2 Days Private Tour in São Miguel

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Private Tour in São Miguel

This 2-day private tour of São Miguel offers a flexible, personalized way to explore the Azores’ largest island. With the comfort of a small group (up to 7 people) and the guidance of both an experienced driver and a local expert, you’ll discover the island’s highlights at your own pace. From volcanic coastlines and crater lakes to lush botanical gardens and traditional cuisine, this experience promises a well-rounded immersion into Azorean life and landscapes.

What I love most about this tour is just how customizable it feels. The guides, Filipe and Marica, receive glowing reviews for their warmth and flexibility, making sure your interests shape the itinerary. Plus, the inclusion of free Wi-Fi and air-conditioned transport ensures comfort while you soak in the scenery. A second highlight is the stunning vistas—especially the views from Vista do Rei and Pico do Ferro—that make every stop photo-worthy and memorable.

Of course, no tour is perfect. One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees to parks and hot springs aren’t included, costing about 8 to 10 euros per site. If you’re on a tight budget or prefer private hot springs experiences, you might want to plan ahead. The value lies in the personalized service and diverse sights, making this a top choice for those who want a relaxed yet comprehensive island experience.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Personalized itinerary: The guides tailor the day based on your interests, making it feel like exploring with friends rather than a scripted tour.
• Expert guides: Filipe and Marica are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often cited as the best guides in the Azores.
• Comfort and convenience: The use of a small, air-conditioned van with free Wi-Fi means you can relax and share your photos on the go.
• Authentic experiences: Highlights like the thermal hot springs at Ferraria, the scenic crater lakes, and tasting local Cozido in Furnas deliver genuine Azorean flavor.
• Flexibility: You can request to include specific places or skip certain stops, which is especially valuable if you have particular sights in mind.
• Cost analysis: While the tour costs around $810 for up to 7 people, the value comes from a full, tailored experience with knowledgeable guides, rather than just transportation or entry tickets.

Exploring São Miguel in Depth: A Practical, Authentic Journey

If you’re planning a trip to São Miguel and want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, a private guided tour like this can be a game-changer. It offers a blend of comfort, flexibility, and local insight that larger group excursions often lack. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect and why it might be worth considering.

The Essence of the 2-Day Private Tour

This tour is designed to maximize your time on the island by dividing the exploration into two manageable days. The first day focuses on the west side, including the famous Sete Cidades crater lakes and volcanic coastline at Ferraria. The second day shifts eastward to showcase geothermal wonders, lush gardens, and regional cuisine.

You’re picked up at your accommodation or designated meeting point in Ponta Delgada, with the convenience of free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected and share your adventures immediately. The van, a comfortable 9-seater with air conditioning, is ideal for small groups, ensuring everyone has space and a good view.

Day 1: From Oceanic Hot Springs to Crater Lakes

Ferraria is a standout on this day — an extraordinary natural thermal hot spring right at the ocean’s edge. Imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters while gazing out at the Atlantic waves crashing nearby. It’s a rare experience that combines volcanic activity with the raw beauty of the coast.

Next, the Vista do Rei Miradouro offers an iconic view over the Sete Cidades lakes. Here, you’ve got a sweeping panorama of twin lakes, one shimmering green and the other blue — a postcard moment that’s become synonymous with São Miguel. The walk down into the village allows for a leisurely exploration and lunch, with plenty of local options.

Midday, you’ll visit Lagoa do Fogo, a high-altitude crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation. The viewpoints like Bela Vista and Pico da Barrosa give you a chance to appreciate the volcanic origins and natural beauty of the central landscape, often cited as one of the island’s most stunning sights.

Finally, a stop at the Centro de Interpretacao Ambiental Caldeira Velha allows a dip in thermal waterfalls amidst verdant surroundings, a relaxing finish to an active day. Note that entrance fees to hot springs aren’t included, so plan for about 8-10 euros.

Day 2: From Tea Plantations to Geothermal Delights

Starting with a visit to Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, you’ll see how tea is grown and processed in the Azores — an unusual sight compared to mainland Portugal’s more common vineyards. Tasting fresh teas adds a flavorful touch before moving on.

The Miradouro Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers incredible views of the Lake of Furnas, a caldera filled with geothermal activity. It’s a favorite among reviewers, who find the views both dramatic and peaceful.

At Caldeira das Furnas, you’ll witness bubbling fumaroles and geysers, plus the chance to taste the mineral waters from various fountains. The highlight here, though, is the Furnas area itself, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Cozido — a stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat. The dish is a culinary signature of São Miguel, and diners often find the experience both delicious and culturally authentic.

The Parque Terra Nostra botanical garden is a lush, romantic spot where you can wander among exotic plants and take a dip in its famous geothermal swimming pool, a highlight praised repeatedly in reviews for its relaxing atmosphere. Entrance isn’t included, but it’s well worth the small extra fee.

Finally, a short visit to Nossa Senhora da Paz Sanctuary provides a peaceful end to your tour, with sweeping views over Vila Franca do Campo.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private experience is particularly suited for travelers who value flexibility and want a more authentic, personalized experience. If you’re traveling with family or friends and prefer a relaxed pace, this tour’s small-group setup ensures comfort. Those interested in geology, volcanic landscapes, or local cuisine will find plenty to appreciate.

The tour’s expert guides — Filipe and Marica — receive high praise for their local knowledge and warmth. If you love discovering the story behind each site and enjoy spontaneous stops based on your interests, this experience will suit you well.

However, if your budget is tight or you prefer a more structured, less customizable experience, you might find this tour on the pricier side. Also, keep in mind that admission tickets are extra, so plan accordingly if you want to visit all sites.

Price, Convenience, and Extra Tips

At $810.32 for the whole group, this tour offers good value for a tailored, private experience. For roughly 115 USD per person (assuming seven people), you get a full two days of guided sightseeing, transportation, and the flexibility to adapt the day to your interests.

Booking well in advance (average of 63 days ahead) is recommended, especially in high season. The tour operates daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., giving ample time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips

• Bring cash or cards for entrance fees and meals, as lunch is not included.
• Wear comfortable shoes — many stops involve walking or short hikes.
• Check the weather forecast — some sites, like Lagoa do Fogo, are best enjoyed in clear weather.
• Ask your guides for recommendations on local eateries or hidden gems—they’re eager to share insider tips.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you want a personalized, comfortable, and informative way to see São Miguel, this private tour delivers. The combination of stunning sights, expert guides, and flexibility makes it especially appealing for those who prefer to avoid crowded group tours and want to customize their experience.

The guides’ warmth and knowledge shine through, making the journey not just about sightseeing but about understanding the essence of the island. While it’s a bit pricier than large-group options, the quality of the experience — especially the tailored approach and insider insights — justifies the expense for many travelers.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed, families seeking a relaxed, safe environment, or anyone eager to learn the stories behind the landscapes while enjoying the comfort of private transportation.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned van with Wi-Fi, along with the services of a driver and an expert guide. Child seats are available, but tickets to parks and hot springs are paid separately.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The itinerary is quite flexible, and you can suggest specific sites or ask to skip certain stops. The guides are known for their accommodating approach, tailoring the day to your interests.

What is the approximate cost of entrance fees?
Entrance to parks and hot springs costs about 8 to 10 euros per site, which is not included in the tour price.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but the guides can recommend local restaurants, and you’ll have time on Day 1 to enjoy a meal in Sete Cidades.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking around 2 months in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and usually booked 63 days ahead on average.

Can children participate?
Yes, child seats are available, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you plan to walk around crater lakes or botanical gardens. Layered clothing is advisable, depending on the weather.

In all, if you’re after a well-organized, authentic, and memorable experience of São Miguel, this private guided tour offers an excellent way to enjoy the island’s best while enjoying comfort and flexibility.