Lake of Fire Van Tour with Azores Trails of Nature
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking required.
Overview
Discover the striking volcanic landscapes of Lagoa do Fogo with Azores Trails of Nature’s immersive half-day VAN Tour. From artisan clay workshops to thermal pools and historic towns, this journey highlights São Miguel’s most captivating sights.
VAN Tour - Lake of Fire | Half Day
Min 2 people up to 8 • 3.5H • All ages
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking 3.5-hour journey to the stunning Lagoa do Fogo Volcano, a Nature Reserve in the Azores. Experience artisanal clay production, enjoy panoramic views from the mountain, and relax in thermal pools. Discover Ribeira Grande's historic center and savor local liqueurs, all in an intimate small group setting.
The unforgettable Lake of Fire
Duration
Approximately 3.5 hours
About
The Lagoa do Fogo Volcano is, for those who visit it, an illustrated postcard, with an image that you will hardly forget, of a stunning beauty, which impresses by its grandeur and nature around. This Lagoon is one of the largest lagoons in the Azores and the second largest on the island of São Miguel, and has been classified since 1974 as a Nature Reserve. Departing from Ponta Delgada towards the mountain, we will travel along the south coast to the city of Lagoa, having the Vieira Ceramics Factory as an essential stop. Here we will have the opportunity to visualize the artisanal method of clay production and follow the entire process until the final product. These magnificent pieces are known among locals as the famous “Louça da Lagoa”. Then we will go to the top of the Lagoa do Fogo Mountain, always accompanied by green pastures and beautiful flowers that characterize our islands, where we will also enjoy a fantastic view of the cities of Lagoa, Ponta Delgada and Ribeira Grande and finally arriving at top of the mountain and enjoy the famous Lagoa de Fogo. Towards the North coast you will have an optional stop at the Caldeira Velha Natural Park, rich in endemic plants, where you can bathe in its thermal water pools, with temperatures up to 38 degrees (100 ºF). Arriving in the city of Ribeira Grande, we will make a brief visit to its historic center and you will also have the option of tasting the tasty liqueurs made in the region. On the way back, we will stop at a black sand beach, the famous beach of Santa Bárbara, where a stage of the world surfing championship takes place. And so we have finished this magnificent tour and it is time to return to the city of Ponta Delgada.
Highlights
- Lagoa do Fogo is one of the two Nature Reserves on the island of S. Miguel.
- Tour to the top of the magnificent mountain of -Lagoa do Fogo
- Traditional liqueurs tasting made on the island
- Discover the beach where the world surf championship takes place.
- Learn about the history of the Azores with your expert guide
- Small groups where you will have all the attention you need
- Unforgettable experience
Route:
- PDL
- Batalha
- Ribeira Grande
- Farol da Ribeirinha
- Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande
- Caldeira Velha
- Lagoa do Fogo
- PDL
Observations
- Rates include guide
- Minimum of 2 people
- Licensed Tour Operator
- Casualty and Professional Liability Insurance
- Pick-up & Drop off on hotel in Ponta Delgada
Adventure Tips
Wear layered clothing
Temperatures vary from coastal areas to mountain summits; layers help manage changing conditions.
Bring swimwear for thermal pools
Pack a swimsuit and towel if you plan to take advantage of the warm waters at Caldeira Velha.
Use sturdy footwear
While primarily a van tour, some short walks on uneven terrain require supportive shoes.
Prepare your camera
Charge batteries and bring memory cards to capture sweeping volcanic vistas and cultural stops.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Azores bullfinch (a rare endemic bird)
- marine dolphins along the coastline
History
The Lagoa do Fogo Nature Reserve was established in 1974 to protect the volcanic crater and native species on São Miguel.
Conservation
Strict protections limit development around the crater lake to preserve its unique ecosystems and water quality.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ponta Delgada
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered clothing
Adapt to varied mountain and coastal weather by dressing in layers.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes are needed for short walks on uneven terrain.
Swimsuit
Use for the optional thermal pool bath at Caldeira Velha.
spring|summer|fall specific
Sun protection
Sunscreen and sunglasses guard against UV exposure at higher elevations.
spring|summer|fall specific