Privat van tour Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo volcanic lakes

Explore São Miguel’s Volcanoes and Lakes in Comfort and Style

This private van tour in São Miguel offers a comprehensive look at some of the island’s most iconic volcanic features, all within 7.5 hours. Costing $318 per group of up to 4 people, it provides a flexible, personalized way to experience Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and numerous scenic viewpoints. The tour is ideal for travelers who prefer the comfort of a private vehicle, flexible scheduling, and an itinerary tailored to their interests.

From stunning crater lakes to thermal baths, this tour covers a wide range of natural highlights. The driver-guide speaks English and Russian, and the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off. While it doesn’t include meals, it provides plenty of opportunities for photo stops and scenic viewpoints, making it a well-rounded day trip for those wanting to see São Miguel’s volcanic beauty without the hassle of planning.

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Key Points

• Private, flexible tour lasting 7.5 hours for up to 4 people
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off on São Miguel Island
• Visits Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and scenic viewpoints like Vista do Rei
• Stops at Caldeira Velha for a thermal bath (additional cost)
• Guide speaks English and Russian, providing informative commentary
• Cost: $318 per group, offering a stress-free, personalized experience

Discovering the volcanic lakes and viewpoints of São Miguel

This tour begins with hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande, depending on your chosen pickup location. It is designed for travelers who want to explore the natural wonders of São Miguel without strict timing or group constraints. The private nature allows you to decide what interests you most, with the guide offering flexibility throughout the day.

The tour’s main highlights include visits to several viewpoints and lakes, each offering different perspectives of the volcanic landscape. The drive through scenic routes is complemented by numerous photo stops at key sites like Coal Peak Viewpoint, Muro das Nove Janelas, and Grota do Inferno Viewpoint. These stops are perfect for capturing the island’s vast, dramatic scenery.

Visiting Sete Cidades: the emerald crater lake

After departing from Ponta Delgada, the tour heads towards Sete Cidades, famous for its vast, twin lakes within a volcanic caldera. The Vista do Rei lookout provides sweeping views of this spectacular landscape, and from here, the journey descends into the valley below.

In the Sete Cidades parish, visitors can admire the Church of St. Nicholas and enjoy free time of about 45 minutes to explore or take photos. This stop offers a chance to absorb the peaceful atmosphere of the volcanic crater, with its vivid green lakes contrasted against the surrounding lush hills.

Scenic viewpoints along the route

Throughout the day, the guide leads travelers to a series of viewpoints that showcase the island’s volcanic terrain. The Muro das Nove Janelas, Caldeira Velha, and Ponta do Escalvado each offer unique perspectives of the landscape, from coastal vistas to mountain vistas.

The Caldeira Velha stop is especially notable for its thermal baths and natural pools, where visitors can relax and enjoy the warm waters. Entry to the baths costs 10 euros per person, and an additional 3 euros is required for the visit without bathing, both payable in advance.

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Exploring Lagoa do Fogo and its surroundings

The tour’s highlight of Lagoa do Fogo features a viewpoint at the Lagoa do Fogo crater, where the crystal-clear lake is set within a volcanic caldera. The 20-minute stop allows for pictures and appreciation of the serene waters that have earned the lake its name, meaning “Lake of Fire.”

Adjacent to this, the Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha offers insight into the island’s geological and ecological features. Here, travelers can enjoy scenic views of the lush surroundings and learn about the volcanic activity that shaped São Miguel.

Flexibility and personalized experience

This private tour stands out for its customizable itinerary. The driver-guide works with you to adjust the start and end times and select stops that interest you most. This makes it a stress-free way to explore, especially for those who prefer a more tailored experience.

The transportation is in a mini-van suited for up to 7 people, ensuring plenty of space and comfort for your group. The tour excludes lunch, but there are options to add a visit to Caldeira Velha baths for an additional fee, giving you the choice to include some relaxing thermal waters.

Practical details and booking options

The tour operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. You can reserve your spot without payment, and pay later, which adds flexibility to your planning. The driver-guide speaks English and Russian, ensuring clear communication and engaging commentary throughout the day.

Pickup is included from hotel locations in Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande, with additional fees for pickups outside these areas. The itinerary can be adjusted based on your preferences, making it suitable for different schedules and interests.

Who will enjoy this tour the most

This private van tour is perfect for travelers who want an intimate, customized experience of São Miguel’s volcanic lakes and viewpoints. It’s especially suitable for small groups or couples who value comfort and flexibility. The tour’s highlights, like Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, are ideal for photographers and nature lovers seeking stunning scenery.

While the thermal bath adds a relaxing option, it is an extra cost, which should be considered if you want to include a soak in the natural waters. The informative guides and scenic routes make this an engaging, memorable day exploring São Miguel’s volcanic landscape.

Final thoughts on the São Miguel private tour

This 7.5-hour private van tour offers a comprehensive, flexible way to see São Miguel’s volcanic lakes and scenery. The personalized approach, combined with scenic viewpoints and cultural stops, makes it a great choice for travelers who want to avoid large group tours and have control over their day.

The guide’s knowledge about the island’s landscape, coupled with the comfortable transport, ensures a stress-free day full of stunning sights. The cost per group is reasonable considering the private, tailored experience, and the ability to cancel easily adds to the tour’s appeal.

This tour is well-suited for those who prioritize scenic beauty, comfort, and customization when exploring São Miguel’s volcanic marvels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande, with additional charges for locations outside these areas.

Can I choose my start time?
Yes, the start and end times are flexible to suit your schedule, as this is a private tour.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can enjoy the stops along the way or arrange your own meal.

What is the cost for visiting Caldeira Velha?
Entry costs 3 euros for the visit and 10 euros if you want to include the baths, both payable in advance.

How many people can fit in the vehicle?
The mini-van can accommodate up to 7 people, though the price listed is for up to 4 guests.

What languages are the guides fluent in?
The guides speak English and Russian, ensuring clear communication throughout the day.

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