2 x Day Tour pack with lunch included (Furnas + Sete Cidades + Fogo + Nordeste)

Discovering São Miguel: An In-Depth Review of the 2-Day Tour Pack with Lunch Included

Traveling to the Azores often means exploring lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and thermal springs. For those looking to maximize their time on São Miguel Island without missing out on its most iconic sights, this 2-day guided tour with lunch offers a comprehensive and well-balanced experience. We’re here to walk you through what makes this tour a worthwhile choice—and where it might not quite hit the mark.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with fascinating volcanic geology. The fact that it includes lunch—a nice perk for covering a long day—also adds to its overall value. Plus, many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who know the island inside out, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

On the flip side, considering the full-day pace and the number of stops, some might find it a bit busy or tiring—especially if you prefer a slower, more relaxed exploration. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see as much as possible in a limited time and enjoy a mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and thermal relaxation.

If you’re a traveler eager for a comprehensive, guided experience that covers key highlights of São Miguel with the reassurance of a small group, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• All-inclusive 2-day experience covers the island’s top natural and scenic spots.
• Knowledgeable guides provide interesting insights, making the trip both fun and educational.
• Stunning vistas at viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Pico do Ferro enhance the visual impact.
• Thermal baths at Parque Terra Nostra and Caldeira Velha offer relaxing breaks.
• A well-paced itinerary balances sightseeing with time for photos and brief explorations.
• Group size limited to 8 travelers fosters a personal experience and flexibility.

Exploring São Miguel in Detail: What to Expect

Day 1: The Heart of the Island’s Volcanoes and Thermal Springs

Starting Point and Early Stops
The tour kicks off at the Delegação de Turismo de São Miguel in Ponta Delgada. At 9:00 am sharp, you’ll depart with a small group—just up to 8 travelers—which helps ensure a more personalized experience.
First stop: Praia Grande de Água d’Alto—a volcanic sand beach where you can stretch your legs and take in the Atlantic views. It’s a brief stop, but a lovely way to start the day with some fresh ocean air.

Next, a viewpoint of the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo offers a spectacular photo opportunity. From the Sra. da Paz lookout, you’ll see the tiny island formed by an underwater volcanic eruption. Many reviewers mention how the views here are unforgettable, with one noting that the panoramic vistas of the village and volcanic islet are worth the visit.

Volcanoes and Geothermal Activity
The tour then moves to Lagoa das Furnas, an active volcanic caldera with a fascinating eruptive history spanning over 100,000 years. Here, your guide will share insights into the island’s volcanic activity, adding context to the landscape’s dramatic features.
Caldeira das Furnas is next, where fumaroles, mineral springs, and boiling pots create an almost surreal atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy tasting the mineral waters—some say it’s an acquired taste, but it’s part of the local charm.

Relaxation in Thermal Pools
Midday, the group heads to Parque Terra Nostra, renowned for its thermal pools heated naturally by volcanic activity. The pools are kept above 30°C, perfect for relaxing after a morning of sightseeing. If you wish, you can also visit Poça da Dona Beija or other thermal spots, but entry to Terra Nostra is not included in the tour price. Many reviews praise the immense botanical garden at Terra Nostra, which is considered among Europe’s best.

Imposing Views of Furnas Volcano
The Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers a dramatic perspective of the Furnas crater and lake, with a trail leading to a vantage point that many find breathtaking. The views give a real sense of the island’s volcanic power—a highlight for photography lovers.

Nordeste and Watermills
The day wraps up with a visit to Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões in Nordeste—home to historical watermills and a powerful waterfall. It’s a beautiful spot for a gentle walk and appreciating the island’s lush greenery.

Tea and Pineapples
Before returning, the group visits Gorreana Tea Plantation, the only remaining European tea factory. Here, you can see the process of tea production in fields that look almost tropical, and many travelers enjoy tasting the fresh brews.

Day 2: Crater Lakes, Belvederes, and Volcanic Landscapes

Morning Starts with Pineapples
Day two begins with a visit to Ananas Santo Antonio. This greenhouse tour reveals how pineapples are cultivated over two years—an eye-opener, especially for those unfamiliar with this slow-growing crop. The process is fascinating, and the sight of thriving pineapple plants is a colorful start to the day.

Volcanic Views and Hidden Lagoons
From the Pico do Carvão viewpoint, you get sweeping vistas of volcanic formations and the coast. It’s the perfect spot to understand the island’s volcanic layout.

Next, you visit Lagoa do Canario, a lesser-known but stunning crater lake. Many describe it as a hidden gem, with clear waters and lush surroundings perfect for photos.

Iconic Sights of Sete Cidades
The Vista do Rei viewpoint is often highlighted as the most iconic on the island. Here, you can see the blue and green lakes of Sete Cidades, separated by a narrow isthmus. Many reviewers mention how this view makes the entire trip worthwhile. It’s an image often associated with São Miguel.

Crossing the bridge into the Sete Cidades volcanic caldera, you’ll see the Lagoa de Santiago, a vibrant green lagoon surrounded by traditional vegetation, adding to the landscape’s vivid colors.

Cliffs and Volcanic Formations
The Ponta do Escalvado Viewpoint offers dramatic cliffs and views over the Atlantic, giving a sense of how volcanic activity has shaped the coastline.

The day concludes with a visit to Lagoa do Fogo, a nearly pristine crater lake. The turquoise waters and lush surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere, and many find it to be one of the most beautiful spots on the island.

Natural Hot Springs and Reflection
Lastly, if time permits, you might visit Caldeira Velha, another natural hot spring site. Although entry isn’t included, it’s a popular stop for relaxing or soaking in the thermal pools after a day of exploring.

Practical Insights: Transportation, Group Size, and Cost

This tour’s small group size—capped at 8 travelers—means a more intimate experience, with flexibility for questions and quicker stops. The tour runs approximately 9 hours each day, starting at 9:00 am, which allows ample time to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

The price of $171.95 per person might seem steep at first glance, but it covers transportation, guided commentary, and multiple stops across the island’s most photogenic and geologically significant sites. Lunch is included, which simplifies planning and adds value, especially since many stops are remote or lack nearby restaurants.

The admission to thermal pools or parks is extra—an important note for those who want to indulge in thermal relaxation at Terra Nostra or Caldeira Velha. These are optional expenses but are often highlighted as part of the authentic Azores experience.

Why This Tour Provides Good Value

Travelers consistently mention the knowledge and friendliness of guides, which enhances the experience considerably. The ability to see some of the most iconic viewpoints and natural wonders within a manageable timeframe makes this a practical choice for visitors with limited days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who wants to cover a lot of ground on São Miguel in just two days, this tour offers a great way to do so with expert guidance. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, travelers who prefer organized excursions, or those with limited time but a desire for rich, scenic experiences. If you’re looking for total relaxation or deep hikes, you might prefer a slower, more tailored approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, the tour covers two days, and lunch is included, making it easier to focus on sightseeing without worrying about meals.

What is the group size?
The tour limits groups to a maximum of 8 travelers, providing a more personal experience and flexibility.

Are the stops long enough to explore?
Most stops are brief—around 10 to 30 minutes—which is enough for photos and quick exploration. For thermal pools, you can choose to visit and spend extra time if you wish.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those who prefer a very relaxed or slow pace might find the busy schedule challenging. Check with the tour provider if you have specific needs.

Are the visits to thermal pools included?
No, admission to pools like Terra Nostra or Caldeira Velha is optional and not included in the tour price.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour’s order and stops might change depending on weather conditions to ensure a better experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, there’s a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start, and the tour can be rescheduled depending on availability.

Final Words

This 2-day São Miguel tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s volcanic landscapes, scenic viewpoints, and thermal springs. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, hassle-free way to see key highlights and enjoy authentic experiences like thermal baths and local delicacies. The small-group format ensures a more intimate, flexible experience, and the knowledgeable guides add real value with their insights.

While it’s a full schedule—about 9 hours each day—it’s packed with memorable sights that make the effort worthwhile. The inclusion of lunch, the scenic diversity, and the chance to relax in hot springs make this a great option for travelers seeking efficiency without sacrificing depth.

In summary, if your goal is to see the best of São Miguel comfortably and informatively, this tour is a solid investment. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to understand the island’s volcanic beauty and natural wonders.