Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo (West Side)

The Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo tour offers an immersive exploration of São Miguel’s natural wonders. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Sete Cidades volcano and the breathtaking Lagoa do Fogo, indulge in thermal pool dips, and savor local liqueurs. With a traditional island lunch and knowledgeable guides, the tour promises an unforgettable experience that delves into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking scenic vistas, culinary delights, or a deeper understanding of this enchanting destination, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the best of São Miguel’s west side.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Ponta Delgada.

Key Points

• Explore the volcanic landscapes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, including opportunities to swim in natural thermal pools.
• Discover Azorean cultural heritage through a visit to a local liqueur production facility and a pineapple plantation tour.
• Enjoy a traditional island lunch featuring Cozido das Furnas, a volcanic-cooked stew, and other regional specialties.
• The tour is stroller-friendly and accommodates service animals, ensuring accessibility for most travelers.
• The tour is a popular choice due to its knowledgeable guide, value-for-money, and enriching cultural experiences.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour allows visitors to experience the breathtaking landscapes of São Miguel island, including the Sete Cidades volcano and Lagoa do Fogo.

The tour includes a dip in a volcanic pool, a tasting of local liqueurs, and a visit to a pineapple plantation.

The highlight of the day is a traditional island lunch at Lagoa.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to learn about local liqueur production at the Capote Factory and enjoy scenic photo opportunities during the guided tour around Sete Cidades.

The tour is stroller-friendly, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible to most travelers.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes lunch and bottled water, with hotel pickup provided in Ponta Delgada.

Additional fees apply for locations beyond 10 km (€20) or 25 km (€40) of the city center.

The tour starts at 09:00 am, and the maximum group size is 99 travelers. This ensures a comfortable and well-organized experience for all participants.

The early start time allows for a full day of exploration, while the group size keeps things intimate and personalized.

Whether you’re staying nearby or need a little extra transport, the team has you covered – just let them know your location when booking.

With all the essentials taken care of, you can focus on soaking in the stunning sights and cultural experiences ahead.

Cultural Experiences

On the cultural front, visitors can explore the Capote Factory to learn about the local production of liqueur, a cherished regional specialty.

The guided tour around Sete Cidades also provides scenic photo opportunities, allowing travelers to capture the breathtaking landscapes. This unique cultural experience offers an insider’s look at traditional island life.

Visitors can witness the intricate process of liqueur-making and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s rich heritage. The tour’s culture components complement the natural wonders, creating a well-rounded and enriching experience for all participants.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking authentic cultural insights, the Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo tour delivers memorable cultural experiences.

Accessibility and Participation

Tour participants can expect the experience to be stroller-friendly, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate in the activities.

The tour covers a range of landscapes, from the Sete Cidades volcano to the Lagoa do Fogo, offering opportunities for scenic photography and a dip in a volcanic pool.

While the tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility, it caters to a wide range of travelers, ensuring an enjoyable and accessible experience for the majority.

Participants can look forward to a guided tour and a traditional island lunch, all while seeing the natural beauty of São Miguel.

Reviews and Ratings

Consistently, travelers have commended the tour guide’s exceptional knowledge and English proficiency, resulting in an overall rating of 5.0 stars from 20 reviews.

Reviewers have praised the guide’s ability to provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the tour, enhancing the overall experience.

The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour has also been well-received, allowing for flexibility in planning.

Travelers have consistently highlighted the tour’s value, with many noting that the inclusions, such as lunch and bottled water, make it a great deal.

Volcanic Pools and Lagoons

Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo (West Side)

The tour allows visitors to take a refreshing dip in a volcanic pool, seeing the natural wonders of São Miguel. Travelers can also admire the serene beauty of Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning crater lake nestled amidst the island’s volcanic landscape.

During this experience, participants can:

1. Swim in the natural thermal pools, where the warm, mineral-rich waters provide a relaxing respite.

2. Gaze upon the turquoise-hued Lagoa do Fogo, formed by a volcanic eruption centuries ago.

3. Appreciate the lush, verdant landscapes that surround these geological marvels.

4. Capture breathtaking photographs to commemorate their journey through São Miguel’s volcanic terrain.

Liqueur Tasting and Pineapple Plantation

Visitors can look forward to sampling locally-produced liqueurs at the Capote Factory, where they’ll learn about the island’s traditional liqueur production methods. Afterward, they’ll have the chance to explore a pineapple plantation, gaining insight into the cultivation of this iconic Azorean crop.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the island’s rich cultural heritage. Guests will discover the intricate processes behind the creation of Azorean liqueurs, from the selection of ingredients to the artisanal distillation techniques. Plus, the visit to the pineapple plantation provides a glimpse into the agricultural traditions that have sustained the islands for generations.

Liqueur Tasting	Pineapple Plantation
Learn about traditional production methods	Explore the cultivation of a local crop
Sample a variety of Azorean liqueurs	Gain insight into Azorean agricultural traditions
Discover the island’s cultural heritage	Experience the diversity of the Azores

Traditional Island Lunch

At the heart of the Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo tour lies a traditional island lunch, providing guests with an authentic taste of Azorean cuisine.

The meal features:

1. Cozido das Furnas – a hearty stew slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat

2. Local cheeses and fresh bread

3. Azorean desserts like bolo lêvedo and queijadas

4. Regional wine or an after-lunch liqueur

Served family-style in a scenic lakeside setting, this lunch allows visitors to savor the flavors and ambiance of São Miguel.

It’s a highlight that perfectly complements the natural wonders explored throughout the day, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for Azorean culture and culinary traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum age requirement. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though parents should consider their children’s abilities and interests to ensure everyone enjoys the experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any age-based discounts. However, children under 10 may be entitled to a reduced price. There aren’t any special rates for seniors either. Interested travelers should inquire about pricing when booking the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Dietary Needs?

The tour can be customized to accommodate special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Travelers should notify the tour operator when booking to ensure their dietary requirements are met.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour includes several stops where restroom facilities are available. Travelers can expect to have access to restrooms during the visit to the Capote Factory, as well as the lunch stop at Lagoa.

Is It Possible to Stop at Additional Points of Interest Along the Way?

The tour itinerary is fixed, but the guide may allow brief stops at additional points of interest along the way if time permits and the group agrees. Travelers should discuss any special requests with the guide at the start of the tour.

Recap

This full-day tour offers an immersive exploration of São Miguel’s stunning landscapes.

Visitors can marvel at the iconic Sete Cidades volcano, relax in natural thermal pools, and savor local liqueurs and cuisine.

With knowledgeable guides, travelers gain insights into the island’s rich cultural heritage, making for an unforgettable adventure.