Day tripsCountriesPortugalPonta DelgadaPonta Delgada to Sao Miguel's Thermal Pools: Guided Tour

Ponta Delgada to Sao Miguel's Thermal Pools: Guided Tour

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Private tour with a local expert

8h 15m
Round trip
Private group
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About your trip

From Ponta Delgada, journey to the wild beauty of Lagoa do Fogo with a private tour guide, then unwind in the thermal springs of Caldeira Velha’s lush jungle. Finish in Ribeira Grande, where volcanic beaches, historic streets, and local liqueurs will relax you before your guide takes you back to the city.
Exclusively yours: A premium experience for your group only
Insider insight: Local tips and stories you won’t find online
Perfect balance: Expert guidance with freedom to explore
Ideal for all travelers: Families, friends, or solo adventurers
From €121
Private group ride
per person
Select date and travelers
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your pickup time.
For a group of 1-3 travelersTotal€363

What to expect

Your day trip begins wherever you are

Meet your guide right where you prefer in Ponta Delgada whenever suits you best. No time wasted getting to the pickup point, grab your bag and start your trip right away.

Discover more with local expertise

Your guide is both your expert behind the wheel and knowledgeable host throughout the day. They’ll manage the day’s itinerary, share stories and local knowledge, and make each moment along the route feel richer. At every stop, they’re by your side.

Guided experience with space to explore

Sao Miguel's natural geothermal pools are just a short drive from Ponta Delgada! Your first stop will be at Lagoa do Fogo for hiking on the nature trails around the iconic crater lake. Then, head to Caldeira Velha for 1.5 hours to soak in the volcanic hot springs before your last stop, Ribeira Grande. Here, you'll spend 3 hours in the seaside town admiring the volcanic sands on the beach, dipping in the hot springs, and perhaps even having dinner! After this action-packed day, your driver-guide will take you back to Ponta Delgada.

Perfect for any private group

Whether you're traveling solo, as a family with kids, or as a large group, this service is tailored for your comfort and flexibility. It's the ideal option especially if you have limited time or a busy schedule.

Good to know

  • Two-way private car transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Personalized pickup and drop-off
  • Private professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • Complimentary bottled water
  • Free cancellation 24 hours before departure
  • Attraction admission details specified in the itinerary section below
  • Official guided tours inside attractions in Lagoa do Fogo, Caldeira Velha, and Ribeira Grande can be purchased separately - inform us in advance for itinerary planning
From €121
Private group ride
per person
Select date and travelers
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your pickup time.
For a group of 1-3 travelersTotal€363

Your trip at a glance

Your trip at a glance

Start in Ponta Delgada
You choose the pickup spot.
1
Lagoa do Fogo
Feel free to explore at your own pace and discover
Stop: 2 hours - admission not included
Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo
From panoramic crater views to a sparkling lake, Lagoa do Fogo offers the best of Portuguese nature. Immerse yourself in a guided adventure through Lagoa do Fogo, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the lake below from Miradouro da Serra da Barrosa. Hikers will relish in the Lagoa do Fogo Trail, which boasts diverse terrains and stunning views. Then, a journey through the area’s nature preserve allows visitors to spot Azores juniper and laurel. Travelers can close out the day by capturing the lake’s beauty from the crater rim for postcard-perfect memories. Before leaving, sample Cozido das Furnas. This traditional stew is slow-cooked using geothermal heat in nearby Furnas. Or, enjoy Azorean pineapple for a tangy and unforgettable taste of the region.
2
Caldeira Velha
Feel free to explore at your own pace and discover
Stop: 1 h 30 min - admission not included
Caldeira Velha
Caldeira Velha
Caldeira Velha
Caldeira Velha
Soak in volcanic springs beneath jungle canopy at Caldeira Velha, SĆ£o Miguel’s geothermal rainforest retreat. Step into a volcanic Eden at Caldeira Velha, where steam rises from emerald rainforest and warm, iron-rich springs soothe weary travelers. Begin with a short walk through dense Atlantic jungle on wooden boardwalks, guided by birdsong and the scent of minerals. Take a dip in four thermal pools, their temperatures ranging from gently warm to steaming, and don't miss the waterfall pool - cooler, but worth it for a volcanic rinse under the jungle canopy.
3
Ribeira Grande
Feel free to explore at your own pace and discover
Stop: 3 hours - admission not included
Ribeira Grande
Ribeira Grande
Ribeira Grande
Ribeira Grande
Ribeira Grande
A surfer’s paradise, this stop is quintessentially Azorean, with hot springs and history to top off the vibe. Set between mountains and sea, Ribeira Grande is a coastal town replete with Baroque architecture and seaside magic. Begin with a stroll along the ocean and top it off with a cocktail at Praia de Santa Barbara, known for its volcanic sand. The lush rainforest of Caldeira Velha awaits nearby, where hot waterfalls tumble through ferns. Back in town, explore the historic center, home to the ornate Igreja Matriz and Ponte dos Oito Arcos, and stop by the Municipal Museum or local art galleries. End your visit with a tasting at A Mulher de Capote, known for traditional Azorean liqueurs and treats.
Back to Ponta Delgada
We’ll take you back to your starting point.
Duration of the stops can be changed upon request after booking
Have questions or need help?Contact our Customer Support. We are available 24/7

Daytrip is loved all around the world. Here's why.

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Know more about your day trip

Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake) is a stunning crater lake surrounded by mountains and pristine nature. During your 2-hour visit, you'll enjoy panoramic viewpoints, possibly hike down to the lakeshore for photography, and experience one of the most untouched natural areas on Sao Miguel island.
Caldeira Velha features iron-rich thermal pools of varying temperatures set in a lush forest environment. During your 1.5-hour visit, you can bathe in these rustic natural pools, see a small waterfall with warm water, and explore the surrounding botanical garden with endemic plants.
Ribeira Grande is a charming historic town with Portuguese colonial architecture, black basalt churches, and coastal views. Your 3-hour visit includes exploring the town center, visiting the liqueur factory where you can sample local spirits, and experiencing authentic Azorean culture.
Absolutely! Bring swimwear, a towel, and water shoes for Caldeira Velha's thermal pools. The iron-rich water may stain light-colored swimwear, so darker colors are recommended. Changing facilities are available but basic, so consider wearing your swimsuit under clothing.
The tour operates year-round, with each season offering different advantages. Summer provides reliable weather, while spring offers lush vegetation. Fall has fewer tourists, and winter offers a unique experience of bathing in warm waters surrounded by cool air.
Yes, Caldeira Velha has a separate entrance fee (approximately €8 per adult) not included in the tour price. This fee supports conservation of this natural area and provides access to multiple thermal pools, changing facilities, and the nature interpretation center.
Wear layers for changing mountain weather, bring swimwear, towel, water shoes, sunscreen, hat, and rain jacket. Carry water and snacks, and bring a waterproof bag for wet items. A camera in a protective case is essential for capturing the stunning landscapes.
This tour is family-friendly and often exciting for children who enjoy the "adventure" aspects of natural pools. Caldeira Velha has pools of various depths suitable for different ages. The scenic views and town exploration provide a balanced experience for families.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.
Day tripsCountriesPortugalPonta DelgadaPonta Delgada to Sao Miguel's Thermal Pools: Guided Tour