Private Exclusive Tour – All of São Miguel island in 2 days

A two-day adventure around São Miguel, Portugal, with a knowledgeable guide—what could be better? For $358.61 per person, you gain access to an intensive, personalized exploration curated by Carlos, a guide praised for his flexibility and deep local knowledge. The tour covers the most iconic sights: from the famed lakes of Sete Cidades to volcanic hot spots, and charming villages. The journey is designed for travelers who want to maximize their time without the hassle of planning or coordinating multiple tours.

What we particularly like about this experience is the seamless transportation and the expert guidance. Since the tour is private, it feels tailored to your interests and pace, making it ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed, in-depth visit rather than rushing through a large group. Plus, the inclusion of local insights and personal planning means you’ll get tips on extra days or hidden gems based on your preferences.

A minor consideration is that the tickets to hot springs are not included, which could add extra cost if you wish to soak in the thermal waters. Also, because it’s a two-day tour, it’s best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule looking to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the most famous sights with expert guidance, as well as seasoned travelers wanting a rundown with the comfort of private transport and tailored planning.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Exploration: Visit top sights across São Miguel, from lakes to volcanic activity, without needing to plan each stop.
• Expert Guide: Carlos’s knowledge and flexibility ensure a personalized experience and insightful commentary.
• Convenience: Private transportation and door-to-door pickup make for a smooth, hassle-free trip.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to enjoy local delicacies and scenic viewpoints, with some stops at farms and plantations.
• Value for Money: At $358.61, you get two full days of guided touring, which often saves money and time compared to booking individual excursions.
• Consideration: Entrance tickets to hot springs are extra, so budget accordingly if that’s a must-do.

Exploring São Miguel in Two Days: A Deep Dive

The Practicality of a Two-Day Private Tour

Traveling around São Miguel in just 48 hours might seem ambitious—after all, the island offers a diverse range of stunning landscapes and cultural sites. But with this private, all-inclusive tour, you can cover the main highlights comfortably without the stress of planning logistics or navigating public transport. The guide, Carlos, is praised for his flexibility and personalized approach, adapting the itinerary to your weather preferences or special interests.

The cost of $358.61 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the cost of separate tickets, meals, and the time saved, it often translates to excellent value. Plus, the private nature of the tour means a more intimate experience, with fewer interruptions and more opportunity for questions, photos, or spontaneous stops.

Day 1: Iconic Views and Natural Wonders

Start at Vista do Rei Miradouro—arguably the most famous viewpoint on the island. Here, you’ll get a sweeping view over the Sete Cidades Lakes, with their contrasting blue and green waters. The viewpoint also features an old, abandoned hotel—a quirky reminder of past glories. This is a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the scenery. Visitors have raved about the stunning vistas, with one review mentioning it as “wonderful,” highlighting the view’s beauty.

Next, you’ll visit Sete Cidades village, where you can stroll along the lakeside and enjoy a coffee break. The proximity to the lakes allows for some relaxed, scenic moments that make the experience feel authentic and unhurried. The inclusion of free time here is appreciated, as you can explore or simply enjoy the view from different angles.

Miradouro da Boca do Inferno is a highlight for many. It involves a short walk through the Lagoa do Canário park—about 30 minutes—but the payoff is spectacular. From this vantage point, you’ll see the famous “Boca do Inferno,” a rugged, dramatic volcanic caldera with views that have been praised as breathtaking. One reviewer mentioned that this place was “the most famous view on the whole island,” emphasizing its photogenic appeal.

The tour then takes you to Arruda Pineapple Plantation, offering insight into the island’s agricultural heritage. It’s one of the oldest plantations, and you’ll learn why the pineapple is considered the “king of the island.” The guide’s knowledge helps deepen your appreciation for local farming traditions.

Lagoa do Fogo is another key stop, perched atop the volcano. The panoramic view over this crater lake is often described as “spectacular,” and the drive up offers stunning volcanic landscapes. The one-hour visit here allows plenty of time to take in the scenery, snap photos, or enjoy a brief walk.

Finally, a drive through Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s oldest village, offers a scenic overview of the coastline and the iconic Vila Franca islet. This pass-by gives a taste of the island’s history and seaside charm.

Day 2: Volcanic Activity and Coastal Beauty

Furnas is a must-see for nature lovers. This volcanic village offers fascinating insight into the island’s geothermal activity. You might sample the famous Cozido, a stew cooked underground using volcanic heat, or try bolo lêvedo, a delicious local bread. While the tour doesn’t include tickets, the guide can suggest places like Terra Nostra Park or Poça D. Beija for thermal baths—worth considering if you want to relax.

Lagoa das Furnas provides a serene walk around the crater lake, offering a peaceful contrast to the geothermal activity. The views here are soothing and scenic, making it a favorite among visitors.

Miradouro Pico do Ferro offers arguably the best view of the Furnas Valley. A quick stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression thanks to the dramatic volcanic landscape. It’s a highlight for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Caldeira das Furnas allows you to see the active volcanic vents, geysers, and boiling waters—an authentic display of the island’s volcanic nature. The steam and bubbling waters create a surreal, almost otherworldly scene that’s both impressive and educational.

Driving further east, the tour visits Nordeste, renowned for its stunning coastlines and peaceful vistas at Ponta do Sossego, Ponta da Madrugada, and the Arnel lighthouse. These viewpoints are praised for their breathtaking beauty and are perfect for quiet reflection and photography.

The final stop at Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes provides a lush, green park filled with waterfalls, watermills, and hydrangeas—an ideal place to wind down and appreciate the island’s natural diversity.

Lastly, a visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantation offers a taste of local agriculture. You can walk through the plantation, learn about tea production, and enjoy a tea break—an authentic experience that adds to the island’s cultural tapestry.

Authenticity, Comfort, and Flexibility

What makes this tour stand out, according to reviews, is the personalized guidance and the ability to customize certain stops based on weather or interest. As one traveler noted, Carlos “custom-designed the trip based on the weather so we would see the best of everything.” This approach ensures you’re not stuck with a rigid itinerary, but rather a flexible plan that suits your preferences.

The transportation, being private, guarantees comfort and promptness. You won’t be stuck in a large bus or waiting for others, making your experience more intimate and relaxed. The tour’s inclusion of door-to-door pickup simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada.

The Value of This Experience

At over 10 hours spread across two days, this guided tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of São Miguel’s highlights. When broken down, the cost includes not only the transportation and guide’s expertise but also the convenience of a planned route, saving you hours of research and coordination.

The reviews highlight that travelers appreciated Carlos’s knowledgeability and flexibility. One wrote, “Carlos provided us with a fantastic private trip,” and another said, “Carlos really went over and beyond to show us the highlights.” These personal touches make a significant difference in experiencing the island authentically.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While this tour covers a lot, the extra costs for hot springs (around 8-10 euros per person) are not included, so if soaking in thermal waters is a priority, you’ll want to budget for that. Plus, the tour’s focus on the main sights means some lesser-known spots or off-the-beaten-path locations might be missed—if you love hidden gems, you might want to tailor your exploration further afterward.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview and value comfort and customization, rather than those who prefer to explore independently or at a very slow pace.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you enjoy having a knowledgeable guide steer you through the highlights and share local insights, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the best of São Miguel without the stress of planning, as well as those who want a relaxed, all-in-one experience. Adventure seekers interested in volcanic activity, scenic viewpoints, and culture will find plenty to love.

Travelers who appreciate personalized service and value the convenience of private transport will find this tour a real time-saver. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer to explore at your own pace, you might consider piecing together a DIY itinerary.

FAQ About This São Miguel Tour

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour exclusively for your group, allowing for flexibility and personalized attention.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation and a local guide who will tailor the experience to your interests.

Are tickets to hot springs included?
No, tickets for baths like Terra Nostra Park or Poça D. Beija are not included and cost approximately 8-10 euros per person.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
Stops vary from about 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the site, giving you ample time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

What if I want to visit other sites?
Your guide is happy to organize additional days or suggest extra activities based on your preferences.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have mobility issues or dislike long drives, it’s worth considering the itinerary’s demands.

Can I customize the trip?
Yes, the guide is flexible and can tailor the stops based on weather or your interests, as highlighted by past travelers.

When should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 63 days in advance to secure your preferred dates, especially during peak season.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and an open mind ready for some stunning views and volcanic wonders.

Final Thoughts

This two-day private tour of São Miguel offers an excellent way to efficiently explore the island’s most famous sights with an expert guide by your side. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing multiple tours and transportation. The flexibility, local insights, and scenic stops make for an enriching visit that balances natural beauty with cultural touches.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the value lies in personalized attention, convenience, and time saved. For those eager to see the island’s highlights comfortably and authentically, this tour is hard to beat.

If you love stunning viewpoints, geological marvels, and local flavors, and prefer your travel experience tailored to your pace and interests, then this tour will suit you perfectly. Just remember to budget some extra for optional activities like thermal baths, and prepare for a memorable, multi-faceted adventure on São Miguel.