2 Days Private Tour in São Miguel

Exploring the 2 Days Private Tour in São Miguel: Is It Worth Your Time?

If you’re considering a trip to São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, you’ll likely want a way to see as much of its highlights as possible—and doing so with a private guide sounds like a good option. This 2-day private tour promises a tailored experience, focusing on the island’s most iconic sights, from geothermal wonders to breathtaking lakes. Based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it seems like a solid choice for travelers who want comfort, flexibility, and local insights all wrapped into one.

What we really love about this tour? First, the personalized approach means you can tweak the itinerary to fit your interests—no need to stick rigidly to a group schedule. Second, the expert guides and driver combo helps make the experience smoother and more informative. However, one thing to keep in mind is the extra costs for entrance tickets and meals, which aren’t included in the price. If you’re someone who values a carefully curated, flexible adventure, this might be just what you’re looking for.

That said, this tour is best suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of driving and want a rundown of the island without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s less ideal if you’re focusing on budget travel or if you prefer very active, outdoorsy excursions with minimal motorized transport. But for those wanting an insightful, comfortable exploration of São Miguel’s highlights, this private tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Flexibility is a highlight; you can customize the itinerary based on your preferences.
• Expert guides and a driver team ensure a comfortable, informed experience.
• The tour covers both West and East sides of São Miguel, including major natural attractions.
• Entrance fees for parks and hot springs are extra, typically around 8-10 euros.
• The vehicle is a comfortable 9-seater van with A/C and free Wi-Fi, fitting groups up to 7 people.
• The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5-star from 4 reviews, reflecting strong customer satisfaction.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the West Side

The tour kicks off with a visit to Ferraria, a geothermal hot spring where you can swim in natural thermal waters right by the ocean. Imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters with waves crashing nearby—that’s what makes Ferraria stand out. The admission is free, so here, the focus is on enjoying the natural spectacle and thermal relief rather than spending extra.

Next, you’ll head to Vista do Rei Miradouro for a panoramic view of the Sete Cidades lakes—famous for their striking colors, green and blue. From this lookout, the vast volcanic crater feels almost tangible, and the scenery is often cited as breathtaking. It’s a popular spot for photos, but the real treat is the sense of scale and the contrast of colors.

Then, the tour takes you down into the Sete Cidades village for lunch and a wander. This is a wonderful chance to get a feel for local life, enjoy some fresh air, and perhaps sample regional dishes. The area is peaceful, and many reviews mention the charm of the village and the beauty of the lakes nearby.

Later, the route takes you to Lagoa do Fogo, a high-altitude crater lake that feels like standing on top of the world. The viewpoints like Bela Vista and Pico da Barrosa give sweeping views of this pristine water body—perfect for nature lovers. It’s one of the island’s most iconic spots, often praised in reviews for its impressive scenery.

Finally, you’ll visit Centro de Interpretacao Ambiental Caldeira Velha for a quick look at volcanic activity and thermal springs, with an optional dip. The surroundings are lush and jungle-like, creating a peaceful, almost primordial atmosphere. Entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to take a dip.

Day 2: The East Side Wonders

Day two starts with a visit to the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, the oldest tea plantation in Europe. Here, you’ll see tea being grown and processed, and you can taste different varieties. It’s a peaceful spot, and many visitors appreciate the opportunity to learn about local agriculture and sample fresh teas.

Next, the Miradouro Pico Do Fero offers stunning views of Lake of Furnas—a volcanic caldera filled with hot springs and fumaroles. The scenery here is dramatic, and the vantage point provides a sense of the island’s volcanic power.

The tour continues with a visit to Caldeira das Furnas, where you can see the geothermal activity up close—fumaroles, bubbling waters, and the famous “cozido” cooking underground. Many reviews mention the fascinating geothermal phenomena and the chance to try this traditional dish, cooked by volcanic heat.

A traditional lunch follows in Furnas, with Cozido served in local restaurants. The dish is hearty and embodies the island’s geothermal cooking heritage—slow-cooked meats and vegetables in a large pot underground. It’s a definite highlight for food lovers, and many rave about the experience.

Later, you’ll stroll through Parque Terra Nostra, a lush botanical garden with a geothermal swimming pool. The park’s romantic atmosphere and exotic plants make it a favorite among visitors. Keep in mind, entry isn’t included, but the opportunity to soak in warm waters amidst beautiful scenery is often praised.

Finally, the Nossa Senhora da Paz Sanctuary offers a peaceful end to your day with views over Vila Franca do Campo, once the island’s capital. It’s a tranquil spot and perfect for reflection after a busy day.

Why This Tour Stands Out

One of the most celebrated aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guides—Marica and Filipe are often singled out for their warmth, flexibility, and local expertise. Reviewers mention that the guides made them feel like friends rather than just travelers, and their suggestions helped customize the experience.

The scenic vistas on both days are truly impressive. From crater lakes and volcanoes to geothermal parks, this tour offers a diverse look at the island’s natural beauty. Many mention how the views exceeded expectations, with some calling the guides the “best tour guides in Azores/Portugal.”

The flexibility of the itinerary is a real advantage. If you have particular places you want to see or skip others, the guides seem happy to accommodate. This personalized touch is rare in group tours and adds to the overall value.

Practical Considerations and Cost

The total price is around $810.32 for a group of up to 7, which breaks down to roughly $115 per person if you’re a full group. Considering that the tour covers both sides of the island with a private driver and guide, it’s quite reasonable, especially since you avoid the hassle of planning and coordinating multiple bookings.

Keep in mind, entrance fees for parks and hot springs are not included, typically costing between 8-10 euros. The tour’s flexibility means you can choose whether to indulge in the baths or skip them depending on your budget and interests.

Lunch and personal expenses are also separate, but many find it worthwhile to enjoy local cuisine, especially the famous cozido in Furnas.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for travelers who want an easy, curated experience. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a small group or family, and you value guides who are knowledgeable and willing to customize your day. If you dislike rigid schedules and prefer a more relaxed, flexible approach to sightseeing, this tour will likely suit you well.

However, if budget is a concern, or if you’re looking for a more active, less transport-focused experience, you might find cheaper or different options. It’s also worth noting that the tour is well-reviewed, with visitors consistently praising the guides and the scenery.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private tour in São Miguel offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and local flavor—all within a flexible, personalized framework. The combination of expert guides and scenic stops makes it a compelling choice for those who want to get a comprehensive snapshot of the island without feeling rushed or confined to a rigid schedule.

If you’re after a relaxed, insightful experience that covers the highlights and some hidden gems, this tour delivers. The small-group size, private vehicle, and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable way to explore and learn about São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes and cultural treasures.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who value quality over quantity and appreciate the benefits of flexibility and expert insights. It’s a good fit for families, couples, or small groups eager to make the most of their short stay on the island.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.
What’s included in the price? The tour includes transportation in an A/C van, Wi-Fi, and a driver-guide team.
Are entrance fees included? No, entrance tickets for parks and hot springs cost around 8-10 euros extra.
Can I customize the itinerary? Yes, the tour is flexible, and guides are happy to adapt based on your interests.
How long does each day last? Both days are approximately full days, with stops and sightseeing fitting into around 9 AM to 6 PM.
Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of options along the way, especially in Furnas.
Is it suitable for children? The tour is family-friendly, especially with child seats available, but it’s mainly a scenic, relaxed drive.
What is the vehicle like? It’s a 9-seater van with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, comfortable for small groups.
Do I need to book in advance? Yes, travelers book about 63 days ahead on average, reflecting high demand and popularity.
What if the weather is bad? The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

If you’re craving a relaxed, scenic, and expertly guided exploration of São Miguel, this tour checks many boxes. It may not be the cheapest option out there, but the value of comfort, flexibility, and insider knowledge makes it worthwhile for most travelers seeking a memorable Azores experience.