Guided tour of Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo, lunch included

If you’re planning a trip to the Azores and want a thorough introduction to some of the island’s most iconic sights, this guided tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo might be just what you need. It promises a full day of scenic vistas, cultural stops, and a delicious included lunch — all within a manageable 8 to 9 hours.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines nature with local culture, giving you a taste of what makes São Miguel so special. The tour’s focus on two of the island’s crown jewels—Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo—means you’ll get ample chances to enjoy breathtaking views and learn about their stories from knowledgeable guides. Plus, the included lunch and tasting at a local liquor factory make this feel like a complete, well-rounded day out.

A potential consideration is that, with only 8 travelers at most, the group is small but intimate, which is great for personal attention. However, some reviews indicate that the itinerary isn’t always followed exactly as planned, which could be frustrating if specific stops are high on your list. Also, the tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light walking, and cultural insight, rather than strict schedules or intense physical activity.

This tour strikes a good balance for travelers who want a scenic, educational, and relaxed day exploring São Miguel’s most renowned sights. It’s ideal for those who value comfort, local flavor, and a bit of adventure in their sightseeing.

• Small Group Experience: Max 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Diverse Stops: From beaches and viewpoints to a liquor factory and thermal waters, the tour offers a well-rounded taste of São Miguel.
• Stunning Vistas: Expect breathtaking viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado.
• Included Lunch: A three-course meal with drinks, plus water, adds value and makes the day more enjoyable.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
• Expert Guide: Many reviews mention knowledgeable guides, especially praising Carla’s enthusiasm and insights.

First Stop: Ribeira Grande and Santa Barbara Beach

The day kicks off with a visit to Ribeira Grande, a charming historic town. This stop is a quick 40-minute walk around the town center and nearby Santa Barbara Beach. Though brief, it’s a great way to stretch your legs, soak in some local architecture, and see the seaside vibe of the island. Visitors often mention the free admission making it a relaxed start to the day.

Visiting Mulher de Capote Liquor Factory

Next, you’ll get a taste of local tradition at the Mulher de Capote liquor factory. Here, you’ll explore the history of their award-winning maracujá (passion fruit) liquor along with other spirits. The tasting and guided visit last about 35 minutes and are included in the tour. Several reviews highlight how this stop offers a nice flavor of local craftsmanship, with some describing it as a highlight.

Caldeira Velha Thermal Waters

One of the most popular stops is the Centro de Interpretacao Ambiental Caldeira Velha. It’s a stunning spot with a waterfall and thermal baths where you can soak in water between 37 and 39°C (98-102°F). While admission isn’t included, many guests talk about how refreshing and photogenic this place is. If you love natural thermal waters and lush surroundings, this is a highlight — just be aware that you may need to plan separately if you want to soak.

Lagoa do Fogo Views

Then, you ascend to about 750 meters to admire Lagoa do Fogo. This lagoon is known for its clear, pristine waters set at the heart of São Miguel. The view here is truly spectacular — photos just don’t do it justice. The 30-minute stop allows you to take in the scenery, perfect for photos or a quiet moment of reflection.

Pineapple Greenhouses and Pico Carvão Viewpoint

Next, a quick visit to Ananás Santo António offers insight into local pineapple farming. The guided tour of the greenhouses and a short video offer a glimpse into this unique agricultural tradition. It’s a short stop but often appreciated for its authenticity and the chance to see the island’s modern agriculture.

Following this, the Pico Carvão viewpoint at 600 meters elevation gives sweeping views of the north coast. It’s a brief 15-minute stop, but many reviewers mention how it’s worth every minute for the scenic overlook.

Vista do Rei and Cerrado das Freiras Viewpoints

Two of the most iconic viewpoints, Vista do Rei and Cerrado das Freiras, show off Lagoa das Sete Cidades from different angles. The first, with its famous view that even inspired royalty, offers a chance to see the twin lakes and the expansive caldera. The second, Cerrado das Freiras, provides a closer look at the lakes and the surrounding landscape, described as a visual treat.

Lagoa das Sete Cidades

The centerpiece of the day, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, is a sprawling volcanic crater filled with twin lakes of contrasting colors—green and blue—divided by a shallow channel. The lore surrounding its origin and the natural beauty make this a must-see. The stop here lasts about 30 minutes, enough to admire the landscape and snap plenty of photos. Many reviewers mention that the view is breathtaking and the perfect highlight of the trip.

Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado and Serra de Água de Pau

For more panoramic views, the Ponta do Escalvado viewpoint offers a glimpse of Ferraria and the coast, on clear days even seeing other islands like Terceira and Pico. Then, a higher vantage at the Miradouro da Barrosa atop Serra de Água de Pao provides a sweeping panorama of the entire island — a bird’s eye view that’s hard to beat.

Lunch in Lagoa

After a morning packed with sightseeing, lunch is served in Lagoa city itself. The included three-course meal features starters, a main, desserts, coffee, and drinks, making it a true feast that balances local flavors with comfort. Guests often praise the variety and quality of the meal, considering it good value for the overall experience.

Final Stop: Reflection and Departure

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Lagoa viewpoint, giving travelers a last chance to enjoy sweeping views of the coast before heading back. The drop-off is seamless, completing a day full of memorable sights and experiences.

Many travelers praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, especially highlighting Carla’s friendliness and depth of insight. Comments like “Carla was just great and very informative” and “she did her best to beat the fog” show how much a good guide can enhance the experience.

Viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado often get high marks for their scenery, with guests describing them as “breathtaking” or “spectacular.” The included lunch receives consistent praise, with many saying it’s a lovely way to enjoy local cuisine after a morning of sightseeing.

However, some reviews mention that the itinerary isn’t always strictly followed — notably, some travelers didn’t get to do the liquor tasting or certain stops. One reviewer humorously pointed out that, with a small group, guides need to manage language and questions from multiple travelers, which can sometimes lead to a change in plans. Still, the overall consensus is that the tour offers a good mix of sights and experiences.

The tour costs around $95.61 per person, which, considering the included meals, multiple viewpoints, and guided insights, is quite reasonable. The group size is capped at 8, ensuring you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of interaction with your guide. The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am, with pick-up and drop-off included, making logistics simple.

You’ll want to dress comfortably, especially for the viewpoints and outdoor stops. The tour offers pickup from your hotel or meeting points, so your transportation is taken care of, and the air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day more comfortable.

The only extra costs are for optional entries, like the Caldeira Velha thermal waters or the old caldera park, which cost around 10 euros. If those are of interest, you might want to budget separately.

This guided tour offers a well-rounded way to experience São Miguel’s natural beauty, cultural highlights, and panoramic views. It’s excellent for travelers who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of organizing multiple stops themselves, and who appreciate the insight of a knowledgeable guide. The small group size enhances the intimacy, making it feel more like a day with friends than a large bus tour.

The inclusion of a hearty lunch and local liquor tasting adds to the overall value, making it more than just a sightseeing trip but an immersion into local life and scenery. While some may wish for a more rigid adherence to the itinerary, the flexibility can also be a plus, allowing the guide to tailor the day to weather conditions and group interests.

If you’re after stunning viewpoints and a taste of local culture, this tour is likely to satisfy. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, beautiful landscapes, and stories behind the sights.

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, and you’ll ride in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, a three-course lunch with drinks, coffee, and desserts is included in the price.

Can I visit Caldeira Velha thermal waters?
The stop is part of the itinerary, but admission isn’t included, and it lasts about 2 hours. It’s a popular spot but may require separate entry fee.

What are the main highlights?
Expect viewpoints like Vista do Rei, Lagoa do Fogo, the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, plus cultural visits like the liquor factory and pineapple greenhouses.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While the tour is generally appropriate for most travelers, it involves quite a bit of outdoor walking and viewpoints, so consider the comfort of children or elderly travelers.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or fog, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and good value. Whether you’re visiting São Miguel for the first time or want a curated look at its most famous sites, it’s a solid choice to make your day memorable.