The Lagoa do Fogo route covers 10.2 kilometres out and back, climbing through the Ribeira da Praia valley to the southern shore of the great caldera. It begins among farmland and woodland on tracks that have also served water management for generations. Levada channels, collection points and other hydraulic structures accompany part of the ascent, showing how these wet slopes helped supply communities and cultivated land below.
With increasing altitude, the surroundings become cooler and more enclosed. The trail passes damp vegetation, ruins associated with the former processing of flax fibre, and streams that bring constant movement to the valley. Beside the levada, water and woodland often matter more than distant views; near the top the vegetation opens, and the volcanic form of the nature reserve takes over the experience.
Reaching Lagoa do Fogo reveals the breadth of the crater, its pumice shoreline and slopes largely free of development. This is not a crossing to another destination: after visiting the lakeshore, walkers return by the same path to Parque Escutista dos Lagos. Rated medium and requiring about four hours, the hike brings together hydraulic heritage, upland forest and one of the island’s most powerful protected landscapes.