Ponta Delgada isn’t just the bustling gateway to the Azores—it’s also the launchpad for some truly memorable tours and experiences. Whether you’re after an adrenaline rush, a peaceful nature walk, or a deep dive into local culture, this city offers a little bit of everything. We particularly enjoyed the Side by Side Tour of Sete Cidades because it combines off-road adventure with stunning views of the crater lake, all in a small group. It’s perfect for those who want a hands-on experience while taking in the island’s rugged beauty. For a more relaxed day packed with scenic highlights, the Full Day Sete Cidades + Lagoa do Fogo offers a comprehensive island tour, covering key sights with plenty of local flavor.
These experiences showcase the diversity of Ponta Delgada’s appeal—whether you’re seeking adrenaline, cultural insights, or simply a chance to soak in breathtaking landscapes. Think about what kind of trip you want: adventurous off-road rides, culture, or tranquil nature explorations—and then choose the experience that best suits your style.
1. Side by Side Tour – Sete Cidades from North Coast (Half Day)
At number 1, this half-day buggy tour offers a unique way to explore the surroundings of the Sete Cidades Volcano. Starting in Fenais da Luz, the tour whisks you along both paved and dirt roads, providing views of villages and volcanic lakes. What makes this tour stand out is the small group setting—you get more attention from your guide, and you can choose to drive or ride as a passenger. Highlights include Pico da Cruz, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramas from 845 meters up, and the Vista do Rei viewpoint, one of the most iconic spots to see the twin lakes.
Guests love the adventure vibe and personalized attention, with reviews praising the fun, safety, and spectacular vistas. Be prepared for any weather—rain or shine, the views are unforgettable, and the wind in your hair is an added bonus.
Bottom Line: For an active, fun-filled half day with incredible views and small-group intimacy, this tour is hard to beat, especially for families and couples who want a little adventure.
2. Full Day Sete Cidades + Lagoa do Fogo
Number 2 on our list, this full-day tour hits the highlights of the island’s west side with a jeep or SUV. The itinerary includes stops at Lagoa do Fogo, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and a scenic town visit to Ribeira Grande, complemented by a local lunch. The focus here is on comprehensive scenery and local culture, with visits to viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Salto do Cabrito waterfall. The tour is thoughtfully paced, making it a great choice for travelers who want a full taste of São Miguel’s diverse landscapes without rushing.
With 288 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, this tour offers solid value for the price of $77, particularly considering its duration and variety. Reviewers mention the expert guidance, the scenic routes, and the inclusion of key spots like Lagoa do Fogo, which is a highlight of the island.
Bottom Line: If you want an all-encompassing day that mixes scenic beauty with cultural stops, this tour is a fantastic choice, especially for those with limited time but big enthusiasm.
3. São Miguel: AdventurePark Canyoning Salto do Cabrito, Azores
Number 3 is the canyoning adventure through Salto do Cabrito. Over approximately 4 hours, you’ll rappel, jump, slide, and explore the waterfalls and lush canyon scenery with experienced guides. The tour is designed for all ages and fitness levels, making it accessible and fun for families, couples, or solo thrill-seekers. The highlight is the stunning geothermal canyon, where the water’s warmth adds to the experience, along with the chance to capture photos and videos of the landscape.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety while making the adventure exhilarating and accessible. Rain or shine, the wet suits and equipment make this a comfortable, memorable activity—just don’t forget your sense of adventure!
Bottom Line: For those who want a physically engaging activity, this canyoning tour provides an amazing blend of natural beauty and adrenaline, suitable for most ages.
4. Half-Day Jeep Tour from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades
Number 4 offers a stress-free way to explore the island’s interior and coast in a rugged 4×4. This half-day jeep tour includes hotel pickup, taking you past lakes, craters, and hidden rural roads inaccessible by regular cars. The local guide shares rich insights into the landscape’s volcanic origins, making it a more educational experience.
Guests appreciate the off-road access and the opportunity to see parts of the island you couldn’t reach alone. Reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the scenic, authentic experience. While weather can impact visibility, the overall value and ease make this a top pick for travelers who want a relaxed, yet scenic adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to see remote spots without the hassle of navigation, especially if you prefer comfort and local insights over strenuous activity.
5. Scuba Diving
Number 5 introduces the scuba diving experience in São Miguel. For those certified divers, this three-hour tour takes you to some of the island’s best underwater spots, where you can observe unique marine life and underwater landscapes. The crew provides all necessary gear, and the marine environment is often described as vibrant and full of interesting flora and fauna.
Reviewers highlight the professionalism and marine knowledge of the guides, with some mentioning that the instructor was particularly attentive to safety and comfort, especially for first-time divers. The $66.84 price includes taxes and equipment rental, offering good value for an engaging ocean adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for certified divers craving a quick ocean adventure, or those wanting a memorable underwater experience with expert guidance in a safe setting.
6. Full-Day Furnas Azores 4×4 Tour from Ponta Delgada
In sixth place, this full-day 4×4 tour of Furnas is a vivid exploration of active volcanic phenomena. The itinerary includes bubbling hot springs, geysers, fumaroles, and a calming crater lake. The off-road vehicle allows access to hard-to-reach spots, with the guide sharing insights on the island’s geothermal activity.
Guests love the comprehensive nature of the tour, with reviews mentioning the high-quality guide and the stunning scenery. The price at $95 is quite reasonable considering the 8-hour duration and the chance to see iconic volcanic landscapes up close.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in geology and volcanic activity, this tour offers a detailed, comfortable way to experience Furnas’ fiery side.
7. Full-Day 4×4 Nordeste Azores Tour from Ponta Delgada
Number 7 features the Nordeste region, known for its rugged beauty and scenic craters. This 8-hour tour explores Ribeira Grande, Porto Formoso, and Pico Bartolomeu, with the off-road vehicle allowing access to mountain trails and craters. The pico ride up Tronqueira Mountain Trail is a highlight.
Reviewers praise the expert local guides and the chance to see less-visited spots. The tour’s value is evident at $95, with a mix of landscape sightseeing and cultural insights. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a deeper dive into the north coast’s natural treasures.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want to explore the less touristy, more rugged parts of São Miguel in an exciting, comfortable way.
8. Azores São Miguel | Furnas & Nordeste with lunch included
Number 8 is our top full-day option that combines the volcanic landscapes of Furnas with the lush Nordeste. This small-group tour includes visits to the volcano’s fumaroles and hot springs, a tea plantation, and a traditional volcanic heat-cooked lunch. Stops at viewpoints like Nossa Senhora da Paz and Miradouro Pico Do Ferro highlight the island’s volcanic grandeur.
Guests enjoy the personalized experience and the chance to relax at thermal pools. The tour’s price of $111.56 reflects the full-day itinerary with a mix of scenery, culture, and culinary delights.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an immersive day with local cuisine and volcanic vistas, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.
9. Half day Gorreana – Pedestrian Walk and Tea Tasting (Min. 2 persons)
Number 9 explores the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s only tea plantation. Over 4 hours, you’ll walk the plantations, learn about tea production, and enjoy a tea tasting with biscuits. The focus here is on local tea culture and scenic walks through the lush plantations.
Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery. The $63.38 price makes it a reasonable half-day activity for tea lovers and curious travelers alike.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, educational experience perfect for those interested in local agriculture and culture, with beautiful views and tasty samples.
10. Half Day Sete Cidades (West side of the Island)
Number 10 offers a shorter, scenic tour focusing on the west side of São Miguel. It visits pineapple plantations, the Escalvado Viewpoint, and the Sete Cidades crater. The highlight is the vista of the twin lakes from Vista do Rei, and the tour is praised for its informative guide and flexible itinerary.
Guests love the personalized service and the beautiful viewpoints, making it a solid choice for travelers with limited time. At $53.41, it’s an affordable way to see some of the best scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick, scenic overview of the west side’s key sights without the full-day commitment.
11. Full Day Flower Island Tour
Number 11 takes you to Flores Island, famed for its abundant waterfalls and beautiful viewpoints. The 7-hour trip includes stops at Ribeira do Ferreiro Poço, the Seven Lagoas, and scenic lookouts like Miradouro dos Cedros. The tour features local guides who share stories and insights into island life.
Reviewers describe it as an “amazing experience” with fantastic views. The $92.89 cost reflects the day’s extensive exploration and the inclusion of a lunch break.
Bottom Line: For travelers eager to see wild, lush landscapes and waterfalls, this tour offers a full day of natural beauty on Flores.
12. Tour in Sao Miguel with Snack
Number 12 provides a personalized private tour ideal for small groups or families. It covers key sites like Rosto de Cão Islet, Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande hot springs, and the Gorreana tea plantations, including a picnic. The guide customizes the itinerary and shares local stories and recommendations.
Reviewers highlight the friendly guide, delicious local foods, and the flexibility of the tour. At $302.08 per group, it’s a great value for a tailored experience suited for up to four people seeking comfort and intimacy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a private, flexible day with local cuisine and personalized attention.
13. Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo – Private Group Tour
Number 13 offers a private 8-hour tour with a personal driver, starting early or later, to explore Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and other viewpoints. The tour is tailored to your preferences, with a flexible schedule and exclusive access to stunning sites.
Guests praise the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the customizable itinerary that fits your interests. It’s ideal for families or groups wanting a private, relaxed experience, with a rate that reflects the exclusivity at $437.91 for up to 8 people.
Bottom Line: When privacy, flexibility, and personalized attention matter, this private tour is worth the investment for a memorable day.
14. Volcano of Fogo and Furnas Private Tour
Number 14 is a private 5-hour tour focused on São Miguel’s stunning volcanic landscapes. It includes Lagoa do Fogo, Caldeira Velha, a tea plantation, and Furnas hot springs. The guide adapts the trip to your pace, making it perfect for families or travelers seeking a personalized exploration.
Reviewers mention the expert local guide and beautiful scenery, making it a well-rounded, flexible option. The $92.19 price per person ensures a comfortable, private experience with plenty of time for photos and relaxation.
Bottom Line: For a tailored, in-depth volcanic exploration, this private tour offers flexibility and a personal touch.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Ponta Delgada
When choosing from these options, think about your interests and schedule. Want a quick but scenic overview? The Half-Day Sete Cidades (link) might suit you. Looking for an active adventure? The Canyoning (link) is a fantastic pick. If you prefer a private, tailor-made experience with plenty of flexibility, the private group tours (link or link) are excellent choices. Budget-conscious travelers should consider the half-day jeep or scenic viewpoints tours, which pack a lot into a short time.
Also, plan ahead—the most popular tours tend to sell out early, especially during peak season. If you want a seamless experience, book your preferred tour a few weeks in advance, particularly for private or small-group options.
Final Thoughts
No matter your travel style, Ponta Delgada offers a rich selection of tours and experiences that can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one. Adventure seekers will love the Side by Side Tour and canyoning, while those after scenic views should look at the full day island tours. For a more personalized touch, the private options provide the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
The key is to match your interests and time constraints with the right tour. Whichever you pick, early booking is wise to ensure availability. Now, go ahead—reserve your spot and get ready for a memorable Azorean adventure.