Ponta Delgada: São Miguel 2-Day West & East Volcanoes Tour

Ponta Delgada’s volcanic landscapes on São Miguel Island captivate travelers seeking an immersive experience. This 2-day tour offers a guided exploration, unveiling the island’s geological wonders. From the bubbling calderas of Furnas to the serene lakes of Sete Cidades, the tour’s local storyteller provides insights into the island’s rich history and natural beauty. Indulge in traditional cuisine, relax in thermal baths, and discover the lush botanical garden – this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply curious, the tour’s flexibility ensures a tailored experience that will leave you…

Key Points

• Comprehensive 2-day tour exploring the volcanic landscapes of São Miguel Island, covering the western and eastern regions.
• Visits the main volcanic sites of Furnas, Sete Cidades, and Fogo, led by a local storyteller.
• Includes traditional volcanic stew, buffet lunch, and access to the Terra Nostra botanical garden and thermal baths.
• Offers pickup and drop-off service, air-conditioned transportation, and a small group size of up to 16 participants.
• Provides an immersive experience in the island’s natural wonders, gastronomic heritage, and unique biodiversity.

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour allows visitors to explore the volcanic wonders of São Miguel Island, covering both the western and eastern sides of the island.

Led by a local storyteller, the tour takes guests to the islands’ main volcanoes, including Furnas, Sete Cidades, and Fogo.

Along the way, visitors can experience the last 100% natural tea plantation in the world and have the opportunity to visit the Terra Nostra botanical garden and thermal baths.

The tour includes a traditional volcanic stew and buffet lunch, providing an immersive culinary experience.

With a small group size of up to 16 participants, this tour offers an intimate and personalized exploration of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour showcases the island’s volcanic wonders, taking visitors to the renowned Furnas, Sete Cidades, and Fogo volcanoes.

Along the way, guests can enjoy the last 100% natural tea plantation in the world and have the chance to explore the Terra Nostra botanical garden and thermal baths.

The highlights of this tour include:

• Visiting the volcanic landscapes of Furnas, Sete Cidades, and Fogo
• Exploring the unique tea plantation, the last of its kind in the world
• Indulging in a traditional volcanic stew and buffet cuisine
• Relaxing in the soothing waters of the Terra Nostra thermal baths
• Discovering the diverse flora and fauna of the Terra Nostra botanical garden.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from selected locations, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and complimentary water bottles.

Participants can look forward to a full-day tour of São Miguel’s East side and another full-day tour of the West side, with two included lunches featuring traditional buffet and Furnas stew options.

Alcoholic drinks, juices, and water are provided during the lunch meals, and vegetarian options are available.

The tour also offers the opportunity to visit a 100% natural tea plantation, the Terra Nostra botanical garden, and thermal baths.

With a small group of up to 16 participants, this tour provides a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel’s volcanic wonders over two days.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Regarding booking and cancellation, travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing flexibility in planning.

Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

This 2-day tour has a small group size of up to 16 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour offers:

• Reserve now, pay later option
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
• Small group size of up to 16 travelers
• Convenient pickup and drop-off service
• Flexibility to plan the trip as per your schedule

This policy provides travelers with the convenience and peace of mind they need to book their São Miguel volcano adventure with confidence.

Tour Duration and Languages

This 2-day tour offers both English and Portuguese language options, catering to the needs of a diverse range of travelers.

The tour lasts for a total of 2 days, providing ample time to explore the volcanic wonders of São Miguel Island.

Whether you’re fluent in English or Portuguese, you can fully learn about the experience and gain insights from the local storyteller leading the tour.

With a focus on practical information and a concise delivery, this tour ensures an efficient and enjoyable exploration of São Miguel’s natural beauty, making it accessible to visitors from various linguistic backgrounds.

Pickup and Drop-off Service

For the convenience of travelers, the tour offers a pickup and drop-off service from selected locations or hotels.

Participants can arrange to be transported to the starting point and returned to their original departure point at the end of the tour, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

This service includes:

• Pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting location
• Comfortable air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour
• Drop-off at the end of the tour, back at your original departure point
• Assistance with luggage and any special needs
• Personalized attention from the tour guide

This door-to-door service allows you to focus on enjoying the stunning volcanic landscapes of São Miguel Island without worrying about navigation or logistics.

Volcanic Stew and Cuisine

Sampling the iconic volcanic stew, known as Cozido das Furnas, is a highlight of the tour. This traditional dish is slow-cooked underground using the geothermal heat of the Furnas volcano, resulting in a flavorful and unique culinary experience.

Visitors will also enjoy a traditional cuisine buffet, featuring a variety of local specialties. From hearty meat dishes to fresh seafood and vegetarian options, the buffet offers a delicious way to take in the island’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Whether it’s the volcanic stew or the diverse buffet, these culinary experiences allow travelers to savor the flavors that have been shaped by the island’s volcanic landscape.

Botanical Garden and Thermal Baths

The tour also includes a visit to the stunning Terra Nostra botanical garden, where travelers can explore its lush vegetation and cascading pools.

Visitors can then indulge in the soothing thermal baths at the on-site spa, taking advantage of the geothermal waters that have been drawing people to this island for centuries.

The highlights of the botanical garden and thermal baths include:

• Discovering over 2,500 plant species from around the world

• Strolling through lush gardens, including a Japanese-style garden

• Soaking in the mineral-rich geothermal pools, ranging from 28°C to 40°C

• Accessing private changing rooms and showers for a relaxing experience

• Exploring the unique microclimate and biodiversity of the region

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is open to participants of all ages, though young children may require extra supervision. Travelers should ensure they can handle the moderate physical activity involved.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, but the tour includes water, a traditional lunch buffet, and Furnas stew. Alcoholic beverages are also provided during the included meals.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour does not mention providing Wi-Fi access during the excursion. Participants should plan accordingly and be prepared to be offline during the 2-day itinerary exploring São Miguel Island’s volcanic wonders.

How Many Stops Are Made During the 2-Day Tour?

The 2-day tour makes several stops, visiting key volcanoes, botanical gardens, and local attractions on both the west and east sides of Sao Miguel Island. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore these natural wonders over the course of the two-day excursion.

Can We Bring Our Pets on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour focus is on exploring the volcanic wonders of São Miguel Island, and having pets along would not be practical or permitted for the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Recap

This 2-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel Island’s volcanic wonders.

Guided by a local storyteller, travelers can enjoy the island’s natural beauty, indulge in traditional cuisine, and relax in the soothing thermal waters.

With small group sizes, convenient transportation, and flexibility, the tour provides an enjoyable and hassle-free experience for discovering the island’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.