São Miguel Island in the Azores is a captivating destination, and the Private Van Tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo offers visitors a chance to enjoy its breathtaking natural beauty. This 8-hour adventure explores volcanic lakes, emerald-hued craters, and scenic viewpoints, showcasing the island’s geological wonders. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can discover the island’s highlights, from the iconic Church of Sao Nicolau to the rejuvenating thermal baths of Caldeira Velha. Whether seeking stunning landscapes or a deeper understanding of this unique region, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Good To Know
- Explore the stunning volcanic lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on a private 8-hour van tour of São Miguel Island, Azores.
- Enjoy flexible pickup from anywhere on the island, including cruise ships, and an itinerary that showcases the island’s natural wonders.
- Discover picturesque viewpoints, volcanic craters, and the opportunity to relax in the thermal baths of Caldeira Velha.
- Tour includes an English and Russian-speaking driver/guide, bottled water, and insurance, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive experience.
- Benefit from the tour’s high customer satisfaction, with a 5/5 rating and positive reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and remarkable scenery.
Tour Overview and Details
This private van tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on São Miguel Island lasts 8 hours and costs from $303.95 per group (up to 4 people).
Pickup is included from anywhere on the island, with flexible timing. The itinerary covers key viewpoints and attractions like Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago, Grota do Inferno, and the Church of Sao Nicolau.
Flexible pickup from anywhere on the island, visiting top viewpoints like Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago and Grota do Inferno.
Highlights include experiencing the island’s natural beauty, visiting volcanic craters and emerald lakes, and the option for thermal baths at Caldeira Velha.
The tour includes an English and Russian-speaking driver/guide, bottled water, and insurance. Lunch and Caldeira Velha admission are additional costs.
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Pickup and Itinerary
The tour includes pickup from anywhere on São Miguel Island, including cruise ships. The pickup time is flexible based on customer preference.
The itinerary covers key viewpoints and attractions. Stops include Ribeira Grande, Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago, Coal Peak Viewpoint, Muro das Nove Janelas, Grota do Inferno Viewpoint, Vista do Rei Lookout, Lagoa do Canário, Church of Sao Nicolau in Sete Cidades, Ponta do Escalvado Lookout, Ponta da Ferraria, Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint, and Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha.
The tour ends with drop-off in Ribeira Grande or Ponta Delgada.
Key Highlights of the Tour
The tour offers visitors a chance to experience São Miguel Island’s natural wonders, from stunning volcanic craters to emerald lakes.
Highlights include the serene Lagoa do Canário, the picturesque Sete Cidades with its iconic church, and the breathtaking Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint.
Throughout the journey, guests will be treated to scenic vistas from various lookouts, including the dramatic Grota do Inferno and the panoramic Vista do Rei.
For those seeking a relaxing break, the tour includes an opportunity to enjoy the thermal baths at Caldeira Velha.
With an expert guide, this tour promises an immersive exploration of the island’s volcanic beauty.
Natural Beauty of São Miguel Island
São Miguel Island, the largest of the Azores archipelago, boasts a mesmerizing natural landscape that captivates visitors from around the world.
This volcanic island showcases:
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Lush green meadows and rolling hills dotted with picturesque villages
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Serene, emerald-hued lakes nestled in ancient volcanic craters
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Dramatic coastal cliffs and rocky promontories with breathtaking ocean views
Exploring the island’s diverse terrain, from the tranquil Lagoa do Fogo to the dramatic Sete Cidades, offers a unique opportunity to take in the island’s remarkable natural beauty and geological wonders.
More Great Tours NearbyVolcanic Craters and Emerald Lakes
As visitors explore the volcanic craters and emerald lakes of São Miguel Island, they’re captivated by the island’s remarkable geological features.
The tour takes them to the stunning Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, two of the island’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The vivid green and blue hues of the lakes contrast dramatically with the surrounding volcanic landscapes.
Visitors can admire the views from various scenic lookouts, including the iconic Vista do Rei. Plus, they’ve the opportunity to visit the Caldeira Velha, a thermal spring area, for a relaxing soak.
These volcanic sites showcase São Miguel’s unique and captivating beauty.
Scenic Viewpoints and Lookouts
Dotting the rugged terrain of São Miguel Island, a series of scenic viewpoints and lookouts offer visitors breathtaking vistas of the island’s volcanic landscapes.
The tour includes stops at several of these stunning overlooks:
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The Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago, providing panoramic views of the twin lakes of Sete Cidades.
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The Coal Peak Viewpoint, showcasing the island’s dramatic volcanic cones and craters.
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The Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint, offering a glimpse of the island’s highest and most pristine crater lake.
These vantage points allow guests to fully enjoy the natural splendor of São Miguel’s volcanic wonders.
Thermal Baths at Caldeira Velha
Although the tour includes several stunning viewpoints, visitors can also take advantage of the opportunity to experience the thermal baths at Caldeira Velha.
The environmental interpretation center offers access to the steaming geothermal pools. Visitors can pay 3 euros to enter the site and an additional 10 euros to enjoy the baths. However, advance booking is required for the baths.
The warm, mineral-rich waters provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience amidst the serene volcanic landscape.
After a day of exploring the island’s natural wonders, the Caldeira Velha thermal baths offer a chance to unwind and soak in the tranquility.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the private van tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo.
With a 5/5 rating based on one review, the tour has received glowing feedback, highlighting:
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An informative experience, with knowledgeable and friendly guides like Lana and Pavel
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Scenic views of the volcanic craters and emerald lakes, showcasing the island’s natural beauty
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Opportunities for thermal baths at Caldeira Velha, providing a relaxing addition to the tour
The positive customer reviews underscore the tour’s ability to deliver an exceptional and memorable experience for visitors exploring the stunning landscapes of São Miguel Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized to My Preferences?
The tour can be customized to the customer’s preferences. The pickup time and itinerary are flexible, allowing travelers to focus on the sights and experiences most important to them during the 8-hour private van tour.
Are Hotel Pickups and Drop-Offs Available for All Locations?
The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere on São Miguel Island, including cruise ships. Pickup times are flexible based on customer preference. Drop-off locations include Ribeira Grande and Ponta Delgada.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Van Tour?
The private van tour has a maximum group size of 4 people. This small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience exploring the volcanic lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on São Miguel Island.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?
The tour allows for extended duration, but this would incur an additional fee. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider and request a longer tour if desired, subject to availability and pricing.
Can I Make Stops Along the Way for Personal Activities?
Absolutely, you can make additional stops along the way for personal activities. The tour is private, so the driver-guide is flexible to accommodate your preferences and adjust the itinerary as needed, within the overall tour duration.
The Sum Up
This private van tour offers a captivating exploration of São Miguel Island’s natural wonders. From the stunning volcanic lakes and emerald-hued craters to the relaxing thermal baths, the itinerary showcases the island’s breathtaking beauty. With a knowledgeable guide and convenient transportation, travelers can enjoy the island’s remarkable landscapes and create lasting memories.
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