S. Miguel East: Top Scenic Highlights 1 Day Private Tour

Exploring São Miguel’s East Side: A Complete Guide to the 1-Day Private Tour

If you’re seeking an unforgettable day exploring the natural beauty and volcanic wonders of São Miguel, Portugal’s Azores might just be your dream destination. This private tour promises to cover the island’s eastern highlights, combining scenic landscapes, bubbling geothermal sites, and coastal cliffs—all wrapped into a smooth 8-hour experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s a private experience, so you get the undivided attention of a knowledgeable guide. Second, the itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance breathtaking nature with authentic local culture—think steaming fumaroles, lush gardens, and scenic viewpoints. Lastly, the included stops at thermal pools and regional cuisine add comfort and flavor to your day.

However, keep in mind that some attractions, like Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija, are optional extras paid on site, so budget accordingly. This tour is ideal for travelers who love outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and discovering the genuine essence of São Miguel without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re after a comprehensive, flexible look at the island’s eastern treasures, this experience is a great choice.

Good To Know

• Private, guided experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Stunning scenery, including cliffs, waterfalls, and volcanic lakes, makes for excellent photo ops.
• Thermal springs and geothermal sites offer relaxing or invigorating moments amid nature.
• Authentic regional cuisine like cozido adds a delicious cultural touch.
• Optional hikes and pools allow for deeper exploration or relaxing dips.
• Comfortable transport in a private vehicle enhances the overall experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

The Best of São Miguel’s East Side in 8 Hours

This tour begins with your pick-up from your accommodation in one of seven convenient locations—such as Ponta Delgada, Furnas, Ribeira Grande, or Nordeste. Once onboard in a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle, you’re set for a day of discovery. The journey is scenic from the start, with winding forest roads and panoramic views giving you a taste of the island’s lush landscape.

Furnas Lagoon and Volcanic Fumaroles

Your first stop is the iconic Lagoa das Furnas, a bubbling volcanic crater where steam rises from the ground and the earth feels alive. Here, you’ll see the traditional cozido being slowly cooked underground—a culinary spectacle that combines geology and gastronomy. Travelers often comment on how mystical the landscape feels, with the steam and bubbling earth creating a truly otherworldly atmosphere.

The tour includes a guided walk around the lakeside, offering chances for photos and to soak in the natural energy. Many guests appreciate the chance to sip freshly brewed green tea or enjoy a bolo lêvedo, a fluffy local bread, at a cozy tea house amid the trees.

Optional Hike in a Hidden Forest Trail

For those seeking additional adventure, an optional moderate hike through a nearby Natural Park is available for an extra $10. This trail is described as feeling like a scene from Avatar, winding through dense woods, cascading waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints. Reviewers say it’s a peaceful, almost magical experience—an ideal way to connect more deeply with the island’s untouched flora and fauna.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Thermal Pools and Relaxation

After the energetic walk, many travelers love to unwind in the thermal pools. The Poça da Dona Beija hot springs are a highlight, with warm waters heated deep within the earth and surrounded by volcanic rocks and lush ferns. Several guests mention that soaking here is the perfect way to relax after a morning of exploration. The entry fee of roughly €16 is optional but well worth the tranquility it provides.

Lunch and Cultural Immersion in Furnas Village

Midday is reserved for a hearty, regional lunch in the village of Furnas. The tour guides typically recommend trying the famous cozido, prepared underground using geothermal heat—an authentic taste of Azorean culinary tradition. If you prefer, you can opt for a different local dish, but many find this stew’s earthy flavors and hearty portions to be a genuine highlight.

Following lunch, you might explore the historic village, where volcanic caldeiras and bubbling hot springs are everywhere. Many reviews mention the charm of this slow-paced town and its volcanic landscape, which feels like stepping onto another planet.

Scenic Viewpoints: Ponta da Madrugada and Ponta do Sossego

Next, the journey takes you along São Miguel’s dramatic northeastern coast. At Ponta da Madrugada and Ponta do Sossego, the views are truly unforgettable. You’ll gaze upon towering volcanic cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, with waves crashing against the jagged rocks. These viewpoints are perfect for panoramic photos and soaking up the island’s raw power.

Guests often note the wind and sea spray add an invigorating touch—these are pure Azorean moments that leave a lasting impression.

Caldeirões Park and Waterfall

The last nature stop is at Caldeirões Park, home to a graceful waterfall hidden among old stone mills and lush vegetation. This peaceful spot offers a perfect pause before heading back to your accommodation. Visitors appreciate the tranquility here and the chance to reflect on the day’s adventures amid nature.

The Final Relaxation at Thermal Pools

The tour concludes with a return to Poça da Dona Beija, giving you a final opportunity to soak in warm volcanic waters and unwind. Many guests find that this last stop leaves them refreshed and ready to reflect on their Azores experience.

Transportation, Timing, and Personalization

The tour uses a private SUV or Jeep, providing a comfortable ride with plenty of space for luggage and photo gear. Pickup can be arranged from seven locations, making it flexible for different hotel arrangements. The day starts around 7 AM (depending on your location), ensuring you have ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation, and the guide is happy to tailor the pace or suggest additional stops based on your interests—making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups who value a customized experience.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $170 per person, this private tour offers a lot of value. It includes door-to-door pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, and all entry fees for the main sites (except optional extras like Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija).

Given that private guides often cost more, and considering the extensive itinerary, this experience is a good deal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free day. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guide, which enriches the experience far beyond just sightseeing.

What’s Missing?

One aspect to consider is that some attractions, like Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija, are optional and require additional payment. If these are must-dos for you, budget accordingly. Also, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, given the nature of some stops and walking paths.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a deep, curated immersion into São Miguel’s eastern beauty without the stress of planning each detail. If you value flexibility, comfort, and authentic sights—plus a knowledgeable guide to share stories and tips—this tour will suit you well.

It caters to those with a love of nature, scenery, and regional culture, and is especially appealing for small groups or families seeking a personalized touch.

The Sum Up

In essence, this private tour of São Miguel’s east side offers a balanced blend of dramatic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and local flavor. With the convenience of door-to-door pickup, expert guiding, and optional extra activities, it provides a flexible, immersive way to experience the island’s best. The stops at volcanic lakes, coastal cliffs, and thermal pools make each moment memorable and worth the reasonable price.

For those who seek authentic encounters with nature, appreciate scenic drives, and want the comfort and attention of a private guide, this tour stands as a fantastic choice. It captures the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic heart and coastal beauty, leaving you with stories—and selfies—to cherish.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility in pace and stops.

What locations can I be picked up from?
Pickup is available from seven locations, including São Miguel Island, Vila Franca do Campo, Ribeira Grande, Ponta Delgada, Sete Cidades, Nordeste, and Furnas.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times depending on your pickup location.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the price, but you will have the opportunity to enjoy regional cuisine, including the famous cozido, during the day.

What are the optional extras?
You can opt to visit Terra Nostra Park, soak at Poça da Dona Beija, or hike the Parque da Grená trail—each for an additional fee payable on site.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, you’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, making the scenic drives smooth and comfortable.

Can I customize the experience?
Absolutely. The guide is happy to personalize the day’s pace, suggest additional stops, or focus more on natural scenery or cultural sites.

Are there any physical limitations to be aware of?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the walking involved at some stops and trail terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a windbreaker, and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy the day.

In summary, this private east side tour combines the natural drama of volcanic landscapes with cultural experiences and relaxation. It’s a balanced, thoughtful way to see some of São Miguel’s most iconic sights while enjoying the comfort of a guided, flexible day. If you’re after genuine adventure mixed with authentic Azorean flavor, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: