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The 15 Best Full-Day Tours in Sao Miguel
Sao Miguel, the largest island in Portugal’s Azores, is a paradise for those who love diverse landscapes, volcanic scenery, and charming villages. This island is perfect for full-day tours because many of its highlights are spread out, and exploring in a small group or private vehicle makes all the difference. We particularly enjoy tours that blend adventure, natural beauty, and local cuisine—like the Jeep Tour of Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo or the full-day Furnas experience, which combines geothermal marvels with delicious traditional food. These tours allow you to see the island’s stunning scenery without the hassle of planning every detail.
If you’re wondering how to make the most of your visit, this list of the best full-day tours in Sao Miguel covers everything from off-road adventures to serene lakes, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you want an adrenaline rush or a relaxed scenic drive, you’ll find a perfect option below.
Quick Overview of the Best Full-Day Tours in Sao Miguel
Our list includes guided jeep tours, private expeditions, small-group adventures, and even quad biking experiences. For example, the Jeep Tour Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo combines breathtaking crater views with remote villages, all in a rugged Jeep. The Hidden Gems of Sao Miguel takes you away from the crowds to discover waterfalls and cliffs. Meanwhile, the Full Day Furnas Tour offers a taste of volcanic activity, geothermal hot springs, and a traditional stewed lunch. Each tour offers a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty and local culture.
Below, we detail each of these popular options, highlighting what makes each one special and who it’s best suited for.
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 impressive jeep adventure. Head to the rim of the Sete Cidades Volcano—a dormant crater offering panoramic views from 650 meters above sea level. The tour traverses rugged terrain, allowing you to visit remote villages and enjoy authentic local scenery. The highlights include the Lagoa do Fogo crater and the hidden Salto do Cabrito waterfall. The day wraps up with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, complemented by local wines, making this tour both scenic and flavorful.
What makes this tour stand out is the perfect combination of adventure and comfort. The guided commentary enhances your understanding of the island’s volcanic history while the Jeep handles the rough terrain with ease. Reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and local knowledge, making it a top choice for those seeking an all-in-one experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, off-road exploration with excellent scenery and local cuisine included.
2. Hidden Gems of Sao Miguel Island Full Day Tour with Lunch
If you prefer to escape the crowds and focus on lesser-known sites, this tour is perfect. Traveling in a small group, you’ll visit geothermal areas like Miradouro Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande and take in coastal views at Fenais da Ajuda. The day includes stops at a secluded beach, a small waterfall at Cascata do Risco, and cliffs at Algarvia. The tour’s relaxed pace means you can enjoy the scenery without rushing, and the included Azorean lunch adds a taste of local flavors.
Guide Gonçalo’s storytelling and insights make this tour memorable, especially as you see hidden waterfalls and spectacular viewpoints that many larger tours overlook. The small group setting allows for personalized attention, making it a great option for curious travelers who want authentic experiences.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those looking to go off the beaten path without strenuous hikes, and enjoy an intimate, relaxed day.
3. Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas with lunch (Cozido) and drinks included
This tour offers a full immersion into Furnas Valley’s volcanic landscape. It’s designed to showcase hot springs, fumaroles, and steaming vents, with the highlight being the famous Cozido stew, cooked underground by geothermal heat. You’ll visit the Furnas crater, enjoy a walk around the hot springs, and stop at the Gorreana tea plantation, Europe’s oldest—and still thriving—tea farm.
The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive coverage of the area’s geothermal features and the chance to taste local culinary traditions. Many reviews mention how the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor made the day special. This experience is perfect for those interested in volcanic activity and authentic food.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers keen on geology, hot springs, and a hearty local lunch, all in a small-group setting.
4. Full Day Furnas Volcano, With Traditional Lunch (East Tour)
This tour explores Furnas Valley’s volcanic landscape and includes visits to Caloura, Vila Franca do Campo, and Furnas lake. The highlight is the traditional “cozido” lunch, cooked by thermal vents, providing a genuine taste of Azorean cuisine. You’ll also visit ceramic factories and hot springs, soaking in the region’s geothermal power.
It’s perfect for those wanting a rundown of eastern Sao Miguel, with a focus on local culture and natural wonders. Many guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the delicious food. The tour balances sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in thermal activity, local crafts, and authentic island food.
5. Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour With Lunch (West Tour)
This tour combines two of Sao Miguel’s most iconic lakes—Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo—with a filling lunch in between. You’ll explore the vast crater of Sete Cidades, famous for its two-color lakes, then enjoy panoramic views from Lagoa do Fogo mountain. The day includes stops at viewpoints like Vista do Rei, offering great photo opportunities.
The tour’s strength is its focus on natural beauty combined with a hearty Azorean meal. The guide Bruno is praised for his enthusiasm and knowledge. This option appeals to nature lovers who want to maximize scenery with minimal effort.
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive lake tour with scenic vistas and good value.
6. Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Lagoa do Fogo & Lagoa das Sete Cidades
For a personalized experience, this private 4×4 tour is hard to beat. It offers flexibility to customize your itinerary, taking you to hard-to-reach viewpoints and hidden spots. Your guide navigates the tough terrain, including the interior of the crater lakes and scenic coastal areas like Ribeira Grande.
Ideal for folks who want a tailored, intimate experience, this tour gives you exclusive access to the island’s less-visited sights. Many reviewers find the guide’s insights invaluable, describing the day as “spectacular”.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a bespoke adventure with maximum flexibility.
7. Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Furnas Volcano
This private tour focuses on the Furnas region, with a luxury 4×4 vehicle and a guide who knows every hidden corner. It includes visits to hot springs, fumaroles, and the famous Gorreana tea plantation. The trip is highly customizable, and guests love the relaxed pace and deep local insights.
Highlights include the geothermal cooking and a thermal bath visit. Guests describe the experience as “informative, relaxing, and fun,” making it perfect for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth journey.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer comfort and flexibility in a private setting.
8. Private Tour 1-4 people Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo
This exclusive private tour offers the ultimate flexibility and tailored sightseeing. Traveling in a comfortable private vehicle, you’ll see the twin lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, with options to hike or relax. The guide Daniel is praised for his local knowledge and ability to avoid crowds.
Guests appreciate the personalized pace and the chance to visit remote viewpoints like Sao Nicolau church. It’s ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a luxury experience.
Bottom Line: Best for discerning travelers wanting customized, private attention and a flexible itinerary.
9. Full day jeep tour Nordeste with lunch included
This tour takes you to Sao Miguel’s northeastern region, famous for its spectacular waterfalls, high mountain vistas, and dramatic coastlines. Traveling in a jeep, you’ll discover places like Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes and Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego. The day includes a local lunch and options to spot the rare Priolo bird.
Guide Mariano’s passion for the landscape shines, and reviews mention the beautiful scenery and off-road fun. It’s perfect for nature enthusiasts who want an adventurous day with relaxed storytelling.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a mountain-and-coast combo with a bit of off-road fun.
10. Full-Day Sete Cidades Crater Lake and Fire Crater Lake Private Tour
This private, customizable tour combines Sete Cidades with Lagoa do Fogo, two of the island’s most photogenic lakes. Your guide Nunu offers insights and flexibility, allowing you to spend more time at your preferred spots. Expect stops at Vista do Rei, Pico Carvao, and Sao Tiago Lake.
Guests like the personalized service and deep dive into natural wonders. It’s well-suited for travelers who want an exclusive experience with tailored pacing.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you prefer a private, flexible itinerary focusing on the most beautiful lakes.
11. Quad Bike Tour – Sete Cidades from North Coast (Full Day) with lunch
For an adrenaline-fueled day, this quad biking tour takes you from the North Coast around Sete Cidades. You’ll explore dirt roads, viewpoints, and lakes, with all equipment provided. The day includes a Portuguese lunch and plenty of off-road fun.
Guides like Filipe make the experience memorable with off-the-beaten-path routes and fun stories. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and adventure.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a thrilling, active day with scenic views and a tasty lunch.
12. Full-Day Furnas Adventure: Lake, Fumaroles and Thermal Pools
This tour offers a full immersion in Furnas volcanic activity, including geysers, fumaroles, and thermal pools. You’ll visit Furnas Lake, walk past fumaroles, and relax in thermal pools at Terra Nostra (entrance fee optional). The guide customizes the experience based on your interests, with small group attention.
Guests love the balance of sightseeing and relaxation, especially the thermal pools, which provide a soothing end to an active day. It’s a good pick for geology fans or those simply wanting to unwind.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a mix of geothermal sights and spa-like relaxation.
13. Full Day Private Tour West & East in Sao Miguel Island
This private, flexible tour hits the highlights of both the west and east sides of Sao Miguel. You’ll see Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and fireplaces of the island, with the freedom to stop wherever you like. The guide Marika and Filipe are praised for customizing the day for your interests.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to include hiking, viewpoints, or cultural stops. This is perfect for families or groups seeking a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best if you want a completely personalized tour with the flexibility to focus on your specific interests.
14. Tour to Furnas and Terra Nostra Garden – full day
This full-day tour combines Furnas Lake, geothermal activity, and visiting the Terra Nostra botanical garden. The highlight is the “cozido” lunch, cooked in volcanic steam, and a walk through the lush garden filled with native plants.
Loved for its leisurely pace and educational stops, many reviewers mention how the hot springs and plants made the day relaxing and enriching. It’s perfect for plant lovers and culture curious travelers.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a combination of geothermal wonders and botanical beauty.
15. Van – Laketour – Sete Cidades / Lagoa do Fogo – Full Day w/lunch (Shared)
This budget-friendly, shared full-day tour covers Sete Cidades and Fogo Lake, with a typical Azorean lunch included. Traveling comfortably by van, you’ll enjoy stunning viewpoints like Vista do Rei, and see other lakes like Santiago and Empadadas.
Many travelers highlight the great value for the price and the small-group atmosphere, making it a solid choice for those who want a comprehensive day without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a full day of sightseeing with local flavors.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sao Miguel Full-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, fitness level, and budget. Want to see the volcanic lakes and enjoy scenic viewpoints? The Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour with lunch offers a good balance of scenery and food. If you prefer off-road adventure and remote villages, the Jeep Tour suits you.
For travelers who value personalized attention and flexibility, the private Full-Day 4×4 Tours or the Private Full-Day West & East are excellent options. Budget travelers might prefer the Shared Van Tour, which still covers major sights.
Consider the physical demands of certain tours—like quad biking or hiking—and whether you want to focus on geology, scenery, or local food. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and tour.
Final Thoughts
Sao Miguel offers a wide array of full-day tours that can match nearly any interest or travel style. For those seeking adventure, the jeep and quad bike tours deliver rugged fun. If cultural and culinary experiences appeal more, the tours exploring Furnas and hot springs provide a flavorful, relaxing journey. For pure scenic beauty, the lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo are hard to beat, whether from a private vehicle or a guided group.
Two standout options are the Jeep Tour Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo for a balanced mix of adventure and sightseeing, and the Private Full-Day 4×4 for personalized, off-the-beaten-path exploration. Whatever your choice, Sao Miguel’s diverse landscape promises an unforgettable day.
Don’t forget to book early, especially in the high season, to ensure you get your top pick. With so many compelling options, your full-day adventure in Sao Miguel will be a memory to cherish for years to come.