Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, offers some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll find in Portugal. Its volcanic landscapes mean lush crater lakes, bubbling hot springs, and rugged coastlines—all perfect for exploring during a cruise stop. What makes these excursions stand out is their ease of access and the chance to experience authentic natural wonders without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. We particularly like the Sete Cidades and Furnas visits because of their dramatic landscapes and unique geothermal features. Plus, many tours include memorable stops like the Gorreana Tea Plantation or the Mosteiros islets, adding layers to your experience. If you want to see the best of Sao Miguel without stressing over transportation, these options are ideal.
Below, we highlight the three best shore excursions based on variety, reviews, and value. Whether you’re looking for a quick trip, an in-depth adventure, or a scenic highlight, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
1. Shore Excursion: Sete Cidades, Furnas or Lagoa do Fogo from Ponta Delgada
This tour offers a flexible choice of three spectacular destinations—Sete Cidades, Furnas, or Lagoa do Fogo—all of which can be reached easily from Ponta Delgada. For only $55.03 per person, you get about four hours of exploring some of the most iconic sights on the island. The beauty of this trip is its simplicity: round-trip transportation is included, so you can relax and soak in the scenery without worrying about driving or directions.
What makes this excursion popular, with a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 36 reviews, is the personal touch from guides like Telmo and Luis, who take the time to slow down for photos or tailor the experience based on your interests. You might choose to visit the volcanic crater lakes of Sete Cidades, the geothermal hot springs of Furnas, or the volcanic landscapes around Lagoa do Fogo, depending on what appeals most. Many travelers appreciate the friendly guides and the flexibility that allows for self-paced exploration.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a straightforward experience with expert local guides, and it’s great for small groups or private outings. It’s an affordable way to see some of the island’s most striking natural sites.
2. Ponta Delgada: Seven Cities & Furnas Volcano Shore Excursion Tour
At around $105.46, this 5 to 6-hour tour really packs in the highlights of São Miguel. iGoAzores takes you beyond the usual stops to explore geothermal wonders, scenic viewpoints, and lush plantations. The tour starts with a pickup at the cruise port, making the logistics smooth, and then heads out to some of the most iconic spots.
Key highlights include the Vista do Rei Miradouro, considered one of Portugal’s seven wonders, offering an awe-inspiring view of the twin lakes, and the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, where you can sample the world’s only remaining tea plantation. The guide provides detailed insights about the volcanic activity shaping the landscape and the legend behind the lakes, which makes for a richer experience. Visitors also enjoy the opportunity to walk among fumaroles and hot springs, and to taste local tea.
This tour is highly recommended for those who want a rundown of São Miguel’s geothermal activity and volcanic scenery in a relatively short time. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge, especially Diogo, for going out of his way to make the trip memorable—even in bad weather.
Bottom line: If you want an in-depth, well-rounded tour with a knowledgeable guide, this is a great choice. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in geology and local culture.
3. Ponta Delgada: Shore Excursion, Sete Cidades, Blue & Green Lake
For around $56.68, this three to four-hour trip offers a focused visit to Sete Cidades, one of the Azores’ most famous sights, with a few additional stops. It’s ideal if your cruise schedule is tight but you still want to see the classic volcanic crater lakes. The tour includes a visit to the pineapple plantations of Santo Antonio, a viewpoint called Vista do Rei, and the charming parish of Sete Cidades itself, where you can enjoy a coffee or explore the church.
What sets this tour apart is its flexible timing—it’s scheduled to match your ship’s disembarkation—and the opportunity to experience the legend of the lakes’ origins. Guests frequently comment on the enthusiasm of the guides like Andrea and Joao, who make the trip engaging and informative. The scenic views from Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, overlooking cliffs and islets, add a special touch to this quick but rich experience.
While it’s shorter than the others, it still covers significant highlights, making it perfect for travelers who want a taste of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty without a long day.
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for those on a tight schedule who want a well-organized and scenic overview of Sete Cidades and surrounding highlights.
How to Choose the Best Shore Excursion in Sao Miguel
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend ashore. The Sete Cidades, Furnas or Lagoa do Fogo tour provides flexibility and is great for casual explorers or first-timers. If you’re interested in geology, geothermal activity, and detailed local insights, the Furnas Volcano tour is well worth the higher price. Meanwhile, the shorter Sete Cidades tour suits travelers with limited time who still want to see the iconic crater lakes.
Think about your preferred pace: do you want to relax and take your time, or see a few highlights quickly? Also, check your cruise itinerary to pick a tour that fits comfortably within your schedule. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours with high ratings.
Final Thoughts
Sao Miguel offers a fantastic mix of volcanic landscapes, lakes, hot springs, and charming villages. The set of three top tours provides options for different priorities—whether you want a quick overview, an in-depth geothermal experience, or a flexible personal trip. For those seeking the best value, the Sete Cidades, Furnas or Lagoa do Fogo excursion is a budget-friendly choice. If you’re after a comprehensive day with detailed insights, the Seven Cities & Furnas Volcano tour stands out. And for shorter schedules, the Sete Cidades half-day trip delivers iconic sights in a compact package.
Whatever your choice, booking your tour early ensures you’ll secure a spot on these popular excursions—so start planning now and get ready for a memorable day exploring the volcanic marvels of Sao Miguel.
