Into The Wild Azores Tours: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo - Ponta Delgada

Into The Wild Azores Tours: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo

Ponta Delgadamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

8 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for participants in good physical condition comfortable with all-day walking and occasional uphill terrain.

Overview

Journey through São Miguel’s volcanic heart on an 8-hour tour with Into The Wild Azores Tours. Encounter towering calderas, tranquil crater lakes, and rejuvenating thermal springs while sampling authentic local flavors.

Details

Set on the lush volcanic island of São Miguel, in Portugal’s Azores archipelago, Into The Wild Azores Tours offers an immersive 8-hour journey across two of the island’s most striking natural landmarks: Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. Starting near Ponta Delgada, this tour navigates through diverse volcanic landscapes shaped by ancient eruptions, offering visitors a deep dive into the Azores’ raw and dynamic environment.

Sete Cidades is a vast volcanic caldera featuring twin lakes—the Blue Lake and Green Lake—named for their strikingly different hues. Dramatic lookouts like Vista do Rei provide panoramic views over the crater, where rugged cliffs and dense native laurel forests frame the shimmering waters below. This region exemplifies the island’s unique geology, with basalt ridges and fertile volcanic soil supporting rich flora that feels untouched by time.

Lagoa do Fogo, translating to "Lake of Fire," is a pristine crater lake located within a protected natural reserve. Its remote location and high elevation create a cooler microclimate, nurturing endemic plant species and offering a quieter contrast to the bustling caldera. The tour also integrates moments of relaxation by accessing thermal springs—natural hot waters heated by subterranean volcanic activity—where visitors can soak away fatigue amidst striking landscapes.

Beyond scenic vistas, Into The Wild Azores Tours grounds the adventure with local flavor: participants enjoy sampling traditional Azorean liqueurs, spotlighting the region’s cultural heritage. This combination of geology, wildlife, and authentic local customs makes the experience exceptional for outdoor adventurers seeking a comprehensive connection to São Miguel’s wilderness.

What sets Into The Wild Azores apart is their dedication to sustainable tourism paired with expert knowledge of volcanic terrain. Their guides ensure both safety and enriching storytelling, making these remote volcanic wonders accessible and unforgettable. For travelers based in Ponta Delgada or venturing through the Azores, this full-day trip offers a vivid encounter with one of Europe’s most captivating island landscapes.

Adventure Tips

Layer up for Changing Weather

Bring breathable layers—temperatures can shift quickly between crater floor and higher elevations.

Stay Hydrated

Carry water for the full day, especially in warmer months when hiking between viewpoints.

Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trails include uneven volcanic rock and muddy sections; solid hiking shoes improve stability.

Respect Local Thermal Springs

Use designated areas only to protect sensitive hot spring environments and maintain cleanliness.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Caldeira Velha waterfalls and thermal pools
  • The lesser-known Salto do Cabrito hiking route

Wildlife

  • Azores bullfinch (endemic bird)
  • Common kestrel

History

Sete Cidades' twin lakes legend tells of a tragic love story, deeply rooted in local folklore dating back centuries.

Conservation

This area is part of a protected natural reserve with ongoing efforts to preserve native species and minimize tourism impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at sunset
Early morning for mist and soft light
Late afternoon for vivid contrasts

Best Viewpoints

  • Vista do Rei lookout
  • Lagoa do Fogo’s crater rim
  • Thermal spring pools

What to Photograph

Crater lakes’ reflections
Volcanic rock formations
Wild native flora

Recommended Gear

Hiking boots

Essential

Provides grip and ankle support on rugged volcanic trails.

Water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated throughout the day’s activities.

Rain jacket

Essential

Protects against sudden rain and wind common on São Miguel.

spring|fall|winter specific

Camera

Capture sweeping caldera views and thermal spring moments.

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