Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo Private Tour

Exploring the Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo Private Tour: A Genuine Peek into São Miguel’s Natural Wonders

If you’re dreaming of exploring the massive volcanic landscapes and picture-perfect lakes of São Miguel, Portugal’s largest Azorean island, this private tour offers a personalized way to do just that. Designed for small groups—up to 8 people—it promises a flexible, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide, making it ideal for travelers who want to combine comfort, authenticity, and standout views. While it’s perfect for those who love a customized schedule, keep in mind that the tour is quite full-day, so a good level of energy and appreciation for scenic stops are a must.

What we really enjoy about this experience are its stunning viewpoints—especially the panoramic vistas from Pico do Carvão and the iconic vistas overlooking Sete Cidades. The second is the opportunity to relax in a natural hot ocean pool, a uniquely Azorean pleasure that combines geothermal warmth with ocean waves. A slight consideration is the price point—at over $460 for a group—though the inclusion of private transport, multiple viewpoints, and a flexible itinerary makes it a compelling value for those wanting an authentic, tailored day.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see the island’s highlights comfortably, with an eye for natural beauty and a preference for a more personalized experience. Families, small groups of friends, or couples looking to explore without the rush of larger tours will find this option appealing.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: The tour is designed around your interests, with a flexible schedule.
• Stunning viewpoints: Expect some of São Miguel’s most breathtaking vistas, including Pico do Carvão, Boca do Inferno, and Vista do Rei.
• Natural geothermal pools: The experience includes a relaxing dip in a natural ocean hot pool—an authentic Azorean highlight.
• All-included fees: Entrance fees to viewpoints are covered, with bottled water and air-conditioned transport.
• Shorter stops at key spots: Each stop offers ample time for photos and taking in the views, but not long enough to get bored.
• Consider the price: At around $460 for a group, it’s a higher-end option, but it offers a well-rounded, intimate experience.

The Itinerary: A Detailed Walk-through

Stop 1: Miradouro do Pico do Carvão

Right at the start, this panoramic viewpoint sets the tone. From about 700 meters up, you’ll see a sweeping view of both the north and south coasts of São Miguel, an impressive sight given the island’s volcanic terrain. The landscape here is marked by lush green hills and volcanic ridges, giving you a real sense of the island’s geological personality. We loved the way this spot offers a bird’s-eye view of the island’s diversity, and the fact that the admission is included makes it a practical start. Expect about 10 minutes here, enough to snap some photos and soak in the expansive scenery.

Stop 2: Miradouro da Boca do Inferno

Named after its dramatic drop and infernal name, this viewpoint at about 700 meters elevation is truly a highlight. From here, you can see three lakes—including the famous Lagoa Azul and Lagoa de Santiago—spreading out like a natural map. The views are breathtaking and colorful, with blue waters contrasting against the island’s greenery. The guide’s insight about the lakes’ formation and volcanic origins adds depth to the experience. This stop gets about 50 minutes, giving you ample time to marvel at the scenery and capture sweeping photos.

Stop 3: Vista do Rei (View of the King)

Arguably one of the most famous vistas in São Miguel, Vista do Rei offers a classic shot of Sete Cidades. The twin lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Vaca, are visible from this overlook, framed by lush hills and volcanic terrain. It’s a spot that makes you appreciate the glacial and volcanic history of the island. We appreciated that the stop is brief—about 15 minutes—yet packed with enough beauty for a lifetime of photos. It’s the quintessential Azorean landscape, and a must-see for any nature lover.

Stop 4: Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago

This viewpoint offers a more intimate look at Lagoa de Santiago, a deep crater lake with almost perfect circularity. The dark green waters and steep slopes create a dramatic scene perfect for photography or just soaking in the tranquility. The brief 10-minute stop makes it an accessible and peaceful addition to the itinerary, especially for those interested in volcanic crater lakes.

Lunch Break at Sete Cidades

While the tour notes that lunch is included in terms of free time, it doesn’t specify meal options. Usually, this is a good opportunity to enjoy local cuisine or bring your own picnic. An hour here allows for a relaxed break amid the lush surroundings of the lakeside, and many travelers find this to be the perfect moment to chat with your guide or simply admire the scenery.

Stop 5: Ponta da Ferraria

This is a genuine highlight—a natural hot ocean pool where geothermal springs meet Atlantic waves. The water temperature varies with the tide, providing an ever-changing experience. The warm waters are perfect for relaxing after a morning of sightseeing, and the setting—surrounded by rugged coastline—is extraordinary. The stop lasts about 40 minutes, enough to wade in or just enjoy the views from the edge.

Stop 6: Lagoa do Fogo

Closing the tour on a high note, Lagoa do Fogo is a crater lake with crystal-clear waters, high on the caldera slopes. Its pristine waters and untouched surroundings make it one of the most picturesque spots on the island. The 30-minute stop is enough for photos and to appreciate the serenity and natural beauty of this volcanic lake. We loved the way it feels like a hidden gem, offering a peaceful conclusion to a busy day.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The tour provides bottled water, all fees and taxes, and air-conditioned transportation, making the experience comfortable and hassle-free. The vehicle is private, so you won’t be sharing the journey with strangers, adding to the personalized vibe. A booster seat is available, helpful for families traveling with young children.

However, lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred meal or snack at the lakeside. The tour starts at 9:00 am, and with a duration of 6 to 8 hours, it’s a full day—so packing a camera, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes is wise.

The tour’s flexibility is a big plus—your guide can adapt the stops based on your interests and pace. This is especially appealing for travelers who want a more relaxed or tailored experience rather than a rigid schedule.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

One reviewer gushed about the guide’s energy, knowledge, and ability to adapt: “Elena has a really nice energy and is a really nice person. She also rocks on her job! Knowledgeable about the island, knows very well how to adapt to each situation, and she’s calm. Can’t recommend enough!” Such personal touches are what elevate this tour beyond just sightseeing.

Given the price, the experience offers good value for those who want an exclusive, intimate tour with the freedom to explore at their own pace. The inclusion of multiple viewpoints, a natural hot pool experience, and private transport underscores its focus on comfort and authenticity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private outing suits travelers seeking a bespoke experience—those who appreciate stunning landscapes, want to avoid crowded bus tours, and enjoy the flexibility to linger at favorite spots. If natural scenery, volcanic lakes, and geothermal pools appeal to you, and you’re willing to invest a bit more for a tailored day, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly ideal for small groups, families, or couples who want a more intimate and custom experience of São Miguel’s highlights.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to see São Miguel’s most famous lakes, viewpoints, and geological marvels without the rush of a large tour group, this private tour hits the sweet spot. The combination of stunning vistas, a relaxing geothermal swim, and the ability to customize your day makes it a worthwhile investment. While the cost is higher than some group options, the exclusivity and the chance to explore at your own pace add significant value.

If you love natural beauty, authentic experiences, and personalized service, this tour will meet—and possibly exceed—your expectations. It’s a compelling way to connect with the island’s volcanic soul, leaving you with lifelong memories of São Miguel’s incredible landscapes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, it’s designed to be flexible and includes a booster seat, making it suitable for families, especially those interested in scenic viewpoints and gentle activities like swimming in the hot pool.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt the stops based on your interests and pace, providing a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes, bottled water, private air-conditioned vehicle, and a booster seat are included. Entrance fees to viewpoints are covered as well.

How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is around 6 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, making it a full-day experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and perhaps a swimsuit for the hot ocean pool. Food is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a local lunch.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
The swimming in the hot ocean pool depends on weather conditions, but most stops are outdoors and weather permitting.

Are the viewpoints accessible for everyone?
Yes, the stops are designed for sightseeing and photo opportunities and are generally accessible, but some steep slopes may require caution.

How much does the tour cost per person?
It costs $463.49 per group, accommodating up to 8 people, which can make it quite economical per person if traveling with others.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private, customizable approach combined with breathtaking vistas and unique experiences like the geothermal pool make it a memorable way to explore São Miguel.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This private tour offers a tailored, scenic, and relaxing way to experience the best of São Miguel in the Azores—perfect for those seeking beauty, comfort, and authenticity all in one package.