Ultimate Hiking Adventure from Praia to Lagoa do Fogo in the Azores
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good cardiovascular fitness and experience hiking on uneven, steep terrain.
Overview
Discover the ultimate hiking experience from Praia to Lagoa do Fogo on São Miguel Island. This full-day guided trek offers volcanic landscapes, crater lake views, and geothermal springs for an unforgettable Azorean adventure.
Praia to Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake)
Starting at 30€ | 8 Hours Hiking tour | 11,5 Kilometres / 7.2 miles | For the avid hikers!
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating 8-hour hiking adventure through stunning landscapes, covering 11.5 km of medium to difficult terrain. Enjoy a guided experience with transportation, a picnic box, and optional visits to the breathtaking Fire Lake or relaxing thermal baths. Perfect for nature lovers seeking unforgettable memories!
A great way to spend the day!
Rates per Person
Adult (13 years + older): 55€ Children (8 to 12 years): 30€
Rate Private Tour
Private Hiking Tour (1 to 3): 155€
Activity duration
8 Hours (includes pick up hour and drop off hour)
About
Category - Circular Difficulty - Medium / Difficult Extension - 11,5 kms / 7.2 miles Hiking time average - 4 hours
- The Hiking Tour starts at 9:00 AM from the Hotel / Local accommodation or Meeting point and finishes at 17:00.
- It also includes at the end of the hike a stop to see the Fire Lake main view.
- For who wants at the end of the Hiking Tour, may have visit or a hot thermal bath at Caldeira Velha park pools (entrance fee not included) or swim/bath at a black sand beach on the way.
The Hiking Tour includes Guide, Transportation, Pic-nic box, walking poles (on request) and insurance.
-
Summer Season: Minimum 3 people
-
Winter Season: Minumum 2 people
Adventure Tips
Bring plenty of water
Carry at least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated during this 8-hour hike through remote terrain.
Wear sturdy hiking boots
Expect rocky and uneven volcanic paths requiring solid footwear with good ankle support.
Start early to avoid afternoon fog
Begin your hike in the morning to catch clear views of the crater lake before cloud cover builds up.
Reserve the thermal bath option in advance
Thermal springs visits are popular—book ahead if you want to include this relaxing stop at the end.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Azorean bullfinch (endemic bird)
- Madeiran wall lizard
History
São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes formed millions of years ago, with Lagoa do Fogo’s crater lake created during an eruption approximately 15,000 years ago.
Conservation
Strict guidelines help preserve this sensitive volcanic area, including designated trails and limits on tourist numbers to reduce erosion.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Ribeira Grande
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
To protect your feet on volcanic and sometimes wet trails.
Layered clothing
Helps adjust to changing conditions and temperatures throughout the day.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Crater ridges offer little shade, so guard against sun exposure.
summer specific
Light backpack
To carry your water, picnic, and any extra layers comfortably.