Positive review of Lagoa do Fogo shuttle operation in 2024 - Communication

Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas

The Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures released the results of the passenger transport operation to the Volcano of Fogo (Lagoa do Fogo shuttle) in the 2024 summer season, highlighting the growth registered compared to 2023 and the positive evolution of the entire system. 

The service operated daily from June 15 to September 30, between 9 am and 7 pm, aiming to promote sustainable and organized access to one of the most iconic landscapes in the Azores.

During this period, 52,763 tickets were sold, an increase of 3.8% over the previous year.

Since its entry into operation in 2023, the Lagoa do Fogo shuttle has registered a total of 103,599 tickets sold, proving its effectiveness in managing the tourist flow and supporting the environmental preservation of this protected area, in addition to demonstrating the adequacy of the service provided. 

Demand for regular tickets (i.e. from non-residents) increased by 5.4%, while the demand from residents, which are free, fell by 43.9%. Residents' vehicles can travel on the regional road free of charge. This proves the relevance of the service for visitors and the possibility of choice for residents.

 August saw the highest turnout for the service in 2024, with 17,530 tickets sold, representing a 3.1% increase over August 2023. August 8 stood out as the day with the highest demand, with a peak of 1,180 tickets sold. On average, 489 tickets were sold for the shuttle in 2024.

Saturdays and Sundays continued to be the busiest days, while Tuesdays saw the lowest demand. In terms of operating hours, the period from 10 am to 12 pm saw the highest number of visitors. The late afternoon, between 5 pm and 7 pm, saw the lowest turnout, showing a preference for early morning visits to Lagoa do Fogo.

The service has played an important role in protecting this sensitive area, regulating tourist flows to the site and mitigating the environmental impact of tourism.

As part of the commitment of the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures to the Azores Sustainability Charter, the Lagoa do Fogo shuttle reinforces good sustainable mobility practices. It actively contributes to the destination certification as a place of responsible tourism and environmental excellence.

The implementation of this service not only promotes a transport model that reduces the Region's ecological footprint but also stimulates visitor awareness of the importance of environmental preservation and the protection of natural areas. 

In joining the Sustainability Charter, this operation supports the conservation of local biodiversity, reducing road traffic and carbon emissions. Moreover, it ensures a balance between promoting natural heritage and enhancing the tourist experience, while providing a safe, peaceful, and organized visit for residents and tourists alike.

Berta Cabral, Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, underlined the importance of the service.

"The 2024 results reflect the success of our commitment to balanced tourism and sustainable mobility that respects the environment and the safety of visitors. We have fulfilled our commitment and target set out in the action plan of the Sustainability Charter to transport at least 50 thousand passengers a year via the shuttle service. We will continue to work to improve this service, promoting Lagoa do Fogo as an example of excellent, sustainable and accessible visitation for all," she stressed.