S. Miguel East: Top Scenic Highlights 1 Day Private Tour
Location: Azores, Portugal
Country: Portugal
Price: $170 per person
Supplier: Roots Tracking
A quick look at what’s on offer: For just $170, this private day trip takes you through the east side of São Miguel, a landscape of volcanic wonder, lush gardens, and dramatic coastlines. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit Furnas Lagoon, soak in thermal springs, and take in spectacular viewpoints along the rugged Atlantic coast. Two things we especially like: the chance to explore at your own pace and the opportunity to combine natural beauty with local cuisine.
One potential consideration is the optional nature of many site entries—meaning you’ll pay extra if you want to enjoy certain attractions, like Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija. Still, the flexibility allows you to tailor the day to your interests. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic, scenic experiences and want a personalized, intimate exploration of São Miguel’s east side—perfect for those who love nature, stunning views, and a touch of local flavor.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary covers volcanic lakes, hot springs, viewpoints, and waterfalls.
- Private tour offers flexibility, personalized pacing, and intimate insights.
- Highlights include the iconic Furnas Lagoon, Terra Nostra Park, and dramatic Atlantic cliffs.
- Optional entries allow customization based on your interests and budget.
- Knowledgeable guides provide context and safety, including emergency response training.
- Authentic experiences blend natural beauty with local culinary traditions.
If you’re visiting the Azores and seeking a full day of natural beauty and local charm, this private tour of São Miguel’s east side offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s volcanic soul. For $170 per person, you’ll get an up-close look at steaming lakes, lush botanical gardens, rugged cliffs, and thermal pools—all curated with flexibility and personalized attention. Led by guides who know the island intimately, this trip balances scenic highlights with authentic experiences, making it a solid choice for travelers who want depth without feeling rushed.
Two things stand out immediately. First, the diversity of landscapes—from bubbling fumaroles at Furnas to serene waterfalls at Caldeirões Park. Second, the personalized approach of a private tour, which means you can prioritize what interests you most, whether it’s soaking in hot springs or marveling at coastal vistas.
A small caveat: many of the attractions are optional, so extra fees apply if you decide to visit Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija, which are worth considering if thermal baths are a highlight for you. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, cultural insights, and flexible schedules—a perfect fit for those wanting an immersive day with local guides.
You can check availability for your dates here:What to Expect on the Tour
Starting bright and early, your guide picks you up from your accommodation, whisking you away along scenic forest roads that wind through lush, green landscapes. The first stop is Furnas Lagoon, a steaming, otherworldly spot where earth’s energy bubbles up through fumaroles and volcanic calderas. Here, you’ll see how locals have long harnessed geothermal heat—not just for warming the earth but also for cooking traditional dishes like cozido and codfish stew in underground holes. It’s a culinary technique rooted in centuries of cleverness, and watching the earth do the cooking is truly fascinating.
At the lakeside, you’ll have the chance to stroll around the fumaroles, feeling the warm steam on your face, and enjoy a quiet tea break at a charming spot among the trees, sampling fresh green tea or a traditional bolo lêvedo. For those craving a more active experience, an optional hike (costs $10) takes you through a Natural Park trail that looks like it stepped out of an Avatar scene—dense woodland, waterfalls, and sweeping viewpoints that make you feel like you’ve entered a hidden paradise.
Next, you’ll visit the village of Furnas, where time seems to slow down. Here, you can enjoy a regional lunch, often featuring local specialties, and possibly add a visit to Terra Nostra Park—a botanical garden packed with rare plants and featuring an iron-rich thermal pool with warm, earthy orange waters. While entry to the park costs $17, many find the experience worth it for the relaxing bath and the lush surroundings.
Post-lunch, the tour weaves along São Miguel’s northeastern coast, where scenic viewpoints at Ponta da Madrugada and Ponta do Sossego offer sweeping views of the Atlantic crashing against volcanic cliffs. These are some of the most dramatic and iconic vistas on the island, perfect for photos and quiet moments of reflection.
Finally, you’ll stop at Caldeirões Park, where a graceful waterfall tumbles among old stone mills and vibrant greenery, offering a peaceful break before heading back. To round off the day, the Poça da Dona Beija natural thermal pools provide a warm, soothing end—an opportunity to unwind in mineral-rich waters amid ferns and volcanic rock.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Furnas
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Furnas Lagoon and Geothermal Cooking
The first major highlight, Furnas Lagoon, is almost surreal. The plumes of steam rising from the ground give a sense of the Earth’s heartbeat. Watching the traditional cozido being cooked underground is both educational and appetizing—an authentic culinary tradition that directly connects the landscape to local life. The scenic walk around the lake lets you absorb the mystical atmosphere, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Optional Hike in a Private Natural Park
The hike (additional $10) is perfect if you crave a more immersive experience. You’ll trek through a dense forest, crossing small waterfalls and gaining breathtaking views over the island’s interior. The trail’s Avatar-like scenery makes it stand out, and the silence broken only by wildlife is a reminder of the Azores’ pristine environment.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch and Terra Nostra Park
The local regional cuisine is a highlight, with dishes like cozido offering a taste of Azorean ingenuity. If you choose to visit Terra Nostra, you’ll find a garden of exotic plants from around the world and the chance to bathe in a thermal pool heated by volcanic activity. The orange-colored mineral waters are not only soothing but also rich in iron—an authentic health tonic.
Coastal Viewpoints and Caldeirões Park
The north-eastern coast showcases some of the most stunning cliffs and ocean views. At Ponta da Madrugada and Ponta do Sossego, you stand above the pounding Atlantic, watching waves crash against jagged volcanic formations. These spots are perfect for landscape photography or a moment of quiet reflection.
Caldeirões Park offers a peaceful setting with its waterfalls and old stone mills, a reminder of the island’s past but still vibrant with life today. It’s a great stop to enjoy the lush vegetation and fresh air before heading toward the thermal pools.
Poça da Dona Beija Thermal Pools
The day ends with a relaxing soak at Poça da Dona Beija, where the warm mineral waters soothe every muscle. Surrounded by volcanic rocks and ferns, this spot is perfect for unwinding and reflecting on a day filled with natural wonders.
Practical Details and Tips
The private nature of this tour means you’ll enjoy a more relaxed pace and personalized attention. The vehicle comfortably accommodates up to 4 adults and 2 children, making it suitable for families or small groups. The pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation make logistics simple, and the bottled water provided keeps you refreshed.
Dress comfortably—think walking shoes and a windbreaker, as weather can change quickly in the Azores. Since the tour runs rain or shine, be prepared for all conditions, but keep in mind that some attractions may be less enjoyable in heavy rain.
The optional entries—Terra Nostra Park, Poça da Dona Beija, and the hiking trail—are paid separately. Budget accordingly if you’d like to enjoy all these experiences.
Authenticity and Value
While $170 per person might seem like a good deal for a full day of guided exploration, remember that the value lies in the personalized experience and expert guidance. The guides are trained in emergency response, ensuring safety throughout, which is reassuring when exploring such rugged terrain.
Many travelers appreciate the flexibility to customize the day—whether that means skipping the thermal parks or adding a hike—and the digital photo access allows you to relive the day afterward. While some may find the optional entries a little extra, they’re worthwhile if thermal baths and botanical gardens are your thing.
The tour is a balance of scenic beauty, authentic local culture, and relaxing leisure, making it a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive yet intimate look at São Miguel’s east side.
Who is this tour best for?
If you’re a traveler who loves stunning landscapes and scenic viewpoints, this tour will satisfy your craving for dramatic vistas. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized, flexible itinerary and appreciate natural thermal pools and lush gardens. Families with children can enjoy the manageable pace, while couples seeking a romantic day amidst volcanic scenery will find plenty to love.
However, if you’re a solo traveler or a couple looking for a more budget-friendly, group-focused experience, this private tour offers value in exclusivity and tailored attention. It’s perfect for those who value authenticity and comfort over large group tours, and for anyone eager to experience the raw beauty of São Miguel’s volcanic east side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the tour lasts approximately a full day, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.
Are the visits to Terra Nostra Park and Poça da Dona Beija included?
No, their entries are optional and payable on-site. Including them enhances the experience but adds extra cost.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor the day to your interests, spending more time at certain sites or skipping others.
Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The vehicle is clean, air-conditioned, and suited for small groups, ensuring a comfortable journey.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, and perhaps a small backpack for water, snacks, or souvenirs. Weather can change quickly, so be prepared.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it accommodates children and small passengers, with a maximum of 4 adults plus 2 smaller seats. The pace and sites are family-friendly.
To sum it up, this private tour of São Miguel’s east side combines stunning natural scenery with authentic local experiences, all tailored to your interests. Whether you’re drawn to the bubbling volcanic landscapes, dramatic cliffs, or thermal baths, it offers a comprehensive and flexible way to explore this beautiful island. For travelers craving personalized attention, scenic diversity, and a taste of Azorean life, this tour makes a memorable choice—delivering both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
You can check availability for your dates here: