Sao Miguel is a gem for those who love exploring on wheels, by boat, or on foot. The island’s volcanic landscape offers diverse scenery—from crater lakes and lush valleys to rugged coastlines and thermal springs—that make guided tours a must-do. What makes these experiences stand out? For starters, the full-day Jeep tours like the one visiting Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo give you panoramic views and access to remote villages in style, while canyoning adventures in Ribeira dos Caldeirões put you right into the wild heart of the island’s waterfalls. For those who want a relaxed culture, the wine and food tours offer a taste of local gastronomy with expertly curated tastings. The diversity of options means there’s something for every traveler, whether you seek outdoor thrills or scenic leisurely discovery.
One tour we particularly love is the Jeep Tour Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo—it’s a comprehensive way to see the island’s highlights with local guides who know every twist in the road. If you’re after an adrenaline rush, the Canyoning Experience in Ribeira dos Caldeirões is unbeatable for its combination of waterfalls and natural pools. And for a taste of local culture, the Wine & Food Evening Walking Tour introduces you to Azorean flavors in a friendly, intimate setting. Each of these experiences offers authenticity and a slice of local life—perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the usual sightseeing.
1. Jeep Tour Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo with lunch and drinks included
Explore the western and central parts of Sao Miguel on this full-day Jeep tour that visits Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. Starting with a drive along the rim of the dormant Sete Cidades Volcano, you’ll enjoy spectacular views from 650 meters above sea level. The rugged terrain is best experienced in a Jeep, which takes you through remote villages and scenic spots that are otherwise difficult to reach. The tour includes a delicious local lunch with regional wines, making it a full sensory experience.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of stunning viewpoints and off-road exploration. Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, noting how smoothly the day runs and how much they see in one trip. Highlights include visits to Salto do Cabrito waterfall and the Fogo crater, all with free admission. At just under $100 per person for an 8-hour tour, it offers excellent value—and the reviews confirm it’s worth every penny.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, scenic day with plenty of local flavor and great value.
2. Canyoning Experience in Ribeira dos Caldeirões Sao Miguel -Azores
For the adventure lover, this canyoning tour offers an adrenaline-filled immersion into Sao Miguel’s waterfalls and natural landscapes. Over approximately 2.5 hours, you’ll rappel down waterfalls, jump into pristine pools, and slide through rocky chutes—all with safety gear provided. Rated 5 stars with hundreds of reviews, it’s clear that guides know how to keep everyone safe while having fun.
This tour is ideal if you’re fit enough for some uphill hiking and want to experience the wild side of the island. Many reviewers mention how supportive and encouraging the guides are, making it accessible even if you’ve never tried canyoning before. The included safety equipment and optional pickup simplify logistics, so you can focus on the wet and wild experience. At around $81, the value is excellent for a 2.5-hour adventure in some of the Azores’ most scenic waterfalls.
Bottom line: Perfect for thrill-seekers who want to explore Sao Miguel’s waterfalls with expert guidance.
3. Hidden Gems of Sao Miguel Island Full Day Tour with Lunch
Step off the well-trodden path with this small group tour that uncovers Sao Miguel’s lesser-known sights. Covering waterfalls, mountain tops, cliffs, and a secluded beach, the tour offers a comprehensive look at the island’s natural beauty without strenuous walks. The trip includes a typical Azorean lunch, making it a well-rounded day of culture and scenery.
Highlights include the geothermal area of Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande, the scenic caves at Fenais da Ajuda, and the charming beach at Porto Formoso. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and how the tour balances sightseeing with local storytelling. For about $89, it’s a great choice for travelers who want to see a mix of nature and culture comfortably.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a relaxed, diverse day with authentic local experiences and superb scenery.
4. Furnas Night-Time Experience with Thermal baths and Dinner
Spend your evening soaking in the Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths and enjoying a traditional Cozido stew cooked underground with volcanic heat. This nighttime tour from Ponta Delgada offers a relaxing thermal experience combined with a flavorful local dinner. The tour includes a guided nature walk and round-trip transfer, making it smooth and hassle-free.
Reviewers love how peaceful the baths are at night and rave about Eduardo’s friendly, knowledgeable style. The authentic Cozido—a hearty stew prepared in volcanic steam—is the highlight for many, giving you a taste of Azorean culinary tradition. At just over $83, the trip balances relaxation with regional flavor, perfect for travelers who want a tranquil evening with a touch of local culture.
Bottom line: A relaxing, scenic evening ideal for those seeking thermal pampering and authentic cuisine.
5. Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas with lunch (Cozido) and drinks included
This full-day Jeep tour explores eastern Sao Miguel, focusing on volcanic scenery, hot springs, and the famed Furnas Valley. Starting with pickup from Ponta Delgada, your guide takes you along the coast to visit a tea plantation and the Furnas volcano, where you’ll sample the traditional cozido stew cooked underground. The tour wraps up with visits to fumaroles and thermal pools, offering a rich sensory experience.
Rated highly for its comprehensive itinerary and friendly guides, many reviews praise the local food and scenic stops. The small group setting makes it intimate and flexible, with all major sights covered in about 8 hours. For $98, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to see Sao Miguel’s volcanic heart.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a full day of volcanic sights and authentic local cuisine.
6. Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Snorkeling in Sao Miguel, Azores
Explore the sea life around Vila Franca do Campo on this 2-hour boat tour featuring a glass bottom for viewing underwater. The boat takes you to the famous islet where you can admire the volcanic formations from below without getting wet. For those keen to swim, the tour includes stops for snorkeling in the clear waters, with equipment provided.
Rated 5 stars, this tour combines marine discovery with ease and comfort. Many reviewers mention how the crew’s friendliness and the visual experience through the glass bottom made it a standout. It’s a good choice if you want a short, scenic ocean excursion with options to get in the water. At $58, it’s a mid-range option for a memorable maritime experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for families and travelers who want a quick, scenic boat ride with snorkeling options.
7. Full Day Furnas Volcano, With Traditional Lunch (East Tour)
Discover the fascinating geothermal activity of Furnas Valley on this full-day tour. Visiting Furnas lake, fumaroles, and thermal springs, this trip immerses you in the island’s volcanic environment. It also includes a visit to Caloura and Vila Franca Do Campo, plus a traditional Azorean lunch of cozido cooked underground. The tour is designed to include cultural insights with visits to ceramic factories and the tea plantation.
Rated highly for knowledgeable guides and well-paced sightseeing, it offers a complete picture of east Sao Miguel in about 8 hours. The reviews highlight the enjoyable lunch and wonderful scenery. For around $87, the value comes from the mix of nature, culture, and regional cuisine.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers interested in volcanic landscapes, local crafts, and authentic food.
8. Wine & Food Evening Walking Tour in Ponta Delgada
Sample award-winning cheeses, local wines, and regional delicacies** on this 3.5-hour evening walk through Ponta Delgada. The tour includes stops at local eateries where you’ll taste cheiro wine, artisan cheeses, seafood, and dessert, all with expert commentary on Azorean food culture. It’s a great way to mingle and learn about local traditions in an intimate setting.
Rated 5 stars, travelers love the friendly guides and the quality of the tastings. Many comment on how the tour is a perfect way to cap off a day, especially with the small group size that encourages conversation. At $141, it’s a bit of an investment but offers a gourmet experience you won’t forget.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies wanting an authentic, social evening in Ponta Delgada.
9. Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour With Lunch (West Tour)
This full-day tour explores the spectacular volcanic crater of Sete Cidades and the Lagoa do Fogo caldera. Starting with a scenic drive around the emerald lake, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch with drinks while soaking in the views. The afternoon includes a visit to the mountain top viewpoint of Lagoa do Fogo, offering sweeping vistas of the region.
Guests praise Bruno’s engaging commentary and dedication to showing the best spots. Rated 5 stars, the tour offers good value for a comprehensive day of natural beauty, with many reviewers noting the quality of the lunch and the stunning scenery.
Bottom line: Excellent choice for nature lovers who want a full day of views, fresh air, and regional cuisine.
10. Sao Miguel in Two Days: A Perfect Blend of Nature & Culture
If you have limited time, this two-day itinerary packs in Sao Miguel’s top sights. Day one covers the coastal drives to Mosteiros and Escalvado, with stops at hot springs and scenic viewpoints. Day two includes Sete Cidades, Fogo volcano, and Ribeira Grande, with options to relax at thermal baths. The tour doesn’t include accommodation but offers detailed planning and local insight to maximize your time.
Rated 5 stars, travelers appreciate the well-paced itinerary and knowledgeable guides. Many mention how the trip balances nature and culture, and how it’s a great way to see the essentials without rushing.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a structured, comprehensive two-day experience with minimal hassle.
11. Wine, Cheese & Charcuterie Tasting, including complimentary tour
Taste your way through the best regional wines and cheeses in this interactive tasting. The tour features six cheeses, four wines, and local specialties like jam and bread, all paired beautifully. The small-group setting makes for relaxed conversation and learning, while the complimentary tour adds context on the island’s wine production.
Rated 5 stars, reviewers love the expert guidance and the quality of the tastings, describing it as a highlight of their trip. The $92 price offers good value for a full sensory experience that includes education and delicious food.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting to explore Azorean wine and cheese with a friendly, intimate group.
12. Canyoning in Salto do Cabrito (Sao Miguel – Azores)
This canyoning adventure in Salto do Cabrito is designed for thrill-seekers. For about four hours, you’ll rappel, slide, and jump through spectacular waterfalls under the supervision of experienced guides. The gear is all provided, and the small group/guide ratio ensures safety and personalized attention.
Rated top-notch with 64 reviews, many mention how fun and supportive the guides are. It’s suitable for active travelers looking for a wet, wild experience in the Azores’ pristine wilderness. The scenery is breathtaking, making the effort worthwhile.
Bottom line: Best suited for adventurous travelers ready for a physically demanding but rewarding day.
13. Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Lagoa do Fogo & Lagoa das Sete Cidades
For those seeking a tailored experience, this private 4×4 tour offers a personal guide to the island’s most stunning lakes and volcanoes. With a flexible itinerary, you can focus on Lagoa do Fogo and Sete Cidades in one day, exploring hard-to-reach spots inaccessible by regular vehicles. The local insights shared along the way enrich the experience.
Rated 5 stars, travelers find this tour perfect for families or small groups who want customization and comfort. It’s a private experience at about $302 per group, making it ideal for those who prefer exclusivity and flexibility.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a personalized, private exploration of Sao Miguel’s volcanic landscapes.
14. 3 Hour Kayak Guided Tour in Islet of Vila Franca Do Campo
Get close to volcanic formations and secluded caves on this 3-hour kayak tour. Starting at Vila Franca do Campo marina, you paddle through calm waters inside the island’s crater, exploring caves and enjoying scenic views. The guided route is suitable for all ages, and many reviews mention how fun and easy it is to manage.
Rated 5 stars, this activity is praised for friendly guides and its unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty. It’s perfect if you want a half-day activity with plenty of underwater and coastal scenery.
Bottom line: Suitable for families and casual paddlers who want a scenic, manageable water adventure.
15. Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Furnas Volcano
This private full-day tour takes you on a 4×4 journey through the Furnas Valley, showcasing volcanic landscapes, fumaroles, and traditional thermal baths. Your guide provides personalized insights into the island’s geology and culture, with stops at Chá Gorreana, Europe’s oldest tea plantation, and local villages.
Rated 5 stars, travelers highlight the personalized attention and deep knowledge of their guide, making it a top pick for small groups or couples. The intimate pace allows for meaningful stops and plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking an in-depth, private exploration of Sao Miguel’s volcanic heart.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Sao Miguel
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, physical activity level, and interests. If you want a full-day scenic adventure with a mix of views and local food, the Jeep tours (full-day or west) are fantastic. For those craving adventure, canyoning and canyoning tours like the Ribeira dos Caldeirões canyoning or Salto do Cabrito canyoning offer action-packed fun. Nature lovers should look at private 4×4 tours or the full-day volcanic explorations, especially if you prefer a tailored experience.
If you’re a foodie or want to learn about local culture, the wine and food tours—including the evening tasting—are excellent choices. For a quick, scenic ocean outing, the glass-bottom boat offers a relaxed marine perspective. Lastly, if you’re traveling with family or a group, private tours provide flexibility and personal attention.
Booking early is always wise, especially in peak seasons. Check the tour detail pages for availability and consider combining experiences—like pairing a full-day tour with a night-time thermal bath visit for a well-rounded trip.
In summary, Sao Miguel offers a wealth of guided tours that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, culture lovers, and casual travelers alike. From adrenaline-pumping canyoning to scenic jeep excursions and culinary tastings, you’ll find experiences that turn a good trip into a memorable one. Whether you choose a full-day adventure or a private customized tour, the key is to plan ahead and book early—these experiences fill up quickly. Enjoy your time on this volcanic island, and happy exploring!