Lagoa do Fogo e Furnas Adventure with BigBlue Adventures

Set in the heart of the Azores archipelago, BigBlue Adventures offers an immersive 8-hour journey through São Miguel’s most dramatic and diverse landscapes. This trip balances physical challenge and cultural immersion, framing the island’s volcanic origins and rich traditions. Travelers ascend Pico da Barrosa, a striking volcanic cone that crowns the trail with panoramic views of Lagoa do Fogo, the island’s largest crater lake. The lake’s cobalt waters contrast sharply with the emerald slopes that rise to meet misty skies, a scene unique to this part of the Atlantic.

The adventure continues with a rejuvenating soak in Caldeira Velha’s warm, iron-rich springs. These natural thermal pools, set amid lush tropical vegetation, invite visitors to relax amid rushing waterfalls and exotic ferns, offering a sensory connection to the island’s geothermal force. The trip moves into cultural terrain next, with a tasting of local liqueurs in Ribeira Grande, the island’s second-largest city, known for its centuries-old architecture and vibrant markets.

In Furnas, guests witness the preparation of “cozido,” a traditional stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic steam vents. This extraordinary culinary method links the island’s volcanic activity directly to its food traditions, providing an unforgettable multisensory experience. The day concludes with tastings of locally grown teas, unique to São Miguel’s microclimate, alongside sweeping coastal vistas that capture the wild Atlantic expanse.

BigBlue Adventures stands out for its seamless blend of natural wonders and cultural storytelling, positioning this trip as an essential introduction to São Miguel’s volcanic landscape and heritage. For anyone drawn to rugged terrain and authentic encounters, this is a day that delivers a thorough, grounded perspective of one of the Azores’ most spectacular spots.