Ponta Delgada is a fantastic base for exploring São Miguel Island because of its convenient location and easy access to some of the Azores’ most stunning sights. Whether you’re after lush crater lakes, rugged mountain trails, or colorful villages, the full-day tours here deliver a rich variety of experiences. We especially love the Full Day Sete Cidades + Lagoa do Fogo for its sweeping views and immersive sightseeing, and the Furnas Azores 4×4 Tour for its bubbling geothermal features and volcanic landscapes. These tours help you see the island’s best without the hassle of figuring out transportation or planning your own route.
If you want a comprehensive, scenic, and engaging way to spend a day, these options are hard to beat. We’ll walk you through each one, highlighting what makes them special and helping you decide which suits your interests and style best.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a range of full-day adventure options: scenic sightseeing of volcanic lakes, rugged off-road exploration, scenic hikes, and cultural village visits. Whether you’re after a luxurious scenic drive or an active outdoor experience, there’s something here for you. For a detailed look at each tour, follow the links to explore their itineraries and reviews.
1. Full Day Sete Cidades + Lagoa do Fogo
At number 1, this tour takes you to two of São Miguel’s most iconic lakes—Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo—with a full day of sightseeing in a comfortable Jeep or SUV. Starting early from Ponta Delgada, you’ll visit the Muro das Nove Janelas and the Vista do Rei Lookout for breathtaking views, then descend into the Sete Cidades crater lake, famous for its twin lakes and vividly colored waters. Afterward, the trip continues to Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine volcanic lake surrounded by lush hills.
What sets this tour apart is its balanced itinerary, combining scenic viewpoints, local villages, and a relaxed pace. The 7-hour journey includes time to explore the charming town of Capelas and enjoy a ribeira Grande lunch, giving you a taste of local life. Reviews are glowing, with a 4.8/5 star rating from 288 travelers, praising the expert guiding and rich scenery.
Bottom Line: If you want an immersive day exploring São Miguel’s west side with memorable vistas and local culture, this tour offers exceptional value for $77.
2. Full-Day Furnas Azores 4×4 Tour from Ponta Delgada
Coming in at number 2, this 8-hour adventure takes you across Furnas’s volcanic wonderland. It’s perfect if you love geothermal activity, bubbling springs, and lush, hilly scenery. The tour includes a drive through varied terrain, with stops at hot springs, geysers, calderas, and the Serra da Tronqueira mountain trail.
A key highlight of this trip is the chance to see how volcanic activity shapes the landscape, including the famous fumaroles and the famous caldeiras. The tour is flexible—you can choose between a shared or private experience, which is great if you prefer a more customized trip. With a stellar 4.9/5 rating from 35 reviews, travelers often comment on the informative guide and amazing scenery.
Bottom Line: For those interested in volcanoes, thermal springs, and a full immersion into Furnas’ geothermal wonders, this tour offers unbeatable value at $95.
3. Full-Day 4×4 Nordeste Azores Tour from Ponta Delgada
Ranked third, this 8-hour trip explores São Miguel’s northeastern coast, famous for its spectacular landscapes and remote villages. You’ll visit Ribeira Grande, Porto Formoso, and the picturesque village of Povoação. The 4×4 ride takes you along rugged mountain roads, including the Pico de Pico summit and the Pico da Tronqueira mountain trail, which offers panoramic views of the island.
Guests describe this tour as an adventure-rich exploration of the less-visited northern side, with highlights like craters, lush hills, and mountain vistas. The tour’s small group size and expert driver make it ideal for travelers seeking a more personalized experience. Reviewers, like one who said “It’s a great way to see the rugged beauty of the island,” consistently praise the knowledgeable guides.
Bottom Line: If you want to experience the untamed northern coast and mountain trail, this tour delivers an authentic, off-road adventure for $95.
4. Full Day Flower Island Tour
At number 4, this 7-hour tour on Flores Island offers a comprehensive cultural and natural experience. Led by a certified local guide, you’ll visit Ribeira do Ferreiro Poço, the Seven Lagoas, and the villages of Fajãzinha and Fajã Grande. The tour includes stops at several viewpoints like the Miradouro dos Caimbros and Pico do Meio Dia, plus visits to local museums and scenic spots.
This tour is ideal for those wanting to immerse in Flores’ natural beauty and culture. It includes a lunch break with local flavors (lunch not included in the price). Travelers frequently praise the personalized guidance and beautiful scenery, with a 4.5-star rating from 54 reviews.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a combination of nature, culture, and scenic viewpoints, this tour is a fantastic choice at roughly $93.
5. Full Day Hiking Faial da Terra
Completing our list, this 7-hour hike takes you through Faial da Terra, emphasizing active outdoor exploration. Starting with a visit to the Caldeira das Furnas, you’ll then trek to the Salto do Prego waterfalls, where a refreshing swim might be tempting. The walk covers exotic vegetation and levada trails, leading to stunning waterfalls and mountain vistas.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy moderate hikes and want a hands-on experience of the island’s landscapes. It has a solid 4.5/5 rating from 12 reviews, with many appreciating the helpful guide, and beautiful waterfalls. Some reviews mention the hike can be challenging at first, but most agree it’s well worth the effort.
Bottom Line: For those looking for an active day outdoors and striking waterfalls, this hike offers a memorable, physically rewarding experience for about $95.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your interests and fitness level. For a scenic drive with breathtaking views, the Sete Cidades + Lagoa do Fogo tour is a great pick. If volcanoes and thermal springs fascinate you, the Furnas 4×4 is ideal. For mountain scenery and rugged coastlines, the Nordeste tour fits the bill. Want a more cultural or scenic experience? The Flower Island tour offers a blend of natural beauty and local charm, while active hikers should opt for the Faial da Terra trek.
Think about your budget too; most tours fall within $77–$95 for full-day experiences, offering good value considering the rich sights and guided attention. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and small-group options.
Final thoughts
Ponta Delgada offers a diverse variety of full-day tours suited for all interests—from scenic lakes and volcanoes to lush hikes and cultural villages. For a well-rounded day with panoramic views, the Sete Cidades + Lagoa do Fogo tour shines. If you prefer geothermal marvels, the Furnas trip is unbeatable. For adventurers, the Nordeste or Faial da Terra hikes provide active ways to experience the island’s wild side.
No matter what your choice, these tours open a window to São Miguel’s natural beauty and unique landscapes. To ensure a smooth trip, book early and prepare for a day full of memorable sights and experiences.