Full Day Tour Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo with Lunch

Exploring Sao Miguel’s west coast with a knowledgeable guide is a fantastic way to experience the island’s top sights in one day. For $97.53 per person, you get roughly 8 to 9 hours of sightseeing, complete with hotel pickup, lunch, and a series of breathtaking viewpoints. The itinerary includes highlights like the Seven Cities volcanic crater, the turquoise waters of Lagoa do Fogo, and charming stops in Ribeira Grande.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the opportunity to see multiple volcano craters and lagoons in a single day—making this a comprehensive introduction to the island’s volcanic landscape—and the inclusion of a delicious local lunch that offers a taste of regional cuisine. A potential consideration is that thermal pools are not included due to closure, which disappointed some travelers expecting that highlight.

This tour suits those who want an immersive, full-day experience without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s ideal for travelers interested in natural beauty, volcanic history, and local culture, especially if you appreciate guided commentary and want to see a broad spectrum of the island’s varied landscapes.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Sao Miguel’s top volcanic and scenic sites.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local insights and stories.
• Stunning viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Boca do Inferno offer exceptional photo opportunities.
• Varied stops including cultural visits like Ceramica Viera and pineapple plantation.
• Flexible timing allows for in-depth exploration of each site with plenty of photo breaks.
• Value for money considering the included lunch and hotel pickup.

Full Review of the Full Day Tour Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo with Lunch

If you’re looking to get a solid overview of Sao Miguel’s most iconic sights in one day, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of nature, history, and local flavor. It’s run by Azores Dream Tours, and with a typical cost of $97.53, it provides good value considering the comprehensive itinerary, guided commentary, and included lunch.

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada, so you won’t have to worry about logistics. The group size is small, capped at eight travelers, which typically means more personalized attention from your guide and less time waiting around. Your guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, will lead you through a series of stops that reveal the island’s volcanic past and lush landscapes.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the scenic viewpoints are truly impressive. The Vista do Rei, famous for its connection to King D. Carlos and Queen Amélia’s visit in 1901, offers a panoramic view over the Sete Cidades caldera. We loved the way our guide explained the volcanic formation while pointing out the small, picturesque villages below.

Second, the stops at Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras and Miradouro da Boca do Inferno are unforgettable. The latter, in particular, provides a jaw-dropping vista of the volcano craters and lakes, perfect for photography or just soaking in the landscape.

A Close Look at the Itinerary

• Vista do Rei Miradouro is the iconic starting point, offering sweeping views that set the tone for the day. The guide often shares stories about the royal visit, which adds a touch of history to the natural spectacle.

• At Santiago Lake, you get your first close-up look at the Sete Cidades caldera, with its lush vegetation and tranquil waters. This spot is ideal for those wanting to see the famous twin lakes and learn about the volcanic activity that created them.

• The Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras provides a stunning overview of the caldera and the tiny parish with 800 inhabitants—a reminder that these volcanic craters are also home to local communities.

• The Caldeira das Sete Cidades stop at the bridge dividing the blue and green lagoons is a must-see. Here, the contrast of the two different colored lakes visible from the bridge is striking and makes for memorable photos.

• The Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado features views of volcanic formations, including monasteries and smithies. Many travelers enjoy hearing the guide’s explanations about how volcanic forces shaped the landscape.

• The Miradouro da Boca do Inferno is often highlighted by reviewers as the most incredible viewpoint on the tour, with commanding views of the Sete Cidades and its lakes. One traveler called it “unsurpassed for its scenery,” making it clear why this is a favorite.

• A detour to the Centro de Interpretacao Ambiental Caldeira Velha offers the chance to relax in natural hot springs. However, note that entrance fees are not included, and weather conditions can affect this stop—some tours report it being closed due to weather.

• Visiting Ceramica Viera, a family-run ceramics factory established in 1862, provides a glimpse into local artisanship with demonstrations of traditional pottery methods. Many visitors find this stop charming and authentic.

• The pineapple plantation teaches you about the two-year process of growing pineapples in greenhouses, a fascinating peek into local agriculture.

• The expansive Pico do Carvão Viewpoint offers a sweeping vista of volcanic cones, giving a sense of the island’s volcanic activity across both the north and south coasts.

• Lastly, the Lagoa do Canario offers a lush, hidden lagoon, perfect for a peaceful moment amid nature, before heading to the historic Ribeira Grande for a brief walk through its charming streets.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Henry or Diogo, who bring energy and insight to each stop. Many comment on the stunning views — with one reviewer calling the Boca do Inferno “absolutely incredible.”

Some reviews mention the value of the included lunch, with many noting the local dishes and plentiful servings. One praised a restaurant in Sete Cidades, highlighting the quality and authenticity of the meal.

However, a few travelers expressed disappointment when certain stops, like the thermal pools, were closed, often without prior warning. Others noted logistical hiccups, such as delayed pickups or the effects of weather, but generally, guides were praised for their flexibility and efforts to maximize the day’s sightseeing.

Considerations for Travelers

This tour is perfect if you want a full, guided day that covers a wide range of sights with expert commentary. It’s suitable for those who enjoy natural landscapes, small group settings, and local culture. If you’re concerned about hot springs or thermal pools, you might want to confirm their availability in advance.

Keep in mind that weather can impact some stops, especially the hot springs, but the guides do their best to adapt. The tour’s small group size enhances the experience, allowing more interaction and tailored storytelling.

Who Should Take This Tour?

If you’re after an immersive, educational overview of Sao Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad introduction or those who enjoy scenic viewpoints and cultural stops. It’s also great if you appreciate local cuisine and want to support small businesses like Ceramica Viera and pineapple growers.

Travelers who prefer more personalized attention and dislike large, crowded tours will find the small group setting ideal. If you’re flexible with weather and open to spontaneous stops or substitutions, this tour will likely leave you feeling satisfied with your day on the island.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in Ponta Delgada, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting around 9 am and ending back at your hotel by late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a local Portuguese lunch as part of the tour, giving you a taste of regional cuisine in a scenic setting. Be aware that thermal pool entrance fees are not included.

What if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so be prepared with appropriate clothing. Some stops, like Caldeira Velha, may be affected or closed due to weather, but guides will do their best to keep the day engaging.

How many people are in the tour group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, which helps ensure a more intimate experience.

Can I skip certain stops?
If you have preferences, inform the guide early. However, the itinerary is structured for optimal flow, and some stops are integral to the tour.

What if I want to visit the thermal pools?
The pools are not included in this tour and may require a separate booking. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, as some reviews noted they need to be reserved beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour of Sao Miguel’s most iconic volcanic sights offers a well-rounded experience that balances natural beauty, cultural insights, and local flavors. The small-group environment means you’ll likely get more personalized stories and attention from your guide, making the day more memorable.

While weather can sometimes influence the experience—especially around the hot springs—the spectacular viewpoints, engaging guides, and delicious lunch make this a worthwhile option for most travelers. It’s particularly suitable if you’re eager to see multiple landscapes and volcanic features without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

If you love stunning vistas, learning about volcanic formations, and enjoying authentic regional food, this tour will certainly satisfy your curiosity and give you plenty of photo-worthy moments.

In summary, this tour is best for those wanting a full day of sightseeing with a local touch. The value is enhanced by the inclusion of lunch and hotel pickup, and the small group size offers a more personal experience. Just be prepared for weather variations and confirm your preferences for stops like the thermal pools. Overall, it’s a solid choice for exploring the geological and cultural heart of Sao Miguel.