From Ponta Delgada: Sete Cidades Lakes & Fire Lake Day Tour

Traveling to the Azores and looking for an experience that combines stunning landscapes, iconic lakes, and breathtaking viewpoints? This private tour from Ponta Delgada offers a comprehensive look at some of São Miguel’s most famous natural sights. While we haven’t done the tour ourselves, we’ve gathered all the details to help you decide whether it’s right for your trip.

What immediately catches the eye are two main highlights: the chance to see the world-famous Sete Cidades Lakes, one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, and the visit to the lush Fire Lake in its natural reserve. Both promise picture-perfect moments and memorable scenery.

However, given the full itinerary packed into about 8 hours, it’s quite a busy day. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has limited mobility, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re eager to see a broad swath of São Miguel’s highlights in one day, this tour hits all the major points.

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded, guided look at the island’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and enjoy learning about the landscape from a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major scenic viewpoints, lakes, waterfalls, and a thermal park.
• Private group: Personalized experience with a guide/driver, making it easier to customize or ask questions.
• All-inclusive transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving logistical headaches.
• Nature-focused: Highlights include Sete Cidades, Fire Lake, Caldeira Velha, and Pico da Barrosa.
• Cost: $324 for up to 4 people, offering good value for a private day trip.
• Duration: Around 8 hours, with starting times subject to availability—be prepared for a full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting the Day: Pick-up and Early Stops

The day begins early, with pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Ponta Delgada. This is convenient, especially if you’re staying centrally. The driver, who also acts as your guide, will be holding a sign with your name—no worries about confusion there.

Soon after, the tour takes you to Ponta da Ferraria, known for its natural hot pools and volcanic activity. Although optional, it’s a fantastic way to start the day soaking in warm waters while taking in the rugged coastline. If you’re a fan of geothermal activity, this spot adds a unique touch to your morning.

Next, the route heads to Ponta do Escalvado, the westernmost tip of São Miguel. The views here are dramatic, with cliffs plunging into the Atlantic. It’s a spot that lends itself well to photos and gives a sense of the island’s wild, windswept beauty.

The Heart of the Day: Sete Cidades

A major highlight is Sete Cidades village, where you’ll get a good look at the twin lakes beneath the volcanic caldera. The Vista do Rei (King’s View) viewpoint offers a panoramic shot of both the blue and green lakes, one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders. Travelers often find this view mesmerizing, and it’s easy to see why.

From there, the tour includes stops at Sao Tiago Lake and the Grota do Inferno viewpoint. The latter is renowned as a very popular spot for views of the lakes, offering a dramatic perspective that makes the lakes appear even more expansive. Reviewers mention that the views from Grota do Inferno are truly special, with one traveler noting, “we passed a day fantastic thanks to the guide’s attentiveness.”

Midday Breaks and Cultural Stops

You’ll get a chance to stroll around Sete Cidades village, potentially enjoying some local snacks or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. For lunch, there’s an opportunity to visit Ribeira Grande’s main square, where you can taste local liquors, try some Azorean chocolate, or relax at Santa Barbara surf beach.

This flexibility is nice; the tour doesn’t include lunch but allows you to choose what appeals most. Keep in mind, the cost of food and entrance fees aren’t included, so bring some cash and plan accordingly.

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Nature and Thermal Baths

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to Caldeira Velha Park, famous for its warm waterfall, thermal baths, and hot springs. The natural thermal waters provide a soothing contrast to the morning’s sightseeing, and the lush surroundings make it a peaceful spot. Alternatively, some might opt for Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande or visit the Salto do Cabrito waterfall if they prefer waterfalls over thermal pools.

Reviews highlight this as a favorite stop—”warm waterfall and hot thermal pool” are part of what makes this day memorable. It’s a relaxing interlude amid a busy schedule.

The Viewpoints of Fire Lake and Pico da Barrosa

As the day winds down, you’ll visit Fire Lake, situated at 755 meters elevation, with commanding views of the volcanic crater and lake below. The scenery here is often described as stunning, with the water’s emerald hue contrasting beautifully with the volcanic landscape.

The Pico da Barrosa viewpoint, at over 3,100 feet high, offers a panoramic vista of São Miguel Island, including Fire Lake and the surrounding volcanic terrain. It’s a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Final Stop: Pineapple Plantation

Before returning, the tour visits a Pineapple Plantation, a fun and educational stop to learn about how these tropical plants thrive on the volcanic soil of São Miguel. It’s a quirky, memorable ending to your day of exploration.

Returning to Ponta Delgada

The tour wraps up around 5 to 6 pm, with drop-off at your accommodation, completing a full day of sightseeing. Given the packed schedule, you’ll likely be tired but enriched by the experience.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $324 for a group of up to four, the cost might seem high at first glance. But considering this is a private, all-inclusive day trip with a guide bringing you around the island, it offers good value. You won’t have to worry about transportation, navigation, or missing key spots—everything’s streamlined and curated.

Travelers have praised the attention to detail and the friendly, attentive guide. One reviewer said, “the guide was very attentive, and we passed a fantastic day,” which underscores the value of having local insights and a flexible schedule.

Practical Considerations

• The tour is not suitable for cruise ship guests, likely due to timing or logistics.
• Be prepared for a full day—wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and dress weather-appropriate.
• The schedule includes several viewpoints, natural parks, and waterfalls, so flexibility and patience will help you enjoy each stop fully.
• The lunch and entrance fees are not included, so budget extra for food and admission costs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who want to maximize their time on São Miguel without the stress of planning individual stops. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those eager to see the island’s most iconic sights in one go.

If you prefer a relaxed pace or travel with young children, this may be a bit intense, given the full schedule. But if you’re up for a day of adventure and sightseeing, the experience offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Final Thoughts

Taking this private tour from Ponta Delgada is a fantastic way to see some of the best sights São Miguel has to offer—Sete Cidades Lakes, Fire Lake, waterfalls, viewpoints, and thermal baths. While it’s a busy day, the personalized guide, private transport, and carefully curated stops make it a convenient and memorable choice.

You’ll love the diverse landscapes, the variety of viewpoints, and the chance to enjoy thermal waters amidst lush surroundings. It’s a full, engaging day that captures the essence of São Miguel’s natural beauty.

However, remember it’s a full schedule, so come prepared for a lot of walking, photo stops, and scenic overlooks. If that sounds appealing, this tour can be an excellent way to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves several viewpoints and outdoor stops, it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. It’s best to check with the provider for specific accessibility options.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the full-day private tour, transportation, guide/driver, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and tour insurance. Lunch and entrance fees are not included.

Can I customize the stops on this tour?
As a private experience, it offers some flexibility, but the route and stops are generally fixed to ensure all key sights are covered.

Is it worth the price?
Considering the private setting, transportation, and guide, many find it good value—especially since it covers many highlights in one day. Reviews praise the guide’s attentiveness and the quality of the sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, a towel if you plan to swim, cash, and possibly a wetsuit if you’re inclined to try the hot springs.

How long are the stops?
Most stops are brief but enough to take photos and enjoy the scenery. You’ll spend roughly 8 hours in total, with some longer breaks for viewpoints and lunch.

Is food included?
No, but there’s a stop where you can purchase local food, or you can bring snacks and drinks.

If you’re ready for a full day of discovery and want to see São Miguel’s key highlights without the hassle, this private tour from Ponta Delgada might just be the trip’s highlight.

You can check availability for your dates here: