The compact city of Ponta Delgada serves as the perfect launch point for exploring São Miguel Island’s natural treasures. The most rewarding full-day excursions combine multiple experiences: whale watching tours offer close encounters with marine life, while 4WD adventures tackle the volcanic terrain of Sete Cidades crater lakes. A standout trip heads to Furnas Valley, where you’ll soak in thermal pools and sample traditional cozido stew cooked underground by volcanic steam. I’m especially fond of the small-group tours that include stops at both the historic tea plantations and thundering waterfalls – they provide just the right mix of culture and nature. Let’s explore the very best tours that showcase these Azorean wonders.
Good To Know
The Jeep Tour to Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo offers a highly-rated full-day private 4WD experience with unspoiled mountain and lake scenery.
The Furnas Thermal and Cultural Experience provides a 5-star rated tour with a focus on volcanic landscapes, culture, and an intimate group size.
The Full Day Guided Tour to Furnas showcases volcanic features, geysers, hot springs, and botanical gardens, with a traditional local lunch included.
The Full Day Hiking Faial da Terra tour provides a highly-recommended small-group experience with expert guidance and visits to picturesque gardens and geological sites.
The Adapted Van Tours are designed for wheelchair users and strollers, offering a premium full-day experience with accessibility in mind.
Whales and Dolphins Vila Franca Islet (Full Day With Lunch)
The “Whales and Dolphins Vila Franca Islet (Full Day With Lunch)” tour offers travelers a chance to explore the diverse marine life around Ponta Delgada.
With a maximum capacity of 30 people, this full-day excursion includes opportunities to see sperm whales, dolphins, and other wildlife.
The tour also features a visit to the Vila Franca Islet, where guests can swim and snorkel in a natural pool.
While experiences vary, many travelers report great wildlife sightings and enjoyment of the scenery.
However, some have complained about limited time, poor visibility, and the quality of the provided lunch.
Read our full review: Whales and Dolphins Vila Franca Islet (Full Day With Lunch) Review
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Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo PRIVATE 4WD Tour With Lunch
Travelers seeking a more immersive exploration of Ponta Delgada’s natural wonders will find the “Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo PRIVATE 4WD Tour With Lunch” a captivating choice.
This private tour offers the chance to discover unspoiled mountains, lakes, and volcanic craters in a 4WD vehicle. Guests can enjoy hiking trails, swimming in a natural pool, and savoring a hearty Azorean lunch.
The tour is highly recommended, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 30 travelers. It includes hassle-free port pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable local guide, and an air-conditioned vehicle for maximum comfort.
At $592.41 per group, this tour provides an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path experience in the Azores.
Read our full review: Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo PRIVATE 4WD Tour With Lunch Review
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Explore Furnas by Van – Full Day Tour With Lunch and Thermal Baths
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of the picturesque Furnas region, the “Explore Furnas by Van – Full Day Tour with Lunch and Thermal Baths” presents an enticing option.
This 5-star rated tour, with a 97% recommendation rate, takes visitors on a full-day excursion to uncover the natural wonders of Furnas. Highlights include visiting volcanic calderas, enjoying a local lunch, and indulging in the region’s renowned thermal baths.
With a maximum group size of 12, the tour provides an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides. Easily accessible from Ponta Delgada, this tour offers an excellent opportunity to take in the captivating landscapes and cultural experiences of San Miguel island.
Read our full review: Explore Furnas by Van – Full Day Tour With Lunch and Thermal Baths Review
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Full Day Guided Tour to Furnas With Lunch Included
Exploring the captivating Furnas region in-depth, the Full Day Guided Tour to Furnas With Lunch Included offers a comprehensive experience.
This small-group tour, limited to 8 people, takes visitors on a journey to the volcanic landscapes, geysers, and hot springs of Furnas. Highlights include the Caldeira das Furnas, Pico do Ferro, and botanical gardens.
Travelers will also explore charming villages, scenic coastlines, and a tea plantation, while enjoying a traditional local lunch.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as entrance fees to the Thea Factory.
While the thermal baths at Terra Nostra Park and Poça da Dona Beija have separate fees, this tour provides an engaging and immersive way to discover the natural wonders of São Miguel.
Read our full review: Full Day Guided Tour to Furnas With Lunch Included Review
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Full Day Outdoor Nordeste & Waterfall Tour With Lunch
The Full Day Outdoor Nordeste & Waterfall Tour with Lunch takes visitors on a captivating journey through São Miguel’s lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls.
This highly-rated tour, boasting a Badge of Excellence and 100% traveler recommendation, offers an intimate small-group experience, with a maximum of 55 people.
Travelers can expect an expertly guided tour, complete with live commentary, hotel/port pick-up and drop-off, and a delicious local lunch.
Highlights include exploring picturesque gardens, visiting tea factories, and encountering the island’s unique geological history and cultural heritage.
With knowledgeable and friendly guides, stunning views, and rave reviews, this outdoor adventure is a must-do for anyone visiting Ponta Delgada.
Read our full review: Full Day Outdoor Nordeste & Waterfall Tour With Lunch Review
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Full Day Tour Sete Cidades & Lagoa Do Fogo With Lunch
Enjoy the captivating landscapes of western São Miguel Island on the Full Day Tour Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo with Lunch.
Explore the volcanic crater of Sete Cidades and the stunning Fire Lake viewpoint, then discover the historic city of Ribeira Grande.
Savor a delicious local Portuguese lunch with scenic views.
This small-group tour includes complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and thermal pool entrance fees.
With 47 reviews and a 4.5/5 average rating, this full-day excursion promises an unforgettable experience.
However, be mindful of potential delays and logistics issues reported by some guests.
Book directly with the local tour company for the best value and experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Sete Cidades & Lagoa Do Fogo With Lunch Review
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Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo
Traversing the captivating landscapes of western São Miguel Island, the Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo tour immerses visitors in the island’s volcanic wonders.
Recommended by 95% of travelers, the tour offers a full-day exploration of the stunning Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. Lunch, bottled water, and hotel pickup (within 10 km of Ponta Delgada) are included.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and accessible by public transportation. With a maximum of 99 travelers, the tour has earned a 5.0 rating across 21 reviews, praised for its knowledgeable guide and remarkable experience.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo Review
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Guided Tours Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo Full Day
Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the stunning Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on the western side of São Miguel Island.
The full-day tour departs from Ponta Delgada and includes pickup and drop-off at local hotels. For €69.90 per person, guests will explore these picturesque volcanic lakes with a knowledgeable local guide.
The tour includes lunch, coffee/tea, and alcoholic beverages. While not wheelchair accessible, infants are welcome.
Guests should have a moderate fitness level, as the tour may be affected by weather.
With a 92% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers an excellent opportunity to see the stunning landscapes of the Azores.
Read our full review: Guided Tours Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo Full Day Review
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Full Day Furnas Povoacao and Nordeste
What does the Full Day Furnas Povoacao and Nordeste tour have to offer?
This full-day tour takes travelers to explore São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and scenic viewpoints. The tour includes stops at Furnas, Povoação, and Nordeste, allowing visitors to learn about the island’s volcanic history from a knowledgeable guide.
For $77.34 per person, the tour provides access to hot springs, a visit to the Caldeiras das Furnas cozido area, and a delicious included lunch.
Travelers praise the guide’s passion and the tour’s customizable experience that caters to group preferences. With a 100% recommendation rating, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to enjoy the natural wonders of the Azores.
Read our full review: Full Day Furnas Povoacao and Nordeste Review
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Full Day Tour of the Green Wonders of Flores Island
Exploring the verdant landscapes of Flores Island, the Full Day Tour of the Green Wonders offers travelers a comprehensive adventure. For $86.17 per person, guests embark on a guided full-day exploration, where they’ll witness the island’s natural beauty, including stunning lagoons and waterfalls.
With a maximum group size of 8, the tour provides an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides like Francisco and Claudia, who enhance the tour with their expertise and entertainment. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour requires a moderate fitness level.
Highlights include photo opportunities and personal anecdotes from the guides. Reviewers praise the tour, though some suggest improvements to the lunch service timing.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour of the Green Wonders of Flores Island Review
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Full Day Private Tour: Furnas and Sete Cidades With Lunch
This full-day private tour takes travelers on an immersive journey through the stunning landscapes of Furnas and Sete Cidades on the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores.
Rated 5.0 based on 16 reviews, this tour includes premium transportation, thermal bath tickets, and a certified guide.
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation are provided, and the tour can be customized to your preferences.
Highlights include exploring volcanic activity in Furnas, visiting a local tea plantation, and experiencing the geothermal-cooked cozido stew.
With a 100% traveler recommendation, this tour is perfect for families and friends seeking a memorable Azores adventure.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Tour: Furnas and Sete Cidades With Lunch Review
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Full Day Hiking Faial Da Terra (Min. 2 Persons)
The Full Day Hiking Faial da Terra tour takes travelers on an immersive journey through the lush, verdant landscapes of Ponta Delgada’s Faial da Terra region.
Priced from $80.78 per person, this full-day hike is recommended by 90% of travelers and boasts an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 10 reviews.
Included in the tour are lunch, air-conditioned transportation, and all fees and taxes.
Pickup is available from accommodations in Ponta Delgada, with a maximum of 8 travelers per tour.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
Travelers can expect to see a waterfall and the Gorrena Tea Plantation along the way, though some have noted discrepancies in the itinerary and lunch quality.
Read our full review: Full Day Hiking Faial Da Terra (Min. 2 Persons) Review
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PRIVATE Hybrid 4X4 Tour – Full Day Furnas (Inc Hot Springs and 3 Course Lunch)
Although the Full Day Hiking Faial da Terra tour provides an immersive nature experience, the PRIVATE Hybrid 4X4 Tour – Full Day Furnas offers a more comprehensive exploration of Ponta Delgada’s diverse landscapes.
This full-day excursion whisks travelers through the region’s volcanic terrain in a private air-conditioned vehicle, stopping at the famous Furnas hot springs for a relaxing soak.
The tour also includes a 3-course traditional lunch, as well as pickup from cruise ships and hotels in the area.
With an experienced English-speaking guide, liability insurance, and WiFi onboard, this tour provides a seamless and comfortable way to discover the geological wonders of Ponta Delgada.
Read our full review: PRIVATE Hybrid 4X4 Tour – Full Day Furnas (Inc Hot Springs and 3 Course Lunch) Review
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Jeep Tour – Sete Cidades/Lagoa Do Fogo (Full Day)
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes will find the Jeep Tour – Sete Cidades/Lagoa Do Fogo (Full Day) a captivating option.
The full-day tour includes visits to the Sete Cidades volcano and the stunning Lagoa do Fogo, with a professional driver-guide ensuring a safe and informative journey.
Highlights include the Vista do Rei vantage point, providing breathtaking views of the iconic twin lakes.
The tour includes lunch, insurance, bottled water, and entrance fees, catering to most travelers, including those with accessibility needs.
With a maximum of 8 travelers per tour and perfect 5-star reviews, this Jeep adventure offers an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of the Azores.
Read our full review: Jeep Tour – Sete Cidades/Lagoa Do Fogo (Full Day) Review
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Furnas Full Day Tour Full Day Furnas Tour (Min. 2 Persons)
Furnas Full Day Tour offers travelers a chance to explore the volcanic wonders of the Azores.
Starting from Ponta Delgada, the tour takes visitors to explore the picturesque Furnas Valley, where they can witness the bubbling hot springs and mud pools.
Included in the tour is a visit to Parque Terra Nostra or Dona Beija, as well as the Parque dos Cozidos, where visitors can sample the traditional Cozido das Furnas stew, cooked underground.
The tour also includes a stop at Vila Franca do Campo to try the local Queijo da Vila cheese.
Priced from $75.40 per person, this full-day tour is a great way to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Azores.
Read our full review: Furnas Full Day Tour Full Day Furnas Tour (Min. 2 Persons) Review
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Adapted Van Tour – Furnas (Full Day)
This adapted van tour to Furnas from Ponta Delgada offers travelers a small-group experience where the logistics are handled for them.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour departs at 9:30 AM and includes round-trip transport, a traditional “cozido das Furnas” lunch, and insurance.
Accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers, the tour features a visit to the botanical gardens and thermal pools of Parque Terra Nostra, a stop at the Gorreana Tea Factory for green tea tasting, and photo opportunities at the Santa Iria Viewpoint.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 by previous guests, this full-day tour is a convenient and immersive way to explore the highlights of Furnas.
Read our full review: Adapted Van Tour – Furnas (Full Day) Review
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Adapted Van Tour – Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo (Full Day)
The adapted van tour to Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo from Ponta Delgada offers a full-day adventure that showcases the stunning natural landscapes of the Azores.
Priced from €80.00 per person, this tour accommodates up to 15 travelers and includes a lunch, hotel transfer, insurance, a guide, and a visit to the Caldeira Velha.
The tour departs at 9:30 AM, and participants can choose their pickup location. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infant seats are available.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start.
With a perfect 5-star rating from reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for exploring the natural beauty of the Azores.
Read our full review: Adapted Van Tour – Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo (Full Day) Review
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Ponta Delgada: Full Day East Tour With Lunch (Furnas & Nordeste)
Oftentimes, visitors to Ponta Delgada embark on the East Tour, a full-day small-group excursion that showcases the stunning landscapes of Furnas and Nordeste.
Operated by I go Azores, the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers and includes transportation, a local storyteller, and entrance to the Terra Nostra hot springs.
While lunch isn’t included, travelers can opt for the Tour with Lunch package.
With a 5.0 average rating from 3 reviews, the tour is praised for its excellent guide, Diogo, who provides informative and memorable experiences, even when weather closes the Terra Nostra hot springs.
The tour offers free cancellation and rescheduling, making it a flexible and reliable option for exploring the eastern side of São Miguel island.
Read our full review: Ponta Delgada: Full Day East Tour With Lunch (Furnas & Nordeste) Review
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Full Day Hiking Trail Waterfalls- in Lomba De São Pedro – Azores
Venturing beyond the Eastern Tour of Ponta Delgada, the Full Day Hiking Trail Waterfalls in Lomba de São Pedro offers visitors a chance to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
For $70.01 per person, this 5-star rated excursion takes groups of up to 8 travelers on a full-day hike to scenic waterfalls. Accredited guides, insurance, lunch, and trekking poles are included.
Pickup and drop-off services are provided in Ponta Delgada. While not wheelchair accessible, the trail is suitable for moderately fit travelers, excluding those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
Booking allows for free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Full Day Hiking Trail Waterfalls- in Lomba De São Pedro – Azores Review
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Full Day Highlights of São Miguel Island
A full-day private tour of São Miguel Island’s highlights provides visitors an opportunity to enjoy the island’s natural wonders and cultural attractions.
The tour includes visits to mountain villages, tea and pineapple plantations, and natural hot springs. Convenient transportation is provided, and lunch is included in the package.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Positive reviews highlight the comprehensive nature of the tour and the quality of the guide.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a lowest price guarantee with options to reserve now and pay later is available.
Read our full review: Full Day Highlights of São Miguel Island Review
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The Sum Up
Ponta Delgada offers a range of full-day tours that allow visitors to explore the natural wonders of São Miguel Island. From whale and dolphin watching to hiking trails and thermal baths, there’s something for all. Visitors can choose from a variety of guided tours that include transportation, meals, and other amenities, making it easy to make the most of their time on the island.