São Miguel: Full-Day Exploring the Island’s 3 Volcanos

If you’re visiting the Azores, specifically São Miguel, and want a balanced mix of natural beauty, culture, and stunning vistas, this full-day tour is worth considering. It promises a whirling ride through lakes, volcano craters, botanical gardens, and scenic viewpoints—highlighting what makes this island so uniquely captivating.

Three things we love about this experience include the chance to see Lagoa das Sete Cidades, one of the most iconic crater lakes in the world, the opportunity to relax in the thermal springs at Furnas, and the remarkable vistas from Pico do Carvão. The inclusion of a guided tour makes it easier to learn about the island’s volcanic history and local culture, adding depth to the eye-popping scenery.

A possible consideration might be the full day’s schedule, which involves quite a bit of walking and sightseeing. If you’re not used to active touring, it might feel a little packed, but for those eager to see a lot in one day, it’s perfect.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, are interested in geology and volcanic landscapes, and enjoy discovering new cultures through guided insights. It’s particularly ideal for those who want a rundown without the hassle of planning multiple trips and who appreciate the natural beauty of São Miguel in a single day.

Good To Know

• Diverse natural sites: Lakes, crater views, hot springs, and botanical gardens.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides provide insights into volcanic activity and local culture.
• Photographic opportunities: Scenic viewpoints like Pico do Carvão and King View offer stunning photo ops.
• Inclusion of hot springs: Relaxing thermal baths and the famous Terra Nostra Botanical Garden.
• Flexible pickup options: Available from Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande.
• Value for money: The price reflects a well-rounded experience, though entrance fees to parks and hot springs are extra.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering São Miguel: What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to give you a broad yet detailed overview of São Miguel’s most compelling sights. You’ll start with an early pickup either from Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande, then head towards some of the island’s most famous landmarks.

Lagoa das Sete Cidades

The trip begins at Lagoa das Sete Cidades, arguably the most famous lagoon in the Azores. Expect a scenic drive with a stop for photos and guided commentary. You’ll get a chance to appreciate the twin lakes, which sit inside a massive volcanic crater—two different lakes connected by a narrow strip of land. This spot often captures the imagination of visitors with its almost surreal beauty and the legend of the lovers that inspired its name.

Ribeira Grande and Lagoa do Fogo

Next, the journey takes you to Ribeira Grande, a charming town with a quaint vibe and some local history. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo stop or a brief wander. Not far from there, you’ll visit Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine crater lake known for its crystal-clear waters and high altitude. Expect a shorter stop here to enjoy the views or snap some memorable photos.

Vila Franca do Campo

Then, the tour continues to Vila Franca do Campo, a coastal town with a rich history and scenic vistas. It’s a brief stop for sightseeing and photos, giving a taste of the island’s south coast charm.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Furnas Valley and Hot Springs

One of the highlights is Furnas Valley, a lush area famous for its volcanic activity and thermal springs. Here, you’ll visit the Furnas Gardens and get the chance to see the bubbling hot springs—some famous for cooking the local dish “Cozido”, which is slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat. You can also relax in thermal baths, an indulgence that many reviews highlight as a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

Pico do Carvão and Scenic Views

The tour includes stops at Pico do Carvão and King View, viewpoints that serve up panoramic vistas of the island’s volcanic landscape. These spots are often praised for their breathtaking scenery, perfect for snapping panoramic photos or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Botanical Gardens and Lunch Break

The trip features ample free time for a leisurely lunch at a traditional restaurant, offering authentic local cuisine. Post-lunch, many guests visit the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, a lush space featuring a variety of exotic plants and thermal pools—an excellent way to relax and enjoy the tropical flora.

The Practicalities: How the Day Unfolds

The day kicks off early with pickup options from two convenient locations, providing flexibility. The group size tends to be moderate, making it easy to hear your guide’s explanations and ask questions.

The itinerary is quite full—covering lakes, viewpoints, towns, and hot springs—so expect a mix of driving, walking, and photo stops. The transportation is comfortable, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.

Each stop offers a different perspective on the island: from the dramatic crater lakes to the lively thermal springs and scenic coastal views. The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Key Details to Keep in Mind

• The tour is wheelchair accessible, which makes it more inclusive.
• Entrance fees to parks and hot springs are not included, so budget for that if you want to indulge at Terra Nostra or other sites.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a camera, and water—weather can change swiftly, especially in high-altitude spots.

Authentic Insights and Tips

• Many reviewers mention the guides’ expertise—they are often locals who share personal stories and in-depth knowledge about volcanic activity and local culture.
• The views from Pico do Carvão and King View are consistently praised for their epic scope—these spots are often the highlight for photographers.
• The thermal baths at Furnas are a favorite relaxation spot, with many guests noting the soothing waters as a perfect end to the day.
• The lunch options tend to be traditional Azorean fare, which adds a flavorful local touch to the experience.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $153 per person, this tour offers good value considering the variety of sites visited and the guided nature of the experience. Without the extra costs for entrance fees, hot springs, or meals, you get a rundown of the island’s highlights.

Travelers often appreciate the all-in-one convenience—no need to plan multiple excursions or worry about transportation between sites. The inclusion of viewpoints, lakes, and hot springs in one day maximizes what you see, making it an efficient way to get to know São Miguel.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a thorough overview of São Miguel in a single day—perfect for first-timers or those with limited time. It suits those who enjoy nature, scenic photography, and cultural insights. The tour’s pace, guided commentary, and variety of stops appeal to curious explorers eager to learn about the island’s volcanic origins and local traditions.

It’s also a good fit if you prefer organized excursions that handle transportation and logistics, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery and learn from the knowledgeable guides.

The Sum Up

In summary, this full-day tour of São Miguel offers a well-rounded adventure through some of the island’s most iconic landscapes and attractions. The combination of volcanic lakes, scenic viewpoints, geothermal springs, and cultural stops provides a comprehensive, engaging experience—especially with the guidance of local experts.

For travelers craving breathtaking views and authentic natural experiences, this tour delivers on many fronts. Those who love learning about volcanic activity, taking photos of stunning panoramas, or relaxing in thermal waters will find plenty to love.

While the schedule is full and some sites require extra entrance fees, the overall value and convenience make it a smart choice for those eager to see São Miguel without the hassle of navigating alone. It’s particularly suited for curious explorers and first-time visitors wanting to maximize their island experience in a single, memorable day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and stops.

Where does the tour pick up?
You can be picked up from either Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande, depending on your accommodation.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but a traditional restaurant stop is part of the itinerary. You can choose to buy food during this break.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but expect some walking and outdoor exploration. It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year.

Do I need to pay extra for parks and hot springs?
Yes, entrance fees to parks and hot springs, such as Terra Nostra, are not included and need to be paid separately.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, and water are recommended. Dress appropriately for changing weather conditions.

Do guides speak languages other than English?
Guides speak English, Galician, and Portuguese, catering to diverse travelers.

This full-day São Miguel tour combines scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and relaxing moments, all led by passionate guides. It’s a fantastic way to grasp the essence of the Azores’ largest island in just one memorable day.

You can check if your dates are available here: