2 x Day Tour pack with lunch included (Furnas + Sete Cidades + Fogo + Nordeste)

Exploring São Miguel on a Two-Day Tour: An Honest Look

If you’re thinking about seeing as much of São Miguel Island as possible during a short stay, this 2-day guided tour with lunch included could be just the ticket. It’s highly rated—standing at a perfect 5.0 from 21 reviews—and recommended by everyone who’s taken it, so it clearly hits the mark for many travelers. The price is around $172 per person, which, considering it covers a ton of sights, is pretty reasonable. Plus, the small group size (max 8) promises a more personal experience.

What we really like about this tour is how comprehensively it covers the island’s highlights—furnas, Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Nordeste—without feeling rushed. The variety of stops means you’ll experience volcano activity, stunning viewpoints, lakes, thermal pools, and even local agriculture. Another plus: the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the long days more engaging.

The only thing to keep in mind is that with a packed schedule, some stops are brief, and the pace can be lively. If you’re looking for a slow, relaxed getaway, this might feel a bit hectic. But for those wanting a solid overview of São Miguel’s top sights with good local insight, it’s hard to beat.

This tour suits travelers who love seeing a lot in a short period, enjoy learning about volcanic landscapes, and appreciate having meals included during busy days. Families, couples, friends—pretty much anyone with a sense of adventure and curiosity about the Azores will find this a worthwhile experience.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Two-Day Adventure: Cover major sights with guided commentary and included lunch.
• Compact Group Size: Small groups (up to 8) ensure more personal attention.
• Diverse Highlights: Volcanoes, lakes, viewpoints, thermal pools, and local agriculture.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Flexible Itinerary: Some changes may occur based on weather or conditions.
• Value for Money: A comprehensive experience at a reasonable price considering the scope.

A Deep Dive into the São Miguel Highlights

When we think about exploring São Miguel, we want a tour that’s both thorough and enjoyable without feeling overwhelming. This two-day package aims to give you just that—covering a broad swath of the island’s most iconic spots, all with the comfort of guided commentary.

Day One: Volcanoes, Beaches, and Thermal Waters

Starting at Praia Grande de Agua D’Alto, you’ll get to see a volcanic-origin sandy beach. It’s a quick stop—just about 10 minutes—but enough to appreciate the unique black sand typical of Azorean beaches. Not exactly a swimming spot for most, but it’s a good photo op and a taste of the island’s volcanic coastline.

Next up is the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, which offers breathtaking views from the Sra. da Paz viewpoint. From there, you’ll see the islet itself, a remarkable result of an underwater volcanic eruption. The entire village of Vila Franca do Campo is visible below—if you have a camera, this is a must.

The tour continues to Lagoa das Furnas, a lively area with active volcanic activity. You might be surprised by the fumaroles and bubbling springs, which tell stories of the island’s geothermal past. It’s fascinating to see how geological activity continues to shape this landscape over the last 100,000 years.

A visit to Caldeira das Furnas follows, where you can witness fumaroles and mineral springs up close. The smell of sulfur is strong here, but it’s part of the experience. Many reviews mention the geothermal activity as a highlight, with travelers appreciating the chance to see actual volcanic vents.

Midday is dedicated to the relaxing Parque Terra Nostra, famous for its thermal pools heated by volcanic activity. The pools are generally over 30°C—perfect for unwinding after a busy morning. While entry isn’t included, guests often find it worth paying for the experience, especially when it’s complemented by the beautiful botanical gardens surrounding the pools.

Next, we visit Miradouro Pico do Ferro, where the panoramic views of the Furnas crater and lake are simply stunning. It’s a short, 20-minute stop but one that’s well worth it for the photo opportunities and the sense of scale it offers.

Finally, the day wraps up at Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes in Nordeste, home to waterfalls and watermills. This is a favorite among visitors for its lush scenery and tranquil atmosphere, offering a taste of Azores’ verdant side.

Day Two: Lakes, Volcanoes, and Panoramas

The second day kicks off at Ananas Santo Antonio, where you’ll learn how pineapples are cultivated in glass greenhouses—a process that takes around two years. It’s a neat peek into local agriculture, and the tour guide’s commentary makes it more than just a look at fruit.

The views continue at Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, where you can survey volcanic cones between the Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo volcanoes. The vistas from here are expansive, giving you a good sense of the island’s volcanic landscape.

A visit to Lagoa do Canario offers a secretive lake within a crater, often called a hidden gem. The setting is serene, and it’s a perfect spot for a quick walk and photos.

Vista do Rei is arguably the most iconic viewpoint on the island—famous for its connection to royalty and its sweeping views over the twin lakes of Sete Cidades. It’s an emotional high point for many visitors, and the picture-perfect setting is frequently praised.

Next, you’ll see Lagoa de Santiago, the green lagoon within the Sete Cidades volcanic crater, surrounded by native vegetation. It’s a contrast to the blue and green lakes seen from other viewpoints and offers a more intimate experience.

The tour continues with a stop at Caldeira das Sete Cidades, the large volcanic crater with the lakes divided by a narrow bridge. The views here are classic, and many reviews mention how it’s a must-see for anyone visiting São Miguel.

Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado provides dramatic cliff views, where volcanic activity created monk-like landforms and cliffs. It’s a quieter spot, ideal for those wanting a more peaceful experience.

The highlight is the Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine crater lake with turquoise waters. The view from the overlook is breathtaking, offering a sense of untouched nature that’s hard to beat.

Finally, the Centro de Interpretacao Ambiental Caldeira Velha presents natural hot springs in a lush setting. While entry costs are extra, the pools are said to offer a soothing end to your busy days exploring the island’s volcanic story.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transport is arranged for small groups, which makes for a more personalized experience. With a start time at 9:00 am and the tour ending back at the meeting point, you should plan for full days—around 9 hours each day. The group size is limited to 8 travelers, which helps ensure everyone gets attention and the guide can tailor some commentary along the way.

The price of $171.95 includes guiding, most viewpoints, and many of the stops, though extras like thermal pools or botanical gardens are optional and paid separately. The tour’s reviews emphasize how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are—guests have raved about their ability to share interesting facts and keep the group engaged.

Given the itinerary’s breadth, expect a mix of driving, walking, and brief stops—some as short as 10 minutes, others up to 30. This means you’ll want to dress comfortably, bring water, and be prepared for some quick transitions.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This two-day package is ideal for travelers eager to see the highlights of São Miguel without the hassle of planning each stop. If you love being guided by knowledgeable locals who can share stories and context, this is a good fit. And if a packed but well-organized itinerary appeals to you, you’ll likely find this tour very satisfying.

It’s especially suited for those who want a balance of scenic views, geological insights, and opportunities to relax in thermal pools—all in just a couple of days. The inclusion of meals makes it convenient, and the small group size enhances the experience without feeling crowded.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a slow pace, longer hikes, or unstructured time, you might find this tour a bit fast-paced. Also, be aware that some attractions’ entry fees are not included, so you may want to budget extra for those.

This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to São Miguel, backed by positive reviews highlighting the guides’ friendliness and the stunning vistas. It’s a strong choice for travelers wanting a guided overview, with plenty of opportunities to take memorable photos and learn about the island’s volcanic soul.

FAQ

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation arranged for small groups, ensuring comfort while moving between the different stops.

Are meals included in the price?
Lunch is included in the two-day package, making things easier for you. Other meals or snacks are not included but can be arranged or purchased locally.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, along with sturdy shoes. It’s also wise to bring a light rain jacket or umbrella, as weather can change quickly in the Azores.

Can I visit thermal pools during the tour?
While the pools at Parque Terra Nostra and Caldeira Velha are highlights, entry fees are not included, so you can choose to pay for these if interested.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 10 to 30 minutes, enough for photos and quick exploration. Some, like Lagoa do Fogo or Caldeira Velha, might be more immersive if you decide to stay longer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is geared toward adults and older children who can handle long days on the move. Keep in mind the itinerary’s pace and the walking involved.

This tour strikes a nice balance between sightseeing and comfort, perfect for those wanting to see the best São Miguel has to offer in a short span, all with expert guides and a friendly atmosphere.