Full Day Private Tour West & East in São Miguel Island

Exploring São Miguel with a Private Full-Day Tour: The Best of East and West at Your Pace

If you’re visiting São Miguel and want to see the island’s highlights without feeling like you’re racing against the clock, this private full-day tour offers a personalized experience crafted just for you. For around $405 per group (up to 7 people), you get a 7 to 8-hour journey with a knowledgeable guide and a comfortable vehicle ready to explore the island’s most iconic sites. From the crystal-clear lakes of Sete Cidades to the geothermal marvels of Furnas, this tour caters to travelers who want both sightseeing and relaxing moments in a flexible, intimate setting.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with authentic local touches. The ability to customize the itinerary means you can spend more time soaking in the views or enjoying a quiet moment at the beach. Plus, the guides’ deep knowledge makes the trip more meaningful, turning simple sightseeing into stories and insights you won’t find in a guidebook.

One thing to consider is that this is a full-day commitment, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a day full of activity. Also, while the tour price includes transport and some extras, tickets for parks and hot springs are paid separately, which can add up if you’re planning to indulge in the geothermal baths or visit certain attractions.

This tour suits those who want a bespoke experience—whether you’re honeymooning, celebrating an anniversary, or simply craving a flexible way to see the island at your own pace. It’s particularly ideal if you value local insights, scenic vistas, and the convenience of door-to-door service.

Key Points

• Flexibility to customize your itinerary based on your interests.
• Expert local guides who provide engaging commentary and personalized recommendations.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and amenities for a relaxed day.
• Visits to São Miguel’s most famous sights, including lakes, geothermal sites, and botanical gardens.
• Separate costs for park entrance tickets and hot springs, so budget accordingly.
• Suitable for travelers seeking a private, hassle-free experience with a more relaxed pace.

In-Depth Look at the Full Day Private Tour in São Miguel

Traveling on a private tour in São Miguel means your experience is tailored to what you want to see and do, rather than sticking to a rigid schedule. We found this to be especially valuable because the island’s landscape offers so many incredible sights—each with its own story—and having a guide who can help you prioritize makes all the difference.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Start with a hotel pickup, typically from Ponta Delgada or your accommodation, where your guide will introduce themselves and outline the possibilities for the day. The tour lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, so you’ll want comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity — this tour is all about exploration at your pace.

First stop: São Miguel’s scenic landscapes. After a brief 30-minute introduction to the tour’s flow, you’ll head to the famous Sete Cidades area, home to the twin lakes inside a volcanic crater. Here, the viewpoints—Vista do Rei, Boca do Inferno, Cerrado das Freiras, Lagoa de Santiago, and Lagoa do Canário—offer some of the most recognizable vistas on the island. The green and blue lakes are striking, and if you feel like walking, your guide can take you on a gentle hike around the Green Lake, giving you a chance to appreciate the natural beauty up close.

Next, Lagoa do Fogo, another highlight, is a central highland crater lake. The viewpoints here, including Bela Vista and Pico da Barrosa, offer sweeping views of the caldera and surrounding volcanic landscape. The area is a nature reserve, making it a peaceful, pristine spot to absorb the island’s volcanic origins.

Midday, you’ll visit the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, Europe’s oldest and only active tea plantation. You can sample fresh tea and take a tour of the plantation to see how this crop is cultivated and processed. This stop is a real treat—both for the tea lovers and those interested in local agricultural traditions.

Furnas offers a dramatic landscape of geothermal activity with bubbling hot springs and volcanic craters. Here, you might enjoy relaxing in naturally heated hot springs or experiencing a unique culinary tradition—food cooked underground using geothermal heat. This area is a favorite among reviews, with visitors appreciating the Jurassic-like scenery and the chance to unwind in thermal waters.

The Parque Terra Nostra botanical garden is a romantic, lush garden filled with exotic plants and a geothermal swimming pool. While the entrance fee isn’t included, many travelers find this a memorable spot to relax and enjoy the vibrant greenery.

Finally, the Nossa Senhora da Paz Sanctuary sitting atop Vila Franca do Campo offers a peaceful setting with panoramic views and a historic connection to the island’s past. It’s a lovely spot for a quiet reflection before heading back.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

What makes this tour stand out, according to reviews, is the personalized attention from guides like Marika and Filipe, who share stories, local facts, and tips that enrich the experience. One review even mentioned, “Marica and Phillip were awesome! They are super informative and also just a delight to be around.” Their ability to connect with travelers turns a sightseeing trip into a memorable journey.

Many reviews highlight how timing and flexibility made the day special. For instance, one guest noted that the guides “curated the experience,” asking what they wanted to see and adjusting accordingly. This is a huge plus for travelers who prefer not to be herded through a fixed schedule.

Transport and Comfort

The vehicle is air-conditioned, with amenities like Wi-Fi and the flexibility of a child seat if needed. The private nature of the tour means no crowded buses, and the driver ensures smooth transitions from site to site. It’s worth noting that admission tickets for parks and hot springs aren’t included—costing approximately 8 to 10 euros—so budget some extra for those.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One said, “We saw the most beautiful sights and learned a lot about the island’s history,” adding that their guide shared stories along the way. Another mentioned, “They customized the itinerary for us, and we walked/hiked miles, saw the volcanoes, and even dipped our toes in the ocean,” highlighting the flexibility and depth of the experience.

When and Who Is This Best For?

This tour is ideal for couples, families, or groups who want a private, flexible day on São Miguel. It’s perfect if you like scenic drives combined with gentle walks, cultural stops, and moments of relaxation. If you’re traveling with children or prefer to avoid the crowds, having your own guide and vehicle provides peace of mind. Plus, it’s a smart choice for those wanting to balance sightseeing with downtime, especially since you can decide how long to spend at each site.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private tour offers clear value by combining expert guidance, personalized itinerary, and the comfort of private transportation. The ability to tailor your day, whether to linger at a viewpoint or explore a site more deeply, makes it stand out from generic group tours. Given the glowing reviews about guides who are informative, friendly, and flexible, you’re likely to come away with more than just photos—you’ll have stories and insights that enrich your understanding of São Miguel.

While the cost might seem high at first glance, consider what it includes: private vehicle, guide service, Wi-Fi, and the opportunity to see and experience some of the island’s best sights without the hassle of planning or coordinating. The separate entrance fees mean you can choose how much to indulge, whether it’s a geothermal swim or a walk through a botanical garden.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re seeking a luxurious, customized way to see São Miguel’s highlights, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for those who want personal attention and the freedom to shape their day, rather than joining a large group with a fixed schedule. The knowledgeable guides ensure that your experience feels authentic and engaging, making this more than just a sightseeing trip.

Travelers who value stunning views, local stories, and a relaxed pace will find this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect if you’re celebrating an anniversary, honeymoon, or simply want a memorable, stress-free day exploring the diverse landscapes of São Miguel.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees for parks and hot springs aren’t included, so budget accordingly if those are on your must-see list. Also, since this is a full-day tour, make sure you’re prepared for a day of activity and enjoy every moment of it.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the vehicle offers a child seat if needed, and the flexible itinerary makes it suitable for families.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel and stops.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, tickets for parks and hot springs cost around 8 to 10 euros and are paid separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The guides are known for tailoring the day based on your preferences, whether that’s more scenic viewpoints or relaxing in thermal springs.

What’s included in the price?
Private transportation, a guide, Wi-Fi, and the flexibility to choose your stops.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the day.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, but if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 44 days in advance, but last-minute availability might be limited.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Posto de Turismo in Ponta Delgada and ends back at the same meeting point.

This private full-day tour of São Miguel truly offers an engaging, flexible way to see the island’s best sights, guided by experts who are committed to making your experience memorable. Whether you’re drawn to volcanic landscapes, botanical gardens, or local traditions, this experience provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.