Best of São Miguel 2 Days Private Tour

A 2-Day Private Journey Through São Miguel’s Natural Wonders

If you’re looking to see the highlights of São Miguel without the hassle of planning, this Best of São Miguel 2-Day Private Tour offers an engaging way to explore Portugal’s lush Atlantic island. For $909 per group (up to 7 people), you’ll travel in comfort with a van equipped with A/C and free Wi-Fi, guided by a dedicated driver and expert guide.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its personalized approach—your wishes are taken seriously, and the itinerary is flexible enough to include spots that catch your interest. On top of that, visiting both the West and East sides of the island in just two days is remarkable for seeing the diversity of landscapes, from volcanic craters to tea plantations.

One potential consideration is the full schedule—this is a packed itinerary with many stops, which might leave some travelers wanting more time at each location. Still, if you’re eager to experience São Miguel’s highlights in a short span, this tour is an excellent choice.

This experience suits travelers who prefer guided comfort, want a curated taste of São Miguel’s natural beauty, and value local insights over DIY wandering. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want a rundown.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: The tour adapts to your interests, making it flexible and inclusive.
Expert Guidance: You get the benefit of a dedicated guide and driver working together—rare and valuable.
Vast Coverage: Highlights both the West and East sides, including volcanoes, hot springs, lakes, and cultural sites.
Comfort & Connectivity: Travel in a modern van with A/C and free Wi-Fi, making long drives more enjoyable.
Authentic Experiences: Includes optional local foods, such as traditional Cozido, and visits to iconic viewpoints.
Limited Extra Costs: Entrance fees and meals are mostly optional, giving you control over your budget.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring São Miguel in Depth: What To Expect

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Day 1: The West Side – Volcanic Coastlines and Lakes

We start early, leaving Ponta Delgada behind, stepping into the comfort of our van with A/C and Wi-Fi. The first stop is Ferraria, a hot spring pool directly in the ocean. Here, we loved the way the warm thermal waters mingle with the Atlantic surf—an invigorating experience that blends volcanic heat with ocean freshness. The guide explained how Ferraria is formed by volcanic activity, making it a unique natural thermal bath.

Next, we headed to Sete Cidades, one of the most iconic sights on the island. From the Vista do Rei lookout, the panoramic views of the twin lakes—the blue and green—are breathtaking. The guide pointed out how these lakes are actually volcanic calderas, with one filled with fresh water and the other with a more mineral-rich composition. We appreciated the detailed commentary about the geology and history, which added depth to the stunning scenery.

After a quick descent into the village of Sete Cidades, we enjoyed a local lunch, sampling regional dishes in a relaxed setting. This gives you a chance to try authentic Azorean flavors away from tourist traps.

In the afternoon, we visited Lagoa do Fogo, the island’s youngest volcano, perched atop a crater lake. The viewpoints from above are spectacular, providing sweeping vistas of the crater’s lush landscape. We loved the contrast between the crater’s greenery and the stark volcanic terrain.

Finally, if time permits, a visit to Caldeira Velha (optional, on request) offers a chance to soak in geothermal hot springs surrounded by a jungle-like environment. We found it to be an optional highlight, especially for those wanting an extra relaxing end to the day.

Day 2: Exploring the East – Tea, Fumaroles, and Cultural Gems

Day two begins with a visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantations, the only tea factory in Europe still in operation. Watching the tea leaves being harvested and processed, then sampling freshly brewed teas, was a delight. The guide shared insights into how tea has been cultivated here since 1883—an authentic slice of local industry.

Next, we traveled to Furnas, a geothermal hub with bubbling fumaroles and geysers. The Pico do Ferro lookout provides a stunning view of the fumaroles steaming gently amidst green scenery. The guides explained how locals cook Cozido, a hearty stew prepared underground using volcanic heat, which adds a fascinating cultural dimension.

After sampling the Cozido (optional), we visited Terra Nostra Botanical Gardens—a lush oasis with thermal baths. Taking a swim in the hot, iron-rich waters was surprisingly rejuvenating, and we loved wandering through exotic plants and flowering trees.

Our final stop was Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s first capital. The Our Lady of Peace Chapel perched on a hillside offers panoramic views of the Islet of Vila Franca, a natural swimming hole formed by a volcanic crater. It’s a picture-perfect ending to a day packed with natural beauty and local flavor.

The Value of This Tour

This tour is priced at $909 for a private group, which, considering it covers both sides of the island fully guided, offers good value. Private tours tend to be pricier than group trips, but the personalized service, flexibility, and expert guidance make it worthwhile.

The inclusion of a guide and driver working together is a significant advantage. It means you’re not just a passenger but a participant in the experience, with insights tailored to your interests. The van’s comfort and Wi-Fi make the long drives more enjoyable, especially if you’re eager to get a sense of the island’s geography and stories behind the sights.

While some entry fees, like Caldeira Velha and Terra Nostra, are extra, they are clearly optional, allowing you to choose how much to indulge. This transparency helps with planning your budget.

A downside to consider is the busy schedule—if you prefer slow mornings or more time at each stop, this might feel rushed. But for those eager to see a broad swath of São Miguel in a short time, it provides a comprehensive, well-organized experience.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour appeals most to travelers who want a guided, all-in-one experience of São Miguel’s top sights without the stress of planning. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a comfortably paced journey with the flexibility to customize. If you’re interested in nature, volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and local culture, this tour is well-suited to your tastes.

It’s less ideal if you prefer slow travel or wish to explore off-the-beaten-path locations at your own pace. Also, because it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, travelers with mobility challenges may want to consider other options.

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Final Thoughts

This Best of São Miguel 2-Day Private Tour offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s most spectacular sights while providing personalized attention and comfort. The combination of stunning viewpoints, geothermal wonders, and cultural insights makes it a well-rounded introduction to the Azores.

If you’re after beautiful scenery, local flavor, and expert guidance, this tour packs a lot into two days without feeling overly rushed. The flexibility and knowledgeable guides make it a safe bet for those who want a curated experience that highlights São Miguel’s best features.

Most importantly, you’ll leave with lasting memories of volcanic lakes, lush gardens, and steaming fumaroles—a true taste of the Azores’ natural charm. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or just want a hassle-free way to see the highlights, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and flexible, it involves a full schedule and some walking. It’s best suited for children who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and outdoor activity.

Does the tour include meals?
Lunch is optional and included in the itinerary at a local restaurant where you can try regional dishes like Cozido. Drinks, dessert, and coffee are also part of the meal.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees are not included. You’ll need to pay separately for Caldeira Velha and Terra Nostra Botanical Gardens if you want to visit those.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is flexible. If you have particular places you’d like to visit or skip, just communicate your wishes to your guide.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and comfortable clothes suitable for sightseeing and possibly getting wet or muddy.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges due to the walking involved at various stops.

How long are the driving times?
Driving between major sites typically ranges from 10 to 45 minutes, with some longer stretches on the scenic routes.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, limited to your group of up to 7 people, ensuring intimate and flexible experiences.

How much does it cost overall?
The full cost is $909, which covers the private guide, driver, and transportation. Entry fees and optional meals or baths are extra.

Is it worth booking in advance?
Absolutely. Since it’s a private experience with limited availability, booking ahead ensures you secure your preferred dates and times.

To sum it up, this tour offers a comprehensive, engaging, and flexible way to see São Miguel’s natural beauty and local culture. It’s ideal for those seeking comfort, expert insights, and a well-rounded introduction to the Azores’ premier island.