Ponta Delgada: Shore Excursion – The Blue & Green Lake

If you’re visiting Ponta Delgada and looking to experience one of the Azores’ most iconic sights, the Blue & Green Lake tour offers a compact yet immersive journey into volcano-carved landscapes and local legends. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a thoughtful itinerary designed to showcase the natural beauty of São Miguel Island, with the comfort and insights of a local guide.

What draws travelers most are the breathtaking viewpoints, the knowledgeable storytelling, and the chance to relax and explore at your own pace. However, it’s important to note that the tour is quite structured, so if you’re someone who loves spontaneous adventures, this might be a bit more curated than some travelers prefer. Overall, it’s well-suited for cruise travelers or anyone looking for an efficient taste of São Miguel’s highlight.

Key Points:

• Stunning views from the Vista do Rei lookout are a real highlight.
• The experience is guided by local storytellers, adding cultural depth.
• The tour includes both scenic stops and free time to explore or relax.
• It offers great value, combining transportation, guides, and stops in a 4-hour window.
• Small group size ensures a comfortable, personalized experience.
• Ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation.

An In-Depth Look at the Sete Cidades Tour

This excursion is specifically designed for cruise travelers docking at Ponta Delgada, offering a well-paced exploration of the iconic volcanic landscape. The tour lasts around four hours, which includes multiple scenic stops, ample photo opportunities, and some free time to soak in the atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Convenience

Your day begins with a pick-up right inside the cruise terminal — a detail highly appreciated by reviewers who mention guides like John and Juan being punctual and professional. The small group setting, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, helps keep the atmosphere relaxed and intimate, avoiding the feeling of being in a large bus or crowded tour.

The Scenic Drive and First Stops

Within about 20 minutes of leaving Ponta Delgada, you’ll arrive at the Vista do Rei, the most famous viewpoint over the crater. Here, you’ll see the famous blue and green lakes, framed by lush greenery and volcanic craters. Reviewers like Kathleen praised the drive and the view, calling it “a breathtaking setting” and a “highlight of the tour.”

From this vantage point, you’ll understand why this site was named one of Portugal’s 7 natural wonders. The view is so striking that it’s easy to spend a few minutes just gazing and snapping photos.

Next, stops at Cerrado das Freiras and Lagoa Azul continue to showcase the crater’s multi-colored lakes and dramatic landscapes. These stops are brief but impactful, with approximately 10-minute photo sessions that you’ll find thoroughly rewarding.

Inside the Crater: Sete Cidades

The real heart of the tour is the visit inside the Sete Cidades volcanic crater. Here, you get about 20 minutes of free time at the village, giving you an opportunity to stroll around, visit the parish center, or grab a coffee. The reviews consistently mention the value of this pause — a chance to really soak in the atmosphere and perhaps chat with locals or take more photos.

Additional Views and Coastal Beauty

Traveling along the coast, a stop at Ponta do Escalvado offers panoramic views of the lava-carved coastline, cliffs, and small islets. It’s an excellent spot to appreciate the contrast between lush crater landscapes and dramatic Atlantic coastlines.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pineapple Plantation Experience

A unique part of this tour is the visit to the A Arruda Pineapple Plantation. Here, you’ll learn about the island’s famous pineapple cultivation, which is both historically significant and gastronomically iconic. The guides often mention how the production process is truly one-of-a-kind, making it an interesting cultural and culinary stop.

The Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes with a scenic 25-minute drive back to Ponta Delgada, with drop-off options just 400 meters from the cruise terminal — a convenience that ensures you won’t miss your ship due to long or complicated transfers.

Why This Tour Works Well

Travelers love the organized yet flexible itinerary that allows for both guided insights and personal exploration. For example, Olga remarked on how much she appreciated her guide’s professionalism and personality, calling him the “best tour person so far.” The guides’ local knowledge really shines, bringing legends and facts to life against the stunning volcanic backdrop.

The small group size and attentive guiding style mean you’re unlikely to feel rushed or lost in the crowd. This personal touch, paired with spectacular viewpoints, makes it a satisfying choice for those who want a snapshot of the island’s highlights without sacrificing comfort.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers might find the duration limiting if they want to explore more deeply or have more free time. Also, the tour’s tight schedule can be less ideal for those who prefer to wander at their own pace or visit additional sites beyond the set itinerary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time on São Miguel who still want a comprehensive and scenic taste of Sete Cidades. It suits those who enjoy guided storytelling, stunning views, and a mix of sightseeing and leisure. It’s also a good option for people who prefer small groups** and personalized attention.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early at the meeting point inside the arrivals terminal; guides like John and Juan are punctual, and the tour starts promptly.
• Bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of memory for photos — viewpoints are picture-perfect.
• Wear comfortable shoes for short walks at stops and inside the crater.
• The tour includes water bottles, but consider bringing a snack if you want a quick refreshment during free time.
• Weather can vary — layers, sun protection, and rain jackets might be useful, especially if clouds obscure some views.
• No large bags or luggage are allowed, so plan accordingly.
• If you have mobility issues, note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with claustrophobia or heart problems.
• The cost offers good value considering transportation, guides, and the multiple scenic stops.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

This tour provides a well-rounded experience of the famous Sete Cidades caldera, delivering incredible views and local insights in a manageable timeframe. The guides’ local knowledge, especially their storytelling, elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. It’s a balanced blend of panoramic vistas, cultural stops, and relaxed exploration.

While it might not satisfy those craving a full day of adventure or exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, it hits the sweet spot for most cruise travelers or visitors with limited time. The small group setup ensures comfort, and the highlights — especially the Vista do Rei viewpoint and the pineapple plantation — are genuinely memorable.

If you’re keen to see one of Portugal’s most beautiful natural sights and appreciate thoughtful guiding, this tour is a very worthwhile choice that combines natural grandeur with local flavor.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day excursion.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins inside the Ponta Delgada cruise terminal and finishes back at the same location, about 400 meters from the port.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a small group for a more personalized experience.

What is included in the tour?
Pick-up and drop-off at the cruise terminal, a local storyteller guide, water bottles, and a small-group atmosphere.

Can I buy souvenirs or shop during the tour?
The tour includes free time at the Sete Cidades parish center, which may include a chance to buy local crafts or refreshments.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for those with claustrophobia, heart problems, large luggage, or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, comfortable shoes, layers for weather changes, and some cash or cards for optional purchases.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it works well for families, especially those interested in scenic views and local culture, but consider the walking involved.

How do I identify my guide?
Your guide will be waiting inside the arrivals terminal with a sign that says “iGoAzores.”

In sum, this small group, scenic, and story-driven tour of Sete Cidades offers a balanced glimpse into one of Portugal’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking comfort, authentic insights, and unforgettable vistas within a limited time frame.

You can check availability for your dates here: