Adapted Van Tour – Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo (Full day)

Explore São Miguel’s Largest Lakes in Comfort and Style

This adapted van tour offers a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s most famous lakes—Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo—with the added benefit of accessibility for those with reduced mobility. Priced at $127.76 per person, the tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, making it a perfect full-day activity for those seeking an in-depth exploration of the island’s natural wonders.

The tour departs from Ponta Delgada, with hotel pickup included, and is suitable for most travelers. Its group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. Notably, this tour is designed to be accessible, with adapted transportation and the requirement of a minimum of 2 persons to operate.

While the tour does not include baths at Caldeira Velha, it offers a rich itinerary that balances spectacular viewpoints with relaxing stops. It’s especially well-suited for those who want to see the highlights of São Miguel comfortably, with guidance from knowledgeable guides explaining each site.

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting about 7.5 hours from Ponta Delgada
• Price of $127.76 per person, with hotel pickup included
• Suitable for travelers with reduced mobility thanks to adapted van transportation
• Visits include Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and the Caldeira Velha thermal springs
• Entry tickets and lunch are included, but baths at Caldeira Velha are not
• Minimum of 2 persons required for the tour to operate

Starting the Day at Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

The adventure begins early, with a pickup at 9:30 am from your hotel. The first stop is the Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, where spectacular panoramic views reach across the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s western coast. Here, the Mosteiros and Ferraria areas are visible, offering a glimpse of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes.

This 20-minute stop allows visitors to soak in the vast ocean scenery and capture photos of the cliffs and ocean waves, setting a dramatic tone for the day. The admission ticket is included, so no extra costs are needed at this point.

Visiting the Enchanting Parish of Sete Cidades

Next, the tour takes you to the Lagoa Verde / Lagoa das Sete Cidades, the highlight for many visitors. This one-hour stop provides an opportunity to explore Sete Cidades village and see the church of São Nicolau, the historic heart of the community.

The iconic Lagoa das Sete Cidades, known for its twin lakes with contrasting colors, is a must-see. The tour guides share insights into the legend surrounding the lakes and the volcanic origins of this seven-lake complex. The admission ticket grants access to the viewpoints and the village, offering a chance for photos and a brief walk.

Gasp at the Depth of Lagoa de Santiago

A 20-minute stop at the Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago introduces visitors to the lake of Santiago, renowned for its impressive depth. From this viewpoint, the subtle hues and vastness of the lake are striking, inviting awe and curiosity.

While compact, this stop provides an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the volcanic landscape that shapes São Miguel’s lakes. The admission ticket is included, and guides may share details about the lake’s formation.

The View that Everyone Waits For: Vista do Rei

One of the most anticipated stops is the Vista do Rei viewpoint. Here, the magnificent view over Lagoa das Sete Cidades unfolds before visitors’ eyes, showing the crater lake in full splendor.

Spending about 25 minutes at this famous viewpoint, travelers can take in the vast landscape, perfect for photographs and soaking in the natural beauty. The guides explain the landscape’s geological history, making this a memorable highlight of the trip.

Witness the Stunning Lagoa do Fogo

The tour then moves to the Lagoa do Fogo, where a 25-minute stop grants visitors a chance to admire the breathtaking scenery of this crater lake. Surrounded by lush vegetation and volcanic terrain, the lagoon offers a serene, untouched atmosphere.

The viewpoint allows for panoramic photos and a moment of quiet reflection, with guides providing context on the lake’s volcanic origins. The admission ticket covers access for this stop as well.

Relax in the Caldeira Velha Thermal Springs

At the Centro de Interpretacao Ambiental Caldeira Velha, visitors find thermal pools that are not included in the bath price, but access to the interpretation center is included in the tour. This stop lasts around 45 minutes.

Here, you can enjoy thermal spring waters amid lush greenery, experiencing São Miguel’s volcanic activity firsthand. The thermal baths are a popular feature, though they are an additional expense if you choose to bathe.

Final Stop in Ribeira Grande

The tour concludes with a 45-minute visit to Ribeira Grande, a vibrant city located in São Miguel’s north zone. This stop offers a chance to stretch your legs and appreciate the local architecture and atmosphere of this historic town.

While the tour does not specify specific activities within Ribeira Grande, the city provides a cultural contrast to the natural landscapes seen earlier, rounding out a well-balanced day.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This adapted van tour is designed with accessibility in mind, making it suitable for people with reduced mobility. The vehicle offers accommodations for wheelchairs, and guides are prepared to assist throughout the day.

The tour includes lunch, transportation to and from your hotel, insurance, and a guide who shares insights at each stop. The Bottled water is not included, and bathing in the Caldeira Velha pools is an optional activity that incurs additional costs.

The tour operates with a minimum of 2 persons, so it’s advisable for small groups or those traveling with companions. The maximum group size of 15 ensures a comfortable and personalized experience.

Why Choose This Tour

This adapted van tour offers an accessible, scenic exploration of São Miguel’s most famous lakes and viewpoints, with comprehensive itinerary coverage. The inclusion of lunch, transport, and guiding services makes it a convenient choice for those seeking comfort and convenience.

The stunning viewpoints, like Vista do Rei, combined with visits to iconic sites like Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, make this tour a rich experience. Its focus on accessibility means that even visitors with mobility challenges can enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

While it does not include bathing at Caldeira Velha, the thermal springs offer a relaxing break and a chance to experience the island’s volcanic activity to the fullest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility challenges?
Yes, the tour is designed with adapted transportation and is suitable for those with reduced mobility.

What is included in the price?
The price of $127.76 includes lunch, transportation to and from your hotel, insurance, and guides. Admission to viewpoints and the interpretation center is also included.

Are there any activities that cost extra?
Yes, baths at Caldeira Velha are not included and require additional payment if you wish to bathe in the thermal pools.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The key highlights include Lagoa das Sete Cidades, especially the Vista do Rei viewpoint, Lagoa do Fogo, the Caldeira Velha thermal springs, and the panoramic viewpoints over the volcanic landscape.

How long is the tour and when does it start?
The tour lasts about 7 hours and 30 minutes and starts at 9:30 am, with hotel pickup included.

What is the maximum group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

This adapted van tour provides a comprehensive, accessible way to experience São Miguel’s stunning lakes and viewpoints, with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and cultural insights.