Essential San Miguel: 2 Day-Tour of Natural Wonders & Top Spots

The Essential San Miguel: 2 Day-Tour of Natural Wonders & Top Spots offers an engaging way to see the highlights of São Miguel, Portugal, for just $144.67 per person. This two-day guided experience is packed with visits to iconic volcanoes, lush landscapes, and local food tastings, making it perfect for those who want a rundown without renting a car. With a high 5.0 rating from 27 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, the tour combines scenic viewpoints, cultural insights, and delicious regional cuisine, all led by knowledgeable guides.

However, it’s worth noting that thermal pools are closed until April. The tour offers flexibility with an optional lunch included or extra free time during lunch breaks. It departs at 9:00 am from Ponta Delgada with pickup and drop-off services. This adventure suits those eager to explore São Miguel’s top attractions in comfort, especially if they prefer small groups and expert narration.

Key Points

• Two full days exploring the best sights of São Miguel, Portugal
• Includes visits to Furnas volcano, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and tea plantations
• Optional lunch with regional dishes or free time during meals
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Small group size (maximum 8 travelers) for a more personalized experience
• Thermal pools are closed until April, so plan accordingly

Exploring the Volcano Route of São Miguel

This tour follows the island’s most scenic volcanic pathways, starting in the north with panoramic views and ending in the lush Furnas valley. It covers key attractions like Caldeira das Sete Cidades, famous for its twin lakes and breathtaking scenery. The day emphasizes the island’s volcanic activity and natural beauty, offering plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet exploration.

The highlight of the first day is Vista do Rei Miradouro, one of Portugal’s seven wonders, which provides spectacular views of blue and green lagoons, and the nearby Lagoa do Fogo, a turquoise crater lake surrounded by cliffs. The stops at Pico Carvao and Miradouro da Lomba do Vasco add to the panoramic experience, showcasing São Miguel’s rugged coastline and volcanic crater rims.

Visiting São Miguel’s Pineapple and Tea Plantations

The tour includes a visit to the Arruda Pineapple Plantation, the only glasshouse pineapple plantation on the island, where visitors learn about the unique cultivation process and taste a pineapple liqueur. This stop offers insight into the island’s local agriculture and a chance to sample regional flavors.

On the second day, the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana provides a rare opportunity to see one of only two industrial tea factories in Europe. Here, visitors enjoy a tea tasting amid lush valleys where no pesticides or fertilizers are used, making the tea 100% natural. The tour through the plantation reveals the natural beauty of São Miguel’s landscapes and the island’s commitment to organic practices.

The Volcano of Furnas and Its Culinary Secrets

One of the most talked-about stops is Furnas with its geothermal activity and the famous “Cozido das Furnas”—a traditional dish slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat. Visitors see the parque das Caldeiras, where this unique cooking method is explained, and can observe the boiling boilers and fumaroles. Though lunch is optional, many opt to include the regional food buffet to enjoy authentic flavors.

A visit to Furnas Lake offers a tranquil setting, with additional options to relax in the Terra Nostra thermal baths (entry not included, closed until January 2025). The “Mouth of the Volcano” area features mineral waters, bubbling fumaroles, and local craft shops selling liqueurs and woodcarvings.

Scenic Overlooks and Coastal Highlights

Throughout the tour, stops at various viewpoints like Pico do Ferro and Vista do Rei Miradouro grant sweeping views of the island’s volcanic craters, lakes, and coastlines. The Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara is noted as the Azores’ surfing hub, with golden sands and powerful waves.

In Ribeira Grande, the Paradise Garden and the Mother Church showcase local architecture and botanical beauty. The tour’s final stop, Vila Franca do Campo, offers a glimpse into the island’s history as the original capital, with views of the Ilhéu da Vila and charming local sweets like queijada.

The Second Day: From Highland Views to Coffee and Waterfalls

The second day emphasizes São Miguel’s north-eastern landscapes. The Miradouro de Santa Iria presents a stunning vista of the coast and interior, welcoming travelers into the lush environment. Then, the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana provides not only a tasting but also insight into environmentally friendly farming practices, as no chemicals are used.

A significant part of the second day is dedicated to Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes, where waterfalls and old water mills create an enchanting natural setting. This part of the tour lasts over four hours, making it the most immersive experience, with opportunities for canyoning and outdoor adventure.

The Volcanic Inner Landscape of Furnas

The Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers a panoramic look into Furnas volcano’s interior, with its craters and thermal activity. The Caldeiras area showcases how locals cook “Cozido” underground using volcanic heat, which remains a standout experience. Visitors can see the fumaroles and steam vents, providing a visceral connection to the island’s volcanic forces.

At Furnas Lake, a flexible stop allows for enjoying a lunch (not included) or exploring the natural surroundings. The woodcarving statues and fauna and flora information enhance the cultural and natural understanding of this geothermal zone.

Visiting Terra Nostra Park and Vila Franca do Campo

Although the thermal baths at Terra Nostra are closed until January 2025, optional entry can be purchased for a relaxing soak in the garden’s iconic orange-colored waters. The park itself is a lush botanical garden, perfect for gentle strolls between attractions and plant collections.

The tour concludes in Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s first capital. The area features historic sites and a chance to taste local confections like queijada, which adds a sweet finish to the excursion.

The Experience with Guides and Flexibility

Guides like Andrea, João, and Marco receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to adapt to weather conditions or schedule changes. The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention, making the experience more engaging and comfortable.

Lunch options are highly valued, with many reviewers recommending getting the included meal for tasting authentic Azorean cuisine. During the day, guides explain the significance of each site, making even the natural wonders more meaningful.

Practical Details and Booking

This tour departs at 9:00 am from Ponta Delgada, with pick-up and drop-off services included. It features mobile ticketing for convenience, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed. The thermal pools are temporarily closed, so plan to enjoy the other scenic and cultural stops instead.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start, which offers flexibility in case of weather changes or schedule conflicts. The small group size (maximum of 8 travelers) creates an intimate atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a more personalized experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This two-day tour is perfect for visitors who want a rundown of São Miguel’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving or planning individual excursions. Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those interested in local cuisine will find this tour especially rewarding. It also suits travelers seeking a small-group experience with knowledgeable guides, especially if they value flexibility and detailed explanations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include lunch?
You can choose between a lunch included, with regional dishes served on one day, or no lunch, which provides extra free time during the meal breaks.

What are the main sights visited during the tour?
Stops include Pineapple Plantation, Vista do Rei Miradouro, Caldeira das Sete Cidades, Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara, Ribeira Grande, Lagoa do Fogo, and Furnas, among others.

Are thermal pools available during the tour?
No, the Terra Nostra thermal pools are closed until January 2025. Guests may opt to pay for entry later in the day if they wish.

What is the tour’s group size?
The tour maintains a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Guides are known for their welcoming attitude and adaptability. They answer questions and can modify the schedule slightly based on weather or guest preferences.

What makes this tour stand out?
The blend of scenic viewpoints, volcano visits, and local food tastings combined with highly praised guides makes this an excellent way to see São Miguel efficiently and comfortably.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most stops involve short walks or viewing from viewpoints. The tour is designed to be accessible, but some stops at higher altitudes or involving outdoor walking may require moderate mobility.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the tour start time.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by I go Azores, known for their well-organized, small-group excursions across São Miguel.

Is this tour recommended based on reviews?
Yes, with a 5.0 rating from 27 reviews, travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and excellent value.