Guided Visit to the Crater and Volcano of Lagoa das Sete Cidades

If you’re planning a trip to São Miguel, the Azores’ largest island, a tour of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades is almost mandatory. This guided experience offers a well-rounded look at some of the most iconic sights, from volcanic craters and lakes to scenic viewpoints and local highlights. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of an engaging, value-packed day.

What we love about this experience are its stunning vistas at every turn, the knowledgeable guides who bring the island’s geology and history to life, and the variety of stops that balance natural beauty with local culture. One thing to keep in mind is that, as with most small-group tours, flexibility can be limited—if you’re hoping for total customization, a private tour might be better. This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore São Miguel’s volcanic wonders without worrying about logistics.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with a mix of natural sights, viewpoints, and local stops
• Small group size (up to 8 travelers) for a more intimate experience
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights and history throughout the day
• Value for money at just over $67 per person, including transportation and admissions
• Includes pick-up and drop-off, making logistics simple
• Longer tour duration (around 4 hours) ideal for a quick but thorough exploration

Exploring the Volcanoes and Lakes of São Miguel

This tour offers a great balance between sightseeing and learning. It begins with a visit to a pineapple greenhouse at the Plantation of Ananas dos Acores, where you’ll watch a short video and see how these tropical fruits are cultivated right here in the volcanic soil. The pineapple history is quite fascinating, having started as an ornamental curiosity in the 19th century before becoming a commercial staple. As one reviewer noted, “The pineapple plantation felt like a tourist trap, but the guide’s commentary made it worthwhile,” emphasizing how the experience is more than just the site itself.

From there, the tour heads to Miradouro do Pico do Carvao, which offers panoramic views over the Sete Cidades massif and the north and south coasts of São Miguel. Expect to see volcanic cones and lagoons stretching across the island, with Pico da Vara, the highest point, and Fogo Volcano visible from this vantage point. Reviewers appreciated the expansive landscape, with one saying, “The views over the volcanic cones and lakes were breathtaking,” capturing how these viewpoints are perfect for photography and simply soaking in the scenery.

Next, the itinerary takes you to Lagoa do Canario, a volcanic crater lagoon surrounded by Macaronesian forests and cryptomeria plantations. At 800 meters above sea level, this spot feels almost alpine and offers a peaceful escape into nature. Reviewers mention that the cryptomeria plantations and forested surroundings add a fairytale touch, making it a favorite for photography and quiet reflection.

Iconic Views and Cultural Stops

One of the highlights of the tour is the Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras, which provides a magnificent view of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, with the small village of Sete Cidades as a charming backdrop. According to reviews, “The lookout offers a view that’s postcard-perfect,” and it’s an ideal spot to snap photos of the twin lakes.

The Vista do Rei viewpoint deserves special mention—it’s famously associated with a royal visit in 1901, and it remains one of the most photographed spots on the island. From here, you can gaze directly into the crater lake, with the lush greenery and volcanic landscape framing a scene that seems almost too beautiful to be real. Visitors have called this “a must-see,” and some noted that the view is so iconic it’s regularly featured on postcards and travel guides.

Further down, the Lagoa de Santiago adds depth to this volcanic landscape. It’s a deep lagoon located in Serra Devassa, with clear, dark waters and surrounded by native forests. It’s a striking reminder of the island’s volcanic forces, and as one reviewer said, “The lakes are simply beautiful, and the additional stop at Lagoa do Canario made the day even more special.”

Cultural and Coastal Highlights

A visit to Igreja de São Nicolau, a small neo-Gothic church from the 17th-19th centuries, offers a glimpse into the local religious architecture and history. The church is surrounded by a charming alley of cryptomerias, making it a peaceful break from the nature-focused stops.

The tour rounds off with the Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic. Known for its spectacular sunset views, this spot is ideal for ending the day with a burst of ocean scenery and a chance to breathe in the salty air. Reviewers loved the seaviews and mention the sunset as being particularly stunning, with one saying, “It’s one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island.”

Practical Information and Value

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure. The price of $67.36 per person includes pick-up, drop-off, bottled water, guide, and admissions to all stops—considering the many viewpoints and attractions, that’s quite good value. The small group size (up to 8) enhances the experience, creating a more personal atmosphere and easier access to viewpoints.

Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the drive across varied terrains. Most travelers book this tour about 29 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. However, it’s worth noting that the tour does not include airport pick-up, so plan your logistics accordingly.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with some mentioning specific guides like Carla and Dennis, who are praised for their professionalism and friendliness. “Our guide Carla was very funny and informative,” shared one traveler, emphasizing how a good guide can elevate the experience.

A few reviews point out minor drawbacks—such as the vehicle not being as comfortable for larger groups, or late arrivals causing delays—which underscores how small-group tours require patience and flexibility. Yet, overall, the positive experiences far outweigh these minor inconveniences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape without the hassle of planning multiple stops themselves. It’s perfect for those who appreciate informative guides, scenic viewpoints, and a mix of natural beauty with a touch of local culture.

It also suits travelers short on time but eager to see the island’s highlights in a single trip. The group size and inclusion of transportation mean you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics.

However, if you’re after a completely private experience or want to visit specific spots at your own pace, a private tour might be better. The reviews suggest that this experience is a good fit for most travelers, from first-timers to repeat visitors wanting a quick but thorough overview.

The Sum Up

This guided tour to Lagoa das Sete Cidades and surrounding volcanic sights offers a well-curated glimpse into São Miguel’s natural beauty. With an emphasis on scenic views, informative commentary, and comfortable transportation, it provides excellent value at just over $67 per person.

Travelers will appreciate the variety of stops, from lush lakes to panoramic viewpoints, combined with the knowledge of guides who help bring the island’s geology and history to life. The small group size makes it personal and intimate, and the included admissions and transport make it a stress-free experience.

While it might not suit those seeking total customization, it’s an excellent choice for first-timers or anyone wanting a snapshot of the island’s highlights in a single day. If you’re looking for a low-hassle, scenic, and educational trip that balances natural beauty with cultural insights, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

• Does this tour include transportation? Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• How long does the tour last? It lasts approximately 4 hours.
• Is food or additional drinks included? No, only bottled water is provided along with the guide.
• Can I book this tour last minute? Most travelers book about 29 days in advance, but availability can vary.
• Are there any physical activity requirements? The stops involve walking, but they are generally accessible for most travelers. Disabling conditions should be considered.
• Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the 8-person group size and walking involved.
• What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the views.
• Are pets allowed? The tour details don’t specify, so it’s best to check directly with Azores Magic Tours.
• Is this a private tour? No, the standard tour is shared with other travelers, but private options may be available.
• What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour provides a fantastic snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, perfect for those wanting a guided, hassle-free day to see the island’s best sights.