Ponta Delgada: Beauties of São Miguel Island Private Tour

Ponta Delgada, the largest city on São Miguel Island, serves as the gateway to exploring the breathtaking natural wonders of the Azores. The private tour of the island’s beauties promises an unforgettable day, guiding visitors through stunning landscapes, from the serene Lagoa das Sete Cidades to the volcanic Pico do Carvão. With a focus on both natural and cultural heritage, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, inviting travelers to enjoy the unique charms of this Portuguese archipelago. As the tour unfolds, the opportunity to savor the renowned Gorreana tea and uncover the enchanting Furnas region adds depth to the adventure, leaving one eager to discover more of São Miguel’s captivating allure.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 8-hour tour of São Miguel Island, the largest in the Azores, showcasing its west and east side attractions.
• Flexible and customizable itinerary, including scenic viewpoints, volcanic lakes, tea factory visit, and geothermal activities.
• Comfortable 9-seater van transportation with air conditioning and free WiFi, providing personalized attention for up to 7 participants.
• Highlights include the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Gorreana Tea Factory, and optional visits to Terra Nostra Park and Our Lady of Peace Chapel.
• Additional costs include an optional traditional Furnas lunch and entrance fee for the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

The Ponta Delgada: Beauties of São Miguel Island Private Tour whisks participants on an 8-hour exploration through the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights of São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago.

This private tour offers a rundown of the island’s west and east sides, showcasing breathtaking viewpoints, volcanic lakes, a tea factory, and the geothermal wonders of Furnas.

With a focus on flexibility and customization, the tour allows guests to tailor the itinerary to their preferences.

Travelers will enjoy the comfort of a 9-seater van with air conditioning and free WiFi, as well as the personalized attention of a private tour for up to 7 participants.

This immersive experience provides an in-depth look at the natural and cultural richness of this Portuguese paradise.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights a captivating exploration of São Miguel Island’s west and east sides, offering visitors a diverse range of natural and cultural wonders.

On the west side, guests marvel at the scenic vistas from the Vista do Rei Lookout, explore the serene beauty of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and discover the volcanic formations at Pico do Carvão and Lagoa do Fogo.

Crossing to the island’s eastern region, the tour immerses participants in the rich tea-making traditions at the Gorreana Tea Factory, presents the geothermal spectacle of Furnas, and provides an optional visit to the lush Terra Nostra Park and the picturesque Our Lady of Peace Chapel.

• Scenic vistas and natural landscapes

• Immersion in local traditions and culture

• Optional visits to botanical gardens and historic sites

West Side Attractions

Captivating scenic vistas greet visitors at the Vista do Rei Lookout, offering panoramic views of the island’s stunning landscapes.

Guests then enjoy the serene beauty of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, a mesmerizing twin-lake formation nestled amidst verdant hills.

The tour also unveils the volcanic wonders of Pico do Carvão, where guided explorations and photo opportunities await.

Concluding the west side journey, the group discovers the natural splendor of Lagoa do Fogo, a crater lake renowned for its captivating scenery.

Throughout this portion of the tour, travelers are treated to a captivating glimpse into the island’s diverse natural treasures, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

East Side Attractions

After exploring the west side’s natural wonders, the tour shifts its focus to the island’s eastern region, where visitors discover the renowned Gorreana Tea Factory. Here, they’ll be guided through the facility, learning about the intricate tea-making process while savoring the flavors of the locally-grown leaves during an included tasting.

From there, the tour heads to the Furnas region, known for its geothermal activity. Participants can witness the steaming fumaroles and have the option to enjoy a traditional Cozido das Furnas lunch, cooked underground using the natural heat.

The day also includes a stop at the Terra Nostra Park, where guests can take a dip in the thermal pools and explore the stunning botanical gardens.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gorreana Tea Factory

Nestled in the lush, rolling hills of the island’s eastern region, the Gorreana Tea Factory stands as a testament to São Miguel’s rich agricultural heritage, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the intricate process of tea production.

During the guided tour, guests will witness the entire journey from the delicate green leaves to the final, fragrant black tea.

They’ll learn about the factory’s history, dating back to the 19th century, and marvel at the traditional machinery used to meticulously sort, wither, and fire the tea leaves.

The tour culminates in a tasting session, where participants can savor the distinct flavors of Gorreana’s artisanal teas, each infused with the island’s unique terroir.

Furnas and Terra Nostra Park

The Furnas region, a geological marvel nestled in the island’s eastern reaches, showcases the dramatic volcanic forces that have shaped São Miguel. Visitors to this dynamic landscape can witness the powerful fumaroles – steaming vents that release sulfurous gases from the earth’s core.

Nearby, the lush Terra Nostra Park offers a tranquil respite, inviting travelers to explore its botanical gardens or take a dip in the park’s famous iron-rich thermal pool.

Furnas and Terra Nostra Park offer a unique experience:

• Observe the fumaroles and understand the volcanic activity that shaped the island

• Explore the beautiful Terra Nostra Park, with its diverse flora and relaxing thermal pool

• Enjoy a traditional lunch cooked in the natural steam vents of Furnas

Transportation and Comfort

Conveniently, the tour is conducted in a 9-seater van equipped with air conditioning and free WiFi, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey for up to 7 passengers on this private tour. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, with the flexibility to customize the itinerary based on participant preferences. This attention to detail ensures that the tour caters to the unique needs and interests of each group.

Feature	Included
Vehicle	9-seater van
Air Conditioning	Yes
WiFi	Free
Group Size	Private, up to 7 participants
Itinerary Customization	Yes

The combination of comfortable transportation, small group size, and flexible itinerary makes this private tour an enjoyable and convenient way to explore the beauties of São Miguel Island.

Additional Costs and Information

Along With the base tour price, there are some additional costs to consider for this Ponta Delgada private tour. Participants can expect to pay around €20 per person for the optional traditional Furnas lunch, which includes drinks, dessert, and coffee. On top of that, entrance to the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden carries a fee of €10 per person.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, it’s recommended to:

• Wear comfortable shoes and bring a swimsuit if planning to visit the Terra Nostra Park.

• Be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

• Check the overall 5/5 rating based on past customer reviews highlighting the tour’s insights and experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Tour Guide Speak My Native Language?

The tour guide will speak English, as the tour description clearly states that the language offered is English. This ensures that participants can fully understand and engage with the tour throughout the day.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized based on participants’ interests. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to prioritize the attractions that most appeal to you during the private tour experience.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

The tour does not permit pets, as the focus is on providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants. The private tour is designed for human guests and cannot accommodate animals. Customers should leave their pets at home for this tour.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour for a Larger Group?

The tour offers private options for groups up to 7 participants. However, larger group sizes may be accommodated upon request, subject to availability and additional fees. Customers should inquire directly with the tour provider for more information about arranging a private tour for a larger group.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages?

The tour does not include snacks and beverages. Participants can bring their own snacks and water to enjoy during the tour. However, a traditional lunch is provided at an additional cost during the Furnas visit.

Recap

The Ponta Delgada: Beauties of São Miguel Island Private Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural wonders, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes.

From panoramic viewpoints to volcanic marvels and a tea factory visit, this customizable tour provides an immersive experience.

It allows travelers to discover the breathtaking beauty and unique charm of São Miguel Island in comfort and convenience.

You can check if your dates are available here: