Cruise Travellers: Sete Cidades Volcano, The Blue & Green Lake

An Authentic Journey to Sete Cidades: Volcano, Lakes, and Local Charm

If you’re cruising through the Azores and looking for a memorable half-day adventure, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and local culture. For just around $58, you’ll spend about 3 to 4 hours exploring iconic sights like the Blue and Green Lakes of Sete Cidades, a pineapple plantation, and several breathtaking viewpoints. Guided by passionate local storytellers—such as Andrea or Joao—you’ll get insider info, picturesque scenery, and just enough time to breathe in the island’s fresh air.

Two standout features make this tour worth considering. First, the expert guides truly bring the experience alive—sharing intriguing legends, geology insights, and local tips on food and sights. Second, the stunning vistas at Vista do Rei and Ponta do Escalvado give you postcard-worthy views of lakes, cliffs, and volcanic landscapes that’ll stay with you long after you’ve left.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s pace can vary depending on weather conditions and group size. Some reviews mention that on foggy days, the lakes might appear quite gray, which could dampen certain photo opportunities. Also, because this is a relatively short tour, it’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic taste of São Miguel—not those looking for an exhaustive exploration.

This experience suits travelers craving authentic Azorean scenery, insights from local guides, and flexible sightseeing. It’s ideal if you’re on a cruise and want to maximize your time with a well-organized, engaging tour that balances outdoor adventure with cultural snippets.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The lakes and viewpoints offer postcard-perfect scenery, especially Vista do Rei.
• Local Insights: Guides share stories, legends, and helpful travel tips that deepen your understanding.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops include a pineapple plantation, scenic viewpoints, and inside the volcano.
• Value for Money: At $58, the tour offers a good mix of sights, storytelling, and photographs.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 33 travelers, it’s intimate enough to ask questions and get attention.
• Weather Dependency: Cloudy or foggy days may limit some views but still provide a memorable experience.

Exploring the Tour Itinerary in Detail

The Pineapple Plantation: A Taste of Azorean Agriculture

Your adventure begins at the Arruda Pineapple Plantation, where you’ll learn about the unique cultivation process in glass greenhouses. Unlike the common outdoor pineapple farms, this operation is special because of its controlled environment, which allows for year-round harvests. The 15-minute stop is free of charge and offers a peek into local farming traditions and a chance to snap a few photos of lush greenhouses. Reviewers like Jill_N appreciated this stop, noting it as “fascinating and informative,” and a good way to understand how Azoreans grow their famous pineapples.

Vista do Rei: The View That’s One of Portugal’s Seven Wonders

Next, you’ll head to Vista do Rei, often hailed as one of Portugal’s seven wonders. This spectacular viewpoint overlooks the famous Blue and Green Lakes of Sete Cidades—two cradles of volcanic activity. On clear days, the vibrant blue of the lakes contrasts beautifully with the lush landscape, creating perhaps the most iconic photo opportunity on the island. Some travelers, like Svandis_O, emphasize how passionate guides helped them appreciate the natural beauty and history of this spot. If weather permits, you’ll find yourself gazing over a landscape that looks almost too perfect.

Inside the Volcano: Exploring Caldeira das Sete Cidades

This is the heart of the tour. Inside the Caldeira das Sete Cidades, you can stroll along the lakeshore, visit the São Nicolau Church, or just soak up the scenery. The inside of the volcano offers a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere. The 30-minute stop is a chance to explore at your own pace, take photos, or maybe enjoy a picnic. Reviewers like gordon_H highlighted the “amazing views” and the thoughtful stops that made this part memorable.

Ponta do Escalvado: Dramatic Cliffs and Coastal Views

On the way back, the Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado offers dramatic cliffs and views of the black rocks of the Mosteiros islets. Standing at this high vantage point, you get a different perspective—more rugged, more wild, and a fitting end to the scenic tour. It’s just a 10-minute stop, but many reviewers found it a refreshing change from the lakes and a great spot for taking photos of the coastline.

Return to Ponta Delgada: Flexibility and Comfort

Finally, you’ll head back to Ponta Delgada, with a 30-minute transfer. Travelers can choose their drop-off location—either back at the cruise terminal or in the city center. The tour’s small group size and comfortable transport help make the return trip relaxed and pleasant.

Authenticity and Value: What Sets This Tour Apart

What truly makes this tour stand out is the local guides’ passion and storytelling. Many reviews mention guides like Andrea, Joao, or Melissa as being knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and eager to share stories that connect you to the island’s culture. Their tips on local eateries and hidden spots add extra value—perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

The price point offers good value when you consider the variety of stops and the personal attention. Entrance fees are not included, but many of the stops are free, and the tour includes bottled water and insurance—small touches that add comfort. For those wanting to see the highlights without a panic, this tour offers a well-paced, scenic overview at a reasonable cost.

Group Size and Comfort

With a maximum of 33 travelers, the experience balances the energy of a group while still feeling intimate enough for questions. Many reviews commend the friendly, professional guides who keep the group engaged and informed. As some travelers noted, having a guide who is passionate about the island’s geology and legends makes all the difference.

Weather and Experience Variability

Because weather can influence what you see—particularly the lakes’ colors—the guides are flexible, and you might find cloud cover or fog adds a different, haunting beauty to the landscape. Naomi_S mentioned that despite fog, the tour remained “very nice,” which speaks to the overall quality and adaptability of the experience.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak cruise seasons.
• The tour operates at 9:00 am, so plan your day accordingly.
• While the price is moderate, consider that this tour does not include entrance fees to the stops, so bring a bit of extra cash if you want souvenirs or local treats.
• Wear comfortable shoes, especially for walking at the volcano and viewpoints.
• Expect some photos to be taken, so bring your camera or smartphone.
• The small group size means personalized attention, but also that cancellations may impact availability, so reserve with confidence.
• If the weather looks foggy or rainy, don’t worry—many travelers still found the experience enjoyable, though the lakes might appear less vibrant.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for cruise travelers eager to see the best of São Miguel in a relaxed, scenic package. It suits those who appreciate guided storytelling and want to learn about the volcano’s geology and local legends firsthand. If you’re a fan of spectacular viewpoints and want to avoid overly long or strenuous excursions, this quick but comprehensive trip hits the mark. It’s also a good choice for families or small groups looking for a personalized, friendly experience with ample photo opportunities.

If you’re hoping to explore more hidden spots or undertake a longer adventure, you might want to look into more extensive tours. But for a snapshot of the island’s volcanic heart and lush lakes, this tour offers a delightful combination of nature, culture, and local charm.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the stops are generally suitable for all ages. Just wear comfortable shoes for walking and take your camera.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including stops for sightseeing and photos.

What are the main sights visited?
You’ll visit a pineapple plantation, Vista do Rei viewpoint, inside the Sete Cidades volcano, and the coastal viewpoint at Ponta do Escalvado.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included and are paid separately if you choose to visit any specific sites inside the volcano.

Can I get dropped off anywhere in Ponta Delgada?
Yes, you can choose your drop-off location between the cruise terminal and the city center.

What should I bring?
Bring water, comfortable shoes, camera, and perhaps a light jacket depending on the weather.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced taste of São Miguel’s most iconic sights, guided by passionate locals who know how to tell a good story while showing you stunning landscapes. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers who want a manageable, engaging outing that combines natural beauty with cultural insights. The combination of scenic viewpoints, volcanic exploration, and local stories creates a memorable snapshot of the Azores’ volcanic heart.

While weather can influence the experience somewhat, many travelers find that the guides’ flexibility and the island’s natural charm make this a worthwhile stop. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a taste of what makes São Miguel so special, without the need for hours of travel or strenuous activity.

In the end, this tour offers great value, authentic moments, and a chance to see some of the most beautiful sights in the Azores—perfectly suited for travelers eager to discover the island’s volcanic wonderland.