Lagoa do Fogo access resumes amid calls for on-site enforcement

The shuttle service to Lagoa do Fogo resumed on Saturday after a delay to the start of the summer season. Its return restores a transport option for one of São Miguel’s most visited areas, but the first day also revealed problems in how access was organised.

According to RTP Açores, there was no on-site supervision at the beginning of the operation. Gaps in signage and in the enforcement of traffic restrictions were also reported, making the applicable rules harder to understand for people arriving at the lake area.

The shuttle system is intended to manage visitor arrivals at the Fogo Volcano and reduce vehicle pressure on a sensitive natural area. That approach relies on clear information before and during the journey, clearly marked access points, and enforcement that makes restrictions predictable for residents, visitors and tourism operators.

For São Miguel, the episode highlights the need to coordinate transport, parking management and on-the-ground communication during the busiest months. A consistent and understandable operation can help protect the Lagoa do Fogo landscape while preventing visitors from arriving without knowing how to continue their journey.