Private Tour – All of the West & Sete Cidades Volcano

If you’re considering a guided tour of São Miguel’s western highlights, this private trip covering the West & Sete Cidades Volcano offers a focused way to see the island’s most iconic sights. With a mix of stunning lakes, dramatic coastlines, and natural thermal pools, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the personalized approach—being with a private guide means you get tailored attention and can often choose how long to linger at each stop. Also, the diverse stops—from the famous lakes to the dark volcanic beaches—make it clear this isn’t a cookie-cutter experience. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is about five hours long, so if you’re craving a deep dive into detailed history or extensive walking, you might find it somewhat limited.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of the west side of São Miguel in a relaxed, private setting. Whether you’re short on time or prefer avoiding large groups, the personal touch makes this a solid choice—especially if stunning views and local insights are your priority.

Key Points

• Private guide ensures a tailored experience and flexibility in stops.
• Stunning natural sights like Sete Cidades lakes and volcanic coastlines.
• Includes thermal pools and volcanic beaches, perfect for relaxation.
• Affordable for the value, given the diverse locations and personalized service.
• Highly praised guides who are knowledgeable and accommodating.
• Booking well in advance (around 2 months) helps secure your spot during busy seasons.

Discovering São Miguel’s West & Sete Cidades Volcano

Embarking on this private tour feels like having a knowledgeable friend show you around the beautiful west of São Miguel. It’s an efficient way to see many highlights in about five hours, with the comfort of a private guide who can adjust your itinerary based on your interests.

Why Choose This Tour?

For travelers wanting a personalized experience, this tour shines. Being a private outing means you avoid the crowds and can spend more time at your favorite spots. And, with the tour’s excellent reviews praising guides like Rita and Carlos, you can expect friendly, informed commentary that adds depth to your sightseeing.

The price point, roughly $137.57 per person, strikes a good balance considering the number of stops and the inclusion of pickup and admission to the Ferraria thermal pools. For the cost, you’re getting a well-organized, diverse itinerary that hits many of the island’s most photogenic and interesting sites.

What’s Included and How It Works

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am, with pickup from your location, making it convenient and hassle-free. You’ll visit several scenic viewpoints, which are all free to access—no extra charges there. The itinerary is designed to maximize views and experiences, with stops at:

• Miradouro da Boca do Inferno: the island’s most famous viewpoint, offering dramatic cliffside vistas.
• Lagoa do Canario: a short stop to admire lush scenery.
• Vista do Rei: the classic postcard view over Sete Cidades lakes with the old hotel ruins in the background.
• Lagoa de Santiago: a peaceful spot for photographs.
• Sete Cidades Lakes: inside the volcanic crater, this stop is a highlight—expect stunning water colors and panoramic views.
• Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado: sweeping cliff views over the coastline.
• Mosteiros: volcanic black sand beach and natural pools—perfect for summer swimming if the ocean’s conditions allow.
• Ferraria: a unique hot spring in the ocean, great for a soak (subject to tide and ocean conditions).

The Stops: A Closer Look

Miradouro da Boca do Inferno is easily the most iconic viewpoint—if you love breathtaking cliffside panoramas, this is worth the early walk. Many reviews mention that this spot sets the tone for the whole day, with some describing it as “jaw-dropping.”

Lagoa do Canario offers a quick breather with picturesque views of the lush crater lake, while Vista do Rei is arguably the most popular viewpoint for its panoramic scope, with old hotel ruins adding a touch of history to the scene. Having lived on the island, Rita’s personal insights here can really enhance your appreciation of the landscape.

Lagoa de Santiago remains a peaceful, less crowded stop, ideal for those wanting a more tranquil scene. The Lagoa Verde / Lagoa das Sete Cidades stop is the star of the show, where you’ll peer into the crater lakes that are often called the “Swiss Alps of the Azores.” The lakes’ contrasting colors and their volcanic surroundings make for postcard-worthy photos.

Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado offers a dramatic cliffside perspective of the Atlantic—something that will stay with you long after the tour ends.

Mosteiros, with its black volcanic sand, is a favorite among reviewers, especially during summer when swimming is possible. Many describe the natural pools as “beautiful” and “refreshing,” and note that the area feels like a true hidden gem.

Ferraria, with its natural hot springs, is often the tour’s highlight—especially for those who enjoy relaxing in thermal waters. The experience here depends on ocean tides, so flexibility is key.

The Guide Experience and Personal Touch

Authentic guides like Rita and Carlos get glowing reviews, with many travelers describing them as “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “accommodating.” Having a local who lives on the island means they can share insights you wouldn’t find in a guidebook—stories about daily life, hidden viewpoints, or tips for local eateries.

One review mentions how Rita persevered with the weather, showing her dedication to making sure visitors experience the best the island has to offer. This kind of flexibility and genuine care enhances the value of a private tour.

Accessibility & Timing

The tour is designed to suit most travelers, with most participants able to join. The 9:30 am start time helps beat the crowds and allows for a relaxed pace. With around five hours of activity, it’s a good balance—long enough to see many highlights but not so long that it becomes tiring.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusion of transportation, the private guide, and free access to viewpoints and the Ferraria pools, the tour offers solid value. It’s not the cheapest option, but the personalized experience, the flexibility, and the quality guides make it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates personalized service, enjoys stunning scenery, and wants a well-organized day without the hassle of planning every stop, this tour stands out. It’s especially great for those who value local insights and want to see the best of São Miguel’s west side in a manageable timeframe.

The mix of natural beauty, cooling lakes, volcanic beaches, and thermal pools make it an appealing choice for outdoor lovers and those who simply want to relax in nature’s hot springs. The highly praised guides ensure you’ll learn about the island’s geology and culture, making the experience richer.

However, if you’re after a deep historical tour, or prefer more extensive walking or cultural stops, this might feel a bit limited since the focus is mainly on scenic spots with minimal walking and background info.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:30 am, with plenty of time to explore each site comfortably.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it very convenient to start your day without worrying about logistics.

What are the main stops?
Highlights include Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, Lagoa do Canario, Vista do Rei, Lagoa de Santiago, the Sete Cidades lakes, Ponta do Escalvado, Mosteiros, and Ferraria.

Can I swim in the pools?
Yes, during summer, you can swim in the volcanic beaches and thermal pools, weather permitting.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While most travelers can participate, the tour’s focus on scenic viewpoints and short walks suggests it’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate pace and outdoor activities.

What’s the cost?
At $137.57 per person, it’s a good value considering the private service and diverse stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, which provides some flexibility.

Do guides share local stories and insights?
Absolutely. Guides like Rita and Carlos are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience more meaningful.

Is advance booking necessary?
Most travelers book about 2 months in advance, especially in peak season, to secure their spot.

Final Words

This tour offers a carefully curated snapshot of São Miguel’s stunning west side. It balances sightseeing, relaxation, and local insights in a way that makes the most of your limited time. The personal approach of a private guide, combined with spectacular vistas and natural pools, makes it a standout option for travelers who want to experience the island’s top sights without the fuss.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, scenic, and flexible day with knowledgeable guides, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to feel the volcanic power of the island firsthand, see its most iconic lakes, and unwind in thermal waters—all within a manageable, enjoyable itinerary.