Lagoa do Congro
A hidden gem on São Miguel, this picturesque green lake is reached by a scenic forest hike, offering a magical and tranquil escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light
Lagoa do Congro
Best Time
Golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem on São Miguel, this picturesque green lake is reached by a scenic forest hike, offering a magical and tranquil escape.
"It feels magical and is less crowded than other similar places on São Miguel."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be muddy and uneven. Good hiking shoes are essential for a safe and comfortable walk.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road to the parking lot has potholes. Go slow to protect your vehicle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Emerald Lake
Lagoa do Congro
A stunning green lake nestled amidst a dense, lush forest, offering a truly magical and serene atmosphere.
Scenic Cliff Views
Opposite side of the lake
Admire the dramatic cliff face that rises majestically on the far side of the tranquil green waters.
Enchanting Forest Hike
Trail to the lake
Enjoy a relatively short, immersive nature walk through vibrant, verdant surroundings leading to the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Trail
Accessing the Parking Area
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be muddy and uneven. Good hiking shoes are essential for a safe and comfortable walk.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road to the parking lot has potholes. Go slow to protect your vehicle.
🚶♂️ Check Trail Status
Some paths may be under repair. Look for clear markings indicating safe or closed sections.
📸 Capture the Magic
This spot is less crowded than others, perfect for capturing serene, magical moments.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be muddy and uneven. Good hiking shoes are essential for a safe and comfortable walk.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road to the parking lot has potholes. Go slow to protect your vehicle.
🚶♂️ Check Trail Status
Some paths may be under repair. Look for clear markings indicating safe or closed sections.
📸 Capture the Magic
This spot is less crowded than others, perfect for capturing serene, magical moments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical, emerald beauty of Lagoa do Congro, calling the hike enjoyable and the scenery stunning. The relatively low crowds enhance the serene experience. However, the rough access road and potentially muddy trails require preparation.
"Beautiful track downhill from the car park to the lake. The lake is very scenic, with a big cliff on the opposite side from where you get to it.
The walk is not very long, maybe 30 min each way. Nice for a end of day activity."
Nelson Brito
"A relatively easy short hike down to the lake making for an enjoyable nature walk. The road into the parking lot is not ideal with some big bumps in areas while the parking area it leads to its nicely done."
Daniel Silver
"To reach the lake, there’s a moderate hike of about 15–30 minutes. The final stretch by car is on an off-road path, but it’s manageable even with a small vehicle."
Maria Radu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lagoa do Congro is located on São Miguel Island in the Azores. You'll need to drive to the designated parking area. The final stretch of the road is unpaved and can be bumpy, so drive cautiously.
While manageable even with small vehicles, the road has significant potholes. It's recommended to drive slowly to avoid damaging your car.
There is a parking area near the trailhead. While the road leading to it is rough, the parking area itself is described as nicely done.
Public transport options directly to Lagoa do Congro are limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to access this natural attraction.
While specific signage might vary, the general area is known, and following GPS to the parking lot is usually effective. Be prepared for the unpaved road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lagoa do Congro is a natural attraction and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. Access is free for all visitors.
As a natural outdoor site, Lagoa do Congro is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment of the scenery.
There is no admission fee to visit Lagoa do Congro. It's a public natural space for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, Lagoa do Congro is accessible year-round. However, weather conditions can affect the trail, especially during wetter months.
While generally open, some trails might be temporarily closed for maintenance or due to landslides. Always check for posted signs and respect any closures.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The hike down to the lake is a moderate walk, typically taking between 15 to 30 minutes each way.
It's highly recommended to wear good hiking shoes as the trails can be muddy and uneven.
Some trails may be under repair due to landslides. While most are usable, always be aware of marked closures and potential hazards.
Compared to other similar attractions, Lagoa do Congro is often less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
You'll see a beautiful green lake surrounded by lush forest, with a striking cliff on the opposite side. It's a very scenic and magical spot.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the viewpoint overlooking the lake, capturing its emerald color against the forest backdrop and the dramatic cliff face.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the magical atmosphere. However, the lake is scenic throughout the day.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas before flying.
Yes, even with a smartphone, the natural beauty of Lagoa do Congro makes it easy to capture stunning photos. The vibrant colors and scenery are very photogenic.
Lagoa do Congro is ideal for landscape photography, nature shots, and capturing serene, picturesque scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited. Be mindful of the rough road leading to the parking area and drive slowly. The beauty of the lake and the sense of discovery on the trail make it a memorable experience for all ages.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the vibrant flora and the serene environment. The relatively low visitor numbers compared to other São Miguel attractions allow for a more intimate connection with nature. The dramatic cliff face and the tranquil waters offer excellent opportunities for photography and quiet contemplation.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
This stop is perfect for a scenic break during a day of island exploration. It offers a chance to stretch your legs on a short hike and immerse yourself in the island's stunning landscapes. Combine it with other nearby attractions for a fulfilling day of sightseeing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Lagoa do Congro
The immersive experience of walking through the lush, green forest is a significant part of the appeal. The sounds of nature and the vibrant flora create a tranquil atmosphere as you descend towards the lake. The path itself is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of the unique Azorean vegetation. Remember to take your time and enjoy the natural surroundings on your way down and back up.
Accessing the Parking Area
Navigating the access road is a crucial part of the visitor experience. It's a good idea to have a vehicle with decent ground clearance if possible, though many have managed with standard cars by driving very carefully. The effort to reach the parking lot is rewarded by the relatively short and beautiful hike that follows, leading to the stunning lake.
The Magical Scenery
The relatively low crowd levels compared to other popular spots on São Miguel make Lagoa do Congro an ideal place to soak in the tranquility and capture serene moments. Visitors often feel a sense of peace and awe when they first lay eyes on the lake. It's a place that truly lives up to its reputation for being a stunning natural gem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit