Best of São Miguel Island
Best of São Miguel Island
Best of São Miguel Island
6 Days Starting and ending in Ponta Delgada
Visiting: Ponta Delgada
Tour operator:
Tour code:
33340
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 30
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Join this six-day tour to discover the best of São Miguel, one of the islands of the exotic and remote Azores archipelago, the perfect destination for nature lovers and a world-leading example of sustainable tourism. Discover its dramatic landscapes: peaks bursting through the sea covered in vegetation, inhabited with a plethora of birdlife in diverse habitats, which range from lakes to forests, mountains and fields. Witness countless forms of aquatic life, oceanic dolphins, blue whales, sperm whales and killer whales. TOUR HIGHLIGHTSSão Miguel Island: also name ‘Ilha Verde’ (Green Island), is the biggest island in the Azores archipelago. It’s known for its volcanic scenery, flora and rich marine life, including whales. Whale watching: The Azores islands are considered the best stop in the Atlantic Ocean when it comes to Whale and Dolphin Watching. Nowadays our seas are just a perfect sanctuary for these amazing and beautiful creatures of nature, some of them resident and others just migratory. From majestic whales to gracious dolphins, here, more than 25 species can be found, where the biggest attraction is the Sperm Whale and its impressive tail.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive São Miguel – Ponta Delgada
Location: Ponta Delgada
Accommodation Name: Vila Nova
Upon landing at São Miguel Airport, make your own way to the arrivals hall where a representative will meet you. Hop on the shared transfer to the hotel, for check-in. Once you are settled, we suggest starting from the streets to the south, towards the sea, and you will be in the city centre of Ponta Delgada. You will find a magnificent square, with its own statue: Praça Gonçalo Velho Cabral. Behind the statue, a noble monument with three arches marks the beginning of Ponta Delgada as the main city of S. Miguel. Behind these arches named Portas da Cidade, you can walk through the small and narrow streets, where the local traditional commerce takes place (souvenirs stores, coffee shops, restaurants and banks). If you choose to stay in the main avenue, walk to Portas do Mar – the most recent infrastructure that supports the dock and the cruise ship port of the island. Here you will be in a platform above the sea, and you can find many people relaxing by the sea bay, enjoying a cup of coffee, a local beer, or even a cocktail.
Overnight in Ponta Delgada.
Day 2 : Ponta Delgada – Sete Cidades – Fogo Lake – Caldeira Velha – Ponta Da Ferraria – Ponta Delgada (190Km – 4Hr)
Location: Ponta Delgada
Accommodation Name: Vila Nova
Early breakfast at the hotel, followed by the first day of adventure in the island, a 4x4 full-day tour. This trip combines two of the most popular places around São Miguel Island: Sete Cidades lakes and Fogo Lake, among other incredible places such as Caldeira Velha and Ponta da Ferraria. You will be collected from the hotel at around 09:00 am, the first stop is at the rim of Sete Cidades’ caldera. You will pass by many interesting viewpoints, where you can enjoy the view over the green and blue lakes. After this stunning visit, it’s time to leave this magical place to Ponta da Ferraria. There, you will be able to go for a dip in the Atlantic Ocean when the tide is low. This place is truly magical because the water will not be cold! Indeed, it is naturally warmed by a volcanic fissure. Later on, you will have lunch is in a local restaurant halfway to Lagoa do Fogo, perfect to taste some Azorean food! (Included). In the afternoon, you will be taken to the amazing natural reserve of Lagoa do Fogo to enjoy mesmerizing landscapes surrounding the crater. Fogo Lake is one of the most popular places around the island and you will certainly understand why when you are there. From the top of the volcano, you will find incredible views over São Miguel Island with both North and South coast visible at the same time. The adventure does not stop here! After that, you will be taken to Caldeira Velha, a warm iron-rich waterfall where it is possible to take a dip year-round thanks to the volcanic activity warming the water up to 26°C (79°F). It is a real spa at open air, surrounded by lush forest, an amazing scenery that looks straight out of a movie. After this relaxing moment, you will head back to Ponta Delgada by the late afternoon.
Overnight in Ponta Delgada.
Day 3 : Ponta Delgada – Furnas – Lagoa Das Furnas – Pico Dos Milhos – Furnas – Terra Nostra Park – Ponta Delgada (10.5Km By Bike / 100Km – 2Hr)
Location: Ponta Delgada
Accommodation Name: Vila Nova
Charge your batteries with breakfast at the hotel and prepare yourself for another full-day adventure: mountain bike ride and Terra Nostra visit. You will be collected from the hotel at around 09:00 am. This mystical excursion, made in a minivan, is taking you to the eastern part of the island, known for its healing waters as well as boiling ones (geysers), showing us the volcanic activity is truly alive in this area. Here, meals are cooked under the ground with no more than its heat and steam. Corncobs are cooked in the boiling waters, and the best flatbread is made here. A crater with 75 kilometres is expected to be seen and a lake inside it can easily be walked around it. The pool tanks are thermal and hot warm, and the most beautiful and richest park of species (flora) can be found inside this small, attractive and welcoming village. This is Furnas. The activity starts with a bike tour, developed in a circular route (10.5 kilometres) which starts in Furnas village and follows to calderas area by Lagoa das Furnas, continuing through the dirt road surrounding the lake. The highest point of this tour is located in the area of Pico dos Milhos, where you can admire the village. Secondary paths leading back to the point of beginning make the descent and the end of the bike ride. After lunch in a restaurant in Furnas village (included), it is time to visit Terra Nostra Park. This is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens of the 18th century, where one can find species of flora from different regions of the world. You will be guided in a brief tour by the garden paths passing by the outdoor pool, which invites for a relaxing thermal bath. After this delightful moment, it is time to return to Ponta Delgada by the North Coast of the island and with a different perspective of the island of São Miguel.
Overnight in Ponta Delgada.
Day 4 : São Miguel (Car Hire Delivery)
Location: Ponta Delgada
Accommodation Name: Vila Nova
Have a tasty breakfast at the hotel (a light breakfast is recommended this day). Now that you visited the major land attractions of the island, it is time to feel adventurous and discover what else the island has to offer, so expect to receive a car at your hotel in the morning, so you can experience the island like a local too. Our suggestion today is the south coast of the island, all the way to Vila Franca do Campo, where we booked the bestseller activity in the island, Whales & Dolphin Watching. But before that, drive-by: São Rique and Livramento, with its three dark sand beaches; Lagoa with its natural swimming pools; Água de Pau, where you can enjoy a sunny morning in the most outgoing part of the island, as well as take the chance to taste the best fish on the island. The afternoon is reserved with the most well-known sea activity of the island - Whales & Dolphin Watching, in Vila Franca do Campo (Meeting point for Whale Watching activity - Marina of Vila Franca do Campo, at Terra Azul. Briefing will start at 12.15 pm) The activity starts with a safety briefing, where you get to know more about the species you are about to find, the weather conditions, the boat tour, as well as how you should behave during this guided tour to these species home. This route is stunning. You will cruise by impressive sights over the island of São Miguel. The tour will last about 3 hours. Right after your activity, you should definitely recharge batteries and try the famous Queijadas da Vila - small sweet tarts covered in powdered sugar (not included). One of the factories is located right above the marina, close to the Whale Watching Centre, where these freshly baked treats are sold. If the weather is welcoming, drive up to ‘’Nossa Senhora da Paz’’ a beautiful chapel. You can walk to the top of it, the view over the islet and the entire town is breath-taking. From this viewpoint, you can have a look over the entire village of Vila Franca do Campo, where an earthquake destroyed the entire place, in 1522. Take a deep breath at this outstanding view and admire the sunset, before your way back to Ponta Delgada.
Overnight in Ponta Delgada.
Day 5 : São Miguel
Location: Ponta Delgada
Accommodation Name: Vila Nova
Enjoy a tasty breakfast at the hotel. This is your last full day at leisure in the island, the recommended route on this day is through the northern and eastern side, with a quick detour to Fajã de Baixo, where you will find the famous pineapple plantations, the emblematic fruit of the Azores (We suggest the Arruda plantations). Leave Ponta Delgada and drive towards the north at the speedway, and soon you will reach the second largest city of São Miguel, Ribeira Grande. You may enjoy the city's historical centre and visit the famous liquor factory, which is very popular on the island. You may keep driving north, and soon you may find a sign designated as Gorreana Tea Factory. It produces more tea than anywhere in Europe, and it is located in an area of great scenic beauty. Continue driving towards Furnas village, and soon you will get to Pico do Ferro View Point, with an impressive view over the lake of Furnas. After descending to Furnas, and before you get in the Village, take the change to look closer the lake, and after parking your car, you will find yourself by the lakeshore, where you can now see a field with holes on the ground, some covered with a wooden lid, and others uncovered at all. Going back to the village, it is time to drive or walk through the magnificent promenade in Furnas, all the way to the geysers area (Caldeiras). Here is another proof of the volcanic activity by smelling the sulphur from boiling water geysers and small water fountains. Now that your visit to this particular village is complete, you should not leave without having dinner at Tony’s Restaurant – the most typical in Furnas (Included). Your booking is made and they should already be waiting for you.
Overnight in Ponta Delgada.
Day 6 : Departure Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island
Location: Ponta Delgada
Wake up to one last breakfast at the hotel and drive to the airport to return the car two hours before the flight departure. We hope the memories of this trip will stay with you for a lifetime.
What's Included
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Local Guide
Operated with English- and Portuguese-speaking local guide during the activities (Day 2, 3, 4).
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Accommodation
5 night's accommodation at Vila Nova in Ponta Delgada.
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Meals
5 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches (Day 2, 3), and 1 Dinner at a local restaurant (Day 5).
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Arrival Transfer
Arrival shared transfer in an air-conditioning bus from Ponta Delgada-João Paulo II Airport (Day 1).
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Transportation
Shared transportation in an air-conditioning bus during the activities (Day 2, 3).
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Car Hire
Car hire (Day 4, 5) with unlimited mileage, road assistance 24 hours, collision damage waiver (CDW), subject to an excess, road tax & VAT, and SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver).
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Entrance Fees and Activities
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: 4x4 Jeep full-day tour, 7 Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo including Caldeira Velha admission (Day 2); Mountain Bike & Terra Nostra Park full-day tour including Terra Nostra admission (Day 3); Whale Watching (Day 4).
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Meet & Greet
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Mountain Bike Equipment
Mountain bike, helmet, quick repair kit, guide, and insurance (Personal Accidents) (Day 3).
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Hotel Delivery
Hotel delivery of the car (Day 4).
What's Not Included
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Departure Airport Transfer
Departure airport transfer is not included.
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
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Drinks During Meals
Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.
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City Tax
City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.
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Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
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Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
are not included. -
Parking Fees
Parking fees are not included.
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Departure airport transfer
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Domestic flights
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International flights
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Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise)
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City tax not included payable on the spot
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Any visit not mentioned in the program
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Porterage and gratuities
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Expenditures of a personal nature drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program
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Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks mineral water camera/video camera fee (if any)
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Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays accidents etc.
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Parking fees
Mode of Transport
Experience shared transfers in an air-conditioned bus from the airport and during activities, along with car hire for self-exploration on select days.
Accommodation
Enjoy a comfortable stay at Vila Nova in Ponta Delgada, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for your 5-night accommodation.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes shared transfers in an air-conditioned bus from the airport and during activities. Additionally, car hire is provided for self-exploration on select days.
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What type of accommodation is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 5-night stay at Vila Nova in Ponta Delgada, which offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches on Days 2 and 3, and 1 dinner at a local restaurant on Day 5.
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Is there a guide provided during the activities?
Yes, the tour is operated with an English- and Portuguese-speaking local guide during the activities on Days 2, 3, and 4.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a 4x4 full-day tour to Sete Cidades lakes and Fogo Lake, mountain biking and a visit to Terra Nostra Park, whale and dolphin watching in Vila Franca do Campo, and exploring the geysers area in Furnas village.
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Is there any special equipment provided for the activities?
Yes, mountain bike equipment including a bike, helmet, quick repair kit, guide, and insurance (Personal Accidents) is provided on Day 3.
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Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour?
Yes, all entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included, such as Caldeira Velha admission and Terra Nostra admission.
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Is there a meet and greet service upon arrival?
Yes, a meet and greet service is provided upon arrival at the airport.
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Is the departure airport transfer included?
No, the departure airport transfer is not included in the tour package.
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Are drinks during meals included in the tour package?
No, drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or accidents is not included.
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How does Today Voyages work?
We are an Online Travel Agency, specialized in Group Vacations and Private Vacations. We have been in business for over 30 years through our sister company Go West Tours and, throughout the years, have developed an extensive network of trusted professionals around the world and a structured methodology to screen our suppliers. Today Voyages offers a selection of tours that are designed, managed and operated by our network of trusted Tour Operators and DMCs. Our database is connected with our partners so that when you make a booking with us this will immediately be received and processed by the Tour Operator.
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Where should I buy the flights to reach my destination?
Today Voyages does not sell flights directly. None of our tours come with flights included. Why? Because we prefer to give full flexibility to our valued customers to select the airlines and the booking platform they prefer. As soon as your flight is booked and confirmed, we invite you to update your flight plan within your Today Voyages booking confirmation page by entering your flight number, departure and arrival times, as well as your Passport information (if needed). None of these fields are mandatory but we highly encourage you to provide as much information as possible. This will allow us to provide you with the excellent service you are looking for.
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What is an additional excursion or tour optional?
Certain tours might show a selection of additional excursions/optional activities that you may want to add to our standard itinerary. These services are priced separately and can be added to the cart before completing the booking. We believe these optional services to contribute to making your vacation unforgettable; however, you are in no way obliged to purchase them. All our tours are awesome with our without optional services!
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What is the difference between Group Vacations and Private Vacations?
If you purchase one of our Group vacation packages, you will be escorted by a professional tour guide and will be traveling with other like-minded travelers you may not know. The group size depends on the tour you select. If you purchase one of our Private vacation packages, you will be traveling only within your group of friends. You may or may not be escorted by a professional tour guide; this depends on the type of private tour you are interested in.
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When and how will I receive the travel documents (vouchers)?
If you book one of our Group or Private tours, you will receive your travel documents via email approximately 20 days prior to travel date. If you reserve one of our Vacation Rentals, you will hear back from the property manager via email a few days prior to checking-in. We recommend checking your emails on a regular basis as this is our most reliable method of communication. If you have questions or need additional support, you can always chat with us or email us directly.
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What happens if a Group tour does not get confirmed?
It is very simple... you will be offered an alternative departure date or be refunded the full amount you pre-paid. No questions asked!
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What happens after I book?
The majority of our tours are confirmed at the time of booking. This means that, after submitting the payment online, you will receive an order confirmation email; make sure to save this email and to note down your confirmation number for any future communication with us. Some tours may be sold on a 'on request' basis. This means that for these tours we reserve the right to check the availability of your spot(s) with the Tour Operator before confirming the tour to you. As soon as you submit the payment online for a 'on request' tour you will receive an email notification that confirms your order request. Within 72 hours, you will receive either a confirmation email or a denial email. Do not worry... we will do everything we can to confirm your tour!
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Free Date Changes
Today Voyages allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 65 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Today Voyages requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of today voyages charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.