Exploring the volcanic wonders of São Miguel Island is a captivating experience, and a private van tour of the renowned Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo lakes promises an unforgettable adventure. This personalized journey allows visitors to enjoy the island’s breathtaking landscapes, from dramatic viewpoints to serene natural thermal baths. With a knowledgeable driver-guide providing insightful commentary, guests can discover the rich history and unique geological features that have shaped these stunning volcanic lakes. Whether you’re seeking an immersive cultural experience or simply a chance to bask in the island’s natural beauty, this tour offers a compelling glimpse into the enchanting wonders of São Miguel.
Key Points
- This private van tour explores the volcanic landscapes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on São Miguel Island, showcasing awe-inspiring viewpoints and natural wonders.
- The 8-hour tour includes commentary from an experienced driver-guide, transport, and optional activities like thermal baths at Caldeira Velha.
- The itinerary features stops at iconic landmarks such as Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago, Coal Peak Viewpoint, and Vista do Rei Lookout.
- Flexible pickup and drop-off locations, free cancellation, and language options in English and Russian make this tour highly customizable.
- The tour provides an immersive experience in the captivating volcanic landscapes of São Miguel, with opportunities to learn about the island’s geological history.
Tour Overview
This private van tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on São Miguel Island offers an immersive exploration of the Azores’ stunning natural landscapes.
Priced at €555 for up to 4 people, the 8-hour tour is available in English and Russian. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests can flexibly schedule their pickup from anywhere on the island, including cruise ships.
The itinerary features stops at iconic viewpoints, volcanic crater lakes, and natural wonders, allowing ample time for photos and exploration.
Bottled water, insurance, and a knowledgeable driver-guide are included, while lunch and optional activities like the Caldeira Velha thermal baths can be added.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a stop at the Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago, offering panoramic views of the picturesque Sete Cidades crater lake. Visitors then head to the Coal Peak Viewpoint and the Muro das Nove Janelas, showcasing the island’s volcanic landscape. The tour continues to the Cascata do Salto do Cabrito waterfall and the dramatic Grota do Inferno viewpoint. At the Vista do Rei Lookout, guests enjoy vistas of the twin lakes. Other highlights include the Church of Sao Nicolau, the Ponta do Escalvado Lookout, and the Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint. The tour culminates at the Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha, where visitors can explore the geothermal area.
| Highlight | Duration |
|---|---|
| Miradouro da Lagoa de Santiago | 25 min |
| Coal Peak Viewpoint | 15 min |
| Muro das Nove Janelas | 15 min |
| Cascata do Salto do Cabrito | 15 min |
Tour Experience
The private van tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo offers a personalized experience for visitors, allowing them to explore both the well-known and lesser-known areas of São Miguel Island.
With flexible start and end times, the tour provides the freedom to discover the island’s volcanic craters and emerald lakes at one’s own pace.
Along the way, guests can enjoy optional thermal baths at the Caldeira Velha, but advance booking is required.
The tour includes an English or Russian-speaking driver/guide, transportation, bottled water, and insurance, ensuring a seamless and informative journey through this stunning natural landscape.
Inclusions
The private van tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo typically includes an experienced driver/guide who can provide commentary in both English and Russian.
Transport to and from the hotel in Ponta Delgada, or other locations by agreement, is also provided. Bottled water and insurance are included, and lunch can be added for an additional 10-20 euros.
Entrance to the Caldeira Velha environmental interpretation center and the option to visit the thermal baths can be booked in advance for 3 euros and 10 euros respectively.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyBooking Information
Customers can check availability for their selected date and participant count to secure their spot on the private van tour.
Once confirmed, they can reserve their tour and pay later. The tour itineraries are subject to change, but the main drop-off locations will be Ribeira Grande and Ponta Delgada.
The tour provides:
- Flexible pickup times based on customer preference
- Pickup included from anywhere on São Miguel Island, including cruise ships
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Pickup and Transportation
One of the key benefits of this private van tour is the convenient pickup service, which allows customers to be collected from anywhere on São Miguel Island, including cruise ship terminals.
The tour provides flexible pickup times based on customer preference, ensuring a seamless start to the experience. The transportation is via a private van, offering a personalized and comfortable journey throughout the day.
Whether you’re staying in Ponta Delgada or elsewhere on the island, the tour company will arrange for a pickup that fits your schedule.
This hassle-free transportation service allows you to focus on enjoying the stunning volcanic landscapes and hidden gems of São Miguel.
Volcanic Landscapes
This private van tour immerses visitors in the captivating volcanic landscapes of São Miguel Island.
The itinerary includes stops at several awe-inspiring viewpoints, showcasing the island’s dramatic geological features. Visitors can marvel at the Grota do Inferno Viewpoint, where they’re enveloped by the towering walls of an ancient crater.
The Lagoa do Canário offers a serene glimpse of an emerald-green volcanic lake, while the Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha provides insight into the island’s thermal activity.
These volcanic wonders create a truly mesmerizing experience, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the island’s remarkable natural heritage.
- Grota do Inferno Viewpoint
- Lagoa do Canário
- Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha
Thermal Baths Option
The thermal baths at Caldeira Velha offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind after exploring the volcanic landscapes of São Miguel Island. The baths are fed by natural geothermal springs, providing a soothing and rejuvenating experience. Advance booking is required to enjoy the baths, and the entry fee is 10 euros per person. Visitors can also explore the Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha, which provides insights into the island’s volcanic history and ecology. The inclusion of the thermal bath experience in the tour package adds an extra layer of relaxation to the already scenic and informative itinerary.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Caldeira Velha |
| Water Source | Natural geothermal springs |
| Entry Fee | 10 euros per person |
| Advance Booking | Required |
| Duration | Flexible |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Gratuities for the Driver/Guide Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price does not include gratuities for the driver/guide. Customers are expected to tip the driver/guide at their own discretion based on the quality of service and their satisfaction with the tour experience.
Can the Tour Be Customized for a Specific Interest or Activity?
Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests or activities. The tour itinerary and schedule are flexible, allowing the guide to tailor the experience to the customer’s preferences.
Are Child/Infant Discounts Available for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention child or infant discounts. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator, as they may offer reduced rates for younger participants or make special accommodations. The tour is designed for a flexible experience.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?
The maximum group size for the private tour is 4 people. The price of KČ5,519 is for the entire group, not per person, allowing for up to 4 participants to share the cost.
Is There an Opportunity to Stop for Souvenirs or Local Shopping?
The private van tour includes several stops at scenic viewpoints, but it doesn’t specifically mention any opportunities for souvenir shopping or local shopping. However, the flexible nature of the tour may allow for such stops upon request.
Recap
The private van tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on São Miguel Island offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s stunning volcanic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the crater lakes, marvel at the iconic viewpoints, and even indulge in a soak in natural thermal baths for an unforgettable adventure.
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