Seven Citys Tour: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion

Exploring São Miguel’s most iconic site, the Sete Cidades, is often at the top of travelers’ must-see lists when visiting the Azores. This tour offers an accessible way to experience the stunning natural beauty of this volcanic wonder without the hassle of self-driving. With a well-rounded itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking views, it promises a memorable day for those seeking authentic Azorean landscapes.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on crater lakes with vibrant colors, its inside look into the island’s volcanic features, and the opportunity to relax at charming viewpoints. Plus, the inclusion of local stops like a pineapple plantation and a quaint church adds a cultural touch.

However, a potential consideration is the duration—at around four hours, this is a compact tour, so travelers wanting an in-depth exploration might prefer a longer, more detailed experience. Still, for those short on time or preferring a guided overview, it hits many of the highlights efficiently.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love scenic landscapes, want a guided experience to navigate the island’s highlights, and appreciate convenience and expert insights. It suits first-time visitors eager to see the famous crater lakes and those who want a snapshot of São Miguel’s natural beauty without the worry of driving or planning.

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Key Points

Focus on the Iconic: The tour centers around the famous Sete Cidades, known worldwide for its dual-colored lakes and stunning viewpoints.
Expert-Guided Experience: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey informative and enjoyable.
Variety of Stops: From pineapple plantations to lakes, viewpoints, and a historic church — each stop offers something unique.
Breathtaking Views: Expect spectacular panoramas from Miradouro do Pico do Carvão and Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado.
Inclusive Amenities: The tour includes a van, water, hotel pick-up, and drop-off, enhancing comfort and convenience.
Authentic Local Experience: Small stops like the Church of São Nicolau and a traditional village add cultural depth.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Ponta Delgada

Starting Point: Pineapple Plantation

The day kicks off with a visit to a pineapple plantation, lasting about 30 to 45 minutes. This is a delightful way to see a local agricultural tradition, and travelers often comment on how informative and friendly the guides are—some noting that the guides take their time to explain the island’s agriculture and answer questions. The plantation visit isn’t just about seeing pineapples; it offers an authentic taste of local life and farming methods that are quite unique to the Azores.

Scenic Drive & Miradouro do Pico do Carvão

Next, you’ll journey along the southwest coast, climbing up into the mountains with splendid views along the way. The highlight here is the Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, offering a 15 to 20-minute stop to admire the sweeping vistas. Reviewers love this spot for its panoramic views over the island’s lush landscape—a perfect photo opportunity and an excellent chance to get a sense of São Miguel’s volcanic terrain.

Lago do Canário: Volcanic Crater Lake

Moving higher, the tour visits Lago do Canário, nestled about 800 meters above sea level in a volcanic crater. This stop, lasting around 20 to 25 minutes, offers a peaceful moment to appreciate the unique volcanic landscape and the tranquil waters of the lake. Travelers often remark how surreal it feels to be in such a pristine, remote spot, with some describing it as a hidden gem.

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Vista do Rei: The Iconic Viewpoint

The next stop, Vista do Rei, arguably the tour’s most famous viewpoint, grants visitors a stunning overlook of the Sete Cidades crater lakes. Here, the views of the green and blue lakes separated by a thin strip of land are breathtaking—truly the postcard image of the Azores. Guides often share interesting facts about the formation of the lakes, and visitors love the opportunity for photos. This stop lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, giving enough time to soak in the scene and snap some memorable shots.

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Lagoa de Santiago: Smaller but Special

Descending from the highlands, you’ll visit Lagoa de Santiago, a 30-meter deep lake situated at 334 meters altitude. The 15-minute stop here offers a quieter, less crowded spot to admire the volcanic formation of Sete Cidades. Reviewers mention its serene atmosphere and appreciate the chance to see a less-visited lake in this volcanic system.

Crossing the Green & Blue Lakes

One of the tour’s highlights is passing over a bridge constructed in 1967 that separates the green and blue lakes—a classic Azorean sight. You’ll stop briefly in the village of Sete Cidades, where you can visit the Church of São Nicolau, built in the 17th century, or enjoy a coffee in the local ambiance. Reviewers often note that having a local guide, like Rui or Dennis, makes these small cultural stops more meaningful, as they share stories behind the sites.

Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado: Sunset Views

The tour concludes with a 15 to 20-minute stop at the Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic. This spot is coveted for its spectacular sunset views and breathtaking coastal scenery, making it an ideal way to end the day.

Return & Drop-off

Finally, the group is transported back to your hotel or meeting point, roughly 45 minutes away, ending a trip filled with memorable sights and insights.

What Travelers Say About the Experience

Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s knowledgeable guides. Helena highlights Rui’s expertise, saying, “he takes the time to show you around every part of the island and explain the history.” Ana Cecilia enjoyed the breathtaking lakes and craters, noting that guides Ruy and Dennis were “very knowledgeable.” The small group size and personal attention receive positive mentions, with one traveler mentioning how having a local guide made a big difference in discovering hidden spots.

Some reviewers admired the scenic diversity — from lush plantations to volcanic craters and dramatic cliffs. Others appreciated the well-paced schedule that allowed plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a pineapple plantation was also a favorite feature, adding a tasty and educational element.

A few guests faced minor hiccups, like needing to re-route due to a festival, but they still appreciated the flexibility and friendly atmosphere provided by the guides. The overall consensus is that this tour offers great value for the price, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and expert guiding.

Practical Details & Value

At $84 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded overview of São Miguel’s most iconic sights. The price includes van transportation, water, and hotel pick-up/drop-off, which adds convenience, especially in a location where self-driving might be complicated or less feasible for some travelers.

The 4-hour duration is short but packed with highlights, making it an excellent choice for those with limited time or looking for a guided experience. The small group setup enhances the chance to ask questions and get personalized insights, which many travelers found valuable.

While the entry fee to Caldeira Velha isn’t included, most stops are free to enjoy, and the tour’s focus on viewpoints and natural landscapes makes the overall experience feel quite complete.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy scenic vistas, geological wonders, and cultural stops will find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided convenience and want the highlights of São Miguel without the stress of navigating alone. First-time visitors, or those short on time, will especially appreciate the focused itinerary and comprehensive commentary.

Nature lovers will revel in the breathtaking views and the chance to learn about the volcanic origins of the island. The tour’s relaxed pace and friendly guides make it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Final Thoughts

This Sete Cidades shore excursion offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfort. The highlights—like the dual-colored lakes and spectacular viewpoints—are genuinely awe-inspiring, and the guides’ expertise adds depth to the adventure.

While it’s a shorter tour, it packs in enough to give you a solid snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape and local charm. Its value lies in its easy logistics, friendly guiding, and the chance to see some of the most iconic sights in the Azores without the fuss of planning.

If you’re seeking a beautiful, manageable way to experience the stunning Sete Cidades and learn about the island’s geology and culture, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, covering several scenic stops and viewpoints.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in a van, a bottle of water, and the guide’s expertise. Entry to Caldeira Velha is not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Portuguese, catering to diverse travelers.

Are there any physical requirements?
Most stops involve short walks and easy access to viewpoints. If you have mobility concerns, it’s best to mention them beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families and children will enjoy the scenic stops and the relaxed pace, though individual needs should be considered.

Are the viewpoints accessible?
Yes, the main viewpoints like Miradouro do Pico do Carvão and Ponta do Escalvado are accessible, with short walks from parking areas.

To sum it up, this tour offers a delightful blend of stunning landscapes, cultural touches, and expert guidance. It’s a fantastic option for travelers wanting a rundown of São Miguel’s most famous sights in a comfortable, organized way. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or simply want a curated experience, this shore excursion promises to leave you with lasting memories of the Azores’ natural splendor.