and flavor. The included drinks, dessert, and coffee round out the meal, making it a satisfying cultural experience.

The Overall Value of the São Miguel East Tour

At $89, the tour offers a well-rounded package of scenic sights, geothermal wonders, cultural experiences, and delicious local food. The 8-hour itinerary is paced to allow ample time at each location without feeling rushed. The small group size and expert guides contribute to a comfortable, informative, and engaging day.

While some may wish for more time at certain stops, the overall experience balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culture. The high rating of 4.9/5 from over 1,200 reviews confirms the tour’s popularity and quality.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This tour appeals to adventurous food lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those interested in geothermal activity. The delicious cozido lunch, combined with visits to hot springs, makes it ideal for travelers seeking both outdoor adventure and culinary discovery. The small group setting and friendly guides enhance the experience for those who enjoy personalized attention and engaging storytelling.

It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor exposure, but the air-conditioned van minimizes discomfort during drives. This tour is especially good for visitors who want to see the highlights of São Miguel’s east side in a well-organized, relaxed way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, the lunch with food, drinks, dessert, and coffee is included, featuring the famous cozido stew.

What stops are part of the tour?
Stops include Santa Iria Lookout, Furnas, with its mud pools and geothermal vents, Ribeira dos Caldeirões Waterfall, and scenic Nordeste lookouts.

Can I visit the hot springs?
Yes, you can choose to visit hot springs (fee not included) or explore the geothermal fields of Furnas.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts 8 hours, with pickup and drop-off included in Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande.

What type of vehicle is used?
Travelers are transported in a 9-seater van equipped with air conditioning, ideal for small groups.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak English and Portuguese, ensuring clear explanations and local insights.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While accessible for most, travelers should be prepared for moderate walking at stops like Furnas and Nordeste.

How do I prepare for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reusable water bottle. Optional swimwear if you plan to visit hot springs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of geothermal activity, scenic viewpoints, and the authentic cozido lunch makes this experience both educational and delicious—a favorite among those exploring São Miguel’s east coast.

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