Sao Miguel: Jeep Tour to Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo

Exploring São Miguel with a Jeep: A Full-Day Adventure to Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo

If you’re craving a way to see São Miguel Island beyond the usual tourist spots, this full-day Jeep tour offers a fantastic option. For around $91 per person, you get to explore some of the island’s most iconic sights, including the spectacular Sete Cidades caldera, the mysterious Lagoa do Fogo, and a relaxing dip in a natural thermal spa. Led by local guides, this tour promises a combination of stunning scenery, insider insights, and a comfortable ride in a small group.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances adventure and relaxation—driving along rugged paths to reach viewpoints, then unwinding in natural hot springs. The chance to see multiple highlights in a single day makes it a great value for travelers short on time but eager to pack in the best of São Miguel. A possible drawback is the unpredictability of weather, especially since the tour runs rain or shine. Still, with an itinerary packed with outdoor sights, you’ll want to dress appropriately for unpredictable weather conditions.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those interested in local culture. If you’re seeking a guided journey that offers both breathtaking views and meaningful insights, this experience will suit you well. Plus, the intimate group size (limited to six participants) ensures a more personal, engaging experience.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas from Pico do Carvão, Pico da Cruz, and Vista do Rei, offering some of the island’s most photographed scenes.
• Diverse Sights: From volcanic craters and lakes to waterfalls and natural spas, this tour showcases São Miguel’s geological diversity.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Philippe and Carlos receive praise for their local insights and friendly attitude.
• Authentic Experiences: Tucking into a local restaurant for lunch and swimming in Caldeira Velha provides a taste of genuine Azorean life.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
• Small Group: With only 6 travelers, you’ll receive more personalized attention and have space for questions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring São Miguel in Depth

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Starting from Ponta Delgada, the tour kicks off with a pick-up at the Futurismo shop in Portas do Mar. From there, the journey immediately heads into the volcanic landscapes. The first major stops are Pico do Carvão and Pico da Cruz—two vantage points that deliver sweeping views of the island’s rugged terrain. As we drive, we take in the breathtaking rim of the Sete Cidades caldera, famous for its twin lakes and vivid green and blue waters.

Next, we descend into the Sete Cidades Village, a charming spot with traditional houses and a peaceful atmosphere. The highlight here is the Vista do Rei viewpoint, a place that’s practically a postcard image of São Miguel, with layers of lush hills and lakes stretching to the horizon. According to one reviewer, “Carlos was a great guide. The hot springs are the main highlight,” but the views from Vista do Rei aren’t far behind in popularity.

After immersing ourselves in the volcanic scenery, it’s time for a local Azorean lunch—a chance to taste authentic flavors in a cozy restaurant. The meal is a good way to recharge before heading to Lagoa do Fogo, a spectacular crater lake situated in an old volcano. We loved the way the guide explained the formation of this lake, making the sights more meaningful.

Later, a dip in Caldeira Velha, a natural thermal spa with iron-rich waterfalls, offers a relaxing break amid lush forest surroundings. One traveler noted, “Carlos was a great guide,” and the hot springs are often highlighted as the main attraction due to their soothing qualities and beautiful setting.

Finally, we stop at the Salto do Cabrito waterfall and pass through Ribeira Grande before returning to Ponta Delgada, ending a day rich in sights and stories.

What to Expect at Each Stop

• Viewpoints at Pico do Carvão, Pico da Cruz, and Vista do Rei: Prepare for awe-inspiring panoramic vistas that showcase São Miguel’s volcanic craters and lakes. Bring your camera—these are some of the most photogenic spots on the island.
• Sete Cidades Village: A tranquil village with traditional Azorean charm. It’s a perfect spot for a quick walk or a photo with the twin lakes in the background.
• Lagoa do Fogo: A beautiful crater lake surrounded by volcanic ridges, offering a serene landscape that’s often shrouded in mist or clouds, adding to its mystique.
• Caldeira Velha: Soak in warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by lush foliage. The waterfalls and natural pools make this a memorable relaxation spot.
• Salto do Cabrito: A picturesque waterfall that adds a splash of energy to the day’s end, along with scenic drives past Ribeira Grande.

Authentic Insights and Practical Tips

Our guides are praised for their local knowledge—they share stories, geology facts, and cultural tidbits that give context to each place. One review states, “We managed to see the majority of the views with a bit of patience despite low clouds,” highlighting how weather can influence the experience but also how guides do their best to maximize visibility.

A key point is the small group size, which allows for a more relaxed pace, personalized questions, and flexibility. The tours run rain or shine, so packing weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, and a swimsuit for the hot springs is essential.

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The Value of This Tour

Compared to self-driving or larger bus tours, this Jeep experience offers close-up access to sights that might be hard to reach otherwise. The 7-hour duration packs in a lot without feeling rushed, and the included lunch, entrance fees, and insurance make it convenient. While $91 might seem like a fair amount, the value lies in the convenience, expert guidance, and the chance to see diverse landscapes without the hassle of navigation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for those who want a comprehensive, guided overview of São Miguel’s top natural wonders. It’s perfect if you prefer small groups for a more personal touch and enjoy stunning scenery with some cultural flavor. If you’re interested in geology, photography, or simply scenic drives, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Travelers who appreciate local insights and want to maximize their time on the island will find this tour offers exceptional value. It’s also well-suited for anyone who doesn’t mind outdoor activities in varying weather, as the tour continues rain or shine.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, providing enough time to explore the main sights without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Futurismo shop in Portas do Mar, Ponta Delgada, and finishes back at the same spot.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers pick-up and drop-off, a nature guide, lunch, entrance to Caldeira Velha, and insurance.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it runs rain or shine. Be prepared for potential clouds or rain, especially at higher elevations.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

In essence, this Jeep tour offers a well-rounded, personal encounter with São Miguel’s most beloved sights. It’s a chance to see volcanoes, lakes, waterfalls, and more, guided by passionate locals who love sharing their island’s secrets. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, this experience provides a meaningful glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Azores.

You can check availability for your dates here: