2 x Day Tour pack with lunch included (Furnas + Sete Cidades + Fogo + Nordeste)

Exploring São Miguel in Two Days: An Authentic Azorean Experience

If you’re looking to explore the wild, volcanic beauty of São Miguel in Portugal’s Azores, this two-day tour pack offers an incredible mix of stunning vistas, geothermal wonders, and local charm. Priced at $171.95 per person, it’s a comprehensive journey that takes you from black-sand beaches and crater lakes to lush tea plantations and picturesque waterfalls. With a focus on authentic sights and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises that you won’t just scratch the surface—you’ll get a real sense of what makes the island special.

What we especially appreciate are the carefully curated stops, like the thermal pools of Parque Terra Nostra—a perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing—and the viewpoints over Lagoa das Sete Cidades that are among the most iconic in the Azores. Another highlight is the expert commentary from guides like João, who are praised for sharing interesting facts and their love of the island.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long hours involved—this is a full, busy itinerary that covers quite a lot, so if you’re after a leisurely pace, this might feel a tad rushed. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy active days packed with highlights and don’t mind a full schedule. Perfect for those who want a well-rounded, guided introduction to São Miguel rather than a slow, self-led exploration.

This tour is particularly a good fit for first-timers eager to see the best viewpoints, natural wonders, and geothermal sites in one go. It’s equally suitable for travelers keen on learning from experts while enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery the Azores has to offer.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major highlights like Furnas, Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Nordeste over two days.
• Authentic experiences: Visit geothermal parks, crater lakes, and scenic viewpoints with guides who share local insights.
• Value-packed: Included lunches and multiple stops at must-see locations make the cost reasonable for a full island overview.
• Expert guides: Praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to enhance the experience.
• Comfort & convenience: Pickup offered from central points and small group sizes (maximum 8 travelers).
• Flexible scheduling: Tour order may shift depending on weather, ensuring the best possible experience.

Exploring São Miguel: In-Depth Review

The Basics: What’s Included and How It Works

This two-day guided tour from Azores Dream Tours provides a well-rounded snapshot of São Miguel’s geological and scenic highlights. For $171.95, you’re getting approximately 9 hours each day of exploration, with a support vehicle, small group size, and the convenience of pickup from a central meeting point in Ponta Delgada. The tour includes lunch on both days—crucial for refueling during the busy itinerary—and free time at several stops to really soak in the views or take photos.

Day 1: Volcanoes and Hot Springs

We start at Praia Grande de Agua D’Alto, a volcanic-origin beach with striking black sand—an iconic Azorean scene. The quick stop allows us to admire the landscape and get a feel for the volcanic activity shaping the island.

Next, we visit the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, a volcanic crater island that’s just a short boat ride away, but here we see it from the Sra. da Paz viewpoint. From this vantage point, we enjoy sweeping views of the islet, formed by a submarine eruption, and the charming village below. Review comments highlight guides like Carlos for their ability to share interesting facts and point out the best spots for photos.

The Lagoa das Furnas is a major highlight, revealing the island’s geothermal heartbeat. As we explore, guides explain the volcanological activities and eruptive history spanning over 100,000 years. This isn’t just pretty scenery—it’s a lesson in the island’s fiery past.

Our visit to the Caldeira das Furnas takes us into the geothermal center, where bubbling fumaroles and mineral springs show the volcano’s ongoing activity. Tasting the mineral springs or watching the boiling pots is a fun, sensory experience.

Later, we relax in Parque Terra Nostra, soaking in thermal pools heated naturally by volcanic activity. This park is renowned for its large botanical gardens, making it a peaceful retreat amid lush greenery. Although entry isn’t included, it’s well worth the extra expense for the chance to unwind in thermal waters over 30°C (86°F).

The day wraps up at Pico do Ferro, where the view of the Furnas crater and lake makes for a breathtaking photo opportunity. Then, a visit to Ribeira dos Caldeiroes in Nordeste offers dramatic waterfalls and watermills—showcasing the island’s lush, water-abundant landscape.

Day 2: Crater Lakes and Panoramic Vistas

Day 2 kicks off with the Ananas Santo Antonio pineapple greenhouses, where we see how the island’s famous pineapples are cultivated—an impressive process that takes two years from planting to harvesting.

The Miradouro do Pico do Carvão offers views of the volcanic cones between Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. The vistas here are stunning, and guides often point out features like the volcanic formations or the coastlines.

Next, we visit Lagoa do Canario, a picturesque hidden crater lake, often praised in reviews for its peaceful atmosphere. The Vista do Rei viewpoint is a classic, where you can see the blue and green lakes of Sete Cidades—a must-see site made even more special by its historical connection, as King D. Carlos and Queen D. Amelia once visited.

We then explore the Santiago Lagoon within the Sete Cidades volcanic crater, surrounded by unique vegetation, and cross the bridge at Caldeira das Sete Cidades, the iconic spot where the two lakes meet.

Finally, we reach Lagoa do Fogo, a beautifully preserved crater lake with turquoise waters, often cited as one of the island’s most pristine spots. The viewpoints here offer sweeping panoramas of the untouched crater.

The day concludes with a visit to Caldeira Velha, a park with natural hot spring pools. While entry isn’t included, many travelers find it a perfect ending for the day, soaking in the warm waters surrounded by lush forest.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviewers praise guides like João and Vera for their attentiveness, humor, and local knowledge. Comments like “João is amazing! He is attentive, funny, knowledgeable, and just an overall fun person” highlight how guides can make the experience more engaging. Others appreciate the stunning viewpoints and the chance to learn about volcanic activity firsthand.

One traveler noted, “The tour is about 9 hours long, so you might find it tiring but worth every minute,” emphasizing that while the days are packed, the value and scenic richness make it worthwhile.

The Practical Details: What to Expect

The small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures personalized attention and easier access to viewpoints and photo stops. The pickup service simplifies logistics—no need to worry about navigating or parking.

While the long hours might be tiring for some, the diversity of stops keeps the experience fresh, and guides are praised for their passion and knowledge. The lunches included are usually hearty and local, allowing you to taste Azorean cuisine without extra planning.

The flexibility in the itinerary—changing order based on weather—means you’ll get the best possible experience, whether it’s sunny or a bit cloudy.

Analyzing Value: Is It Worth It?

At just under $172, this tour offers a rundown of São Miguel’s highlights—something that might take multiple separate trips to replicate on your own. The inclusion of lunch and guided commentary adds convenience and depth that self-guided exploring would lack.

If you’re short on time but want an authentic, well-organized introduction to the island’s geology, scenery, and culture, this tour is a very good choice. The quality of guides and the variety of stops make it a standout in terms of value, especially given the small group size and personalized experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This package is perfect for first-time visitors wanting to see the best sights without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It suits those who enjoy active days packed with scenic stops and appreciate guided explanations. If you prefer a leisurely pace or more time at fewer sites, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

Travelers with a keen interest in volcanoes, crater lakes, and geothermal activity will especially enjoy the insights provided by knowledgeable guides. And if you’re looking for a comfortable, all-in-one way to experience São Miguel’s top attractions, this tour covers the essentials in style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long hours and walking involved. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full-day schedule.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is provided throughout, with a small group setting, making it easy to move between sites comfortably.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included on both days, providing local dishes that help you better connect with Azorean culture.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. Entry to some parks and pools is optional and at your expense.

Will the itinerary change?
Yes, depending on weather conditions, the order of stops may shift to ensure the best experience for travelers.

In essence, this two-day tour offers a balanced, engaging, and visually stunning introduction to São Miguel. It’s ideal for those eager to cover a lot of ground with expert guidance, all while discovering some of the most beautiful and geologically fascinating sites in the Azores. If you value knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and a well-organized experience, this tour is a top contender for your Azorean adventure.