Ponta Delgada: Sete Cidades Volcano – Blue & Green Lake

The Sete Cidades Volcano in Ponta Delgada, Azores is a natural wonder not to be missed. Nestled within this volcanic landscape, visitors can explore the iconic Blue and Green Lakes, each offering a unique visual experience. While the tranquil Blue Lake mirrors the sky, the vibrant Green Lake’s hue is a result of its mineral-rich waters. With scenic lookouts providing breathtaking panoramic views, this destination is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. What other secrets might this volcanic landscape hold?

Key Points

• The Sete Cidades Volcano features the captivating Blue and Green Lakes, offering a scenic natural wonder near Ponta Delgada.
• The Vista do Rei Lookout provides breathtaking panoramic views of the twin lakes nestled within the volcanic landscape.
• The Blue Lake reflects the sky, while the Green Lake’s distinct emerald color is due to its mineral composition.
• The Cerrado das Freiras area gives visitors insight into the volcano’s geological features and history.
• The Ponta do Escalvado Lookout allows for excellent photo opportunities and further appreciation of the Sete Cidades Volcano.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This shore excursion to Sete Cidades offers visitors a chance to explore the Blue and Green Lakes, two of the main attractions within the Sete Cidades Volcano.

Priced from €45.00 per person, the 4-hour tour is available in English and Portuguese. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and reservations can be made without upfront payment.

The tour includes pickup from the cruise harbor, a water bottle, and visits to top sightseeing spots like the Pineapple Plantation, Vista do Rei Lookout, and Cerrado das Freiras.

The start time is adjusted to accommodate cruise ship arrivals.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the Multiusos Portas do Mar, where visitors will first visit a pineapple plantation for 20 minutes. Next, the group will head to the Vista do Rei Lookout for scenic views over the Sete Cidades Volcano for another 20 minutes. They will then explore the Cerrado das Freiras in Sete Cidades for 15 minutes before spending 20 minutes exploring the town itself. The final stop is the Ponta do Escalvado Lookout for photo opportunities, lasting 15 minutes, before returning to the Multiusos Portas do Mar.

| Key Stops | Duration |

|———–|———-|

| Pineapple Plantation | 20 minutes |

| Vista do Rei Lookout | 20 minutes |

| Cerrado das Freiras | 15 minutes |

| Sete Cidades Town | 20 minutes |

| Ponta do Escalvado Lookout | 15 minutes |

Tour Features

Although this tour is a small-group experience, the local guide is 100% authentic, providing in-depth storytelling throughout the excursion.

The tour includes the following key features:

1. Personalized Pickup: The guide meets guests inside the cruise terminal lounge or at the shuttle line end for those arriving at the commercial harbor.

2. Customizable Timing: The tour start time is adjusted to accommodate the arrival of the cruise ship.

3. Included Amenities: Guests receive a complimentary water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.

4. Accessibility Limitations: The tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 254 lbs (115 kg) or those with mobility impairments.

Pick-Up and Restrictions

Guides meet guests inside the cruise terminal lounge or at the shuttle line end for those arriving at the commercial harbor. They hold signs with the tour name to easily identify participants.

However, certain restrictions apply. Individuals over 254 lbs (115 kg) or with mobility impairments can’t join the tour, as the van may not accommodate them safely.

Plus, guests can’t bring large bags, luggage, food, alcohol, or drugs on the vehicle. The tour recommends packing light and dressing appropriately for the weather, as the higher elevations may require jackets and umbrellas.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive feedback for the Sete Cidades volcano tour, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 9 reviews.

The tour has appealed to a variety of travelers, including couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.

Key highlights from the reviews include:

1. Knowledgeable and engaging local guides who enhanced the experience.

2. Additional stops, such as the pineapple plantation, that added value to the tour.

3. Small group size, creating an intimate and personalized atmosphere.

4. Adjustable timing to accommodate cruise ship schedules, ensuring a seamless experience.

Exploring the Sete Cidades Volcano

The Sete Cidades Volcano offers visitors a captivating exploration of the island’s natural wonders.

At the Vista do Rei Lookout, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the twin lakes, each with its own distinct color – one blue, the other green.

Venturing into the Cerrado das Freiras area provides a closer look at the volcanic landscape, showcasing the unique geology that shaped this remarkable destination.

The tour also includes a stop at the Ponta do Escalvado Lookout, allowing for photo opportunities and a deeper appreciation of the volcano’s majestic presence.

This excursion provides an immersive experience within the heart of the Sete Cidades Volcano.

Blue and Green Lakes

Two of the most captivating features of the Sete Cidades Volcano are the Blue and Green Lakes. These twin lakes, nestled within the crater, offer a mesmerizing contrast:

1. The Blue Lake’s tranquil waters reflect the sky’s vibrant hues, creating a serene and otherworldly atmosphere.

2. The Green Lake, on the other hand, boasts a distinct emerald green color, a result of the unique mineral composition of the water.

3. Visitors can marvel at the lakes from the Vista do Rei Lookout, capturing breathtaking panoramic views of this natural wonder.

4. Whether explored on foot or by boat, the Blue and Green Lakes leave a lasting impression on all who witness their enchanting beauty.

Discovering the Pineapple Plantation

Along the scenic journey to the Sete Cidades Volcano, visitors get a chance to explore a local pineapple plantation.

They learn about the unique growing process and have the opportunity to sample the juicy, sweet fruit.

The plantation tour provides a glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the Azores islands. Guests admire the lush, tropical landscaping and appreciate the sustainable farming practices.

This stop adds an educational and flavorful element to the overall Sete Cidades experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the local culture and traditions.

The Sum Up

Ponta Delgada’s Sete Cidades Volcano offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and geological wonders. Visitors can witness the stunning contrast between the serene Blue Lake and the vibrant Green Lake, while scenic viewpoints provide breathtaking panoramas of the volcanic landscape. This unique destination is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking to enjoy the Azores’ stunning natural splendor.

You can check availability for your dates here: