Discover Lagoa do Fogo & Caldeira Velha Hot Springs: A Unique Azores Day Trip Experience
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate shape able to walk on uneven ground and some light hiking around viewpoints and hot spring areas.
Overview
Explore the volcanic wonders of São Miguel on a day trip to Lagoa do Fogo and Caldeira Velha Hot Springs. Discover Europe’s oldest tea plantation, vibrant pottery artistry, and breathtaking viewpoints on this unforgettable Azores adventure.
Lagoa do Fogo & Hot Springs Day Trip
All ages • 8 hours • Hot Springs!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Lagoa do Fogo, where you'll explore a vibrant pottery factory, unwind in the Caldeira Velha Hot Springs, and visit Europe's oldest tea plantation. Capture stunning coastal views from breathtaking viewpoints, all while enjoying the natural beauty of the Azores in comfort and style.
Explore the beauty of the Lagoa do Fogo crater lake on this day trip from Ponta Delgada.
Duration
8 hours
About
Search for local treasures at a pottery factory, have free time to enjoy the Caldeira Velha Hot Springs, visit a local tea plantation, and capture pictures of the coast from points with sweeping views.
Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation Ponta Delgada in the morning and board an airconditioned van. Sit back and relax on the drive to a local pottery factory. View a colorful assortment of pots, cups, tiles, and plates at the Cerâmica Vieira pottery factory.
Travel to the Lagoa do Fogo crater lake that is nestled into the Água de Pau Massif stratovolcano. Take in its verdant shores and turquoise waters. Head to the hot springs of Caldeira Velha for an hour of free time where you can purchase a ticket to soak in the waters of the hot springs.
Stop for a quick lunch break in the center of Ribeira Grande, for some traditional dishes. After lunch make a stop at Gorreana, the only tea plantation in Europe. Admire the lush green layered crops before continuing to 4 viewpoints where you can take pictures of the highlands and the coast.
NOTE:
-Our tours will not be affected to the new measures regarding visits to Lagoa do Fogo. -With this tour you can visit Lagoa do Fogo freely and without the need to purchase extra tickets and to wait in line for the shuttle. -If you wish to bathe in the hot springs, please message us upon booking, to reserve these. -Bookings made less than 48 hours prior to the start of the tour may not be able to take the tour in German, French, or Spanish. Please contact us if needed.
Highlights
• Visit the world famous Fogo Lake crater • Spend some free time visiting hot springs in the Caldeira Velha nature reserve • Stop at the oldest tea plantation in Europe and admire its terraced fields • Discover the beauty of Portuguese pottery at the Cerâmica Vieira factory • Marvel at the island and sea from several breathtaking viewpoints
What to bring
• Passport or ID card • Swimwear • Towel
Included
• Pickup and drop-off • Certified tour guide • Powerbanks • Maps and guide books
Not included
• Breakfast and lunch • Caldeira Velha entrace fees (please send message indicating if you want a ticket)
Not allowed
• Smoking in the vehicle • Alcohol and drugs • Food in the vehichle • Pets
Adventure Tips
Reserve Hot Springs Tickets in Advance
To ensure access to Caldeira Velha’s thermal pools, notify your guide when booking to secure your entrance ticket.
Bring Swimwear and Towel
Pack appropriate swimwear and a towel to enjoy a relaxing soak in the Caldeira Velha hot springs.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Hiking around Lagoa do Fogo and viewpoints involves uneven terrain; wear sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners.
Capture Photos at Multiple Viewpoints
Make stops at all four designated viewpoints for varied panoramic shots of highlands and ocean landscapes.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Azorean bullfinch, a bird endemic to São Miguel
- Native laurel forest species such as azorean woodcock
History
The tea plantation at Gorreana dates back to 1883, the oldest in Europe and a rare surviving remnant of continental tea agriculture.
Conservation
Lagoa do Fogo is a designated nature reserve to protect its fragile volcanic ecosystem, with strict visitor guidelines to preserve its pristine condition.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Ponta Delgada
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Hiking Shoes
Provides support and traction on rocky and uneven trails near Lagoa do Fogo and viewpoints.
Swimwear and Towel
Essential for enjoying the thermal pools at Caldeira Velha hot springs.
Sun Protection
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen protect you from intense midday sun while outdoors.
summer specific
Light Rain Jacket
Helps stay dry during the Azores’ occasional spring showers without overheating.
spring specific