2-Day Tour of São Miguel: Landscape, Volcanoes and Lakes

Tucked away in the remote Azores archipelago lies the idyllic island of São Miguel, a natural wonder waiting to be explored. This comprehensive 2-day tour promises to unveil the island’s volcanic landscapes, captivating lakes, and vibrant local culture. From the iconic twin lakes of Sete Cidades to the serene Lagoa do Fogo, visitors will be immersed in a realm where earth and water converge in perfect harmony. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – delve deeper into São Miguel’s heritage by discovering its renowned pineapple and tea plantations, where the essence of the Azores is distilled in every sip and bite.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Sao Miguel.

Key Points

• Explore the volcanic landscapes of São Miguel, including the iconic Sete Cidades crater lakes, Caldeira Velha environmental park, and Lagoa do Fogo crater lake.
• Discover the island’s agricultural heritage by visiting a traditional pineapple and tea plantation, and observe local artisans crafting Azorean products.
• Immerse in the island’s culture by interacting with the friendly local community and savoring regional specialties, such as Azorean wine and cheese.
• Traverse the western side of São Miguel, marveling at the dramatic cliffs, natural rock formations, and the stunning volcanic crater lakes.
• Experience a stress-free and comfortable tour with efficient pick-up logistics, ample time for photography, and knowledgeable local guides providing insights into the island’s history and traditions.

Explore the Eastern Wonders

The first day of the tour explores the eastern wonders of Sao Miguel, showcasing the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Travelers will visit a captivating pineapple plantation, seeing the process of growing and harvesting this iconic fruit.

Next, they’ll head to a traditional tea plantation, learning about the unique history and production of Azorean tea.

The tour then continues to the impressive Furnas Valley, where participants can witness the steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools, remnants of the island’s volcanic past.

Throughout the day, the knowledgeable local guides share fascinating insights, bringing the destination’s rich culture and traditions to life.

Discover Volcanic Landscapes

On the second day, travelers will discover the island’s captivating volcanic landscapes, exploring the otherworldly terrain of Sete Cidades, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal. They’ll gaze upon the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, each a distinct color – one green, one blue – created by the dramatic volcanic eruptions of the past. Nearby, they’ll visit the Caldeira Velha environmental park, home to a lush forest, natural hot springs, and thundering waterfalls – a true feast for the senses. The day will also include stops at the surreal Lagoa do Fogo, a serene crater lake, and the dramatic Vista do Rei viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the island’s volcanic beauty.

Volcanic Highlights	Description
Sete Cidades	Twin lakes in an ancient volcanic crater
Caldeira Velha	Lush forest, hot springs, and waterfalls
Lagoa do Fogo	Serene crater lake
Vista do Rei	Panoramic viewpoint of volcanic landscapes

Immerse in Local Culture

Visitors enjoy the rich local culture throughout the tour, starting with a visit to a traditional pineapple and tea plantation. Here, they learn about the island’s unique agricultural heritage and get a chance to sample the fresh, locally-grown produce.

The tour also includes:

• Insights from 100% local storyteller guides who share their deep knowledge of the island’s history, customs, and way of life.
• A stop at a traditional craft workshop, where visitors can observe artisans creating handmade Azorean products.
• An opportunity to interact with the friendly local community and gain a deeper understanding of their daily routines and traditions.
• Tastings of regional specialties, such as the renowned Azorean wine and cheese, providing a authentic cultural experience.

Traverse the Western Side

Traversing the western side of Sao Miguel island, the tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the island’s diverse landscapes, showcasing its remarkable natural wonders. Guests will marvel at the stunning volcanic crater lakes of Sete Cidades, whose vibrant blue and green hues create a breathtaking contrast against the surrounding lush greenery. The tour then ventures to the picturesque village of Mosteiros, where visitors can admire the dramatic cliffs and natural rock formations along the coast. Throughout the day, the knowledgeable local guides provide insightful commentary, bringing the history, geology, and cultural significance of each site to life.

Highlights	Description
Sete Cidades	Volcanic crater lakes with stunning blue and green hues
Mosteiros	Picturesque coastal village with dramatic cliffs and rock formations
Local Guides	Knowledgeable storytellers who bring the sites to life
Landscapes	Diverse and captivating natural wonders of Sao Miguel’s western side

Marvel at Crater Lakes

The centerpiece of the western tour, the breathtaking Sete Cidades crater lakes captivate visitors with their stunning, vibrant hues. Nestled in an ancient volcanic crater, the twin lakes reflect the surrounding lush green hills, creating a picture-perfect scene.

Visitors can:

1. Take a leisurely stroll along the crater’s edge for panoramic views.
2. Rent a boat and paddle across the serene, crystal-clear waters.
3. Hike down to the lakeshore and snap photos of the iconic blue and green lakes.

Stop by the charming village of Sete Cidades to explore its quaint streets and local shops.

This natural wonder offers a truly mesmerizing experience, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness its beauty.

Savor Pineapple and Tea

After marveling at the stunning Sete Cidades crater lakes, the tour moves on to explore the island’s unique agricultural heritage.

Travelers can explore the centuries-old pineapple and tea cultivation traditions that have shaped Sao Miguel’s vibrant local culture.

At a family-owned pineapple plantation, guests learn about the intricate process of growing and harvesting the island’s iconic fruit. They’ll sample freshly picked pineapple and enjoy a cup of locally-sourced tea, all while seeing the picturesque surroundings.

The tour then visits a traditional tea factory, where visitors discover the art of tea production and savor the rich, aromatic flavors that have made Azorean tea a point of island pride.

Travel in Comfort and Style

With comfortable transportation by a shared air-conditioned vehicle, travelers can sit back, relax, and take in the stunning island scenery during the 2-day tour of Sao Miguel.

The tours are designed for convenience, with pickup available from most hotels and accommodations. To ensure a seamless experience, the tour may not follow the exact order described, allowing guides to adapt to weather conditions and other factors.

Travelers can enjoy:

1. No need to worry about driving or navigating the island’s winding roads.
2. Ample time to snap photos and admire the breathtaking vistas.
3. The ability to focus on the experience without the hassle of logistics.
4. A stress-free way to explore the east and west sides of Sao Miguel.

Pick-up and Meeting Details

Pick-up is available from hotels and accommodations along Ponta Delgada’s main roads, though it’s not provided in the city center or on narrow streets. Instead, nearby meeting points are designated for these locations.

The first pick-up typically starts at 9:00 AM, though it may extend up to 9:30 AM to ensure all guests are gathered before the tour begins.

Once everyone is aboard the shared, air-conditioned vehicle, the tour will set out to explore the highlights of Sao Miguel’s east and west sides over the next two days.

Guests are advised to be ready and waiting at their designated pickup location to avoid delays and ensure a smooth start to their island adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for Just One Day Instead of Two?

Yes, the 2-day tour of Sao Miguel island can be booked for just one day. Travelers have the option to select either a tour of the east or west side of the island for a single-day experience.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary Based on My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized based on your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary to accommodate your interests and requirements. Simply let them know your preferences when booking.

Are Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, discounts are available for children and seniors on this tour. The tour operator offers reduced rates for minors and elderly participants. Contact them directly to inquire about the specific discount percentages or policies.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour allows for personal items, as it doesn’t provide meals. Just be mindful of any restrictions on certain materials or activities during the tour.

What Is the Cancelation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy allowing full refunds up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a 50% charge. Full details are provided upon booking.

Recap

This 2-day tour of São Miguel in the Azores offers an immersive experience of the island’s natural wonders and rich local culture.

Travelers will explore volcanic landscapes, marvel at crater lakes, and savor regional specialties.

With a seamless and comfortable itinerary, this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the captivating beauty and heritage of this stunning Portuguese archipelago.