São Miguel: Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes Hike

São Miguel’s Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes hike offers an unforgettable adventure. Explore one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, enjoying the island’s volcanic landscapes. Witness the breathtaking Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde lakes, enjoy scenic viewpoints, and rejuvenate at thermal springs. This moderate 8-hour hike showcases the natural beauty of the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a unique experience, this expedition promises to captivate your senses.

Key Points

• Explore the stunning Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex, one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, featuring the iconic Blue and Green Lakes.
• Hike around the Lagoa das Empadadas crater for panoramic views, guided tours, and an appreciation of the unique geological features.
• Enjoy a picnic at the breathtaking Vista do Rei Lookout, overlooking the volcanic landscape.
• Discover the therapeutic benefits of the volcanic thermal springs at Ferraria, with stunning ocean views.
• The 8-hour activity includes pickup, drop-off, and guided tours in Portuguese and English for private or small groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The São Miguel: Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes Hike is an 8-hour activity that costs from $71.15 per person.

The São Miguel: Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes Hike is an 8-hour activity that costs from $71.15 per person.

Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at accommodation. It’s guided in Portuguese and English for private or small groups.

Highlights include exploring the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex, one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, and visiting scenic viewpoints, hydrangea-lined paths, and volcanic thermal springs.

The moderate hike requires a reasonable level of fitness.

Travelers should bring proper clothing, gear, and water.

Itinerary Highlights

Exploring one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex is a highlight of this guided tour. The itinerary includes a visit to Lagoa das Empadadas, where guests can hike and enjoy scenic views. Next, the Grota do Inferno Viewpoint offers a photo stop and guided tour. At the Vista do Rei Lookout, visitors can enjoy a picnic and take in the breathtaking vistas. The tour also covers Mosteiros and Ponta da Ferraria, where guests can go sightseeing, swimming, and experience the volcanic thermal springs at Ferraria.

| Itinerary Highlights | Description |

|———————|————-|

| Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex | Explore one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders |

| Lagoa das Empadadas | Guided tour, hiking, scenic views |

| Grota do Inferno Viewpoint | Photo stop, guided tour |

| Vista do Rei Lookout | Picnic, guided tour, scenic views |

Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex

One of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex captivates visitors with its striking landscape.

This dramatic setting features:

• Lagoa Azul (Blue Lake) and Lagoa Verde (Green Lake), two distinctly colored crater lakes formed by volcanic eruptions.

• Volcanic peaks, including Monte Escuro, offering panoramic vistas of the complex.

• Lush, verdant calderas and slopes blanketed in vibrant hydrangeas.

• Hiking trails winding through diverse ecosystems, from laurel forests to open meadows.

The Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex showcases the natural wonder of São Miguel, inviting guests to enjoy its captivating volcanic terrain.

Lagoa Das Empadadas

Nestled within the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex, Lagoa das Empadadas captivates visitors with its serene charm.

On the guided tour, travelers explore the twin lakes and learn about their volcanic origins. Hiking around the crater’s edge offers panoramic views over the emerald-hued waters.

Guided tours reveal the twin lakes’ volcanic origins, while hiking the crater’s edge offers sweeping views of the emerald waters.

The tranquil setting provides an opportunity to appreciate the island’s unique geological features. Guests are encouraged to savor the peaceful atmosphere, snap photos, and soak in the natural beauty of this remarkable landscape.

The Lagoa das Empadadas segment showcases the diversity of São Miguel’s stunning crater lakes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Grota Do Inferno Viewpoint

The Grota do Inferno Viewpoint offers visitors a dramatic vantage point to marvel at the rugged volcanic landscapes of São Miguel. This photo stop provides a guided tour and the opportunity to capture stunning panoramic shots overlooking the crater lakes and surrounding terrain.

Key highlights include:

• Dramatic views of the Grota do Inferno – a narrow, rocky gorge carved by volcanic activity

• Observation of the Lagoa das Empadadas, one of the crater lakes in the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex

• Insights from the knowledgeable guide on the formation and geological features of the area

• Chance to stretch your legs and breathe in the crisp, refreshing island air

Vista Do Rei Lookout

The Vista do Rei Lookout offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic vantage point over the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex.

From this impressive viewpoint, hikers can take in the stunning vistas of the iconic twin lakes and the surrounding caldera.

The guide will lead a guided tour, providing insights into the geological and cultural significance of the Sete Cidades region.

Guests can then enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking in the serene beauty of the landscape.

This stop on the itinerary is a highlight, offering a chance to revel in the natural wonders of São Miguel.

Mosteiros and Ponta Da Ferraria

After admiring the panoramic vistas from the Vista do Rei Lookout, the tour continues to the coastal town of Mosteiros and the nearby Ponta da Ferraria.

At Mosteiros, participants can:

• Explore the charming seaside village and its iconic church

• Enjoy a brief safety briefing before visiting the natural lava pools at Ponta da Ferraria

• Take a refreshing swim in the volcanic thermal springs, heated by the Earth’s geothermal activity

• Observe the dramatic cliffs and coastline that define this scenic peninsula

The itinerary then wraps up the day’s adventure with an immersive experience in the island’s natural wonders.

Thermal Baths Experience

Following the visit to Mosteiros and Ponta da Ferraria, hikers get to experience the island’s volcanic thermal springs at Ferraria.

The warm, mineral-rich waters are a natural draw for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can bathe in the therapeutic pools, taking in the stunning ocean views.

The thermal baths provide a refreshing end to the day’s hike, allowing travelers to soothe their muscles and unwind.

With its tranquil atmosphere and therapeutic benefits, the Ferraria thermal experience is a highlight of the São Miguel tour, offering a chance to take in the island’s volcanic wonders.

The Sum Up

This Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes hike offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore São Miguel’s breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Visitors will be captivated by the vibrant Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde lakes, scenic viewpoints, and the chance to relax in the rejuvenating thermal baths. This comprehensive outdoor adventure showcases the natural wonders that make the Azores a truly unique destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: