Private tours on São Miguel Island cut through the tourist noise and deliver the authentic Azores experience. The island’s best excursions focus on three key highlights: the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, the geothermal wonders of Furnas, and the rugged Atlantic coastline.
I’m especially fond of the small-group options (2-8 people) that include stops at traditional tea plantations and pottery workshops – these provide intimate glimpses into local life that larger tours miss. The flexible scheduling and customizable routes mean you’re never rushed through the good stuff.
While prices starting at $3,500 might seem steep, the value shines through in expert local guides and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles and free cancellation policies are welcome bonuses.
Let’s look at the standout tours that showcase the best of São Miguel Island.
Key Points
- Sao Miguel Island offers a range of private tours that showcase its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and local cuisine, catering to diverse interests.
- Key tour highlights include the Sete Cidades lakes, Furnas Lake, and Ribeira dos Caldeirões Waterfalls, along with scenic viewpoints and unique landscapes.
- Private tours are priced competitively, with discounts available and options for customized itineraries to accommodate group preferences.
- The tours receive high ratings from guests, who praise the knowledgeable guides, immersive experiences, and comfortable transportation services.
- Popular private tour options cover the “Best of Sao Miguel,” volcanic landscapes, tea production, and customized highlights, providing a comprehensive exploration of the island.
Azores: Private Tour to All São Miguel Island With Lunch
Guests embarking on the “Azores: Private Tour to All São Miguel Island With Lunch” can look forward to an immersive exploration of São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago.
The 8-hour private tour promises to showcase the island’s natural beauty, from the Sete Cidades lakes to the Furnas Lake and Ribeira dos Caldeirões Waterfalls.
Key highlights include panoramic viewpoints at Vista do Rei, Ponta do Escalvado, and Pico do Ferro.
Travelers will also savor a typical Azorean lunch and learn about the island’s history and culture from a knowledgeable, multilingual guide.
With free cancellation, premium transportation, and wheelchair accessibility, this tour offers an exceptional value, with savings of up to 25% off the regular price.
Read our full review: Azores: Private Tour to All São Miguel Island With Lunch Review
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Ponta Delgada: Private Full or Half-Day 4×4 São Miguel Tour
Travelers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path exploration of São Miguel can opt for the “Ponta Delgada: Private Full or Half-Day 4×4 São Miguel Tour.”
This customizable excursion promises an immersive adventure through the island’s rugged landscapes aboard a 4×4 vehicle. The tour includes visits to key sights like the Sete Cidades craters, Furnas town, and Lagoa do Fogo, as well as optional activities like short hikes and pottery demonstrations.
Priced at Kč 4,547 for up to 6 participants, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable local guide, and lunch.
With a 4.9/5 rating based on 69 reviews, this private 4×4 tour is an excellent way to discover São Miguel’s hidden gems.
Read our full review: Ponta Delgada: Private Full or Half-Day 4×4 São Miguel Tour Review
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Azores: Private Tour Sete Cidades Green & Blue Lakes
Explore the breathtaking Sete Cidades Green and Blue Lakes on a private tour that promises an immersive experience through São Miguel’s natural wonders.
This 4-hour tour offers a 30% discount, costing between Kč 3,537 to Kč 5,052 for up to 6 participants.
Highlights include photo stops at Pico do Carvão and the Vista do Rei Lookout, and a 45-minute visit to the picturesque Sete Cidades.
Optional stops at Ponta do Escalvado Lookout and Pineapples St. Anthony are available for food tasting.
With free hotel pickup and drop-off, private luxury transportation, and a knowledgeable local guide, this tour provides an unforgettable way to discover the Azores’ stunning landscapes.
Read our full review: Azores: Private Tour Sete Cidades Green & Blue Lakes Review
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Private Customised Sao Miguel Highlights Tour for Groups
This private customized tour of São Miguel Island’s highlights offers an immersive experience for groups of up to 8 people.
The 8-hour excursion covers key sights, from the breathtaking Vista do Rei Lookout to the serene Lagoa do Fogo.
Explore the iconic Sete Cidades crater lake, sample local delicacies in Ribeira Grande, and unwind at the Caldeira Velha hot springs.
The flexible itinerary can be tailored to participants’ preferences.
Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, guided transportation, entry fees, and informational booklets are included.
With multilingual guides and a cancellation policy offering a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the natural wonders of the Azores’ largest island.
Read our full review: Private Customised Sao Miguel Highlights Tour for Groups Review
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Northeast Private Tour (2 People)
Immersed in São Miguel’s northeastern allure, this private tour invites travelers to uncover the region’s captivating landscapes.
Over 6 hours, the tour showcases the stunning Santa Barbara Beach, the charming city of Ribeira Grande, and the lush Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park. Guests can explore a tea plantation, learn about tea-making, and embark on an optional hike to the stunning Moinhos de Felix viewpoint.
The experience culminates with a visit to the impressive Porto Formoso waterfall. Comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide ensure a relaxing and informative journey, with the tour available in English, Portuguese, and French.
With a 5/5 rating and positive feedback, this tour is an excellent way to discover the Northeast’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Northeast Private Tour (2 People) Review
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Best of São Miguel 2 Days Private Tour
Discover the captivating landscapes and hidden gems of São Miguel Island on this comprehensive 2-day private tour. Priced from $845.42 per group, this private tour takes you on a journey through the island’s west and east sides, showcasing its natural wonders.
Enjoy photo stops, guided tours, and scenic views at destinations like Ponta da Ferraria, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and Lagoa do Fogo. Indulge in regional cuisine for lunch and take a dip in the Caldeira Velha hot springs.
On day two, explore the Gorreana Tea Factory, Furnas, and Terra Nostra Park. With an English-speaking guide, 9-seater van, and flexible itinerary, this tour provides an immersive and personalized experience of São Miguel’s best.
Read our full review: Best of São Miguel 2 Days Private Tour Review
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Private Full-Day Tour CUSTOMIZED
Visitors seeking a personalized exploration of São Miguel’s enchanting landscapes can opt for this private full-day tour.
Customizable for groups of up to 2, the tour provides a rundown of the island’s natural wonders, including geysers, fumaroles, and the only European tea plantation.
Guests can enjoy scenic coastal views, visit charming villages like Ribeira Grande and Vila Franca, and explore the diverse flora of Ponta Delgada’s botanical garden.
With a knowledgeable local guide, flexible itinerary, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour offers a tailored experience for those wanting to delve deeper into São Miguel’s captivating highlights.
The price starts from €500 per group, with free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options available.
Read our full review: Private Full-Day Tour CUSTOMIZED Review
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Seven Cities Jeep Tour – Private
Travelers seeking a captivating exploration of Sao Miguel’s western wonders can embark on the private Seven Cities Jeep Tour.
This 8-hour excursion whisks adventurers through the island’s volcanic crater, showcasing the Blue and Green Lakes of Sete Cidades. Guests will also visit the charming towns of Mosteiros and Ferraria, experiencing the region’s unique natural landscapes.
Led by an experienced local guide, the tour utilizes an off-road vehicle for comfort and safety. With pickup and drop-off service from hotels, airports, and cruise ports, this package offers a seamless experience.
Priced at $306.46 per group (up to 6 participants), the tour operates rain or shine, adapting its itinerary as needed.
Read our full review: Seven Cities Jeep Tour – Private Review
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Private Tour of Furnas Valley, Gorreana Tea – Island Gems
For those captivated by the island’s natural wonders, the Private Tour of Furnas Valley and Gorreana Tea offers an enriching exploration of São Miguel’s gem-like landscapes.
Priced at $227.21 per group (up to 4 people), this 8-hour private van tour takes visitors through the volcanic Furnas Valley, the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, and scenic viewpoints.
Highlights include relaxing in the thermal waters of Terra Nostra Park and capturing stunning photos at the Miradouro de Santa Iria and Pico do Ferro Lookout.
With a flexible schedule, English-Russian speaking guide, and inclusions like lunch and bottled water, this immersive experience earns a 5/5 rating from past travelers captivated by São Miguel’s island gems.
Read our full review: Private Tour of Furnas Valley, Gorreana Tea – Island Gems Review
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The Sum Up
São Miguel Island in the Azores offers a range of private tour options to explore its stunning landscapes, from guided 4×4 adventures to customized sightseeing experiences. Whether visitors seek to discover the island’s iconic lakes, volcanic valleys, or local tea plantations, these private tours provide a personalized and flexible way to make the most of their time on this beautiful Portuguese destination.