Guided tour of Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo, lunch included

Exploring the islands of the Azores is a dream for anyone looking for untouched landscapes and genuine local charm. This guided tour of São Miguel’s most iconic sites, including Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, offers a structured yet flexible way to see the best parts of the island in one day. Priced at $95.61 per person and usually booked about 7 weeks in advance, this experience lasts around 8 to 9 hours and includes a variety of stops—from charming villages to dramatic viewpoints—all led by knowledgeable guides who truly know their stuff.

One aspect I really appreciate is how this tour combines stunning natural wonders with local industry—like the visit to the Mulher de Capote liquor factory, which provides a flavorful taste of local crafts. Plus, the lunch, with its three courses and drinks, offers excellent value, meaning you get a hearty meal after a morning of sightseeing without feeling rushed or overcharged. Another plus is the small-group setting—limited to just 8 travelers—making it easier to stay personal with the guide and ask questions.

That said, it’s worth noting that the itinerary doesn’t always follow the exact plan, as some reviews mention missing stops like the liquor tasting. Also, an optional visit to the Caldeira Velha thermal waters isn’t included in the ticket price, and reserving a bathing spot there might be tricky unless arranged beforehand. But overall, the experience offers a solid balance of sights, stories, and flavors.

Key Points

• Experienced Guides Make a Difference: Guides like Carla and Eric are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, turning a sightseeing trip into a memorable local experience.
• Spectacular Views & Iconic Sites: From Lagoa das Sete Cidades to Pico Carvão, you’ll get plenty of jaw-dropping vistas and learn the stories behind them.
• Well-Paced and Convenient Stops: The itinerary includes cultural visits, viewpoints, and nature reserves, with enough time at each spot to appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed.
• Delicious Included Lunch: The multi-course meal with drinks provides great value, especially as it’s a local-style buffet that reflects Azorean flavors.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and interaction with your guide.
• Some Variability in the stops is possible, so manage expectations if particular sights, like the liquor tasting or Caldeira Velha, are missed.

Exploring the Full Day of São Miguel

If you’re planning a visit to São Miguel, this full-day guided tour is one of the most comprehensive ways to get a broad view of the island’s highlights. The day kicks off early, with a pickup at 9:00am, and the small group (usually just 8 people) means more personalized attention. While the tour is packed with almost a dozen different stops, the pace stays manageable, and the guide’s local insight makes each place come alive.

Ribeira Grande & Santa Barbara Beach

Your adventure begins in the historic town of Ribeira Grande, where you’ll get a quick glimpse of its old town and, if the weather allows, a moment at the nearby Santa Barbara beach. It’s a great way to dip your toes into local life and see a different side of the island’s coast.

Mulher de Capote Liquor Factory

Next, you visit the Licores Mulher de Capote, where the tour fee includes a tasting. Travelers often find this stop a highlight, especially because the factory produces award-winning maracujá liquor. The short visit includes a walkthrough of the production and a chance to sample some of their spirits—a fun, flavorful break from the scenery.

Caldeira Velha Thermal Waters

While the thermal waters at Caldeira Velha aren’t included in the ticket, the stop here is visually stunning. Known for its beautiful waterfall and warm waters, many visitors enjoy a soak in the 37-39°C thermal pools. If you want to bathe, you’ll likely need to make a reservation, as some reviews suggest it’s hard to do spontaneously.

Lagoa do Fogo & Sete Cidades

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the visits to Lagoa do Fogo and Sete Cidades. At 750m altitude, Lagoa do Fogo offers a pristine lagoon surrounded by mountains, which you probably won’t want to miss. The miradouro (viewpoint) provides a mesmerizing panorama of the crater lake, with some travelers calling it one of the most beautiful lagoons in the Azores.

The Lagoa das Sete Cidades, with its legendary twin lakes separated by a shallow channel, is one of Portugal’s wonders—and a must-see. The color contrast—one blue, one green—is both gorgeous and photogenic. Not everyone agrees on the exact details of the legend, but everyone agrees on the captivating scenery.

Viewpoints & Local Vistas

Throughout the day, you’ll stop at Pico Carvão, Vista do Rei, and Cerrado das Freiras—all offering panoramic views that showcase the island’s volcanic grandeur from different angles. One reviewer notes that from the viewpoint at Ponta do Escalvado, you can even see Terceira and the tops of Pico Island on clear days.

Additional Stops & Lunch in Lagoa

Later, you’ll have a two-hour break in Lagoa town, where a three-course meal awaits. The lunch includes starters, a main, desserts, and drinks—a notable value considering the full-day nature of the tour. Many travelers say the food is tasty and satisfying.

Final Vista & Reflecting on the Day

The tour wraps with a stop at Miradouro da Barrosa, high above Serra de Água de Pāu, providing a breathtaking view of both sides of the island. From there, if weather permits, you might catch a glimpse of neighboring islands, making it a fitting farewell to this scenic day.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a rundown of São Miguel without the hassle of planning each stop. If you appreciate natural beauty, stunning viewpoints, and local stories, you’ll find plenty to love. The small-group format encourages interaction and makes it easier to ask questions, especially about the lore and history behind the sights. The inclusion of a delicious lunch and local spirits tasting** adds extra value for those interested in the Azores’ culinary traditions.

However, if you’re the type who prefers a very flexible schedule or wants to spend extra time bathing in thermal pools, you might want to consider arranging that individually. Also, some reviews mention that the itinerary may vary, so don’t expect every stop to be exactly as described.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to see some of the most iconic scenery in the Azores, this guided day trip offers good value for money, friendly guides like Carla, and plenty of breathtaking vistas. The tour’s small size guarantees a more personal experience, and the diverse stops—ranging from crater lakes to viewpoints—highlight the volcanic grandeur of São Miguel beautifully.

The lunch and liquor tasting contribute a taste of local flavor, making this a more authentic experience than just passing by with a camera. While certain stops might be skipped or altered, most travelers find that the overall experience exceeds expectations—especially with guides praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded introduction to São Miguel that combines nature, culture, and local cuisine for a fair price, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving ample time to explore, enjoy viewpoints, and have a proper lunch.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour, lunch with starters, main course, desserts, coffee, drinks, bottled water, and visits to the liquor factory. It also includes the entrance to Lagoa do Fogo and Sete Cidades viewpoints.

Are all stops included in the tour?
Most are, but some reviews note that certain stops like Caldeira Velha or specific parts of the itinerary may be missed depending on the day.

Can I swim or bathe at Caldeira Velha?
Not included in the tour fee, and reservations are recommended to secure bathing time, as it can be hard to reserve last minute.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits to 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What if the weather is bad?
If poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Weather can impact certain views and stops, especially at viewpoints.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Most reviewers say yes, as the itinerary is carefully paced, with enough time at each major stop to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The tour operates on a set schedule with a fixed itinerary; however, some variability is possible depending on guide discretion and weather conditions.

In the end, if you’re after a comprehensive, well-led day of exploring São Miguel’s highlights—from volcanic craters to lush lagoons—this tour offers a balanced and memorable experience that showcases the best of the island.