Guided tour of Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo, lunch included

Explore the Best of São Miguel with a Guided Tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo

This full-day tour from Ponta Delgada offers an enriching experience, combining visits to two of the Azores’ most iconic natural destinations. For $95.61 per person, travelers are picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle and guided through a carefully curated itinerary that covers scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and the stunning landscapes of São Miguel. The tour lasts approximately eight to nine hours, making it an ideal way to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed.

Known for its expert guides, this experience receives a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 12 reviews, with 92% of participants recommending it. While the tour includes lunch, bottled water, and several key attractions, some stops like the Caldeira Velha thermal waters require an additional ticket. Many find the knowledgeable guide, especially Carla, makes the day informative and fun, though some note that the itinerary may vary, and certain stops like liqueur tastings are sometimes skipped.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour from Ponta Delgada covering Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo
• Price of $95.61 includes lunch, water, and multiple viewpoints
• Duration of 8-9 hours, with pick-up and drop-off included
• Visit 11 location stops including scenic viewpoints, cultural sites, and natural reserves
• Expert guides such as Carla provide extensive commentary and personalized attention
• Some attractions, like Caldeira Velha thermal waters, require an extra admission fee

Picking Up in Ponta Delgada and Group Size

The tour departs from Ponta Delgada at 9:00 am with pick-up included. The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. This small group setup enhances interaction with the guide and allows for more flexibility at each stop. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride across the island’s varied landscapes.

Visiting Ribeira Grande and Santa Barbara Beach

The day begins with a 40-minute visit to the historic center of Ribeira Grande, which is the island’s second-largest town. This stop offers a glimpse into local history and architecture, followed by time at Santa Barbara Beach, where the rugged coastline and Atlantic views set a dramatic scene. This pairing provides a taste of local culture and coastal scenery early in the trip.

Learning at the Mulher de Capote Liqueur Factory

Next, the tour heads to the Licores Mulher de Capote factory for a 35-minute visit. Here, the focus is on local liqueurs, notably the award-winning maracujá liquor, along with other spirits. This stop is notable for tasting the regional flavors and learning about the production process, giving visitors a sweet and cultural insight into Azorean traditions.

Relaxing in Caldeira Velha Thermal Waters

The Centro de Interpretacao Ambiental Caldeira Velha is a highlight with its spectacular waterfall and thermal waters heated naturally to between 37 and 39°C. Visitors can bathe in these mineral-rich waters, making this a relaxing and memorable experience. Note that the admission ticket is not included in the tour price, so planning ahead for entry is recommended.

Witnessing Nature at Lagoa do Fogo

At 750 meters elevation, the Lagoa do Fogo offers one of the most beautiful lagoon views in the Azores. The tour allows 30 minutes to admire this pristine nature reserve that has been part of the Natura 2000 Network since 1974. This lagoon’s clear waters and surrounding volcanic landscape make it a favorite among visitors seeking untouched natural beauty.

Visiting Pineapple Greenhouses at Ananás Santo António

The tour then takes a 35-minute guided visit to pineapple greenhouses, where short videos explain the local pineapple production process. This stop provides insight into an important agricultural activity on the island while offering an opportunity to see how the famous Azores pineapples are cultivated.

Enjoying Breathtaking Views from Pico Carvão

Situated about 600 meters above sea level, the Pico Carvão viewpoint offers sweeping views of the north coast of the island. With 15 minutes allocated for this stop, visitors can appreciate the dramatic coastline and volcanic landscapes that characterize São Miguel.

Admiring Lagoa das Sete Cidades from Vista do Rei

One of the most iconic sights, the Vista do Rei Miradouro, is a 20-minute stop that showcases the famous twin lakes of Sete Cidades. Named after a visit by King D. Carlos in 1901, this viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the lakes’ contrasting colors—one green, one blue—separated by a low bridge and surrounded by lush greenery.

Exploring Cerrado das Freiras Viewpoint

The Cerrado das Freiras offers another perspective on the Sete Cidades lakes. This 15-minute stop provides a background view of the parish of Sete Cidades, highlighting the area’s volcanic and lush landscape.

Discovering Santiago Lake in a Volcanic Crater

The Santiago Lake is a deep lagoon at 334 meters elevation, measuring 700 meters long, 475 meters wide, and 29 meters deep. Surrounded by Macaronesian forests and Japanese cedar plantations, this stop lasts 15 minutes and offers a peaceful glance at volcanic crater lakes formed through natural processes.

Visiting Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Legend

The highlight of the tour is the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, covering 4.45 square kilometers with a maximum depth of 33 meters. The lakes are divided by a shallow channel, creating the famous double-colored waters. The beauty of this site has inspired numerous legends, including ties to Atlantis mythology.

Panoramic View from Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

At 150 meters altitude, this viewpoint offers vistas of Ferraria, Mosteiros, and on clear days, possibly Terceira Island and Pico Mountain. With 20 minutes here, visitors enjoy breathtaking panoramic scenery along the coastline.

Lunch in Lagoa and Relaxation

The tour includes a 2-hour stop in Lagoa city, where a three-course lunch is served. The meal features starters, main courses, desserts, coffee, and drinks, offering a chance to relax and sample local cuisine. This break also provides time to explore or walk around the town.

Final Viewpoint at Serra de Água de Pau

The Miradouro da Barrosa at 947 meters elevation offers spectacular views of both sides of São Miguel. This 20-minute stop highlights the island’s volcanic landscapes and lush forests, giving a fitting end to the scenic journey.

Practical Details, Pricing, and Bookings

This small-group tour is priced at $95.61, with most bookings made 53 days in advance. The tour includes pick-up, drop-off, lunch, bottled water, and a guide, ensuring comfort and convenience. Additional expenses like Caldeira Velha admission are not included, and a full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts on the Guided Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive view of São Miguel’s natural and cultural highlights, with expert guides making the experience engaging and informative. The inclusion of lunch and visits to both iconic lakes makes it a value-packed option.

While some stops like thermal baths require extra tickets, the overall itinerary balances scenic viewpoints, cultural insights, and relaxing moments. The small group size enhances interaction, and Carla, the notably praised guide, helps make the day lively and educational.

This tour suits active visitors interested in natural beauty, local culture, and scenic views who appreciate guided commentary and a well-paced schedule. It’s an effective way to see São Miguel’s top sights in a single day, with enough flexibility for memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $95.61 fee covers pick-up and drop-off, lunch, bottled water, and a knowledgeable guide. Some attractions like Caldeira Velha thermal waters require an additional fee.

How long is the tour?
The duration is approximately 8 to 9 hours, with multiple stops for sightseeing, dining, and photos.

What stops require extra tickets?
Caldeira Velha thermal waters are not included in the tour price, and their admission fee is around 10 euros.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, with moderate walking involved. Physical requirements are minimal, but comfort with a full day of sightseeing is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Who leads the tour?
The tour is led by knowledgeable guides, with Carla receiving high praise for her friendly, informative, and engaging style.

Are meals included?
Yes, a three-course lunch with drinks, coffee, and desserts is included in the tour.

What are some highlights I should look forward to?
Expect breathtaking viewpoints of Sete Cidades, panoramic vistas from Pico Carvão and Serra de Água de Pau, and the chance to relax in thermal waters and learn about local pineapple cultivation.

Is this tour good value?
Absolutely—$95.61 covers a full day’s exploration of top sights, lunch, and expert guidance, making it a cost-effective way to see São Miguel.