Step away from the well-known viewpoints and explore a different side of São Miguel on this full-day eco-friendly van tour. Designed for travelers who enjoy quieter landscapes and lesser-known places, the Hidden Gems tour reveals parts of the island that many visitors never discover.
Traveling comfortably in an electric van, the day combines short walks, scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and coastal landscapes, all experienced at a relaxed pace.
The morning begins with a short trail leading to a dramatic coastal lookout, where volcanic cliffs and unusual rock formations frame wide views over the Atlantic Ocean. From there, the tour continues to two very different waterfalls: one hidden inside a narrow canyon near the coast, and another deeper inland, where lush vegetation, stone walls, and an old watermill create a striking natural setting.
Around midday, enjoy a traditional buffet lunch included in the tour, served at a local restaurant and consisting of a main meal, drink, dessert, and coffee.
In the afternoon, the experience slows down inside one of São Miguel’s remaining native forests. Walking among towering trees, you’ll learn about the endemic plants that once covered much of the island and the role they played in the lives of early settlers.
Later, a high mountain viewpoint reveals the rugged and remote eastern coastline of São Miguel, an area that remained isolated for centuries due to its steep terrain and limited access.
The day finishes at a peaceful seaside garden perched above the ocean — a quiet place to walk, relax, and take in the scenery before returning to Ponta Delgada.
Hidden Gems is a tour for those who want to experience São Miguel beyond the famous highlights, discovering landscapes that feel personal, authentic, and wonderfully unexpected.