São Miguel: 2-Day Island Tour, Tea & Pineapple Plantation

If you’re planning to visit the Azores, particularly São Miguel, you’ll want a tour that offers a genuine inside look at the island’s natural beauty and local life. This 2-day small-group experience from iGoAzores Tours & Activities aims to do just that—covering both the east and west sides of the island with a mix of scenic viewpoints, volcanic wonders, lush plantations, and delicious local food. While it’s not a budget option, the value for the diverse sights and stories you’ll gather makes it worth considering, especially if time is limited.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the expert guides who weave stories into the journey and the variety of landscapes visited—from crater lakes to waterfalls, to volcanic hot springs. The inclusion of visits to a 100% natural tea plantation and a pineapple plantation offers a taste of authentic Azorean agriculture. A potential downside is that the tour involves quite a bit of sitting in a van—if you’re craving more active hiking or wish to explore at your own pace, this might feel a bit structured.

This experience suits travelers who want a rundown of São Miguel without renting a car, those eager to learn about local culture, and anyone interested in stunning scenery paired with tasty local dishes. It’s especially good for first-timers or those with limited time but a desire to see the island’s highlights in just two days.

Key Points

• Two full days covering São Miguel’s east and west sides with expert storytelling.
• Visit to a natural tea plantation and pineapple plantation with tastings, showcasing local agriculture.
• Spectacular viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Lagoa do Fogo, with scenic crater lake vistas.
• Authentic local food options available via an optional lunch, including the famous Cozido das Furnas.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vans with pickup and drop-off at key locations.
• Guides praised for their passion and knowledge, making the experience memorable and informative.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Breakdown: What to Expect from This São Miguel Tour

Itinerary Overview

This tour is split into two full-day journeys, each exploring different sides of the island. It’s smart to note that your first day can start on either the west or east side, depending on the schedule, giving some flexibility based on your accommodations.

Day 1: The West Side – Lagoa do Fogo & Sete Cidades

Starting on the West side, you’ll visit the pineapple plantation—a sweet introduction to Azorean agriculture. The tour continues to the Vista do Rei viewpoint, arguably the most iconic spot, perched on the edge of a volcanic crater, where the blue and green lakes lie like jewel-toned paintings. We loved the way guides explained the volcanic origins—it’s not just a pretty view but a story of earth’s fiery past.

Descending into the crater, you’ll pass Cerrado das Freiras—a viewpoint offering a different perspective—and explore the charming Sete Cidades parish, where walking along the lake’s edge reveals postcard-perfect scenery. For those opting for the lunch add-on, a buffet here offers a hearty meal, perfect after the morning’s sightseeing.

The tour then heads to Escalvado viewpoint for sweeping ocean views, with glimpses of the Ferraria hot springs and Mosteiros Islets. It’s a scenic drive along the coast, with the chance to stop at Santa Barbara beach, showcasing volcanic black sands—a striking contrast to the lush landscapes.

Finally, a visit to Lagoa do Fogo and Pico da Barrosa viewpoints provides an awe-inspiring conclusion to the day, with panoramic views over the lagoon and the island’s rugged western terrain.

Day 2: The East Side – Furnas, Nordeste & Ribeira dos Caldeirões

The second day begins by exploring Furnas volcano, known for its geothermal activity. You’ll visit the Mouth of the Volcano, where bubbling hot springs and mineral-rich waters create a unique atmosphere. Here, you can see fumaroles and boiling waters, and learn how locals cook the famous Cozido das Furnas—a stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat. If you’ve opted for the lunch, this is the highlight, with a hearty, traditional dish that’s worth the wait.

Next, you’ll visit the Parque das Caldeiras near the lake, where underground volcanic heat is used to cook food, adding a culinary dimension to your geological exploration. The tour then moves north to Nordeste, stopping at Santa Iria viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the northern coast—ideal for photography and soaking in the island’s wild beauty.

A visit to one of Europe’s only fully natural tea plantations is a standout feature. The tea tasting and walk through the lush, pesticide-free fields reveal how environmentally conscious and careful the Azoreans are with their local crops. Guides explain how goats help keep the bushes tidy, adding a quirky detail—it’s a glimpse into traditional farm life.

The day concludes with a stop at Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, a paradise of waterfalls, old water mills, and verdant forests. This park, converted into a natural playground, showcases the island’s abundant freshwater resources and lush vegetation. Travelers who love nature and photo opportunities will especially enjoy this peaceful spot.

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What the Tours Include

• Transportation in air-conditioned vans, with pickup and drop-off at key locations—making it accessible without renting a car.
• Expert guides who not only narrate history and geology but also share personal stories, making each stop memorable.
• Visit to plantations with tastings, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Azorean agriculture—an authentic touch many travelers rave about.
• Viewpoints and scenic stops that are accessible and often accompanied by interesting insights, ensuring you understand what you’re seeing.
• Optional meals: You can choose to include a lunch—a valuable addition considering the high quality of local food offered, especially the famous cozido—at an extra fee.

What’s Not Included

• Lunch is optional, and paying on-site for a hearty buffet at Sete Cidades or Furnas is straightforward.
• Entrance fees for thermal baths and parks are paid separately if you decide to indulge in hot springs or additional park visits.
• Oversize or large luggage is not permitted, so travelers should plan to travel light.

Authenticity and Feedback from Travelers

Most reviews highlight the guides’ passion and knowledge, with many describing the experience as enjoyable and educational. One reviewer said, “Diego our tour guide gave us the best journey of getting to know the area, culture but also each other.” The local storytelling approach seems to resonate, making the tour more than just sightseeing—it’s an engaging narrative of the island’s character.

The scenic spots receive universal praise, with many travelers noting that views like Lagoa do Fogo and Vista do Rei are unforgettable. Several mention the delicious food, especially the cozido, which many consider a must-try. As one reviewer put it, “All in all, it was a great way for a first-time visitor to see all the main attractions that this wonderful island has to offer.”

Some minor drawbacks mentioned include weather limitations, which can obscure views or close certain attractions like hot springs—something to keep in mind if visiting outside the summer months. A few noted that the tour involves quite a bit of sitting, so if you’re looking for an active or hiking-heavy experience, this might not be your best fit.

Price and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest, it provides value for money—covering two full days of diverse sights, tastings, and expert guidance—all in one organized package. The inclusion of authentic food tastings and rich storytelling enhances the experience beyond typical sightseeing.

Considering the convenience of transport, the small-group setting, and the depth of local insights, many travelers feel it’s a good investment for a comprehensive, hassle-free exploration of São Miguel.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a well-rounded introduction to São Miguel without the hassle of driving or planning each stop. It’s especially suitable for curious travelers eager to learn about local agriculture, volcanic geology, and cultural traditions. If you value expert guides who can share stories and insights, and you enjoy visiting scenic viewpoints and tasting local food, this tour will meet your expectations.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer small-group experiences where they can ask questions and connect with others. If you’re after an active adventure with hikes or off-the-beaten-path exploration, you might want a different kind of tour—but for scenic beauty and cultural richness in a comfortable setting, this is an excellent option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided? Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation with pickup and drop-off at key locations like Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, and Ribeira Grande, making it very convenient.

Can I choose which side of the island to start with? Your first day tour can begin on either the West or East side of São Miguel, offering some flexibility depending on your accommodation.

Are meals included? Lunch is not included by default but can be added for an extra fee. The tour offers a hearty buffet at scenic spots, including the iconic cozido stew in Furnas.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a warm jacket if visiting viewpoints in cooler months, sunscreen, and a camera for all those fantastic vistas.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and large or oversize luggage isn’t allowed, so plan accordingly.

How long are the stops at viewpoints? Stops tend to be enough for photos and brief walks—roughly 15-30 minutes each, with some longer at places like Lagoa do Fogo.

Is there free cancellation? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Final Words

This 2-day São Miguel tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and local flavors. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights without stress and appreciate stories behind each vista and dish. Guides are praised for their passion and knowledge, making the journey both enjoyable and educational. If you’re after a comfortable, comprehensive introduction to the island’s natural wonders and customs, this tour is a solid choice.

While it does involve a good amount of time in a vehicle, the diverse stops and authentic experiences make it a worthwhile investment. Perfect for first-time visitors, food lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike—this tour helps you capture the essence of São Miguel in just two days.

You can check availability for your dates here: