Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel, offers some of the most rewarding hiking experiences in the Atlantic. Unlike crowded trails elsewhere, here you’ll find lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and secluded waterfalls that feel like secret spots. We particularly admire tours that combine scenic beauty with authentic local scenery, such as the Discover and Hike São Miguel with Rúben tour, which takes you to lesser-known corners of the island with a knowledgeable guide. This tour’s small-group setting of just six people ensures a personal touch and plenty of time for photos and questions, making it an ideal choice for those who want to avoid tourist crowds and explore more intimately.
For a blend of stunning viewpoints, volcanic terrain, and coastal scenery, the Sete Cidades: Twin Lakes, Serra Devassa Hike & Mosteiros tour stands out, especially with its combination of lakes, lava pools, and scenic stops. And if lagoons and volcanic craters are your thing, the Lagoa do Fogo Hike offers a deep dive into untouched natural beauty, with a serene lagoon as the reward. For a shorter, more relaxed experience that includes hot springs, the Salto do Cabrito Hike and Hot Springs Tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine hiking with a soothing soak.
Here’s a quick overview of the top four hiking and trekking tours in Ponta Delgada that we believe will suit different tastes and travel plans.
1. Discover and Hike São Miguel with Rúben
This guided trek offers a chance to explore São Miguel’s lesser-known trails with a small group of just six adventurers. Led by Rúben, a local guide, you’ll traverse lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and discover waterfalls away from the typical tourist paths. The tour lasts around 8 hours and includes a delicious local lunch to fuel your explorations.
What makes this trip special is the focus on hidden gems—spots that aren’t on most maps or tour itineraries. Rúben’s extensive knowledge of the island means you’ll learn about its geology, flora, and history, enriching your experience. The focus on small-group intimacy ensures plenty of personalized attention and plenty of chances for photography.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience with a knowledgeable guide, this tour balances adventure with cultural insight and is perfect for those who want to see São Miguel’s quieter, pristine spots.
2. Sete Cidades: Twin Lakes, Serra Devassa Hike & Mosteiros
This 8-hour tour is a favorite for its variety of landscapes and scenic highlights. It starts with a guided hike through volcanic terrain around the famous twin lakes of Sete Cidades. From the Vista do Rei lookout, you’ll enjoy one of the most iconic views on the island—perfect for a postcard shot. The hike continues with a walk through Grota do Inferno, revealing stunning viewpoints and lush greenery.
After the morning hike, you’ll visit the coastal town of Mosteiros for a refreshing swim in volcanic lava rock pools and a scenic picnic lunch. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Ponta do Escalvado lookout and tour a local pineapple plantation, getting a taste of Azorean agriculture firsthand.
This tour’s combination of mountain and coastal scenery makes it ideal for those who want a full day immersed in nature. The itinerary balances strenuous hikes with relaxing beach time and sightseeing, making it suitable for active travelers who also enjoy some downtime.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded day exploring volcanic lakes, rugged coastlines, and local agriculture, this tour offers a rich, visual experience that will leave you with plenty of photos and stories.
3. São Miguel: Lagoa do Fogo Hike
At around 6.5 hours, this guided hike takes you to one of São Miguel’s most photographed spots, Lagoa do Fogo (Lagoon of Fire). Starting from Ponta Delgada, you’ll drive about 30 minutes to begin your trek through native forests, along levadas, and over volcanic terrain. The trail is about 4.5 hours long, and the focus is on natural beauty and tranquility.
The highlight is reaching the serene lagoon itself, where you’ll enjoy a snack break amid spectacular surroundings. The return walk offers views of distant volcanic craters and dense vegetation. On the way back, optional stops at Caloura’s bathing area or Praia de Água D’Alto** add a relaxing finish.
This tour is perfect for those who want a moderate hike with a reward of peaceful scenery. It’s not suitable for people with mobility issues or vertigo, but for fit travelers who love nature and photography, it’s a highlight of the island.
Bottom Line: For an immersive experience into São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes with serene lagoon views, this guided walk offers a balance of effort and reward, ideal for nature lovers.
4. São Miguel: Salto do Cabrito Hike and Hot Springs Tour
This 4-hour tour combines moderate hiking through volcanic and lush landscapes with a relaxing visit to Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande hot springs. Starting at Ponta Delgada, you’ll hike for about 2.5 hours through steaming vents, rugged terrain, and lush forests—a great way to see the island’s volcanic activity up close.
The tour’s highlight is unwinding in the hot springs, where mineral-rich waters soothe tired muscles. If time permits, you’ll also enjoy panoramic views of Lagoa do Fogo, adding a scenic element to the hike. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a shorter experience that combines active exploration and relaxation.
The guide is known for being attentive, and the small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures personalized attention. Some reviews mention that the hot springs are very soothing after the hike, making this a perfect combo for relaxation and adventure.
Bottom Line: If you’re short on time but want a taste of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape with a hot springs ending, this tour offers a compact, satisfying day out.
How to Choose the Perfect Hiking Tour in Sao Miguel
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and time available. If you love exploring remote spots with a local guide, the Discover and Hike Rúben tour provides a deeply personal experience. For variety and iconic scenery, the Sete Cidades tour balances mountain hikes with coastal stops. If you prefer a more relaxed, scenic route with a lagoon as your focus, the Lagoa do Fogo hike is a must. And for shorter days that combine hiking and relaxation in hot springs, the Salto do Cabrito tour is perfect.
Think about the difficulty level, weather, and what scenery excites you most—volcanoes, lakes, waterfalls, or coastal views. Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, as these tours are popular.
Final Thoughts
Ponta Delgada on São Miguel Island offers a wealth of hiking opportunities, from quiet forests and volcanic craters to rugged coastlines and geothermal springs. Whether you prefer a full-day adventure with a local guide, a scenic trek through iconic lakes, or a shorter tour with time to relax, there’s a perfect match for every traveler.
If you’re after authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, Tours like the Discover and Hike Rúben are hard to beat. For those who want spectacular vistas combined with varied scenery, the Sete Cidades tour offers a memorable day. And don’t forget the hot springs, which provide a soothing end to any active day.
Plan ahead, choose a tour that fits your interests and fitness level, and you’ll leave São Miguel with unforgettable memories—so book early to secure your spot.
