2-Day Tour of São Miguel: Landscape, Volcanoes and Lakes

The 2-Day Tour of São Miguel promises to unveil the island’s captivating natural wonders. Travelers will explore the volcanic landscapes, pristine lakes, and lush tea plantations that have made this Azorean destination a must-visit. From the dramatic Lagoa das Sete Cidades to the serene Lagoa do Fogo, the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel’s geological and ecological marvels. Visitors will also savor the local culinary delights and unwind in the island’s renowned geothermal hot springs. With a flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides the perfect opportunity to take in the island’s unique charm. Where else can one witness such a remarkable fusion of volcanic forces and tranquil beauty?

This experience made our list of the 2 Best 2 Day Tours In Sao Miguel.

Key Points

• Explore the volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and cultural heritage sites of the East Side, including the Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Caldeira Velha.
• Discover the geological wonders of the island, such as the Lagoa do Fogo, Ribeira Funda, and the Furnas Valley with its fumaroles and hot springs.
• Visit a local pineapple plantation to witness the production process and taste fresh pineapple and pineapple-infused products.
• Relax in the island’s therapeutic thermal baths, surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning natural scenery.
• Traverse the West Side to see the Sete Cidades volcanic crater, a pineapple plantation, and the picturesque coastal village of Mosteiros.

Explore the East Side

The East Side tour on this 2-day Sao Miguel exploration showcases the island’s stunning volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and cultural heritage sites.

Travelers will witness the dramatic scenery of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, two vibrant blue and green lakes nestled in the crater of an ancient volcano.

Next, they’ll visit the lush tea plantations of Gorreana and Porto Formoso, learning about the history and production of Sao Miguel’s famous teas.

The tour also includes a stop at the iconic Caldeira Velha, a geothermal waterfall where visitors can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters.

Throughout the day, the knowledgeable local guide shares insights into the island’s unique geology, ecology, and cultural traditions.

Discover Volcanic Landscapes

Dramatic volcanic landscapes dominate much of Sao Miguel’s eastern region, sculpting the island’s rugged terrain and shaping its unique geologic features. Visitors are captivated by the sheer power and majesty of these natural wonders, from the fuming calderas of dormant volcanoes to the striking lunar-like craters and lush green lakes that dot the landscape.

Exploring these volcanic landscapes offers a profound connection to the Earth’s dynamism and a heightened appreciation for the island’s geological history. Key highlights include:

• The Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning emerald-green lake nestled within a volcanic crater
• The Ribeira Funda, a dramatic gorge carved by millennia of volcanic activity
• The volcanic cones of Pico da Vara and Salto do Cavalo, offering panoramic vistas
• The Furnas Valley, home to steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and natural hot springs.

Visit Pineapple Plantation

Beyond the volcanic landscapes, Sao Miguel’s eastern region also offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s thriving pineapple plantations, where they can learn about the cultivation and processing of this iconic fruit.

The tour includes a visit to a local pineapple plantation, where guests can witness the various stages of pineapple production, from planting to harvesting. They’ll also have the opportunity to taste freshly-picked pineapple and sample traditional pineapple-infused teas and liqueurs.

This unique experience provides a glimpse into Sao Miguel’s agricultural heritage and the importance of pineapple cultivation to the island’s economy and culture. Visitors leave with a greater appreciation for this tropical delight and the hard work that goes into bringing it to their table.

Relax in Thermal Baths

After exploring the island’s volcanic landscapes and pineapple plantations, visitors can relax in Sao Miguel’s renowned thermal baths.

These natural hot springs, heated by the island’s volcanic activity, offer a soothing and rejuvenating experience amidst the stunning natural scenery.

Some key features of these thermal baths include:

• Varying water temperatures ranging from warm to piping hot
• Mineral-rich waters with therapeutic properties
• Picturesque settings surrounded by lush vegetation
• Opportunity to soak in the tranquility and beauty of the island

Visitors can choose from a variety of thermal bath complexes, each with its own unique character and amenities, providing the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of adventure on Sao Miguel.

Traverse the West Side

Visitors then embark on a journey through the western side of Sao Miguel, exploring a diverse array of natural wonders and cultural attractions.

The tour takes them to the Sete Cidades volcanic crater, a breathtaking sight with its twin lakes in shades of blue and green.

They’ll visit a pineapple plantation, where they can learn about the island’s centuries-old pineapple cultivation and sample the sweet, juicy fruit.

The day also includes a stop at Mosteiros, a coastal village with a picturesque black sand beach.

Throughout the excursion, the knowledgeable local guide shares captivating stories and insights, bringing the region’s history and geology to life.

This diverse western exploration offers a well-rounded taste of Sao Miguel’s captivating natural beauty.

Gaze Upon Stunning Lakes

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the Sete Cidades volcanic crater, where travelers are greeted by the stunning twin lakes in captivating shades of blue and green.

Formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, the Sete Cidades lakes sit nestled within the caldera, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. Visitors can explore the lakeside trails, admiring the serene waters and the surrounding lush vegetation.

The tour also includes stops at other remarkable lakes, such as:

• Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine crater lake
• Lagoa das Furnas, known for its geothermal activity
• Lagoa do Congro, a picturesque lake in the Furnas valley
• Lagoa do Canario, a hidden gem surrounded by verdant hills

Taste Local Culinary Delights

Along With the stunning lakes, the tour offers opportunities to savor the local culinary delights that Sao Miguel has to offer.

Visitors can experience a visit to a pineapple and tea plantation, where they’ll have the chance to taste the island’s renowned pineapple and locally-grown tea.

Whether opting for the tour with or without lunch, guests can enjoy the flavors of the Azores.

The tour also includes the option to visit thermal baths, adding to the overall experience of exploring the natural wonders and enjoying the local cuisine.

With a 100% local storyteller leading the way, travelers can fully embrace the authentic tastes and traditions of Sao Miguel.

Flexible Cancellation Policy

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience, however, won’t be accepted.

Should the tour be canceled due to poor weather or a failure to meet the minimum number of travelers, the company will promptly offer an alternative date or a full refund. This policy provides peace of mind for travelers, ensuring they can easily adjust their plans if needed without financial penalties.

Key features of the cancellation policy include:

• Ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• No changes accepted within 24 hours of the tour
• Alternatives offered if tour is canceled due to weather or low participation
• Prompt refunds provided when necessary

Recap

The 2-day tour of São Miguel offers a captivating exploration of the island’s diverse natural wonders.

From the dramatic volcanic landscapes and serene lakes to the lush pineapple plantations and rejuvenating thermal baths, this tour showcases the island’s unique geology, ecology, and cultural heritage.

With its flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides an unforgettable and hassle-free experience for travelers seeking to enjoy the beauty of São Miguel.