São Miguel’s Ribeira Grande delivers several standout full-day excursions. I especially love the Green Island Tour – it’s a practical introduction that combines the must-see Pico do Carvão viewpoint with the stunning Blue Lagoon Trail. For adventurous travelers, the rugged Jeep and SUV tours head east, where you’ll discover the historic Gorreana Tea Factory (Europe’s oldest) and impressive volcanic formations. The Nordeste Region Tour is another gem, featuring the charming Faial da Terra village and those photogenic tea plantations.
All tours include solid basics: knowledgeable guides who speak multiple languages, good transportation, and a local lunch stop. Let’s explore the top tour options in detail:
Key Points
- The Green Island Tour is a full-day tour of São Miguel that includes visits to Pico do Carvão, Lagoa do Fogo, and Chá Gorreana Tea Plantation.
- The Jeep Tour Full Day East Highlights offers an 8-hour adventure exploring the eastern part of São Miguel, including off-road excursions and a traditional “Cozido” lunch.
- The Full Day East Tour by SUV provides a guided visit to Monte Escuro, Gorreana Tea Factory, and Lagoa das Furnas, with optional thermal spa visits.
- The Nordeste Region Tour features an 8-hour journey that includes a visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantation and highlights such as Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park.
- All tours offer comfortable transportation, lunch at local restaurants, and multilingual guides to ensure a unique and informative experience.
The Green Island Tour – Full Day Tour Around the Island
Departing from various pickup locations, the Green Island Tour takes visitors on a comprehensive full-day exploration of São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores. Priced from $115.48 per person, this 9-hour tour is available in English and Portuguese for private or small groups.
Guests can expect an itinerary highlighted by key stops like the Pico do Carvão, Vista do Rei Lookout, and the Blue Lagoon Trail in Sete Cidades. The tour also visits the Lagoa do Fogo, Lagoa das Furnas, and the Chá Gorreana Tea Plantation.
Throughout the day, an experienced multilingual guide provides insights into the island’s history, flora, and fauna. Comfortable SUV transportation ensures panoramic views while traveling between sites.
While not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues, the Green Island Tour offers an immersive experience emphasizing local culture, comfort, and safety. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a convenient and flexible way to discover São Miguel’s enchanting landscapes.
Read our full review: The Green Island Tour – Full Day Tour Around the Island Review
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Jeep Tour Full Day East (Geothermia and Furnas)
The Jeep Tour Full Day East (Geothermia and Furnas) offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the eastern region of São Miguel island in the Azores.
This 8-hour adventure, available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, provides an opportunity to discover the island’s volcanic landscapes and cultural highlights. Priced from $94.48 per person, the tour includes off-road excursions, a visit to the Gorreana Tea Factory, and a traditional “Cozido” lunch cooked in volcanic ground holes.
Guests can also enjoy free time for local visits or hot springs, with advance ticket purchase. The tour departs from Ribeira Grande, Capelas, or Ponta Delgada, and returns to the same locations.
Experienced multilingual guides lead the journey, ensuring a unique and comfortable experience. Whether exploring the scenic Vale das Lombadas or the hydropolis of Furnas, this Jeep tour offers an exceptional way to take in the natural wonders of the Azores.
Read our full review: Jeep Tour Full Day East (Geothermia and Furnas) Review
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Full Day East Tour by SUV (Geothermia and Furnas)
This comprehensive SUV tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the eastern region of São Miguel island in the Azores. Priced at €90.00 per person, the full-day East Tour by SUV takes guests on an 8-hour journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of Geothermia and Furnas.
With pickups available from Ribeira Grande, Ponta Delgada, and Capelas, the tour provides a comfortable and customizable experience for small groups or private parties.
The itinerary features guided visits to captivating destinations like Monte Escuro, Gorreana Tea Factory, and the scenic Lagoa das Furnas and Lagoa Rasa. Guests can also enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch in Furnas, Ribeira Quente, or Povoação, as well as optional thermal spa visits to Poça da D. Beija or Parque Terra Nostra.
The tour concludes with a choice between the North Option (Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, Ribeira Grande) or the South Option (Nossa Senhora da Paz Lookout, Vila Franca do Campo).
With experienced multilingual guides and comfort provisions, this tour offers a truly immersive and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Full Day East Tour by SUV (Geothermia and Furnas) Review
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Tour Exploring the Tenth Island Full Day Nordeste
Travelers often embark on this captivating full-day tour that explores the stunning Nordeste region of São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago.
The tour, priced at $103.93 per person, takes visitors on an 8-hour journey through the island’s natural wonders, including a visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantation for a tour and tasting.
Highlights of the tour include the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, where guests can admire the cascading waterfall, and the Miradouro do Salto do Cavalo, a scenic lookout point offering panoramic views of the island.
Participants also have the opportunity to visit the picturesque parish of Faial da Terra and stop for coffee and restrooms in Vila da Povoação.
The tour is led by multilingual, experienced guides who emphasize local culture, history, and sustainability.
Comfortable transportation in all-terrain vehicles and a lunch at a local restaurant in the Nordeste region are included in the price.
Advance booking is recommended, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
Read our full review: Tour Exploring the Tenth Island Full Day Nordeste Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are These Tours Suitable for Families With Young Children?
Yes, these tours can be suitable for families with young children. They often offer activities and accommodations tailored to families, and guides can provide recommendations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all ages.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Tours?
The cancellation policy for these tours typically allows for a full refund if cancelled up to 24 hours in advance. Some may have stricter policies, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for their specific terms.
Are the Tour Guides Fluent in Multiple Languages?
The tour guides are typically fluent in multiple languages, often including English, Portuguese, and other common European languages. This allows them to effectively communicate with and accommodate travelers from a variety of backgrounds on the tours.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
Many tour providers offer group discounts for full-day tours in Ribeira Grande. Rates can vary, so it’s best to inquire directly with the tour company about their group pricing and any available deals or promotions.
Can I Customize the Itinerary for Any of These Tours?
Yes, many tour providers allow customers to customize the itinerary for their full-day tours. This gives travelers the flexibility to focus on the sights and activities that interest them most. It’s worth checking with each operator about their customization options.
Recap
Ribeira Grande offers a range of full-day tours that allow visitors to explore the island’s natural beauty. The Green Island Tour, Jeep Tour, and SUV Tour provide opportunities to discover the island’s geothermal wonders and scenic landscapes. The Tour Exploring the Tenth Island is another option for those seeking a more comprehensive day trip. Travelers can choose the tour that best suits their interests and preferences.