From Ponta Delgada: Lagoa Do Fogo & Hot Springs Day Trip

Discover the natural wonders of the Azores on a captivating day trip from Ponta Delgada. Explore the stunning Lagoa do Fogo, visit a historic pottery factory, and unwind at a traditional tea plantation. This expertly curated excursion promises an unforgettable experience, with knowledgeable guides leading the way. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking landscapes or a glimpse into local culture, this day trip has something to delight every traveler.

Key Points

• This day trip from Ponta Delgada offers a visit to the scenic Lagoa do Fogo and a stop at the Salto do Cabrito for scenic views and a short walk.
• The tour includes a stop at the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s oldest tea plantation, and a pottery factory visit to explore Azorean cultural heritage.
• Travelers can enjoy a personalized experience with a small group of up to 8 participants, accompanied by a multilingual tour guide.
• The trip features transportation in an air-conditioned van, skip-the-line access, and a provided lunch in Ribeira Grande.
• The day trip is offered with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and operates rain or shine, with a pickup time of 8:45 A.M.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Ponta Delgada to Lagoa do Fogo offers a chance to save up to 10% off the regular price, with tickets ranging from $76.62 to $68.96 per person.

The 8-hour excursion includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Pickup and drop-off locations are available at College Square, Hotel Marina Atlântico, and Posto de Turismo de Ponta Delgada, providing convenience for travelers.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should be ready by 8:45 A.M. for pickup.

Itinerary Highlights

Although the day trip begins with a visit to Cerâmica Vieira, a local pottery factory for approximately 30 minutes, the main highlight is the scenic drive and sightseeing at Lagoa do Fogo, which lasts around 30 minutes.

Afterward, the tour heads to Salto do Cabrito for 20 minutes of scenic views and a short walk.

Lunch is provided in Ribeira Grande, followed by a 30-minute visit to the Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest tea plantation in Europe.

The final stop is the Caldeira Velha Hot Springs, where participants have 1.5 hours of free time to swim and relax.

Tour Features

The day trip is limited to a small group of up to 8 participants, providing a more personalized experience.

A live tour guide fluent in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, German, Spanish, and French, accompanies the group.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned van.

The tour also offers skip-the-line access through a separate entrance, allowing guests to spend more time exploring the destinations.

Guests should be ready for pickup by 8:45 AM and note that smoking and food aren’t allowed in the vehicle.

Additional fees may apply for certain activities and pickups outside Ponta Delgada.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the day trip, awarding it an impressive 5-star rating based on 45 reviews.

Guests commended the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, such as Andre and Mario, for their expertise and personable demeanor. The scenic views and local experiences, including the Gorreana Tea Factory and Caldeira Velha Hot Springs, also received high praise.

Knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, scenic views, and local experiences like the Gorreana Tea Factory and Caldeira Velha Hot Springs.

Reviewers highlighted:

• The guides’ fluency in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, German, Spanish, and French.

• The opportunity to skip the line and access exclusive areas.

• The overall enjoyable and immersive nature of the day trip.

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Important Information

Travelers should bring their passport or ID, as well as swimwear and a towel, for the day trip.

Smoking and food aren’t allowed inside the vehicle. The tour operates rain or shine, so participants should be ready by 8:45 A.M. for pickup.

Additional fees may apply for the Caldeira Velha hot springs entrance and for pickups outside Ponta Delgada.

Pottery Factory Visit

One of the highlights of the day trip is a visit to the Cerâmica Vieira pottery factory. This stop offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Azores.

Visitors can:

• Observe skilled artisans crafting traditional Portuguese ceramics using time-honored techniques.

• Browse the factory’s showroom, showcasing a wide array of beautifully designed pottery pieces.

• Learn about the history and significance of this long-standing pottery tradition in the Azores.

The 30-minute stop at Cerâmica Vieira provides a fascinating cultural interlude amidst the day’s scenic adventures.

Scenic Drive and Sightseeing

After visiting the pottery factory, the tour takes travelers on a scenic drive to the picturesque Lagoa do Fogo.

The group spends 30 minutes admiring the stunning volcanic lake nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano. Visitors can gaze upon the crystal-clear waters and lush greenery surrounding the lake. From this vantage point, they’ll enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills and dramatic coastline.

The tour then proceeds to the Salto do Cabrito, where participants can take a short 20-minute walk to see the scenic waterfall cascading down the rocky cliffs.

Thermal Hot Springs Experience

The tour then continues to the Caldeira Velha Hot Springs, where participants can spend 1.5 hours enjoying the thermal waters.

The springs offer a unique opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in a serene natural setting:

• The clear, warm waters of the springs are fed by geothermal activity, creating a soothing and therapeutic experience.

• Visitors can explore the surrounding lush vegetation and take in the stunning views of the volcanic landscape.

• The on-site changing facilities and towels provide comfort and convenience for a comfortable soak.

The Sum Up

This Azores day trip offers an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the stunning Lagoa do Fogo, discover the centuries-old Ceramica Vieira pottery, and relax in the therapeutic hot springs, all while enjoying a scenic drive and delightful lunch. With a knowledgeable guide, this small-group excursion promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Azores.

You can check availability for your dates here: