Private Tour – Grand Circle of the Island

Exploring the stunning island of Sao Miguel becomes effortless and highly personalized with the Private Tour – Grand Circle of the Island offered by Azores Like Locals. Priced at $181.62 per person, this 7 to 8-hour private experience provides the perfect balance of comfort, flexibility, and insight into the island’s natural beauty and local charm. The tour departs from Ponta Delgada at 9:30 am and includes private transportation, with options to select different vehicles tailored to your group size.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a customized exploration of Sao Miguel, with the flexibility to focus on the western or eastern parts of the island or explore both. Expert guides, like Carlos, bring a wealth of knowledge and passion, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour has an outstanding overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 from 25 glowing reviews, with 100% recommendation. While entrance fees to thermal pools are not included, the tour offers an excellent opportunity to learn about the island’s volcanic landscapes, lakes, and local culture at your own pace.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour of Sao Miguel lasting 7 to 8 hours
• Price of $181.62 per person, with options for multiple vehicles
• Includes transportation and personalized itinerary planning by a knowledgeable guide
• Stops at key highlights such as Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Furnas Lake, and more
• Optional visits to thermal pools like Terra Nostra Park and Poça D. Beija (entrance fees not included)
• Highly rated with a perfect 5.0 review score and glowing feedback on guide expertise

Flexible, Personalized Exploration of Sao Miguel’s Highlights

This private tour offers a flexible approach to discovering Sao Miguel’s most iconic sites. You’ll benefit from a personal guide who helps craft an itinerary based on your interests, whether you prefer lush volcanic landscapes, tranquil lakes, or local food experiences. The private setting ensures a relaxed pace, with stops tailored to your preferences, making it especially suitable for travelers who want to avoid large group tours or rigid schedules.

The tour begins with pick-up from Ponta Delgada, offering convenience and comfort from the start. As the day unfolds, the guide leads you through a series of carefully chosen stops that highlight the best of the island’s natural scenery and cultural spots.

Discovering the Western Part of Sao Miguel: Lakes and Volcanoes

The western side of the island features some of the most famous sights, starting with Vista do Rei Miradouro, which offers stunning views over the Sete Cidades lakes. There’s an abandoned hotel in the background, adding a touch of history and mystery to the scene. From here, travelers visit Sete Cidades to see the lakes from within the crater, and then ascend Lagoa do Fogo to enjoy breathtaking views from the volcano’s edge.

Each stop is brief but impactful, with free admission and the chance to take in sweeping vistas. The Sete Cidades views are particularly celebrated, making this stretch a favorite for visitors seeking iconic photo opportunities and memorable landscapes.

Exploring the Eastern Side: Furnas and Nordeste

The tour also covers the eastern part of Sao Miguel, starting with Miradouro Pico Do Ferro, which provides the best panoramic view overlooking the Furnas Valley. Next, you’ll visit Lagoa das Furnas, where volcanic activity creates a unique landscape around the lake. The charming village of Furnas offers the chance to taste local delicacies cooked on volcanic waters, or opt for a thermal bath experience at Terra Nostra Park or Poça D. Beija, although tickets are not included.

Travelers also explore Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes, known for its beautiful waterfall, and then spend time in Nordeste, the far eastern tip of the island, with its spectacular coastal views. These stops highlight Sao Miguel’s volcanic activity and lush, rugged coastlines.

Optional Visits to Thermal Pools and Local Cuisine

The tour includes visits to thermal pools at Furnas, such as Poça da Dona Beija and Parque Terra Nostra, each offering a relaxing experience amid natural surroundings. While entrance fees are not included, these pools are popular spots for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The guide can also accommodate food stops or quick coffee breaks, ensuring travelers experience local flavors without feeling rushed.

The opportunity to sample cozedo das Furnas, a traditional stew cooked with volcanic heat, is a highlight for food lovers. These options make the tour a well-rounded exploration of natural beauty and local culture.

The Guide: Knowledgeable, Friendly, and Passionate

Based on extensive positive reviews, the guide, Carlos, stands out for his deep knowledge, friendly personality, and fluent English. Reviewers appreciate how he shares stories, explains the sites, and ensures no one feels rushed. Many mention that Carlos’s passion for the island and ability to personalize the experience make the tour memorable.

He is also praised for being great with families, providing car seats and helping with children, and making sure every guest is comfortable. The expertise and enthusiasm of guides like Carlos are key reasons why this tour maintains such a high rating.

Logistics and Flexibility

The tour starts at 9:30 am with pickup included, making it convenient for travelers staying in Ponta Delgada. The private nature means only your group participates, providing privacy and the ability to customize the pace and stops. Multiple vehicle options are available to suit small or larger groups.

While the tour emphasizes natural scenery and cultural highlights, it does not include entrance fees to thermal pools or meals, giving travelers control over their budget and experience. The guide is happy to stop for quick breaks or meals, making the day adaptable.

Why This Tour Is a Strong Choice for Sao Miguel Visitors

The full-circle nature of this tour allows guests to see both the western and eastern highlights of Sao Miguel in a single day, with the option to extend into a two-day tour for a more leisurely pace. Its flexibility and personalized approach make it ideal for families, small groups, or travelers with specific interests.

The high praise for the guide’s knowledge and friendliness underlines the quality of the experience, while the careful planning and multiple stops showcase the island’s best sights. The cost is reasonable for a private, guided experience, especially considering the customization and local expertise.

Sao Miguel’s Natural Wonders in Comfort and Style

This tour highlights Sao Miguel’s volcanic craters, lakes, and waterfalls, offering a comprehensive look at the island’s geothermal features. The views from Miradouro Pico Do Ferro, Lagoa do Fogo, and Sete Cidades are among the most striking on the island. The tour’s pacing and personalized itinerary allow guests to spend ample time at each highlight without feeling hurried.

The thermal pools provide a relaxing way to unwind, while the local food tastings enrich the cultural experience. The combination of natural beauty, local cuisine, and expert guiding makes this tour a well-rounded way to experience Sao Miguel.

The Sum Up: An Intimate and In-Depth Sao Miguel Adventure

The Private Tour – Grand Circle of the Island stands out as an excellent way to explore Sao Miguel on a personalized, flexible schedule. With expert guidance, stunning views, and options to include thermal baths and local food, it offers a comprehensive and memorable day on the island.

While entrance fees to pools are not included, the customized itinerary and personalized service make this tour a valuable choice, especially for those wanting a deeper connection to the island’s landscapes and culture. It’s best suited for small groups, families, or couples who prefer an intimate, informative experience over larger group excursions.

For travelers who want to see the island their way and enjoy the company of a passionate local guide, this private tour provides the perfect balance of comfort, flexibility, and discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from Ponta Delgada is included, starting at 9:30 am.

Can I customize the stops or focus areas?
Absolutely. The tour is private and flexible, allowing you to prioritize sites according to your interests.

Are entrance fees to thermal pools included?
No, entrance fees for thermal pools are not included, but the guide can assist in visiting these relaxing spots.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full-day experience.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides like Carlos speak fluent English, ensuring clear communication and engaging storytelling.

Is this tour suitable for families with small children?
Yes, guides provide car seats and are attentive to families with young children, making it a suitable family activity.