Discover São Miguel: Full Day Fogo and Sete Cidades With Lunch

Discover the stunning natural beauty of São Miguel, the largest of Portugal’s Azores islands, on this comprehensive full-day tour. Venture to the iconic Lagoa do Fogo and Lagoa das Sete Cidades, two of the island’s most picturesque lakes, and take in panoramic vistas from the Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa viewpoint. Along the way, savor a traditional Portuguese lunch and indulge in local liqueur and jam tastings, all while learning about the region’s volcanic history and cultural heritage. This captivating excursion promises to leave you with lasting memories of São Miguel’s breathtaking landscapes and unique island charm. Intrigued? Dive deeper to uncover the details of this must-do Azores experience.

Key Points

• This guided tour offers an immersive experience exploring the natural wonders of São Miguel, including visits to Lagoa do Fogo and Lagoa das Sete Cidades.
• Highlights include the breathtaking viewpoint at Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa, traditional Portuguese lunch, and tastings of local liqueur and jam.
• The tour features round-trip transportation, accommodates up to 100 travelers, and has a starting price of $89.19.
• Positive customer feedback praises the knowledgeable tour guide, scenic views, and educational experience, though some minor organizational issues have been reported.
• Booking options include flexible "reserve now and pay later" arrangements, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible but allows service animals.

Tour Overview

The "Discover São Miguel: Full Day Fogo and Sete Cidades with Lunch" tour, provided by AzoresLandTours, offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the stunning natural landscapes of São Miguel, Portugal.

Priced from $89.19, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a traditional Portuguese lunch, and opportunities to taste local liqueur and jam.

With a 4.5/5 average rating from 9 reviews, the tour’s highlights include visits to the second-largest lake on the island, Lagoa do Fogo, and the majestic Lagoa das Sete Cidades, one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal.

Pickup starts at 9 AM, and the tour accommodates up to 100 travelers, making it an accessible option for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of São Miguel.

Lagoa Do Fogo Exploration

Lagoa do Fogo, the second-largest lake on the island, stands as a captivating natural wonder formed from a volcanic collapse over 15,000 years ago.

Visitors spend around 15 minutes exploring this breathtaking site, taking in its serene turquoise waters and the surrounding lush, verdant landscapes.

The tour then proceeds to the Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa, a viewpoint that offers extraordinary vistas of Lagoa do Fogo and the encompassing mountains.

This 15-minute stop provides a chance to:

1. Admire the lake’s stunning scenery
2. Learn about the region’s volcanic history
3. Capture awe-inspiring photographs
4. Appreciate the island’s natural beauty

With its geological significance and picturesque charm, Lagoa do Fogo leaves a lasting impression on visitors, setting the stage for the exploration of the Sete Cidades region.

Viewpoint at Miradouro Do Pico Da Barrosa

Situated atop the Pico da Barrosa, the Miradouro commands a breathtaking vantage point that showcases Lagoa do Fogo’s serene splendor.

Visitors are treated to extraordinary views of the vast, emerald-hued lake set against a backdrop of rolling mountains. This 15-minute stop allows travelers to drink in the peaceful ambiance and snap postcard-worthy photos.

The Miradouro’s strategic location provides a panoramic perspective of the stunning volcanic landscape. This viewpoint is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to appreciate the natural beauty that defines São Miguel’s breathtaking terrain.

Guests can savor the tranquility of this captivating setting before continuing their exploration of the island’s wonders.

Discovering Lagoa Das Sete Cidades

Nestled within the ancient crater of a dormant volcano, the mesmerizing Lagoa das Sete Cidades captivates visitors with its serene beauty.

This majestic lake, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal, is a breathtaking sight to behold.

Visitors can explore the area through several key attractions:

1. Miradouro da Boca do Inferno: An iconic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the lake and its surrounding landscapes.

2. Sete Cidades Village: A charming settlement with quaint houses, cafes, and a sense of tranquility.

3. Lagoa Azul: The "Blue Lake," renowned for its vibrant turquoise hue, a result of the volcanic origins.

4. Lagoa Verde: The "Green Lake," complementing the Blue Lake with its distinct emerald color.

Included Transportation and Logistics

The tour offers a convenient round-trip transportation service, ensuring a hassle-free experience for participants. The tour includes pickup from select locations, with a start time at 9:00 AM. Participants can expect the following transportation and logistical details:

Item	Details
Pickup	Select a pickup point
Start Time	09:00 AM
Inclusions	Lunch, private transportation, round-trip transfer
Exclusions	Any services not mentioned, personal expenses
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible; service animals allowed, infant seats available
Group Size	Maximum 100 travelers

The tour’s logistics prioritize convenience and accessibility, providing a seamless way for visitors to explore the stunning landscapes of São Miguel.

Booking Information

Travelers can book the Discover São Miguel: Full Day Fogo and Sete Cidades tour with confidence, as the tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time).

The reservation options include the flexibility to reserve now and pay later, securing your spot while maintaining flexibility.

The booking process is straightforward:

1. Select your preferred pickup point.
2. Choose your preferred reservation option.
3. Provide the necessary information to complete the booking.
4. Receive your confirmation and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in São Miguel.

This tour’s booking information ensures a stress-free planning experience, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the scenic wonders of the Azores.

Positive Customer Feedback

Customers who’ve experienced the Discover Sâo Miguel: Full Day Fogo and Sete Cidades tour have overwhelmingly praised the knowledgeable and friendly tour guide, José.

Many highlight the scenic views and incredible traditional Portuguese lunch as tour highlights. Reviewers note that the educational experience regarding Sâo Miguel’s history and environment was particularly valuable.

One guest remarked, "José did an amazing job bringing the island’s geology and ecology to life. I came away with a much deeper appreciation for the Azores."

Negative Customer Feedback

While the Discover São Miguel: Full Day Fogo and Sete Cidades tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, a few customers have raised concerns about certain aspects of the experience.

Some key issues noted include:

1. Tour organization: Several participants reported delays and lack of information provided, which caused confusion and frustration.

2. Attraction omissions: Some travelers were disappointed that certain advertised attractions weren’t included in the itinerary.

3. Additional costs: A few customers expressed dissatisfaction about having to pay extra for access to certain sites.

4. Communication breakdowns: A small number of participants felt the tour guide could have done a better job addressing their concerns and questions.

Despite these isolated problems, the tour generally maintains a strong reputation for its scenic views, educational value, and delectable Portuguese cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather during the tour is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C). Visitors can expect mostly sunny skies, though occasional cloud cover or light showers are possible due to the island’s temperate oceanic climate.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can typically bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though a traditional Portuguese lunch is included in the package price. Bringing extra snacks or water is generally allowed and encouraged for a comfortable experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees for Entrance to the Sites?

Based on the details provided, there do not appear to be any additional fees for entrance to the sites visited during the tour. The itinerary highlights note that admission to Lagoa do Fogo and Miradouro do Pico da Barrosa is free.

How Long Is the Drive Between the Different Locations?

The drive times between the different locations on the tour vary, but generally range from 10-30 minutes. The tour give you a comprehensive experience while minimizing lengthy transit, allowing ample time to explore the destinations.

Are There Any Physical Requirements for the Walking Portions of the Tour?

The tour involves some light walking at each stop, but there are no significant physical requirements. Guests should be able to walk on uneven terrain for up to 15 minutes at a time. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

Recap

This full-day tour of São Miguel Island offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the island’s natural wonders. Visitors will be captivated by the breathtaking Lagoa do Fogo and Lagoa das Sete Cidades, while also enjoying a traditional Portuguese lunch and tastings of local liqueur and jam. With round-trip transportation and knowledgeable insights into the region’s volcanic history and culture, this tour provides a comprehensive and memorable exploration of São Miguel’s stunning landscapes.