Tour to Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo and Furnas

Experience São Miguel’s Natural Wonders with a Private Tour

This private tour to Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Furnas promises an immersive day exploring some of the Azores’ most iconic sights. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, reviews consistently praise the tour’s expert guiding, breathtaking scenery, and authentic local touches.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized attention from knowledgeable guides like Arturo, who takes care to show you the best viewpoints and hidden gems. Second, the chance to see multiple volcanic lakes and calderas in a single day, all with minimal hassle. Third, the inclusive lunch featuring local cuisine and Cozido—a volcanic cooking specialty—that elevates the whole experience.

A potential consideration is the limited time at each stop—if you’re craving deep dives into each location, you might find a full day a bit rushed. This tour suits travelers who want a rundown, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate expert commentary without the stress of planning.

If you’re after a hassle-free, insightful way to see São Miguel’s highlights, this tour is a perfect pick. It balances breathtaking views with cultural insights, making it ideal for those new to the island or visitors short on time.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, creating a relaxed, tailored atmosphere.
• Expert Guidance: Guides like Arturo are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to share local insights.
• Stunning Landscapes: From the twin-colored Lagoa das Sete Cidades to the volcanic Lagoa do Fogo, views are consistently spectacular.
• Included Lunch: Authentic local cuisine with options like Cozido, cooked in volcanic steam, makes the meal a memorable part of the day.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup is offered, and the tour lasts approximately 8 hours—covering plenty without rushing.
• Excellent Value: At around $149 per person, the tour offers a thorough, guided experience with multiple stops and cuisine included.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Setting Off and the First Stop: Lagoa das Sete Cidades

We love the feeling of being picked up right from our accommodation, eliminating logistical stress. The first stop, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, is the highlight for many. It’s the largest freshwater lake on the island, famous for its two contrasting colors—green and blue—created by volcanic activity and mineral deposits.

Here, you can enjoy a quick walk around the lakes, soak in the tranquility, and admire the abandoned Monte Palace hotel, a hauntingly beautiful remnant of tourism past. From multiple viewpoints, the panoramic vistas of the caldera are simply mesmerizing. Reviewers like Christine noted it’s “super informative and gave a great overview of the island,” which is perfect for first-timers wanting a solid introduction.

Lagoa do Fogo: The Second Largest Lake

Next, the tour heads to Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning crater lake situated at one of the island’s highest points. This location is especially valued for its clarity and vibrant blue hues. The guides often take visitors to several viewpoints, each offering different perspectives—be it the water itself or the sweeping views over Ribeira Grande.

Many reviews mention a warm welcome and lively commentary from Arturo, who is praised for his knowledge and friendliness. The lake’s remote location, with its surrounding volcanic landscape, offers a rare sense of untouched nature. Expect to see the crater’s edge from above, giving you a sense of how powerful volcanic forces shaped the island.

Furnas: Volcanic Activity and Cultural Highlights

After lunch, the tour ventures to Lagoa das Furnas, famous for its thermal activity and the traditional cooking of Cozido—an impressive feat, as the food is slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat. We’re told that the tour includes a visit to the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitória, a neo-Gothic structure that adds a touch of architectural interest.

Reviewers mention the Cozido experience as a highlight, noting the generous portions and flavorful dishes. Arturo’s willingness to take guests to see secondary volcanism phenomena and the thermal caldeiras enhances the understanding of the island’s volcanic character. The Caldeira das Furnas offers fascinating sights of bubbling hot springs and fumaroles, which many find both educational and otherworldly.

Additional Sights and Local Flavor

The tour also includes a stop at Capela de Nossa Senhora das Vitorias, where the neo-Gothic architecture offers a peaceful, photogenic moment. Reviewers like Lorraine praised the politeness and knowledge of their guide Gabriel, who made sure every stop felt meaningful.

The combination of nature, history, and local culture creates a well-rounded experience. Plus, with the inclusion of lunch at a local restaurant, you get to sample authentic Azorean flavors, including the infamous Cozido cooked in volcanic steam, which many reviewers found memorable.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour is designed to be comfortable and convenient. With pickup offered, you don’t have to worry about logistics, and the roughly 8-hour duration gives ample time at each location without feeling rushed. Since it’s a private experience, your group size is limited, allowing for a more relaxed, personalized day.

Travelers frequently mention how guides like Arturo make the trip engaging, blending storytelling with expert insights. The stops are timed to maximize sightseeing while leaving room for spontaneous moments—whether that’s a quick photo or a scenic stop for a quick snack.

Price and Value

At approximately $149 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the number of stops, included lunch, and the personalized guide service. Reviews highlight the generosity of lunch portions and high-quality local cuisine, adding to the overall value.

For travelers wanting an all-in-one overview of São Miguel’s top natural attractions, this tour replaces the need for multiple separate visits and logistical planning. The detailed attention from guides and the seamless experience make it worth the cost.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviews mention the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, particularly Arturo, who is described as fantastic and going above and beyond. For example, one reviewer appreciated that Arturo was happy to take pictures and make scenic stops, making the day more memorable.

Others appreciated the breathtaking views and the chance to experience local life, especially at Furnas, where cooking traditions and geothermal phenomena are still very much alive. Several reviewers mentioned the delicious lunch, often highlighting the generous portions and authentic flavors.

While some felt the last lake might be less visible during certain times of the year, overall, the feedback suggests that the variety of sights and personalized attention wide outweigh any minor drawbacks.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive snapshot of São Miguel’s most famous spots. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided commentary, scenic drives, and local culinary experiences.

Since it’s private, it suits families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed, personalized day without the hassle of self-driving or juggling multiple bookings. If you’re short on time but eager to see a lot, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to do just that.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. It’s a good option for families and individuals looking for a comfortable, well-paced experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
Transportation is provided as part of the tour, with pickup offered from your accommodation, making the day seamless.

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly 8 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour features a complimentary, traditional Azorean meal, including the famous Cozido cooked in volcanic steam.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What are the main highlights?
Expect breathtaking views of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Furnas, along with local culture, volcanic phenomena, and delicious food.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
Guides like Arturo are highly praised for their friendliness and expertise, offering insightful commentary and flexible stops.

Is the tour good value for money?
Absolutely, considering the multiple scenic locations, included lunch, and personalized service, it’s a comprehensive and cost-effective way to explore São Miguel.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Furnas strikes a great balance between sightseeing, culture, and comfort. It’s especially suited for those wanting a guided, hassle-free way to see São Miguel’s highlights.

With expert guides like Arturo, breathtaking views, and a traditional lunch included, it offers a well-rounded day that’s both memorable and valuable. Whether you’re a nature lover, a food enthusiast, or simply looking to tick off the island’s most famous sights in one go, this tour delivers a lot for its price.

For travelers who value local insights, stunning scenery, and personal service, this experience is a fantastic choice. Just be ready for a full day of exploration and plenty of picture-perfect moments.