Private Tour – All of the West & Sete Cidades Volcano

Exploring São Miguel’s Western Wonders: A Deep Dive into the Private All-in-One Volcano Tour

If you’re visiting Ponta Delgada and want to see the best of São Miguel’s west side without the hassle of planning, this private tour promises a personalized, comprehensive experience. Rated a perfect 5.0 by dozens of travelers, it covers iconic viewpoints, volcanic lakes, black sand beaches, and soothing thermal pools all within around five hours. What makes this tour stand out? It’s the personalized approach—only your group participates—allowing for flexible timing, tailored stops, and the chance to ask your guide all the questions you want.

One thing we especially like is the expert guidance of locals who know the island intimately. Many reviews highlight guides like Rita, who not only show you the sights but also share personal stories and local insights that bring the experience to life. However, a consideration to keep in mind is the itinerary’s pace—with so many stops packed into a short window, be prepared for a busy but rewarding day. This tour is best suited for those who crave a full-picture view of São Miguel without sacrificing comfort or depth.

If you’re someone eager to see a mix of natural beauty, scenic viewpoints, and unique thermal spots in a luxury, private setting, this tour is a strong contender. It appeals to travelers who value expert guiding, authentic local interactions, and a well-curated route that highlights the island’s most stunning vistas and cultural highlights.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with only your group participating
• Expert local guides who provide deep insights and stories
• Diverse stops including lakes, viewpoints, beaches, and thermal pools
• Excellent value for money considering the variety and exclusivity
• Flexible and accommodating with pickup options and tailored stops
• Ideal for those short on time but wanting a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s west

A Comprehensive Look at the West of São Miguel

This tour is like a scenic sampler platter of São Miguel’s most captivating sights, all wrapped into a manageable half-day. Designed for travelers who want to maximize their limited time or simply prefer a private, intimate exploration of the island, it’s a careful balance of natural beauty, cultural bits, and relaxing experiences.

From the start, you’ll be picked up at 9:30 am—either at your hotel or a nearby location. The private nature of the tour means your guide, whether Rita or Carlos (both highly praised in reviews), will tailor the experience based on your interests and the weather conditions. You’re in good hands; guides like Rita, who has lived locally all her life, don’t just show you the sights—they tell you about the island’s daily life and hidden gems that most visitors might never find on their own.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Miradouro da Boca do Inferno

This iconic lookout is the first stop and often the highlight for visitors. Known as the “mouth of hell,” it’s a dramatic cliffside viewpoint offering breathtaking views over the coast. It’s a walking distance of about 30 minutes from the parking area, making it accessible yet offering a good stretch of legs early in the day. While the admission is free, the views are priceless. Expect sweeping vistas of jagged cliffs plunging into the ocean and a chance to snap that perfect shot.

Lagoa do Canário

Next, you’ll visit this vibrant green volcanic lake. It’s often praised for its surreal color and tranquil setting. Just a quick 10-minute stop, it’s a great place to breathe in the fresh mountain air and admire the lush scenery. Several reviews mention how this spot feels like stepping into a postcard—quiet, pristine, and photogenic.

Vista do Rei Miradouro

This is the most visited viewpoint on the island, and for good reason. Overlooking the Sete Cidades lakes, it offers a panoramic view of the twin lakes cradled inside a volcanic crater. The old, abandoned hotel in the background adds a touch of haunting charm. Visitors often comment that this viewpoint is where the breathtaking views truly come together, and many say it’s an absolute must-see.

Lagoa de Santiago

A smaller, less crowded spot, Lagoa de Santiago offers a peaceful perspective of the crater lakes. The short 10-minute stop here allows for some quiet contemplation and more photo opportunities. Many reviews note how guides like Rita excel at finding these lesser-known, quieter locations that give a more authentic feel of the island’s natural beauty.

Lagoa Verde / Lagoa das Sete Cidades

This is the true highlight—seeing the twin lakes from inside the crater. The view here is often described as mesmerizing, with the vivid blue and green waters contrasting against the volcanic landscape. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery and take photos. Several reviewers mention that seeing the lakes from the inside of the crater is a bucket-list moment, and guides often give interesting insights into their formation.

Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

Perched atop a cliff, this viewpoint offers extraordinary coastal vistas. It’s a perfect place for wide-angle photos of dramatic cliffs and roaring waves. Expect about 10 minutes here—just enough to soak it in and appreciate the power of the Atlantic.

Mosteiros

Your stop at the Black Sand Beach and natural swimming pools is particularly popular in summer. Visitors rave about the dark volcanic sands and the refreshing ocean water—if the tide and ocean conditions allow, many take a dip. The natural pools are a unique feature, and some reviews mention how guides like Rita help you find the best spots or secret viewpoints nearby.

Ferraria

A true highlight for many, Ferraria’s hot springs in the ocean are a rare geological wonder. The warm waters mixed with the Atlantic currents make for a unique swimming experience, though tide and ocean conditions can influence accessibility. The hour-long stop here includes an admission to the thermal pools, and travelers often say it’s worth the effort for a relaxing and revitalizing dip.

Why This Tour Works So Well

The balance of viewpoints, lakes, beaches, and thermal pools provides a well-rounded taste of what makes São Miguel special. The tour’s private nature means your guide can adapt to your pace and preferences—whether that’s lingering at a viewpoint, skipping a stop, or spending extra time in the thermal pools.

Many reviewers have praised guides like Rita and Carlos for their deep local knowledge and friendly approach. One reviewer mentions that Rita, who has lived on the island all her life, showed them some hidden viewpoints and was very accommodating when the weather wasn’t perfect. Their ability to persist through changing weather conditions and still find stunning spots is a big plus.

The price point of about $137.57 per person is actually quite reasonable considering the diversity of experiences packed into this half-day. The value lies in the personalized service, the convenience of pickup, and the chance to explore some of the most photogenic and culturally rich parts of São Miguel without the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple tours.

Practical Details and Expectations

The tour lasts roughly 5 hours, starting at 9:30 am, and is designed for most travelers. The group size is limited to your private party, ensuring a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Pickup is offered, and the tour includes admission to Ferraria’s thermal pools—a highlight for relaxation seekers.

The tour is most suitable for adventurers, nature lovers, and those interested in local stories. It’s a flexible experience, with guides like Rita and Carlos known for their warmth and knowledge. If you’re visiting Ponta Delgada as part of a cruise or short stay, this tour maximizes your time and captures the essence of the island.

Summary of the Experience

This private tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse of São Miguel’s west side. From dramatic coastlines and volcanic lakes to geothermal pools and black sand beaches, it covers a variety of landscapes and experiences. The personalized approach paired with expert local guides makes it a valuable choice—especially for travelers who want a deep, relaxed, and memorable exploration.

While it packs many stops into a short time frame, the flexibility and guide’s local knowledge often turn a busy itinerary into a series of memorable, picture-perfect moments. The value for the cost is clear when considering the exclusivity, guided insights, and the chance to avoid self-driving logistics.

If you love stunning vistas, natural wonders, and personal stories from locals, this tour hits all the right notes. Perfect for those short on time, but eager to see the best São Miguel has to offer in a comfortable, private setting.

FAQs

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group is involved. This allows for flexibility, personalized stops, and a more relaxed experience.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the guided tour, pickup, and admission to the Ferraria thermal pools. Other stops are free of charge.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately five hours, starting at 9:30 am, making it ideal for a half-day adventure.

Can I swim in the pools and beaches?
Yes, during summer, you can swim in the Ferraria pools and Mosteiros natural pools, weather permitting.

Are guides knowledgeable about the island’s history and geology?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews praise guides like Rita and Carlos for their deep local knowledge and engaging storytelling.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, camera gear, sun protection, and swimwear if you plan to swim. A light jacket might be helpful as the weather can change.

Is pickup available at my hotel?
Yes, pickup is offered, often near your accommodation or a nearby location, adding convenience to your experience.

In short, this private tour of São Miguel’s west side offers an excellent blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and relaxation—perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, memorable day on the Azores.