Discover São Miguel: Full Day Fogo and Sete Cidades with lunch

Discover the Best of São Miguel in a Full-Day Tour for $116.15

This full-day tour of São Miguel offers a comprehensive look at some of the island’s most iconic sights, all for $116.15 per person. Spanning approximately 8 hours, it includes round-trip transportation, multiple scenic stops, and a traditional Portuguese lunch. The tour is highly recommended, with a 93% recommendation rate from travelers and a solid 4.5 out of 5-star rating based on 15 reviews.

What makes this tour stand out is its well-curated itinerary, which covers volcanic lakes, viewpoints, pineapple plantations, and the parish of Sete Cidades. It is designed to showcase São Miguel’s natural beauty and local culture in a relaxed pace, making it suitable for most travelers. Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, though the tour’s duration means some stops are brief.

Key Points

• Price: $116.15 per person, including lunch and transportation
• Duration: About 8 hours with multiple stops
• Highlights: Lagoa do Fogo, Pineapple Plantation, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and viewpoints
• Food: Traditional Portuguese lunch included
• Transport: Round-trip hotel pickup and private transportation
• Recommended for: Sightseers seeking a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel’s top sights

Starting in the Morning: Hotel Pickup and Departure at 9:00am

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am with hotel pickup, ensuring a smooth start. The private transportation provided allows for comfortable travel across the island, eliminating the hassle of navigating on your own. This setup is ideal for those who prefer a hassle-free experience that covers a lot of ground in one day.

Travelers generally find the timing to be well-organized, allowing for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The tour’s structure allows plenty of opportunities for photos and short walks at each stop, making it accessible for most.

Exploring Lagoa do Fogo: A Volcanic Wonder

The first stop is the Lagoa do Fogo, the second-largest crater lake on the island. This volcanic collapse occurred around 15,000 years ago, creating a stunning natural basin. Visitors are given about 15 minutes here to take in the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

This stop is particularly praised for its spectacular scenery. The lake’s calm waters and the volcanic backdrop make it a perfect spot for photographs. The brief visit allows guests to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and impressive geology without the need for extensive hiking.

Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa: Panoramic Island Views

Next, the tour heads to Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa, where 15 minutes are spent viewing Lagoa do Fogo from above. This viewpoint provides an extraordinary vantage point over the crater lake and the island’s mountain foothills.

Travelers consistently highlight how this scenic lookout offers a perfect snapshot of São Miguel’s lush landscapes. The viewpoint is accessible and offers a broad perspective that sets the tone for the day’s natural beauty.

Visit to the Pineapple Plantation: Taste and Tradition

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Plantacao de Ananas dos Acores, which boasts over 150 years of history. Here, visitors can walk among pineapple plants and learn about the unique cultivation methods used in the Azores.

Pineapple is the king of all fruits on the islands, and this stop includes a tasting of local liqueur and pineapple jam. Travelers rave about the delicious flavors and the chance to sample authentic Azorean products. The visit lasts around 30 minutes, providing enough time to explore and enjoy the tasting.

Miradouro do Pico do Carvão: A Wide Mountain View

The Miradouro do Pico do Carvão offers a 10-minute stop with vast views over the Sete Cidades mountain massif and the island’s north and south sides. This panoramic viewpoint is known for its breathtaking vistas of the island’s diverse landscapes.

Guests often mention how this stop enriches the experience, giving a broad perspective that enhances understanding of São Miguel’s volcanic terrain.

Lagoa do Canário: Endemic Flora and Forest Views

The Lagoa do Canário is situated within the Forest Park of Mata do Canário at 800 meters elevation. The 20-minute visit features endemic flora typical of Macaronesia and offers a chance to appreciate fascinating landscapes.

The ease of access makes this stop suitable for most travelers. The lush forest scenery combined with the scenic lagoon provides a refreshing break amid the day’s sightseeing.

Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras: Lagoon Viewpoint

The Cerrado das Freiras provides a 15-minute panoramic view of the Sete Cidades lagoon. This viewpoint is well-loved for its spectacular sights of the colorful caldera.

Travelers appreciate the clarity of the vistas and how this stop complements the other viewpoints, offering yet another perspective on this famous natural feature.

Santiago Lake: A Volcanic Crater Lagoon

At 334 meters above sea level, Santiago Lake sits within a volcanic crater in the Sete Cidades area. This 10-minute stop features greenish waters and a surrounding pine forest, making it a serene spot for photos and short walks.

The lake’s calm waters and scenic setting are a favorite among visitors, providing a peaceful moment in the busy day of sightseeing.

Vista do Rei: The Iconic Overlook of Lagoa das Sete Cidades

The Vista do Rei viewpoint is one of the most popular stops, with a 15-minute window to admire the famous Lagoa das Sete Cidades. This privileged vantage point offers a spectacular view of the twin lakes in the caldera.

Guests consistently praise its visual impact and note it as a must-see for anyone visiting São Miguel. The photo opportunities here are unmatched, making it a highlight of the tour.

Visiting the Parish of Sete Cidades

The tour includes a 30-minute visit to the parish of Sete Cidades, located inside the caldera. This allows visitors to experience the local charm and explore the small community nestled within the volcanic landscape.

Most travelers find this stop valuable for its authenticity and the chance to see local life beyond the scenic views.

Lunch: Traditional Portuguese Cuisine Included

A key feature of this tour is the lunch included in the package. Guests enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal that complements the morning’s sightseeing. The lunch provides a relaxing break and sustains energy for the rest of the day.

Many reviews highlight the quality of the meal as incredible, adding a satisfying culinary element to the tour experience.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour features private transportation with hotel pickup, making it convenient and comfortable. The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, but most groups tend to be smaller, ensuring personalized attention. It operates most days, with confirmation provided immediately upon booking.

The meeting point is flexible, and the round-trip transfer ensures a hassle-free day. The service animals are allowed, adding accessibility for all travelers.

Overall Value and Suitability

Priced at $116.15, this tour offers great value considering the number of stops, included lunch, and transportation. It is praised for its well-informed guides and stunning views. Based on reviews, it’s particularly recommended for those wanting a rundown of São Miguel’s most scenic and cultural highlights.

Travelers who appreciate expert commentary and beautiful landscapes will find this tour especially satisfying. However, those seeking more extensive hiking or detailed exploration might prefer longer, more specialized trips.

Final Thoughts on the São Miguel Full-Day Tour

This full-day adventure provides a balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and scenic viewpoints. It’s suitable for most travelers due to its comfortable pace and inclusive logistics. The lunch and multiple viewpoints make for a rich experience that captures the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes.

While some stops are brief, the quality of the sights and guide expertise make this tour a trustworthy way to see the island’s highlights efficiently. It’s especially ideal for visitors who want to cover a lot of ground without sacrificing comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops are accessible, but some viewing points may require short walks or gentle climbs. Contact the provider for specific accessibility concerns.

Does the tour include any stops at thermal baths or other attractions?
No, this tour focuses on volcanic lakes, viewpoints, pineapple plantations, and local villages. Thermal baths are not part of this itinerary.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The view of Lagoa das Sete Cidades from Vista do Rei is often cited as a standout moment, offering an iconic view of the island’s most famous caldera.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional Portuguese lunch is included in the tour price, with tasting opportunities at the pineapple plantation.

How long is the visit to each stop?
Most stops range from 10 to 30 minutes, allowing for quick visits and photo opportunities without long waits.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, but most groups are smaller, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor sightseeing, and sturdy shoes for viewpoints that may require short walks.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice results in no refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages participate, but consider the physical demands of some stops if traveling with very young children.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked 49 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.