Seven Citys Tour: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion

If you’re heading to the Azores and want to see one of the most stunning natural sights on São Miguel Island, the Seven Citys Tour: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion offers a well-rounded, authentic experience. For just $84 per person, this 4-hour journey takes you inside the island’s most recognizable landscape: the Sete Cidades caldera, famous for its striking green and blue lakes. Guides like Rui and Dennis help bring the scenery to life with local insights and a friendly attitude that makes even a short trip feel special.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its careful itinerary that balances scenic vistas with cultural stops—like the village of Sete Cidades and a charming church—and the knowledgeable guides who clearly love sharing their island’s stories. Also, the inclusion of a pineapple plantation visit adds a taste of local agriculture, giving a well-rounded glimpse of Azorean life. The only consideration? Because of its condensed schedule, it’s ideal if you’re after a quick, scenic highlight rather than an in-depth exploration. Perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of São Miguel’s most iconic sights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning vistas, local culture, and engaging guides, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those with limited time on the island but who still want to see the crater lakes, volcanic formations, and charming villages that define São Miguel’s landscape.

Key Points

Iconic natural monument: This tour centers on the Sete Cidades caldera, one of the most recognizable landscapes in the Azores.
Diverse stops: From pineapple plantations and volcanic lakes to picturesque viewpoints, it offers a variety of scenic and cultural experiences.
Expert guides: Guides like Rui are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the tour both informative and personable.
Spectacular views: Expect breathtaking panoramas from Miradouro do Pico do Carvão and Vista do Rei.
Local charm: Stops in the village, church, and bridge offer a taste of local life and history.
Value for money: For $84, you get a well-organized, guided experience that covers many highlights in just a few hours.

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Exploring the Azores’ Best with the Seven Citys Tour

When you think of the Azores, images of lush volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and charming villages come to mind. The Sete Cidades caldera is arguably the crown jewel of São Miguel, and this tour offers a perfect introduction to its most striking features. It’s an efficient, well-paced way to see what makes this landscape so special—all within a manageable 4-hour window.

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Starting the Day: Pineapple Plantations and Coastal Views

The tour begins with a visit to a pineapple plantation, which offers a genuine taste of Azorean agriculture. This visit, lasting about 30 to 45 minutes, reveals how these sweet fruits thrive in volcanic soils, and it’s a chance to sample fresh local produce or buy souvenirs. As one traveler remarked, it’s a “nice” addition that gives a peek into local farming traditions.

From there, your journey continues along the southwest coast, where the scenery immediately becomes more dramatic as you head up into the mountains. The first major viewing stop is Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, a lookout point offering panoramic views of the coast and the lush, rolling landscape below. Expect about 15 to 20 minutes here to soak in the vistas and snap some photos.

Volcanic Lakes and Crater Highlights

Climbing higher, you reach Lago do Canário, a volcanic crater lake situated approximately 800 meters above sea level. This spot, about 20 to 25 minutes, gives you a real sense of the island’s volcanic origins and the power of nature that shaped it.

Next, the highlight of the tour—Vista do Rei—offers one of the most iconic views in the Azores: a sweeping panorama of the Sete Cidades caldera with its two contrasting lakes, one lush green and the other deep blue. For many travelers, this view is a postcard come to life. Guides often share local legends and insights into the formation of this landscape, adding depth to the breathtaking scenery.

Exploring the Lakes and Village

Descending from the viewpoints, you’ll stop at Lagoa de Santiago, a volcanic lake linked to the crater’s volcanic activity. It’s a smaller, serene spot, about 15 minutes, where you can appreciate the volcanic origins of the landscape.

Driving toward the village of Sete Cidades, you’ll cross a bridge that separates the two lakes, built in 1967. Here, you’ll have time to walk through the village, enjoy a coffee, or visit the Church of São Nicolau, a small neo-Gothic church dating back to the 17th century. This stop offers a charming glimpse into local life and history, resonating with travelers who love combining natural wonders with cultural insights.

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Sunset Views and Final Moments

The tour’s final stop is at Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic. Built on the island’s western edge, this spot is ideal for enjoying one of the most beautiful sunset views on São Miguel—if your timing aligns.

Afterward, the guide will take you back to your accommodation or meeting point, usually around 45 minutes later, leaving you with a sense of having experienced the island’s iconic landscape without the fatigue of a long day.

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The Experience: What’s Included and What to Expect

For $84, the tour covers a lot of ground. Included are hotel pick-up and drop-off, a van comfortable enough for the group size, and an experienced guide who’s enthusiastic about sharing local stories. You’ll also receive a bottle of water, which is appreciated during the warm, sometimes sunny excursions.

It’s worth noting that entry to Caldeira Velha isn’t included, so if you’re eager to visit thermal springs, you might have to arrange that separately. The tour is available in English and Portuguese, making it accessible for most visitors.

Flexibility and Cancelation

The booking process allows you to reserve and pay later, retaining flexibility if your plans change. You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, which offers peace of mind—especially helpful if your schedule remains uncertain.

Group Size and Pacing

Based on reviews, the tour tends to be intimate—some travelers enjoyed a quiet, personalized experience, especially when only a few guests joined. The pace is relaxed enough to take photos and ask questions, which guides like Rui excel at.

Authenticity and Traveler Perspectives

Many travelers praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. Helena notes that Rui “takes the time to show you around every part of the island and explain the history,” making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Ana Cecilia loved the breathtaking views and appreciated the guides’ kindness and expertise.

One traveler, who had to reroute due to a local festival, still found the experience rich thanks to Denis’s local knowledge, highlighting how guides can adapt and ensure you see the best of the island. Several reviews mention how the tour allows you to see places you might not reach on your own, especially when time or transportation options are limited.

Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

If you’re after a comprehensive yet manageable way to see the most iconic scenery of São Miguel, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who want stunning views, local culture, and expert guidance without the hassle of navigating alone. It suits travelers with limited time on the island—perhaps a half-day—who still want a meaningful experience.

However, if you’re eager to explore more remote or thermal sites, you might find this tour somewhat brief. Still, for a quick, scenic overview with a friendly guide, it provides excellent value.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour reinforces that São Miguel’s natural beauty is best appreciated step-by-step, with someone who can share the stories behind the landscapes. The viewpoints and lakes are genuinely breathtaking, and the guides are a highlight—adding local color and answering questions with ease.

For travelers who love picture-perfect vistas, cultural stops, and insightful guides, this balance of scenic and cultural exploration makes for a memorable half-day. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences and want the comfort and convenience of a guided tour.

If your time is limited but you want a taste of the Azores’ most famous sights, this tour offers a solid, well-organized experience that captures the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation, making it convenient for travelers staying locally.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 4 hours, allowing plenty of time for scenic stops and cultural visits without feeling rushed.

What’s not included in the price? Entry to Caldeira Velha is not included, so additional visits to thermal springs or other sites would need separate arrangements.

Are the guides bilingual? The tour is offered in English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Is this tour suitable for children or families? While not explicitly stated, the short duration and visual appeal make it suitable for most ages, especially if families enjoy scenic views and light cultural stops.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, camera, sun protection, and water are recommended. The tour provides a bottle of water, but additional snacks or drinks are up to you.

How many people typically join the tour? Reviews suggest it’s a fairly intimate experience, especially when only a few travelers join, enhancing the personalized feel.

In summary, the Seven Citys Tour offers a curated, scenic, and culturally rich experience of São Miguel’s most famous landscape. It balances stunning natural beauty with local charm and guides who genuinely love sharing their island. Perfect for travelers seeking a value-packed, authentic glimpse of the Azores’ volcanic wonderland in a relaxed timeframe.