West & East São Miguel Island Private Tour

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of São Miguel Island doesn’t get much better than the West & East São Miguel Island Private Tour. This comprehensive 8-hour excursion takes travelers on a captivating journey, showcasing the island’s natural wonders and cultural gems. From the serene Lagoa das Sete Cidades to the thermal baths of Furnas, this customizable tour promises an unforgettable experience. But the real question is, what secrets does this island hold waiting to be uncovered?

Good To Know

• A private group tour that explores both the western and eastern sides of São Miguel Island, Azores, over 8 hours.
• Key highlights include Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Gorreana Tea Factory, and the Furnas geothermal area.
• Customizable itinerary led by an English-speaking guide, with opportunities for photography, hiking, and boat rentals.
• Includes visits to scenic viewpoints, villages, and parks, as well as a traditional Cozido lunch option.
• Tour starts and ends in Ponta Delgada, providing a rundown of São Miguel’s diverse landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The West & East São Miguel Island Private Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the diverse landscapes and cultural highlights of São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago.

Priced from $163.56 per person, this 8-hour private group tour departs from Ponta Delgada. It’s led by an English-speaking guide and allows for a customizable itinerary.

Participants can explore the island’s western and eastern sides, including iconic spots like the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Gorreana Tea Factory, and Furnas.

Flexibility and expert guidance make this tour an attractive option for those seeking an immersive São Miguel experience.

West Side Highlights

Kicking off the tour on the island’s western side, visitors first stop at the breathtaking Vista do Rei Lookout. This scenic viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the stunning Sete Cidades crater lake.

After snapping photos, the tour proceeds to the magnificent Lagoa das Sete Cidades, where guests have time to explore the charming village and stroll along the lakeshore.

The next stop is Lagoa do Fogo, a hidden gem nestled within a volcanic crater. Visitors soak in the serene atmosphere and capture the natural beauty of this unique geological formation.

Lagoa Das Sete Cidades

Nestled within the volcanic caldera, Lagoa das Sete Cidades captivates visitors with its serene beauty.

The twin lakes, one green and one blue, are a natural wonder that beg to be explored.

The twin lakes, one green and one blue, are a natural wonder that invite visitors to explore their serene beauty.

Visitors can:

• Stroll along the lakeside trails, taking in the stunning vistas.

• Rent a boat and glide across the calm waters, admiring the lush, surrounding hills.

• Hike up to the Vista do Rei viewpoint for a panoramic perspective of the breathtaking landscape.

• Witness the unique phenomenon of the lakes’ distinct colors, a result of the volcanic origins.

Lagoa Do Fogo

Situated atop the island’s volcanic interior, Lagoa do Fogo captivates visitors with its serene, otherworldly beauty.

This crescent-shaped crater lake, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, is a breathtaking natural wonder. Guests can admire its striking turquoise waters and steep, lush cliffs from designated viewpoints.

The surrounding landscape is dotted with hydrangeas, adding pops of vibrant color. Visitors have 30 minutes to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and capture stunning photos before continuing their journey.

Lagoa do Fogo’s remote location and pristine environment make it a must-see highlight of the East Side tour.

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East Side Highlights

After exploring the majestic Lagoa do Fogo, the private tour continues its journey along the island’s eastern side, showcasing a diverse array of captivating attractions.

Visitors stop at the renowned Gorreana Tea Factory, where they enjoy a guided tour, tea tasting, and shopping opportunities.

Next, they marvel at the stunning vistas from the Pico do Ferro Lookout.

The tour then delves into the charming village of Furnas, where guests can witness the fumaroles and opt for a traditional Cozido lunch.

Finally, they’ve the chance to visit the lush Terra Nostra Park, known for its thermal baths and idyllic gardens.

• Gorreana Tea Factory: Guided tour, tea tasting, shopping

• Pico do Ferro Lookout: Scenic viewpoints

• Furnas: Explore village, fumaroles, optional Cozido lunch

• Terra Nostra Park: Optional visit for gardens and thermal baths

Gorreana Tea Factory

The Gorreana Tea Factory stands as a captivating destination on the eastern side of São Miguel Island.

During the tour, visitors will learn about the history and production process of Portugal’s oldest and only surviving tea plantation. They’ll explore the factory’s facilities, witnessing the tea leaves being harvested, dried, and packaged.

The highlight is the tasting session, where participants can sample the fragrant and flavorful Gorreana teas. The opportunity to purchase the estate’s tea products at the on-site shop adds to the immersive experience.

This unique stop offers a glimpse into the island’s rich agricultural heritage.

Furnas and Terra Nostra Park

What next awaits visitors on this private tour of São Miguel Island is the charming village of Furnas and the stunning Terra Nostra Park.

In Furnas, the guide leads the way to explore the village’s active fumaroles – natural vents that release geothermal steam and gases. Visitors can also opt for the traditional Cozido lunch cooked underground in the geothermal heat.

Afterward, the tour continues to Terra Nostra Park, offering lush botanical gardens and inviting thermal pools perfect for a relaxing soak. This scenic stop provides a peaceful end to the day’s East Side adventures.

• Explore the active fumaroles in Furnas village

• Indulge in a traditional Cozido lunch cooked underground

• Wander through the lush botanical gardens of Terra Nostra Park

• Relax in the inviting thermal pools of Terra Nostra Park

Return to Ponta Delgada

As the tour winds down, the guide leads the group on a scenic route back to Ponta Delgada, making a final stop at the Our Lady of Peace Chapel to take in the panoramic views.

The chapel’s whitewashed exterior and red-tiled roof stand in contrast to the lush green hills and azure ocean below. Participants have the chance to snap photos and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before continuing the journey back to the starting point.

This final stop provides a fitting end to the day’s exploration of São Miguel’s diverse landscapes and highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand, as some tours may have restrictions or offer catered meals as part of the experience.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

The tour includes several stops where participants can use restrooms, such as the Gorreana Tea Factory and Terra Nostra Park. Restroom facilities are generally available at the major sightseeing locations throughout the tour.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour duration can often be extended. Many tour providers allow customers to customize the itinerary and length of the tour to suit their needs. You’d just need to discuss this with the tour operator prior to booking.

Is There a Discount for Children or Senior Citizens?

Yes, most tour providers offer discounted rates for children and seniors. However, the exact discounts can vary, so it’s best to check with the specific tour company for their pricing policies on the West & East São Miguel Island Private Tour.

Can the Tour Be Conducted in a Language Other Than English?

Yes, the tour can be conducted in other languages besides English. The provider offers private tours with live guides who are fluent in multiple languages to accommodate the needs and preferences of each group.

The Sum Up

The West & East São Miguel Island Private Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel’s stunning landscapes. From the breathtaking Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo to the cultural delights of the Gorreana Tea Factory and Furnas village, this immersive experience showcases the island’s natural beauty and rich heritage. With a customizable itinerary, travelers can tailor the tour to their interests and end the day with picturesque views at the Our Lady of Peace Chapel.

You can check availability for your dates here: