Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour With Lunch (West Tour)

If you’re planning a trip to São Miguel and love soaking in breathtaking landscapes, this Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the consistently high ratings and glowing reviews suggest it’s a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

What really shines about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with informative guides and a relaxed pace. You’ll get to marvel at volcanic craters, twin lakes, and mountain vistas—all from viewpoints that make it easy to appreciate the island’s natural beauty. Plus, a thoughtfully included lunch at a local restaurant means you won’t need to worry about finding meals on your own while enjoying the views.

One consideration is that, since it’s a full-day adventure, you’ll want to be prepared for a bit of bus time and scenic stops. If you’re seeking a relaxed way to cover multiple highlights without the stress of navigating yourself, this tour really fits the bill. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who love nature, photography, and learning about local landscapes from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience in one day covering São Miguel’s scenic highlights
• Expert guides who share insights about the island’s ecology and geology
• Beautiful viewpoints at Vista do Rei, Mata do Canário, and Pico do Carvão
• Delicious local lunch included, with regional food and drinks
• Small group setting (max 8 people) for a more personalized experience
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at your accommodations in Ponta Delgada

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This full-day guided tour is designed to give you a well-rounded look at São Miguel’s most famous outdoor sights. Starting at 9:00 am from Ponta Delgada, you’ll hop into a minivan with a small group, which makes for a more intimate and less rushed experience. The tour lasts about eight hours, so expect a full day of stops, views, and stories.

The first major stop is Vista do Rei, a viewpoint that offers a sweeping sight of the Sete Cidades crater, famous for its twin lakes—one green, one blue. This spot is a favorite among visitors for its postcard-perfect backdrop. From there, you’ll head down toward the lakes, making several stops to explore different viewpoints and get close to the twin lakes themselves. Many reviews highlight how these views are genuinely mesmerizing and worth the early wake-up.

Next on the agenda is Mata do Canário, a natural park with a viewpoint that provides a different perspective on the landscape—perfect for photography and appreciating the island’s volcanic terrain. From there, you’ll pass along Pico do Carvão, with its smaller lakes, including the Empadas Lakes, offering vistas that reveal the island’s north and south shores.

The tour continues with a well-earned lunch break at a local restaurant. Travelers rave about the generous portions and regional flavors—think fresh fish, local meats, and hearty sides. The meal isn’t just sustenance; it’s part of the experience, coupled with drinks, coffee, or tea, all set against the backdrop of lush surroundings.

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Ribeira Grande, a town with a charming historic center. Walking through its streets gives a glimpse into the region’s past, with architecture from the 17th to 19th centuries. It’s a nice change of pace from the natural scenery and offers some local culture and history.

Finally, the highlight of the afternoon is Pico da Barrosa and Lagoa do Fogo, a volcanic crater lake. The area is a natural park with thermal pools, waterfalls, and endemic plants—an untouched slice of paradise. The views from the mountain are breathtaking, and the peaceful environment is perfect for relaxing and taking photos.

The tour wraps up with a return to Ponta Delgada, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, tired but full of memories of São Miguel’s natural splendor.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Scenic Stops

The tour’s emphasis on viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Pico do Carvão means you’ll get plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. It’s clear from reviews that these vistas are some of the best on the island, and guides are skilled at positioning the group to maximize photo opportunities.

Knowledgeable Guides

Multiple reviews mention guides like Bruno, Carlos, Hugo, and Raphael, who are praised for their wealth of knowledge and friendly demeanor. They share insights into the ecology, geology, and even local culture, making the experience educational as well as scenic. One review highlights how a guide’s passion for sustainability and culture added depth to the tour.

The Lunch Experience

The included lunch is consistently praised, with travelers mentioning the generous portions, regional flavors, and the chance to relax in a local setting. Having a sit-down meal with drinks amid beautiful surroundings adds a nice touch to the day.

Small Group Approach

With a maximum group size of 8, the tour offers a more personal experience. We think this matters because it makes interactions with the guide more meaningful, and it’s easier to ask questions or take photos without feeling rushed or crowded.

Flexibility and Comfort

Pickup at your accommodation in Ponta Delgada, comfortable minivan transportation, and a well-structured itinerary make this a hassle-free way to see some of São Miguel’s best spots without the stress of planning.

The Value for Money

At $87.22 per person, the price seems fair considering the full day of exploring, the included lunch, and the small group size. When you factor in the convenience, expert commentary, and stunning scenery—all on a well-organized route—it’s an attractive option for travelers looking to maximize their time on the island.

Many reviews praise the content and the guide’s storytelling, which adds value beyond just the scenery. One visitor remarked on learning about pineapple cultivation and local crafts, which enriched their understanding of Azorean culture.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While the experience is largely positive, a few travelers mentioned the importance of punctuality and communication—an issue that seems isolated based on the reviews. One review recounted a missed pickup, but the company was quick to refund and address the problem.

Since it is a structured full-day tour, you should expect several scenic stops, which can mean some bus time and limited flexibility to linger at each site. If you’re someone who prefers more free time or to explore on your own, this might feel a bit restrictive.

Lastly, the restaurant where lunch is served can be hot inside, so dress comfortably and bring a water bottle. The natural parks and viewpoints do mean walking or light hiking, so wear appropriate footwear.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of São Miguel’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided commentary, stunning vistas, and cultural insights. It also suits people who enjoy a small group setting for a more intimate experience, and those wanting a full day of sightseeing and good local food.

While families could enjoy it, keep in mind the driving and walking involved—it’s suited for those comfortable with a full, active day. Solo travelers and couples looking for a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and local cuisine will find it especially appealing.

FAQ About the Tour

Is pickup available at my hotel?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your accommodations in Ponta Delgada, making it very convenient.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in a small minivan, a guided experience, and a full lunch with drinks and dessert.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 passengers, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it can work for families, keep in mind the full day of travel and walks involved. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy day of sightseeing.

What are the major sights visited?
Highlights include Vista do Rei, twin lakes in Sete Cidades, Mata do Canário, Pico do Carvão, Ribeira Grande, and Lagoa do Fogo.

Can I expect good views and photo opportunities?
Absolutely. The viewpoints are some of the best spots for photography on the island, and guides are good at positioning groups for photos.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, multiple reviews praise guides for their friendliness and extensive knowledge about the island’s ecology, geology, and culture.

What is the meal like?
The lunch is a hearty regional meal served at a local restaurant, with drinks, coffee or tea, and desserts.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather, but if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized day of exploring São Miguel’s most beloved landscapes, this tour delivers. It strikes a sweet balance between scenic beauty, cultural insight, and convenience, making it a strong choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without the stress of planning each detail.

The small group size, expert guides, and inclusive lunch add to the overall value, especially if you enjoy learning about local ecology and history while taking in jaw-dropping views. Just be sure to pack comfortable shoes, a camera, and an open mind for a day full of discovery on this beautiful island.

Whether you’re new to São Miguel or returning for another visit, this tour offers a comprehensive, scenic, and thoughtful way to experience the best the west side of the island has to offer.