São Miguel: Quad & Buggy Sete Cidades Crater Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see São Miguel that’s full of adrenaline, breathtaking views, and a true sense of adventure, then a Quad & Buggy tour might just be your best bet. This activity offers a chance to get off the beaten path and explore the island’s most iconic volcanic landscapes from a totally unique perspective. From rugged trails to panoramic viewpoints, you’ll be riding in style while soaking in the raw beauty of the Azores.

What we love about this experience is that it combines thrilling driving, expert local guides, and access to remote, hard-to-reach spots—all in just four hours. Plus, the chance to sit back and let someone else navigate in a buggy adds a layer of convenience for those wanting a stress-free adventure. The only thing to consider? It’s a rain-or-shine activity, so good weather or bad, the scenery and fun keep rolling.

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for a memorable, active day on São Miguel. Solo travelers, couples, and groups all find value here, especially if you want a mix of fun, exploration, and impressive vistas.

Key Points

• Beautiful viewpoints and remote roads that regular tours rarely access
• Expert guides who share insights and keep you safe
• Flexible options for quad or buggy experiences tailored to your comfort
• Great value for the time, combining multiple scenic stops
• Weather-proof activity, available rain or shine
• Limited group sizes for a more personal experience

This four-hour adventure takes you across some of São Miguel’s most striking landscapes, from volcanic craters to panoramic vistas. The tour begins at the local Vita Azores store, where you’ll meet your guide for a quick safety briefing—important for ensuring everyone’s fun and safety on these rugged paths. Afterward, you’ll have the choice of riding a quad bike yourself or relaxing in a buggy while a guide handles the steering.

The real magic begins as you leave the well-tread roads behind. You’ll explore remote paths that lead to some of the island’s most impressive viewpoints, including the Sete Cidades area, famous for its twin lakes and dramatic scenery. Reviewers consistently mention how special it is to see parts of the landscape that are inaccessible to standard vehicles, like the crater of the 36,000-year-old Volcano of the 7 Cities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Scenic Stops: In-Depth

Stop 1: São Miguel Island and Safety Briefing

Your adventure kicks off with a 20-minute safety briefing. Expect clear instructions on how to handle your quad or be comfortable in the buggy, ensuring everyone is ready for what’s ahead. This is a good moment to ask your guide, like Tiago or Branquinho, about the best spots on the island or any tips to enhance your experience.

Sete Cidades Area

This is the highlight for many travelers—driving along off-road paths that unveil views of the famous lagoons and volcanic landscapes. One reviewer, Qing, said, “My son and I enjoyed this experience very much. It was our favorite trip in the Azores,” highlighting how memorable even the more challenging terrains can be.

Coal Peak Viewpoint

After exploring the crater, you’ll stop at Coal Peak, a viewpoint that offers spectacular vistas over the volcano’s landscape. With only 15 minutes here, it’s a quick but rewarding stop, perfect for snapping photos and taking in the scenery.

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Miradouro Das Cumeeiras

This one-hour stop is packed with visual rewards. Travelers have raved about the unparalleled views of the lagoons and the chance to see the abandoned Hotel das 7 Cidades, adding an intriguing touch of history. Reviewer Jennelle noted how her guide, Branquinho, was full of insights, making this segment both scenic and educational.

Return to Sete Cidades

The final stretch includes a guided tour of the Sete Cidades area, lasting over an hour and a half. This allows for more exploration and photo stops, which reviewers like Kelsey called “the highlight of their trip” thanks to the breathtaking views and the fresh air.

The quad bikes and buggies are described as being in excellent shape with clean helmets, as noted by satisfied reviewers. The ability to choose between riding yourself or relaxing in the buggy means the experience can cater to different comfort levels. For drivers, all drivers must be 18 or older with a valid license, and a deposit is required for ATV drivers—so be prepared for that small extra step.

Guides like Tiago and Branquinho are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor. They go beyond just driving you around—they share insights about the island’s history, geology, and hidden spots, making each stop feel personalized and engaging. Several travelers mentioned how their guides adjusted the tour based on weather or interest, emphasizing the flexible, tailored approach.

Off-Road Thrills and Scenic Vistas

The off-road sections, often on part of the Azores Rally roads, provide a mixture of road and dirt paths that keep the ride exciting. Reviewers have described the ride as “a lot of fun,” with many noting how off-roading was a highlight. Some mention getting dusty and dirty, which is part of the charm, especially for those who love a true adventure.

The Stops and Their Value

The viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Das Cumeeiras are not just Instagram-worthy—they’re essential for grasping the scale and beauty of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape. Many appreciate how the tour takes you to less crowded spots compared to typical bus tours, which often only visit the main attractions.

The tour includes entry tickets to the viewpoints, adding value by streamlining your day and avoiding extra costs. It also covers helmet gear and the vehicle ride itself, meaning you won’t need to worry about additional gear unless you want to bring extras.

When considering the cost, you’ll find that the combination of scenic diversity, guided expertise, and fun off-road driving makes this a good value. With the flexibility of small groups and live guides in English or Portuguese, the experience feels personalized and engaging.

Reviewers consistently mention the value for money, especially when you compare it to more traditional tours that don’t offer the same level of access or thrill. Plus, the 4-hour duration strikes a balance—long enough to see a lot without feeling rushed.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers eager to explore São Miguel in an active, fun way. It suits solo travelers, couples, and groups of friends looking for a memorable outing that combines nature, thrill, and cultural insights.

If you’re comfortable with driving or sitting in a vehicle and want to see the island’s hidden viewpoints, this will be right up your alley. However, it might be less suitable for children under 8 or travelers with heart problems, given the physical nature of off-road driving.

The São Miguel Quad & Buggy Sete Cidades Crater Tour offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and insider knowledge. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to see the island from a different perspective and enjoy a bit of adrenaline along the way. The guides’ expertise and the well-maintained vehicles ensure a safe yet exciting experience that’s hard to beat.

For travelers craving off-the-beaten-path sights, incredible panoramic views, and the thrill of off-road driving, this tour delivers in spades. It’s particularly good if you want a personalized, flexible experience that combines nature and adventure in one memorable package.

If your travel style leans toward active exploration with a side of fun, this tour should be firmly on your list. Just prepare for some dust, a few more bumps than usual, and plenty of jaw-dropping vistas—all in just four hours of pure fun.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, with check availability to see specific start times.

Can I choose between a quad or buggy?
Yes, you can ride a quad bike yourself or sit in a buggy driven by a guide.

Is there a minimum age to participate?
Yes, drivers must be 18 or older with a valid driver’s license, and children over 8 can ride as passengers.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the activity.

Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes, a deposit is required if you’re driving an ATV.

What about the weather?
This activity takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for all conditions.

Are the vehicles suitable for beginners?
Yes, the vehicles are well-maintained, and guides help ensure a smooth experience regardless of skill level.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, small groups are available, enhancing the personalized feel of the tour.

Will I visit well-known tourist spots?
You’ll visit key viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Das Cumeeiras, along with more remote areas you won’t find in standard tours.

Is food or transport included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or meals, but all viewpoints and the vehicle ride are covered.

This adventure on São Miguel offers a genuinely fun and scenic way to explore the island’s volcanic core. Whether you’re seeking thrill, stunning vistas, or simply a memorable day in nature, this tour hits all the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here: