Lagoa do Fogo

High in the centre of São Miguel, the Lagoa do Fogo lies in the crater of a dormant volcano, surrounded by steep slopes and native forest. Protected as a nature reserve, it is one of the wildest and most beautiful places in the Azores.

A crater lake

The lake fills a caldera formed by eruptions several thousand years ago, and its name — the Lake of Fire — recalls the volcanic forces that created it. The reserve protects the native vegetation of the island, and the water supplies Ponta Delgada. The views from the rim take in the lake, the green slopes and, on clear days, both coasts of the island.

What to see and do

• The viewpoints on the crater rim, with wide views over the lake.
• Walking routes in the reserve, including the descent towards the water.
• The native forest and the volcanic landscape.
• The nearby Caldeira Velha, with its warm springs.

Visiting the lake

The lake is in the centre of São Miguel, reached by road from Ponta Delgada or Ribeira Grande. Because it is a protected reserve, access and parking may be controlled; check local information before your visit.

Visitor information: visitazores.com.

Image credit: Lagoa do Fogo, São Miguel, by The Cosmonaut, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.