August 1 – September 30, 2026
The shuttle bus service in the Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lagoon) visitation area is designed to regulate vehicle traffic in order to enhance the quality of the visitor experience and ensure respect for nature.
During this period, access to the road between Caldeira Velha (Ribeira Grande) and Casa da Água (Lagoa) is restricted to all vehicles, except those operated by tourism companies, travel agencies, taxis, and local residents.
Operating hours:
9 AM to 8 PM, every day.
Price & Tickets
Tickets can be purchased directly on board the shuttle buses.
€8 Adults
€4 Children 7–12
€4 Seniors 65+
Free of charge for local residents and children up to 6 years of age.
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Duration of the Journey
Each itinerary has an estimated duration of about 60 minutes, but time spent it will
depend on the number and duration of each user’s stopovers on the chosen route.
Free Parking Available At:
-
Caldeira Velha Parking Lot
-
Casa da Água Parking Lot
In total, around 200 parking spaces are available.
How can I visit Lagoa do Fogo without taking the shuttle bus?
You have two main options:
1. Visit before 9 AM
You can drive to Lagoa do Fogo around 7:30–8 AM to visit the viewpoints and take photos. However, you must leave the restricted area before 9 AM. Driving in the restricted area after 9 AM may result in a fine.
2. Join a private or shared tour
Tours are available by van or jeep, depending on the tour operator and itinerary.
Estimated 2026 tour prices:
- Shared half-day tour: €50
- Shared full-day tour: €90–€100
- Private half-day tour: €200-€250
- Private full-day tour: €300–€400
Tours are a great alternative to the shuttle bus, as they visit Lagoa do Fogo and other points of interest around São Miguel. With a private tour, you can also choose a guide who can take you down to the lakeshore via a hiking trail.
Authorized tourism companies and tour operators are allowed to access the Lagoa do Fogo area during the restricted hours.
FAQ
Can I drive to Lagoa do Fogo before 9 AM?
Yes, you can! The road restrictions apply from 9 AM to 8 PM. You can arrive around 8 AM, visit the viewpoints, and take beautiful photos — just make sure to leave the restricted area before 9 AM.
Please respect the local traffic rules and help us protect this beautiful area as tourism in the Azores continues to grow.
Where can I park my rental car?
You can park for free in either of the two designated parking areas, which offer a total of 200 parking spaces:
- Caldeira Velha Parking Lot
- Casa da Água Parking Lot
Is the trip accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Yes. The buses used for the tour are wheelchair accessible.
Where can I buy tickets?
Advance ticket purchase is not available. Tickets can only be purchased directly from the driver when boarding the bus.
How can I visit Lagoa do Fogo without taking the shuttle bus?
You can either visit the viewpoints before 9 AM (around 7:30–8 AM) and leave the restricted area before 9 AM, or join a private or shared tour.
Tours are available as half-day or full-day experiences, by van or jeep, with or without the Lagoa do Fogo trail.
To book a tour with us, contact us via WhatsApp +351 914 408 150 or info@azoresgps.com.
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