Full-Day Jeep Tour: Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo

Traveling to São Miguel in the Azores and craving a way to see some of the island’s most stunning sights? This full-day Jeep tour covering Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo promises a memorable adventure. From breathtaking lakes to hidden viewpoints, it’s an experience that takes you off the typical tourist trail and into some of the most beautiful corners of the island.

What caught our eye? First, the accessibility of places unreachable by public transport—meaning you’ll really get to explore the island’s less-visited spots. Second, the inclusion of a delicious local lunch adds a warm, authentic touch to the day. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the moderate physical activity involved—some walking is part of the experience, so it’s not ideal if you’re planning a super leisurely day. But overall, this tour feels best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided look at São Miguel’s natural beauty with a dash of local flavor.

• Exclusive access to spots you won’t find on your own, thanks to the jeep’s off-road capabilities
• Breathtaking lakes and viewpoints that make for incredible photos and memorable moments
• Knowledgeable guides who share stories and history, making the day more meaningful
• Delicious local lunch included, giving a taste of Azorean cuisine
• Small group size (max 12) for a more personalized experience
• Pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics

This tour is a solid pick for anyone wanting to see São Miguel’s most striking landscapes in one day, without the hassle of organizing transport or worrying about navigation. It’s especially great for those who appreciate a guided experience where someone else handles the driving—and the planning.

The tour lasts about seven hours, which is enough time to visit multiple highlights without feeling rushed. Starting at 9:00 am, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation, making it a hassle-free way to begin your day.

Salto do Cabrito Waterfall

Your adventure begins with a visit to the Salto do Cabrito Waterfall. It’s a quick stop—about 20 minutes—where you can admire the cascading waters. The best part? It’s a free attraction that’s easy to access, offering a refreshing start to your day. Here, the focus is on enjoying the natural beauty and snapping some photos of the flowing water surrounded by lush greenery.

Lagoa do Fogo

Next up is the Lagoa do Fogo—one of the largest lakes on the island. You’ll spend around 10 minutes here to appreciate the view, which is truly a sight to behold. This lake, partly hidden within crater walls, is famous for its clear waters and surrounding volcanic scenery. Though brief, this stop provides ample opportunity to soak in the landscape and understand why it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Caldeira das Sete Cidades

The highlight for many is the Caldeira das Sete Cidades, a sprawling volcanic crater filled with twin lakes. You’ll spend about 50 minutes exploring the rim and taking in panoramic views. You’ll find viewpoints that aren’t accessible by regular cars, making the jeep a perfect way to reach hidden spots. The scenery here is jaw-dropping, with vibrant blue and green waters contrasting against volcanic earth.

Igreja de São Nicolau

Your tour continues with a visit to the small parish church of São Nicolau. It’s a brief, 20-minute stop, offering a glimpse into local life and architecture. It’s not a grand site but adds a touch of cultural flavor to your day as you pass through this peaceful spot.

Lunch

One of the tour’s standout features is the included lunch at a local restaurant. Reviewers often rave about the quality of the meal, describing it as “amazing” and highlighting the fresh, regional flavors. It’s a good chance to relax, chat about the morning’s sights, and enjoy some Azorean hospitality.

What truly sets this tour apart is the access to viewpoints and locations that are often off-limits to those traveling independently. The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making the experience more engaging. One reviewer mentioned, “Miguel was the best tour guide! So knowledgeable about São Miguel and Portugal’s land & people.” It’s this personal touch that elevates the day from just sightseeing to a memorable journey.

The Guides and Experience

Most reviews highlight friendly, well-informed guides who know exactly where to take you for the best views and stories. Expect to learn about the island’s volcanic past and local customs, which adds depth to your sightseeing. Magdalena, another guide, was described as “passionate, knowledgeable, and attentive,” showing how dedicated guides make a real difference.

The Vehicle and Comfort

The jeeps are a fun way to travel, especially on rougher terrain. However, a couple of reviewers noted that weather and comfort in the jeep could be less than ideal, especially if it’s rainy or chilly. The group size maxes out at 12, which helps keep the experience intimate but also means you might be sharing the adventure with a small group of fellow travelers.

At $100.99 per person, this tour delivers a lot for the price. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, and a delicious meal, which simplifies planning and adds convenience. Considering the number of sites visited and the personalized attention, it offers good value—especially if you’re keen on seeing diverse landscapes in one day without the logistical headaches.

The payoff is the chance to see multiple lakes, waterfalls, viewpoints, and a taste of local life—all in a well-organized, guided format. For travelers who love nature, photography, or simply want a comprehensive day out, this tour ticks many boxes.

This experience suits adventurous travelers comfortable with moderate walking and curious about learning as they go. It’s ideal if you want to see diverse natural attractions without renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads. If you’re traveling in a small group or with a partner, the intimate size enhances the experience.

While not explicitly designed for families with young children, the moderate activity level and focus on outdoor exploration make it suitable for most ages, provided everyone is comfortable with short walks and some uneven terrain.

If you’re after a well-rounded, guided day exploring some of São Miguel’s most iconic sights, this Jeep tour delivers. The combination of stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and local cuisine makes it a compelling choice. It’s especially suitable for those who want to avoid the hassle of planning and prefer a small-group experience with lots of personal attention.

The tour’s ability to reach places inaccessible by public transport and its carefully curated stops mean you’ll come away with memories—and photos—that capture the true essence of the Azores. The only caveat? Prepare for the possibility of weather-related discomfort in the jeep, but that’s a small trade-off for the incredible views and stories.

In sum, this tour offers a thoughtful, immersive way to experience São Miguel’s natural beauty—perfect for curious travelers eager to go beyond the usual.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious local lunch is part of the package, giving you a chance to enjoy Azorean cuisine.

Are there any additional costs?
Entrance fees to thermal pools and natural parks are not included and cost about 2 euros per person if you choose to visit those areas.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for moderate walking is recommended. Weather can vary, so bring layers and rain gear if needed.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the moderate activity level and scenic stops make it suitable for most adults and older children, provided they’re comfortable with short walks.

Can I request vegetarian food?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at the time of booking.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Many travelers rave about the stunning views of lakes and volcano craters, combined with engaging stories from guides like Miguel and Magdalena.

If you’re looking to truly grasp the beauty of São Miguel with expert guidance and a relaxed pace, this jeep tour offers a well-balanced day that’s sure to leave you with great memories—and plenty of photos.