Sao Miguel: the West Side Tour (with Lunch)

Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, boasts a remarkable natural beauty that captivates all who visit. The West Side Tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to take in the island’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Set out on a scenic 7-hour journey, where you’ll witness breathtaking vistas, explore hidden gems, and indulge in the flavors of local gastronomy. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this tour promises an experience that will leave you eager to uncover more of Sao Miguel‘s enchanting wonders.

Good To Know

• The West Side Tour of Sao Miguel Island offers a 7-hour guided experience showcasing the island’s natural beauty, historical sites, and local gastronomy.
• Highlights include scenic drives, visits to the Lagoa do Canário and Vista do Rei Lookout, and exploration of aqueducts and a neo-gothic church.
• Travelers can enjoy a local gastronomy buffet lunch with Azorean delights, including a starter, main dish, dessert, and beverage.
• The tour includes complimentary pickup and dropoff service from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande, with additional fees for the latter two locations.
• The experience is designed to provide an immersive and memorable exploration of the west side of Sao Miguel, known for its captivating landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This comprehensive West Side Tour of São Miguel island provides visitors with a captivating exploration of the region’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural treasures.

Priced at just €64.17 per person, the 7-hour tour offers an incredible value, with pickup included from several convenient locations.

Guided in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, the tour immerses guests in the island’s breathtaking scenery, from the picturesque twin lakes of Sete Cidades to the dramatic coastal vistas at Ponta do Escalvado.

Along the way, travelers will discover historical sites, enjoy a delectable local gastronomy buffet, and have ample opportunities for photo ops.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this West Side Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting São Miguel.

Itinerary Highlights

Exploring the island’s inner roads, the tour provides captivating views of the coastline and volcanic formations, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.

Highlights include:

• A scenic drive and photo opportunities at a secret spot, allowing you to learn about the natural beauty.

• A guided tour and walk through the enchanting Lagoa do Canário, where you’ll discover the divide between the blue and green lagoons.

• A visit to the Vista do Rei Lookout, offering sweeping vistas of the stunning Sete Cidades caldera and its twin lakes.

This carefully curated itinerary ensures you experience the best of São Miguel’s western wonders, leaving you with lasting memories of the island’s captivating landscapes.

Experience Details

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through Sete Cidades, a civil parish nestled within the dormant caldera of a volcano, featuring the enchanting twin lagoons that lend the area its distinctive blue and green hues.

As they drive through the island’s inner roads, they’re treated to breathtaking views of the coastline and volcanic formations. Historical sites, including old aqueducts and a neo-gothic church, offer glimpses into the region’s rich heritage.

Nature walks lead to scenic viewpoints, where the divide between the two lagoons creates a visually stunning contrast. This immersive experience allows travelers to fully appreciate the natural beauty and cultural charm that make Sao Miguel’s west side a must-visit destination.

Included Amenities

The tour package includes a variety of amenities to elevate the overall experience, such as a comfortable 9-seat van with air conditioning and a panoramic windshield, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning vistas.

Plus, the tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who provides insightful commentary throughout the journey.

To sustain energy levels, a delectable local gastronomy buffet lunch, complete with a starter, main dish, drink, and dessert, is provided, along with a refreshing water bottle and a traditional sweet delicacy.

For added peace of mind, the tour also includes comprehensive insurance coverage.

The included amenities are designed to:

1. Enhance the sightseeing experience with a comfortable and immersive mode of transportation.

2. Provide a deeper understanding of the region through the expertise of a local guide.

3. Ensure a pleasant and nourishing day with a satisfying lunch and refreshments.

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Important Information

Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended for this tour, as mild fitness is required for the optional short walks.

Guests should avoid wearing high-heeled shoes, and bringing along weapons or large bags is prohibited. Plus, smoking isn’t permitted inside the tour vehicle to ensure a pleasant experience for all.

The tour operators take safety and comfort seriously, so they’ve implemented these reasonable guidelines. Travelers can rest assured that they’ll be well-cared for throughout the day’s adventures.

With stunning views, delicious local cuisine, and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an unforgettable way to explore the west side of São Miguel Island. Guests are sure to leave with lasting memories of the island’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

Along the island’s inner roads, travelers are treated to sweeping vistas of rugged coastlines and awe-inspiring volcanic formations, setting the stage for the tour’s breathtaking scenic drives and viewpoints.

The highlights include:

• The ‘Secret Stop’ – a scenic drive and photo opportunity that reveals the dramatic natural beauty of São Miguel’s hidden landscapes.

• The Vista do Rei Lookout – a must-visit spot offering panoramic views over the island’s iconic twin lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde.

• The Ponta do Escalvado Lookout – a stunning viewpoint perched high above the churning Atlantic Ocean, providing a glimpse into the raw power of nature that defines this volcanic archipelago.

These captivating scenic moments offer a window into the untamed, otherworldly charm of the Azores, leaving visitors in awe of the island’s breathtaking natural wonders.

Local Gastronomy Lunch

Travelers on the West Side Tour savor a tantalizing local gastronomy buffet lunch, indulging in a delectable array of Azorean culinary delights. The spread features a mouthwatering starter, a hearty main dish, and a satisfying dessert, all complemented by a refreshing beverage.

The meal showcases the island’s rich cultural heritage and its bountiful natural resources, with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that burst with flavor. Whether it’s a traditional stew, grilled seafood, or a decadent pastry, the lunch is a culinary highlight that allows visitors to enjoy the authentic flavors of São Miguel.

This fulfilling dining experience fuels the exploration of the stunning landscapes that await during the rest of the tour.

Tour Pickup and Dropoff

The tour includes complimentary pickup from select locations around São Miguel, providing a hassle-free start to the adventure. Guests can choose to be collected from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande, though an extra fee applies for Ribeira Grande (€15) and Lagoa (€10). At the tour’s conclusion, participants are returned to their original pickup points, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience throughout the day.

This thoughtful pickup and dropoff service offers several benefits:

1. Eliminates the stress of arranging transportation, allowing you to fully learn about the tour.

2. Provides a comfortable, reliable, and efficient way to reach the starting point and return home.

3. Contributes to a seamless, enjoyable, and memorable experience from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Lunch?

While guests are welcome to bring their own lunch, the tour includes a delightful local gastronomy buffet, allowing them to fully enjoy the flavors of the region. This is a fantastic opportunity to savor authentic Azorean cuisine.

Is There a Limit on Group Size?

The tour has a maximum group size, typically accommodating up to 9 passengers in a comfortable, air-conditioned van. This allows for an intimate and personalized experience exploring the island’s stunning landscapes and highlights.

Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations?

The tour offers accommodations for guests with accessibility needs. The van has ample space, and the guide can assist with getting to and from the viewpoints. Short optional walks can be adjusted to suit individual mobility.

Can I Request a Specific Tour Guide?

While you can’t specify a particular guide, the tour operator give you knowledgeable local guides who will enthusiastically share their expertise about the region’s history and natural wonders. Guests consistently praise the guides’ engaging and insightful commentary.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for children and seniors. Children under 10 receive a 10% discount, while seniors over 65 can enjoy a 5% reduction in the tour price. These reduced rates make the experience accessible to all age groups.

The Sum Up

The West Side Tour of São Miguel Island offers an unforgettable adventure through stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

With knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, breathtaking viewpoints, and a delicious local lunch, this 7-hour experience immerses visitors in the natural beauty and history of this captivating region.

It’s the perfect way to discover the wonders of São Miguel and create lasting memories on this enchanting island.

You can check if your dates are available here: