Full-Day Sete Cidades Crater Lake and Fire Crater Lake Private Tour

This full-day private tour of São Miguel offers an in-depth exploration of some of the island’s most stunning natural sights, with a focus on Sete Cidades and Fire Crater Lake. Priced at $297.78 per group (up to 4 people), the tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours and includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The experience is led by bilingual guides who can adapt the itinerary if possible, providing a flexible and personalized way to see São Miguel’s highlights.

A key advantage of this tour is its private nature, ensuring an intimate experience with minimal crowds and the ability to customize stops based on your interests. The tour departs from your hotel or local accommodation in Ponta Delgada at 9:00 am. With high ratings of 5.0 from 39 reviews, this tour combines iconic viewpoints, cultural stops, and natural wonders, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a comprehensive, yet relaxed, day on São Miguel.

Key Points

• Private, customizable day tour with flexible itinerary options
• Focuses on Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Caldeira Velha
• Includes visits to viewpoints, lakes, waterfalls, and cultural sites
• Transportation and tour insurance included, with children’s seats available upon request
• Admission fees for specific centers like Caldeira Velha are extra
• Book in advance—typically booked 17 days ahead—and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before

Discover São Miguel’s Iconic Natural Wonders

This full-day private tour showcases São Miguel’s most famous natural sights. The tour begins with pickup at your accommodation in Ponta Delgada and quickly moves to panoramic viewpoints that reveal the island’s volcanic beauty. The guided experience allows for a relaxed pace, with stops at Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado for views of Mosteiros and lava deltas, before heading to the Sete Cidades area.

Travelers are treated to breathtaking vistas from Vista do Rei Miradouro, the most popular viewpoint of the Sete Cidades lakes, along with a closer look at the quaint Sete Cidades village and the Sao Nicolau Church. The tour also includes a glance at the Lagoa de Sao Tiago and the Lagoa do Canario, where calm waters invite reflection and photos.

From Sete Cidades to Lagoa do Fogo

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Lagoa do Fogo, a spectacular caldera lake considered one of the most beautiful in the Azores. Standing at the Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo, visitors enjoy sweeping views of the volcanic crater, framed by lush greenery and rugged terrain. This stop offers a genuine sense of São Miguel’s volcanic origins.

The route then takes travelers to the Pico do Carvão viewpoint, which provides a vantage point where the North and South coasts of the island are visible simultaneously. Such vistas emphasize the island’s diversity, from rugged coastlines to fertile volcanic landscapes.

Cultural and Natural Stops in Ribeira Grande

In Ribeira Grande, the tour offers a lunch stop suggestion, giving guests a chance to try local flavors or relax at a café. Afterwards, the historic center of Ribeira Grande is explored, featuring the Paradis Garden, the century-old stone bridge, and the Nossa Senhora da Estrela and Espírito Santo churches. A liquor tasting or Azorean Chocolate visit adds a flavorful touch to the cultural exploration.

Caldeira Velha: Thermal Baths and Tropical Vegetation

The Caldeira Velha park is a key highlight, with its thermal baths, tropical vegetation, and fumaroles. The site features a waterfall called Caldeira Velha and an interpretation center that offers insights into the geothermal activity. The entrance fee varies by age, with adults paying €3 for the visit and €10 for the visit plus bath. Pre-booking for the baths is necessary, and guests can enjoy a relaxing soak in thermal waters, adding a soothing end to the sightseeing.

Pineapple Plantation and Local Flavors

Another distinctive stop is the Plantacao de Ananas dos Acores, where visitors see Azorean Pineapples in cultivation. The guided explanation covers the unique European pineapple production, ending with a free taste of pineapple liqueur and jam. This stop highlights the agricultural richness of São Miguel and offers a chance to enjoy authentic local flavors.

End of the Day in Ponta Delgada

The tour concludes back in Ponta Delgada, dropping guests at their hotel or accommodation with plenty of time to reflect on a day filled with natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxation.

The Practical Aspects of This Tour

This private tour offers convenient transportation, including air conditioning, making the long day comfortable. Tour insurance is included, and children’s seats are available if requested in advance, making it suitable for families. The meeting point is flexible, with pickup at your hotel or accommodation, simplifying logistics.

The tour does not include lunch, but a lunch stop is suggested in Ribeira Grande. Entrance fees for the Caldeira Velha center are not included; adults pay €3 for just visiting and €10 for visiting with a bath. The tour is booked an average of 17 days in advance, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The personalized, private nature of this tour means a more relaxed experience, with guides checking in to ensure comfort and the ability to adjust the schedule if possible. The stunning viewpoints and diverse stops—from volcanic lakes and waterfalls to cultural centers—make this tour well-rounded.

The high ratings and positive reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, particularly mentioning Cesar and Nunu, and the stunning scenery, which consistently impresses visitors. The tour’s flexibility and focus on natural beauty make it a good choice for those wanting an immersive experience.

Final Thoughts on the Full-Day São Miguel Tour

This full-day private tour delivers a balanced mix of natural wonders and cultural sights in São Miguel. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a personalized experience, value comfort and flexibility, and want to see the best of the island without feeling rushed.

While it does involve some additional costs for certain sites and meals, the value of exclusive access and guided insight makes it worthwhile. Perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a comprehensive, relaxed day with expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $297.78 per group for up to 4 people.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours.

What is included in the tour?
Private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, tour insurance, and children’s seats (if requested) are included.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but a lunch stop is suggested in Ribeira Grande.

Do I need to pre-book entrance fees?
Yes, entrance fees for Caldeira Velha are not included and should be paid separately, with prices starting from €3 for visitors aged 14-64.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the itinerary flexibility is available if possible, guided by your interests and the guide’s discretion.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children’s seats are available, and the tour is generally suitable for most ages.

What guides lead this tour?
The tour is led by bilingual guides known for their friendly and knowledgeable approach, with reviews praising guides like Cesar and Nunu.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 17 days in advance to secure your spot.

This full-day private tour in São Miguel offers a personalized, relaxed, and comprehensive way to discover the island’s most famous sights, blending natural beauty, cultural stops, and thermal relaxation into one memorable experience.