Guided Van Tour Sete Cidades, Lagoa Do Fogo – Volcanic Lakes

São Miguel Island is a stunning volcanic landscape that beckons travelers to explore its natural wonders. The Guided Van Tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo promises an unforgettable journey through this breathtaking terrain, showcasing the serene Lagoa do Canário and the dramatic Grota do Inferno viewpoint. With knowledgeable guides providing insights into the island’s geological history, this tour offers a chance to take in the captivating beauty of São Miguel’s volcanic lakes. What secrets might these captivating landscapes hold?

Key Points

• A comprehensive 8-hour guided van tour of the volcanic landscapes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on São Miguel Island in the Azores.
• Highlights include the Muro das Nove Janelas, Lagoa do Canário, Grota do Inferno Viewpoint, Vista do Rei Lookout, and various scenic stops around the volcanic lakes.
• Offers a chance to explore the geological significance and volcanic history of the region, led by an experienced guide.
• Includes hotel transfers, bottled water, and insurance coverage, with a reserve now, pay later option available.
• Allows for a leisurely exploration of the lush, emerald-green landscapes and breathtaking vistas of the Azores.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This guided van tour offers an opportunity to explore the breathtaking volcanic landscapes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo on São Miguel Island.

The 8-hour tour costs €65 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. A reserve now, pay later option is available.

Pickup and drop-off locations include Ponta Delgada and Ribeira Grande. Key stops feature scenic viewpoints, a historic church, and a volcanic crater.

Guided by an English and Russian-speaking driver, the tour includes hotel transfers, bottled water, and insurance coverage.

Lunch is available for an additional €10-€20 per person.

Itinerary Highlights

The guided van tour makes several key stops during its 8-hour itinerary.

Visitors can explore the Muro das Nove Janelas and Lagoa do Canário for 15 minutes each.

They’ll then spend 45 minutes at the Grota do Inferno Viewpoint and 20 minutes at the Vista do Rei Lookout.

Next, the tour visits the Church of Sao Nicolau in Sete Cidades for 45 minutes.

Ponta do Escalvado Lookout and Ponta da Ferraria each receive 15 and 45 minutes, respectively.

The final stop is the Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint for 20 minutes, followed by the Centro de Interpretação Ambiental da Caldeira Velha for 30 minutes.

Muro Das Nove Janelas

Muro das Nove Janelas, a remarkable stone wall, stands as a testament to the volcanic history of the region.

This unique structure, featuring nine arched windows, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the island’s geological past.

Situated along the caldera rim, the wall provides panoramic views of the Sete Cidades lakes and the surrounding landscape.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore this captivating site, learning about its significance and the volcanic forces that shaped it.

The 15-minute stop allows ample time to admire the wall’s impressive craftsmanship and take memorable photographs.

Lagoa Do Canário

After admiring the architectural marvel of the Muro das Nove Janelas, the tour continues to Lagoa do Canário, a captivating volcanic lake nestled within the Sete Cidades caldera.

Guests will have 15 minutes to take in the serene beauty of this tranquil body of water, formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.

The lake’s emerald-green hues and picturesque setting offer a perfect photo opportunity.

Visitors can appreciate the surrounding lush vegetation and the distinct geological features that characterize this unique natural wonder on São Miguel Island.

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Grota Do Inferno Viewpoint

Next, the tour arrives at the Grota do Inferno Viewpoint, which offers a captivating panorama of the dramatic Sete Cidades crater. Visitors are greeted by a sweeping view of the lake’s emerald waters surrounded by the towering walls of the volcanic caldera. The viewpoint’s unique vantage point showcases the striking contrast between the vibrant green landscape and the deep blue skies above.

| Viewpoint Features | Visitor Impressions |

|——————-|——————-|

| Stunning panorama | "Breathtaking!" |

| Volcanic caldera | "Incredibly dramatic!" |

| Emerald lake waters | "So peaceful and serene." |

The guide provides insightful commentary on the geological history and natural beauty of this enchanting location, leaving guests awestruck and eager to explore more of the island’s volcanic wonders.

Vista Do Rei Lookout

Continuing the tour, the group arrives at the iconic Vista do Rei Lookout.

Situated atop a dramatic cliff, this viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the Sete Cidades crater and its mesmerizing twin lakes. Visitors are treated to panoramic views of the lush, verdant caldera and the shimmering waters below.

The guide provides insightful commentary, explaining the geological history and environmental significance of this natural wonder. Guests have 20 minutes to soak in the breathtaking scenery, snap photos, and appreciate the serenity of this stunning location before continuing on to the next stop on the itinerary.

Church of Sao Nicolau, Sete Cidades

The group then visits the Church of Sao Nicolau, located in the picturesque village of Sete Cidades. This 17th-century structure boasts stunning architecture, featuring a combination of Portuguese and Baroque styles.

The Church of Sao Nicolau in the picturesque village of Sete Cidades boasts stunning 17th-century architecture blending Portuguese and Baroque styles.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the intricate details of the church’s ornate façade and interior, including the elaborate altarpiece and painted ceiling.

2. Explore the tranquil churchyard, offering panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

3. Learn about the church’s rich history and its importance to the local community from the knowledgeable guide.

The group spends 45 minutes immersed in the serene ambiance of this historic landmark.

Ponta Do Escalvado Lookout

After exploring the historic Church of Sao Nicolau, the group moves on to the Ponta do Escalvado Lookout.

This stunning viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of the volcanic crater lakes of Sete Cidades. The guide points out the deep blues and greens of the twin lakes, formed by a massive eruption centuries ago.

Guests can gaze out over the serene waters and snap panoramic photos from the elevated platform. The guide provides insights into the geological and natural history of this unique volcanic landscape, leaving the group in awe of Sao Miguel’s natural wonders.

The Sum Up

The Guided Van Tour of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo offers a unique opportunity to explore São Miguel Island’s captivating volcanic landscapes. Visitors can witness the breathtaking beauty of serene lakes, dramatic caldera walls, and stunning viewpoints, accompanied by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the island’s geological history. This eight-hour journey promises unforgettable experiences and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of this remarkable destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: