Lagoa do Fogo, Hike Salto do Cabrito and Hotsprings

If you’re looking for a way to truly connect with the stunning landscapes of São Miguel, this half-day guided hike covers some of the island’s most iconic spots—Lagoa do Fogo, Salto do Cabrito, and Caldeira Velha thermal springs. Priced at around $63.60 per person, this tour offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty, all under the guidance of knowledgeable local guides. From lush volcanic forests to steaming thermal pools, it’s a balanced experience that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

One of the standout features? The expert guidance from guides like Samuel, who brings both historical insights and a friendly approach, making the hike more meaningful and fun. Plus, the inclusion of walking sticks and bottled water ensures you’re well-equipped without the hassle of packing gear yourself. However, it’s worth noting that this tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, so if you’re not used to walking or hiking, it’s good to be prepared. This experience is best suited for travelers eager to explore São Miguel’s volcanic terrain in a manageable, well-organized way—perfect for those who want authentic scenery without the stress of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides like Samuel, who share interesting historical tidbits and local insights.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup from Ponta Delgada included, with walking sticks and bottled water provided.
• Diverse Landscapes: From volcanic lakes and lush forests to geothermal springs, the tour showcases the island’s natural diversity.
• Flexibility: If a planned stop like the hot springs is unavailable, guides quickly adapt—testament to good planning and local knowledge.
• Ideal for Moderate Fitness: The tour involves walking on trails, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
• Authentic Experience: Small group size (max 99 travelers) ensures a more personalized, engaging experience.

Discovering São Miguel’s Volcanic Charm

This tour begins early in the morning with a convenient pickup in Ponta Delgada, making it easy to start your adventure without the hassle of navigation. From there, you’re whisked away to the northern part of the island, where the real magic begins. The trail starts and ends in Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande, a charming spot that’s perfect for a short walk in itself before the main hike.

The Hiking Trail: Nature, History, and Views

The core of the experience is a scenic hike through volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and craters. While the exact trail details aren’t specified, reviews suggest that guides like Samuel do an excellent job explaining the features along the way—highlighting the history of São Miguel and pointing out natural formations. The expert guidance is especially valuable because it transforms what could be a simple walk into an educational exploration.

Travelers like Maryann describe the day as “enjoyable,” noting that frequent breaks were taken on a hot day, which is smart for keeping energy levels up. Her guide, Samuel, was praised for his knowledge and flexibility—quickly reorganizing plans when the hot springs were temporarily closed, opting instead for a visit to a local liqueurs factory. This flexibility is a real plus, showing how guides prioritize guest comfort and experience.

Salto do Cabrito and Caldeira Velha: Soaking in Thermal Waters

After the hike, the tour takes you to Caldeira Velha, a thermal springs site where you can relax in warm, mineral-rich waters. Reviewers like Kateelizaking mention the delightful experience of soaking in the thermal waters, which provide a perfect cooldown after a vigorous walk. The thermal pools are a highlight, combining natural beauty with soothing warmth, ideal for unwinding and taking in the lush surroundings.

This part of the tour isn’t just about relaxation—it’s a chance to experience the island’s geothermal activity firsthand. The natural thermal springs are a rare find and add significant value to this experience, especially for those interested in local natural phenomena.

Fogo Lagoon: A View from the Top of a Volcano

The final leg of the day involves ascending Fogo mountain for sweeping views over Fogo Lagoon. Travelers report that the view from the top is breathtaking, with the lagoon’s deep blue contrasting beautifully against the volcanic landscape. Standing at the summit, you get a real sense of the island’s volcanic origins, making this a memorable photo opportunity as well.

The short climb up to the volcano’s summit is manageable for most with moderate fitness, and guides are attentive to pacing, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the vista without feeling rushed or overexerted.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Duration: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, making it a perfect half-day adventure without taking up your entire morning or afternoon.
Price: $63.60 per person — a reasonable rate considering the inclusion of guides, transport, water, and walking sticks. The value is solid, especially given the personal guidance and access to exclusive viewpoints.
Meeting Time: 9:00 am, with pickup from Ponta Delgada included in the price. For travelers staying elsewhere, extra arrangements might be needed.
Group Size: Max 99 travelers, which keeps things comfortable and social without feeling crowded.
Included: Bottled water, walking sticks.
Not Included: Fees or taxes, which are typical for entry into natural parks or thermal springs.
Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-dependent; if poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Accessibility: The tour requires a moderate physical effort—walking on trails and ascending a volcano. Travelers with mobility issues may want to check with the provider beforehand.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviewers

From the reviews, guides like Samuel really make a difference. His knowledgeable explanations about the island’s volcanic activity and history enrich the hike, turning a simple walk into an educational experience. Maryann appreciated how Samuel was “always prepared,” and Kateelizaking found him “extremely knowledgeable and accommodating,” emphasizing the importance of a caring guide.

The flexibility shown when the hot springs were closed demonstrates the guides’ commitment to guest experience. Instead of disappointment, travelers like Maryann end up enjoying a different local attraction, like a liqueurs factory—adding an extra local touch to the day.

You’ll also love the scenic views from Fogo mountain, which are genuinely breathtaking—an unmistakable highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike. The thermal springs at Caldeira Velha offer both a relaxing retreat and a chance to connect with the island’s geothermal energy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts who want a taste of São Miguel’s volcanic character without extensive hiking or full-day commitments. It’s suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels who enjoy walking, and who appreciate guided insight into the natural and cultural history of the Azores.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet adventurous half-day activity that combines scenic hiking, geothermal relaxation, and stunning vistas, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager for authentic natural encounters with a knowledgeable guide.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely, less physical experience—perhaps with less walking or more focus on cultural tours—this might be a bit too active.

Final Thoughts

This Lagoa do Fogo, Salto do Cabrito, and thermal springs tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and education in one compact package. The guides’ local knowledge and flexibility ensure a memorable, authentic experience. The scenery is breathtaking, with volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and thermal pools offering plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Priced reasonably, especially considering the inclusion of transport and guided insights, it provides excellent value for travelers wanting to explore São Miguel’s volcanic terrain without committing to a full-day trek. The small group setting and personalized approach make it a comfortable and engaging way to discover the island’s natural highlights.

For those who enjoy a bit of physical activity combined with natural beauty and cultural touches, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to learn about the Azores’ volcanic origins, relax in geothermal waters, and enjoy spectacular views—all with the convenience of guided support.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, pickup from Ponta Delgada is included. If you’re staying elsewhere, additional arrangements may be necessary.

What’s the recommended fitness level? The tour suits travelers with moderate fitness, as it involves walking and some uphill sections at Fogo mountain.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. The tour provides walking sticks and bottled water.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If weather cancels the trip, you will be offered a different date or full refund.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, making it perfect for a half-day activity.

Are there any additional costs? All fees and taxes are not included in the price. Entrance fees to thermal springs or other attractions are extra.

Is this tour suitable for children? Generally, yes, but it depends on the child’s physical condition and comfort with walking and outdoor activities.

What makes this tour stand out? The combination of guided commentary, diverse landscapes, thermal springs, and the convenience of pick-up makes it very appealing.

Will I get good views from the top of the volcano? Yes, travelers have found the views from Fogo mountain breathtaking, with a clear vista over Fogo Lagoon.

Is there a maximum group size? The tour can have up to 99 travelers, but smaller groups are common, ensuring a more personalized experience.

This guided hike in São Miguel provides a superb mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxation, making it a worthwhile addition to your Azores itinerary. Whether you’re a keen hiker or just want to enjoy some stunning scenery with ease, this tour is worth considering.