SAO MIGUEL ISLAND · MADEIRA & THE AZORES
The tours and day trips worth booking.
The 15 top-rated things to do in Sao Miguel Island — the boat trips, beach days, volcano hikes and old-town wanders worth building a day around, with real prices and who to book each one with.
3-hour whale watching from Ponta Delgada with a marine biologist, strict animal rules, and a second tour if you spot nothing.
Most Popular“We spotted dolphins, whales and a hammerhead shark. Fantastic experience.”
Join Biologists and Naturalists on a 3-hour RIB ride from Vila Franca do Campo to spot whales and dolphins and tour a volcanic islet.
“There were plenty of parking options and the team was very organized at the time of arrival. If you wanted, you were able to borrow and wear water proof overalls and jackets for free. Once the boat is out at see, nature takes over. Not sure what the minimum age required is for the tour,…”
Small-group west São Miguel van tour with Sete Cidades viewpoints, Boca do Inferno walk, included Portuguese buffet lunch, and Lagoa do Fogo.
“Great Tour with a lot of great views. Unfortunately, Lagoa do Fogo was in the clouds during my tour but that can happen in the middle of the Atlantic. Manuel is a great local Guide. Thanks!”
8-hour East São Miguel van tour: Furnas mud pools and cozido lunch, Nordeste cliffs, waterfalls, and AC comfort with hotel pickup.
“A fantastic tour on the East and North side of Sao Miguel. We were fantastically informed, guided and entertained by João! Had a very nice day with nice group people. Thanks again João!”
Half-day Azores whale watching from São Miguel with biologists and lookouts using radio. See whales and dolphins or get a refund.
“Spotting whales and dolphins in the vast ocean around that Azores is like finding a needle in a haystack, but our guide and boat pilot were very successful at finding these needles. The whole activity was very enjoyable.”
Canyoning in São Miguel’s Ribeira dos Caldeirões park: optional jumps up to 7m, abseils 5–15m, zipline, guided safety.
“With top-of-the-line equipment, you'll slide, jump, and abseil down the canyon. There's no need to be afraid (even if you do at first), because everything is well secured. Excellent and ambitious instruction and support from Teresa, Guilherme, and João, who work hand in hand and are highly trained! A high level of fun!”
A 2-hour São Miguel tour mixing a glass-bottom boat ride with guided snorkeling, led by biologists, around Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo.
“This was a great tour. The glass bottom boat was cool, the snorkeling was good, and the tour guides were knowledgeable and friendly.”
Full-day São Miguel tour linking Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo with top viewpoints, volcanic flora, and lunch included.
“Although the rainy conditions in this region the guide showed the best spots to explore the beautiful landscape!”
Two days on São Miguel with small-group guides: Sete Cidades views, Furnas hot springs, tea and liquor tastings, and optional lunch.
“Terrific. Carlos is a superb guide. Very honest and knowledgeable.”
Night in Furnas with hot springs, a volcanic caldera stew dinner, and a guided walk for dramatic Azores views. Small group, big value.
“Above and beyond experience! And Filipe made it all even more amazing. He is a proud local and you can see the passion for this land in his tours. He even has a surprise for his guests! He really cares for each and every one of his guests. The tour is both in English and…”
8-hour São Miguel day tour: Gorreana tea tasting, Terra Nostra hot springs, Furnas lake and volcano views, Vila Franca, pineapple snacks.
“The trip was amazing. Rafael is a native and explained everything about the island. The group was small which is very good (just 6 people). My and my husband had a great time and I high recommend it.”
Sete Cidades 4WD jeep tour from Ponta Delgada: twin lakes, volcanic craters, and calm viewpoints on São Miguel in 3.5 hours.
“We had an amazing jeep tour with our guide Andrea — he was super cool, knowledgeable, and made the whole trip really fun! The landscapes were absolutely stunning — every stop was a wow moment. Totally recommend this tour if you’re looking for a mix of adventure and breathtaking views!”
Ride a quad across São Miguel’s volcanic viewpoints, dirt tracks, and Sete Cidades. Helmet and insurance included, $77 for a half-day adrenaline hit.
“the island is amazing. Felipe helped to make It an unforgetable experience...obrigado!!”
Paddle around Vila Franca’s lava-ring islet, explore caves and inlets, then swim and optionally snorkel, with safety briefings and free photos.
“Wonderful activity! We loved the experience! We loved that they took pictures and supplied at no extra charge!”
Volcano-heated cozido in Furnas, a geothermal soak, and a stop at Europe’s only tea plantation on São Miguel.
“The guide was very knowledgable and friendly. Shared great stories about the Azores as well as made great recommendations for what else to do in the city. I highly recommend this tour to and tour guide to anyone travelling to the island.”
Every archipelago, and the best of each island in it.
