Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, is a place where nature’s drama plays out in full force. Its volcanic landscapes, lush green hills, and thermal springs make it a natural playground for day-long adventures. What sets Sao Miguel apart from other destinations is the variety: you can explore volcanic craters, soak in hot springs, or spot whales—all in a single day. We particularly enjoy the Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas for its balance of scenic drives, local food, and small-group intimacy. Whether you’re into geology, gastronomy, or simply beautiful views, this tour covers a lot of ground in style.
For travelers craving a more personalized experience, the Private Full-Day 4×4 Tours offer off-the-beaten-path exploration of Lagoa do Fogo and Sete Cidades lakes. Meanwhile, wildlife lovers will appreciate whale watching combined with volcano visits in the Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes, which blends marine life with volcanic scenery. Below, we break down each top-rated tour to help you find the perfect fit for your Sao Miguel adventure.
1. Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas with lunch (Cozido) and drinks included
At number one, this Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas earns its stellar 5.0 rating from 172 reviews. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see eastern Sao Miguel’s highlights without fuss. The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada, then winds along the northern coast in a small, relaxed group. One of the standout experiences here is visiting the Furnas Volcano, where you can see the geothermal activity and sample the famous cozido stew cooked underground with volcanic heat. The cookery is a unique Azorean tradition, and tasting it is a highlight.
You’ll also visit a tea plantation at Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, where you can sample some of the best local tea. The tour’s off-road Jeep allows access to scenic lookouts and hot springs like Poça da Dona Beija (hot springs entrance extra). The itinerary is well-paced, blending nature, local culture, and tasty food. The small-group format ensures personalized insights, and reviewers praise guides like Sergio and Mario for their friendly, knowledgeable service. The tour’s value is obvious: for about $99, you get an 8-hour day packed with natural wonders and authentic cuisine.
Bottom line: This is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, relaxed day exploring São Miguel’s volcanic scenery, hot springs, and local food in one accessible package.
2. Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Lagoa do Fogo & Lagoa das Sete Cidades
Number two on our list is the Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Lagoa do Fogo & Lagoa das Sete Cidades, ideal for travelers who want a more exclusive experience. Costing around $302 for up to six people, it offers a flexible itinerary led by an experienced driver. This trip is all about remote, breathtaking spots inaccessible by regular vehicles. Your guide will navigate the rugged trails, taking you to Lagoa do Fogo, a striking crater lake, and the iconic Sete Cidades caldera with its twin lakes.
The tour also includes visits to Santa Barbara Beach, a favorite among surfers, and Salto do Cabrito, a stunning waterfall. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of off-road exploration and personalized commentary—your guide will share insights into the island’s ecology and geology. Reviews highlight guides like Jose for their knowledge and friendly approach. It’s a good pick for active travelers who want to go beyond the usual viewpoints and see untouched landscapes.
Bottom line: If you’re after a private, customizable experience with expert guidance and access to hard-to-reach spots, this tour offers an unforgettable day.
3. Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Furnas Volcano
At number three, the Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Furnas Volcano offers an immersive look at the island’s volcanic core. For around $302, you’ll spend about 7 hours exploring the rugged terrain of Furnas Valley, known for its fumaroles and natural hot springs. Your guide will take you to small villages and geothermal spots, explaining how the landscape is constantly shaped by volcanic activity.
The tour includes a visit to the tea plantation at Gorreana, where you can learn about the island’s only remaining tea factory, and a soak in the thermal waters at Poça da Dona Beija (hot springs fee not included). You’ll also see the fumaroles and the area where cozido is traditionally cooked, providing a genuine look at local life driven by geothermal energy. Reviews praise guides like Jose for their deep knowledge and personal approach. This tour is ideal for those interested in geology, volcanic landscapes, and thermal baths, with a focus on educational experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers eager to understand Sao Miguel’s volcanic activity firsthand, combined with relaxing thermal baths.
4. Full-Day Whales & The Princess Ring Islet (incl. Lunch)
Number four is the Full-Day Whales & The Princess Ring Islet, a well-rounded day for marine wildlife enthusiasts. Starting from Vila Franca do Campo, the tour combines whale watching with a visit to the Princess Ring Islet by traditional fishing boat. Expect to see species like sperm whales and dolphins, with marine biologists on board providing expert commentary. The boat ride is intimate, and the day includes a local seafood lunch that keeps you fueled for more adventures.
While whale sightings depend on the season, reviews mention seeing dolphins and the thrill of being close to the water. This tour suits those who want a mix of marine life, scenic coastlines, and a taste of local cuisine. It’s a longer day, but the experience of being at sea and on the water’s edge is worth it. Note that some reviews mention that whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, which is typical for wildlife tours but still exciting.
Bottom line: Great for wildlife lovers who want a full day on the water, with the added bonus of visiting a volcanic islet and enjoying fresh seafood.
Number five is the Van – Laketour – Furnas, an affordable, shared group tour costing about $83 per person. It’s a full-day exploration that hits multiple highlights: Vila Franca do Campo, Furnas Lake, hot springs at Poça da Beija, and the Gorreana Tea Plantation. Its flexible itinerary allows for local tastings, sightseeing, and relaxing in thermal pools—an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting variety.
The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive stops, like tasting traditional pastries or visiting the ceramic factory. With around 7 hours, it balances sightseeing with relaxation, and reviews praise the friendly guides for their local insights. The tour is best suited for those who want to see a lot but are comfortable with a bus and group setting.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking an economical yet full exposure to Sao Miguel’s top sights with a taste of local culture.
6. Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Sete Cidades Volcano
Number six, the Full-Day 4×4 Tour to Sete Cidades, is designed for the adventurous. For about $83, your driver will navigate the dirt tracks around the Sete Cidades crater, offering views inaccessible by regular cars. The highlight is the Pico do Carvão, where panoramic views of the lakes and coast are simply stunning, especially at sunset.
Additional stops include Mosteiros, known for its natural basalt pools, and Ferraria, where you can dip into a natural thermal sea pool. This tour is packed with viewpoints, natural pools, and stories about the volcanic landscape. Reviewers note the guide’s friendly demeanor and the comfortable 4WD, making it a good fit for those who want to see the island’s volcanic interior.
Bottom line: A fantastic choice for those looking for a mix of off-road thrills and spectacular vistas.
7. Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes Full Day Tour With Lunch
Finally, the Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes combines wildlife and geology for about $162 per person. It’s an 8-hour tour starting with a whale and dolphin watching trip on a boat with marine biologists onboard. Afterward, visit Lagoa do Fogo and an active volcano, with a buffet lunch included.
While some travelers may not see whales every trip, the tour’s reviews show high satisfaction, with mentions of seeing sperm whales and dolphins. The combination of marine and volcanic sights makes it a well-rounded experience, particularly suited for travelers who want to combine ocean wildlife with volcanic landscapes.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in marine life and volcanoes, with the convenience of a guided tour and included lunch.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Sao Miguel
When deciding between these options, consider your budget and interests. If you want a comprehensive, well-priced experience that covers hot springs, geothermal activity, and local foods, the Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas is hard to beat. For personalized, off-road exploration, the private 4×4 options are best, especially if you’re OK spending more.
Wildlife fans should look at the whale tours, which vary from sea trips to combined volcano visits. If your focus is on volcanic scenery and spectacular viewpoints, the Full-Day Sete Cidades 4×4 offers a rugged, scenic experience. Meanwhile, budget travelers can maximize their day with the Van Tour to Furnas, which covers many highlights at a good price.
Booking early is smart, especially in the busy summer months. Each tour offers a unique slice of Sao Miguel, so think about what excites you most—whether it’s geothermal hot springs, whale watching, or volcanic panoramas—and choose accordingly.
Sao Miguel’s diverse landscapes and activities mean there’s a full-day tour suited to nearly every type of traveler. Whether you prefer a relaxed small-group experience or an off-road adventure, you’ll find unforgettable sights and stories. Take your pick, plan ahead, and enjoy the island’s natural wonders in style.