2 x Day Tour pack with lunch included (Furnas + Sete Cidades + Fogo + Nordeste)

Exploring São Miguel in Two Days: The Ultimate Guided Tour Experience

Taking in the diverse landscapes of São Miguel, Portugal’s largest Azorean island, in just two days is ambitious but entirely doable with this well-structured tour package. Offered by Azores Dream Tours, this two-day guided experience combines scenic viewpoints, volcanic activity highlights, charming villages, and relaxing thermal spots, all with the convenience of pickup and a thoughtfully included lunch.

One standout feature we love is how this tour balances active exploration with relaxing moments, like soaking in thermal pools or wandering through lush botanical gardens. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly attitude, making the journey both educational and fun. However, with such an ambitious itinerary packed into just 9 hours per day, some travelers might find it a bit intensive—so be prepared for a full-on adventure.

This tour is ideal for those who want an authentic, comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re eager to see volcanic craters, lakes, volcanic vents, and lush landscapes, and you appreciate a good guide to bring history and geology to life, this will suit you perfectly. Just remember, it’s a fast-paced tour that requires a fair bit of walking and sightseeing—great for active travelers!

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with lunch and pickup makes for a hassle-free experience.
• Expert guides receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness.
• The itinerary covers famous viewpoints, volcanic lakes, hot springs, and cultural spots.
• The small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures a personalized, intimate experience.
• The tour balances visual spectacle with relaxing moments, like thermal baths.
• It’s a long, full-day experience—perfect for those eager to maximize their time on the island.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day São Miguel Tour

Day 1: Volcanoes, Lakes, and Thermal Springs

Starting at Praia Grande de Água D’Alto, the tour kicks off with a visit to a volcanic-origin sandy beach. While brief—just 10 minutes—it’s a lovely spot to breathe in the fresh ocean air and appreciate how volcanic activity has shaped the coastline.

Next, travelers ascend to the Viewpoint of Sra. da Paz to gaze down upon the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo. This small volcanic formation, created by an underwater eruption, is often heralded as one of the island’s most iconic sights. From this belvedere, the panoramic views of both the islet and the charming village below are truly memorable—reviewers mention how this stop offers “incredible views” worth every minute.

The tour then heads to Lagoa das Furnas, where we learn about the volcanic activity that’s been ongoing for over 100,000 years. The geothermal vents and fumaroles here are a vivid reminder of the island’s fiery past. The Caldeira das Furnas, in the heart of this volcanic zone, offers a chance to see bubbling fumaroles, mineral springs, and even taste some local mineral water. Reviewers highlight the guide’s knack for sharing fascinating facts during this stop, making it much more than just a quick photo opportunity.

A highlight of the day is Parque Terra Nostra, where visitors can unwind in thermal pools heated by underground volcanic activity. The pools are maintained at over 30°C, making them perfect for a relaxing soak. While entry isn’t included in the tour price, many guests rave about the opportunity to unwind in this lush setting after a day of exploring. The nearby Terra Nostra Botanical Garden adds extra value if you choose to visit independently.

The Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers perhaps the most impressive view of the Furnas crater and its caldera lake. Reviewers comment on how the landscape looks like a giant, ancient bowl of volcanic activity, making it a must-see for geology buffs or anyone appreciating dramatic scenery.

To finish the day, the group visits Ribeira dos Caldeiroes, a popular Nordeste location famed for its watermills and waterfalls. The lush surroundings and the sound of rushing water create a peaceful yet invigorating scene, with visitors mentioning how this spot stands out among the more well-known landmarks.

Day 2: Lakes, Volcanoes, and Cultural Highlights

The second day begins with a visit to Ananas Santo Antonio, where you can see how pineapples are cultivated in glass greenhouses—each taking two years to grow. It’s a fun, educational stop, giving insight into local agriculture that many visitors find surprisingly engaging and different from typical sightseeing.

Next, the tour offers sweeping views at Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, where volcanic cones dominate the horizon. From here, you’ll see the Sete Cidades volcano and Lagoa do Fogo, both stunning crater lakes. Reviewers mention how these vistas are some of the most breathtaking on the island, perfect for photos and simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Lagoa do Canario is a lesser-known jewel—a hidden crater lake set amid lush greenery. Its seclusion makes it a peaceful spot for a quick walk and a picture.

One of the most iconic viewpoints, Vista do Rei, offers panoramic views of Sete Cidades. This spot is historically significant too, having hosted Portuguese royalty back in 1901. Visitors often comment on how it’s the perfect place to understand the scale and beauty of the volcanic crater.

Within the volcanic crater of Sete Cidades, the tour crosses the bridge dividing the blue and green lakes, a postcard-perfect moment. Continuing on, you’ll find Lagoa de Santiago, a beautiful, tranquil lagoon surrounded by native Macaronesian vegetation, described by one reviewer as a spot with “heart-purified by nature.”

The Caldeira das Sete Cidades is a must-see—standing on the bridge, you’re eye-level with the vivid, contrasting waters of the lakes, which makes for incredible photos.

The tour concludes at Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine, turquoise crater lake that’s often praised for its untouched beauty. The Caldeira Velha hot springs are an optional, yet highly recommended, visit if you want to soak in natural thermal waters—though note, entry is not included and must be paid for separately.

Practical Details: How the Tour Works

The tour begins at 9:00 am from the meeting point in Ponta Delgada. It is a small group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized touch. Transportation is included, and the day is packed with sightseeing, which means you’ll need comfortable shoes and a willingness to walk and stand a fair bit.

The itinerary is flexible to account for weather conditions, and the guides are known for their friendly, engaging approach, blending factual storytelling with light humor. Guests often praise guides like João and Vera for their attentiveness and professionalism.

The entire experience costs $171.95 per person, which, considering the included meals, entrance fees for some spots, and the expert guidance, offers good value. The reviews consistently emphasize the quality of the guides and the stunning viewpoints—many noting the experience exceeded expectations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This two-day package is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive tour of São Miguel without the stress of planning individual excursions. It suits those who enjoy a mix of nature, geology, culture, and relaxation, with enough activity and downtime to keep things interesting.

If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and moving between different sites, you’ll find this tour hits all the highlights efficiently. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting to get a sense of the island’s major volcanic features and scenic viewpoints.

While it offers a broad overview, it also provides plenty of opportunities for personal reflection and photography. The guides’ local insights add a memorable touch, making this a truly educational experience, not just a sightseeing list.

The Sum Up

This 2-day guided tour of São Miguel offers a well-rounded experience that combines geological marvels, scenic vistas, cultural insights, and moments of relaxation. The inclusion of meals and pickup simplifies logistics, while the small group size ensures an intimate, personalized journey. Expect to see the island’s most famous lakes, volcanic craters, waterfalls, and hot springs—all brought to life by guides who know their stuff.

While the pace can be brisk, especially for those not used to a full schedule, this tour is an excellent choice for travelers eager to maximize their time and see the best that São Miguel has to offer. The combination of stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to relax in thermal pools makes it a truly memorable experience. Perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a comprehensive snapshot of this volcanic paradise.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is provided from the designated meeting point in Ponta Delgada, and transportation throughout the itinerary is included.

How long does each day of the tour last?
Each day is approximately 9 hours long, packed with sightseeing, so be prepared for a full day with some early mornings and lots of walking.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is included in the 2-day package, making it easier to enjoy regional dishes without extra planning.

What spots are optional or have additional costs?
Entry to Parque Terra Nostra and Caldeira Velha hot springs is not included and must be paid separately if you wish to visit these thermal pools.

How many people will be in the group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and ample time for questions and interaction.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it involves some walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet. Keep in mind the full day’s schedule.

This detailed, balanced review hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect from this well-loved São Miguel tour. It hits all the major highlights with expert guides and a focus on genuine, memorable experiences—making it a strong choice for your Azores adventure.