Full Day Private Tour West & East in São Miguel Island

Discover the Best of São Miguel with a Private Full Day Tour

The Full Day Private Tour West & East in São Miguel Island offers an intimate, flexible way to explore the island’s most captivating sights. Priced at $404.75 per group (up to 7 people), this tour provides a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide and driver. It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving ample time to visit notable landmarks, enjoy scenic viewpoints, and indulge in local flavors.

What sets this tour apart is its customizable itinerary. Travelers can decide what interests them most—whether relaxing on beaches, hiking, or sightseeing—and the guides tailor the day accordingly. This flexibility, coupled with pickup from your hotel, makes it an appealing choice for those who prefer a relaxed, private exploration of São Miguel.

While the tour covers a wide range of highlights, from volcanic craters to geothermal parks, it remains accessible for varied physical abilities and interests. The inclusion of free Wi-Fi, child seats, and optional activities like kayaking and bicycles adds extra convenience. This tour is especially well-suited for groups seeking a carefree, personalized day in the Azores, with insightful commentary throughout.

Key Points

• Private, customizable full-day tour for up to 7 people on São Miguel Island
• Includes hotel pickup and flexible itinerary tailored to your interests
• Visits top sights such as Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Furnas, and Parque Terra Nostra
• Duration of 7-8 hours with opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing
• Affordable price of $404.75 per group, with optional activities and free Wi-Fi

Starting Your Day with Hotel Pickup and Personal Guidance

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada, where a local guide and driver greet your group. This setup ensures a seamless start, eliminating the need for self-driving or navigating unfamiliar roads. The team attends to your preferences, making it easy to craft a personalized day. The air-conditioned vehicle and child seats (if needed) contribute to a comfortable journey.

Throughout the day, the guide offers live commentary, sharing insights about the island’s geography, history, and culture. The convenience of free Wi-Fi in the vehicle means you can stay connected or take photos without worry. The flexible scheduling allows for breaks, spontaneous stops, or extra time at favorite locations.

Exploring Sete Cidades’ Spectacular Viewpoints and Crater Lakes

The first major stop takes you to Sete Cidades, renowned for its two volcanic lakes, Green and Blue, nestled inside a massive crater. The tour includes visits to Vista do Rei, Boca do Inferno, Cerrado das Freiras, Lagoa de Santiago, and Lagoa do Canário. These viewpoints offer dramatic vistas of the lakes and surrounding caldera.

If the group wishes, the guide can lead a small hike around the Green Lake, adding an active element to the day. The admission to the viewpoints is free, making this stop both scenic and budget-friendly. The views here provide perfect photo opportunities and a chance to absorb the island’s volcanic beauty.

Lagoa do Fogo’s Elevated Perspective and Central Location

Next, the tour heads to Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine crater lake located at the island’s center. This Nature Reserve is one of the highest points on São Miguel, offering breathtaking viewpoints such as Bela Vista and Pico da Barrosa. The landscape here features untouched nature, with plenty of photo-worthy vistas.

Spending around an hour, visitors can take in the stunning scenery, breathe in fresh mountain air, and appreciate the volcanic origins of the lake. The visit to Lagoa do Fogo highlights São Miguel’s volcanic landscape and lush greenery, providing memorable photo moments.

Visiting Europe’s Oldest Tea Plantation at Gorreana

A short drive takes travelers to Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, the oldest and only tea plantation in Europe. Here, you can sample the locally produced tea, learning about the manufacturing process during a brief tour of the plant. The admission is free, and the experience combines scenic views with tasting opportunities.

This stop offers insight into an important local industry, and the lush green plantations are a picturesque background for photos. It’s a perfect quick break to enjoy a cup of tea and learn about unique Azorean agriculture.

Experiencing the Geothermal Wonders of Furnas

The geothermal area of Furnas presents Jurassic-like landscapes, with steaming fumaroles, boiling springs, and volcanic craters. Visitors can relax in natural hot springs and walk around volcanic sites. The area is famous for its food cooked underground using geothermal heat, such as “cozido” stew.

Spending about two hours, this stop balances geothermal activity with relaxation and sightseeing. The landscape’s dramatic steam vents and bubbling pools showcase São Miguel’s volcanic activity up close, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

Strolling Through Parque Terra Nostra’s Botanical Gardens

The Parque Terra Nostra botanical garden was constructed in the 18th and 19th centuries and features exotic vegetation and a geothermal swimming pool. The admission fee is not included, but the garden’s lush environment and historical charm draw many visitors.

Here, visitors can wander through a romantic landscape, admire diverse plant species, and enjoy a swim in the warm thermal waters. The garden’s combination of historical architecture and vibrant flora makes it a peaceful, scenic stop within the tour.

Visiting the Nossa Senhora da Paz Sanctuary in Vila Franca do Campo

The tour concludes with a visit to the Nossa Senhora da Paz Sanctuary, perched above the village of Vila Franca do Campo. Built in the 18th century over an earlier structure, this church offers spectacular views of the coast and a glimpse into local religious history.

The 30-minute visit provides a peaceful moment, and the sanctuary’s architecture and panoramic vistas make it a charming end to the day. Its historical significance and scenic location are appreciated by visitors.

Practical Details and Additional Perks

This private tour includes air-conditioned transport, child seats, and free Wi-Fi. Travelers can request kayaks, SUP paddles, bicycles, and other games at no extra charge, adding fun options during free time. The pickup from Posto de Turismo de Ponta Delgada ensures easy access, and the drop-off is back at the starting point.

Tickets for parks and hot springs cost approximately 8 to 10 euros and are not included in the price. The tour is available every day of the week from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with full flexibility to adapt the day to your wishes.

Who Should Book This Tour

This full-day private experience is ideal for groups wanting a personalized, relaxed exploration of São Miguel. The flexible itinerary and knowledgeable guides make it perfect for families, couples, or friends who enjoy customized sightseeing combined with leisure time. It suits those who prefer not to drive and value insider tips and local insights.

With a high rating of 5.0 from 24 reviews, this tour consistently impresses with its friendly guides, stunning views, and well-organized stops. The bookings made an average of 44 days in advance reflect its popularity among visitors seeking a well-organized, private day on São Miguel.

Final Thoughts on the Full Day Private Tour in São Miguel

This tour offers a comprehensive and flexible way to experience São Miguel’s highlights without the stress of planning or driving. The combination of scenic viewpoints, geothermal sites, and local industry visits ensures a well-rounded exploration. The personalized approach means you can focus on your interests, whether that’s nature, culture, or relaxation.

While the price is competitive for a private experience, keep in mind that entrance fees to parks or hot springs are not included. The expert guides and flexible itinerary make this a strong choice for those wanting a custom, intimate day in the Azores. It’s a trusted option for visitors looking to enjoy São Miguel’s diverse landscape with comfort and insight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Ponta Delgada, making it very convenient for visitors staying on the island.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed for personalization, allowing you and your guide to choose stops based on your preferences.

Are entrance tickets to parks and hot springs included?
No, tickets costing approximately 8 to 10 euros are not included but can be purchased on-site.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, child seats are available, and the tour’s flexible, leisurely pace makes it suitable for families.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, offering a full day of sightseeing and exploration.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 44 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and limited group size.

This private, tailored tour provides an excellent way to see São Miguel’s most iconic sights comfortably and informatively, making it a recommended choice for those seeking a personalized Azorean adventure.