Sete Cidades is one of the most spectacular spots on São Miguel Island in the Azores. Its twin lakes, dramatic cliffs, and lush scenery make it a natural magnet for tours. Whether you prefer a ** Jeep adventure**, an e-bike ride, or a relaxing stand-up paddleboard session, there’s an experience that will match your style. We especially like the full-day Jeep tour that combines off-road exploring with breathtaking views of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and the private Jeep tour that offers a tailor-made day for your group. The variety of options means you can enjoy these volcanic landscapes on your own terms, with guides who know exactly where to take you for the best photos and freshest air.
If you’re looking to dive deep into the scenery, try one of the guided multi-day tours or a private vehicle experience for ultimate flexibility. For those who want just a quick taste, the half-day options deliver plenty of mountain charm without a big time commitment. Whichever tour you pick, prepare for stunning vistas, volcanic craters, and the kind of scenery that will stay in your memory long after the trip.
1. Half-Day – Sete Cidades Tour
At number 1, the Half-Day – Sete Cidades Tour offers a solid introduction to the region in just three hours. Starting from Ponta Delgada, you’ll visit the famous Miradouro da Vista do Rei for panoramic views, then explore the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, one of the island’s most photographed spots. This tour includes a scenic jeep ride through the volcanic landscape, with stops at viewpoints like Miradouro Das Cumeeiras and Lagoa de Sao Tiago. The itinerary also features a visit to the Church of Sao Nicolau and a scenic drive back along the coast.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of scenic beauty and comfort. The small group size and good reviews — a 4.9/5 rating based on 29 reviews — reflect its popularity. Guests highlight the friendly guide and the stunning views. Priced at $45 per person, it offers a great value for a quick yet comprehensive experience. This tour is perfect if you’ve got limited time but want a memorable taste of the lakes and volcanic scenery.
Bottom Line: A quick, well-organized trip with beautiful views and friendly guides—a perfect choice if you want a taste of São Miguel’s west coast.
2. Half-Day – Lagoa do Fogo
Next up is the Half-Day – Lagoa do Fogo, rated 4.8/5 from 24 reviews. This tour also lasts about three hours and heads from Ponta Delgada into the heart of the island. The highlight is the scenic off-road drive leading to viewpoints like Pico da Barrosa and the Lagoa do Fogo crater lake. The guide’s local insights help bring the landscape alive and deepen your appreciation of the volcanic history. Stops include Cascata do Salto do Cabrito and a visit to Ribeira Grande.
What makes this tour special is the focus on hidden viewpoints and nature’s raw beauty. Priced at $45 per person, it offers a balanced mix of scenic drives and photo stops. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful vistas. The combination of off-road adventure and peaceful lake views appeals to travelers wanting a deeper connection with São Miguel’s volcanic core.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want an off-the-beaten-path look at Lagoa do Fogo with a knowledgeable local guide and scenic stops.
3. E-bike Sete Cidades Tour with Guide
For a more active choice, the E-bike Sete Cidades Tour with Guide offers a three-hour ride along the crater rim. Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, this route takes you past the Blue, Green, and Santiago Lakes — volcanic craters filled with water. The guide provides safety and local insights, making the experience accessible even for less fit riders. You’ll pedal along mountain trails and enjoy sweeping ocean views, all while feeling the wind and hearing the quiet of nature.
What makes this tour truly unique is how you get to cycle along the edge of the volcanic crater, with the chance to stop and take photos or explore the charming village of Sete Cidades. Priced at $77 per person, it’s a good value considering the personalized experience. It suits travelers looking for a combination of adventure and sightseeing and those comfortable on a bike. The small group size ensures individual attention and safety.
Bottom Line: A great way to combine outdoor activity with sightseeing, perfect for fit travelers who want to see the lakes from a different perspective.
4. E-Bike Rental Sete Cidades
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the E-Bike Rental Sete Cidades offers two hours of pedal-powered freedom. Rated 4.8/5 from 4 reviews, this option allows you to glide effortlessly through the volcanic landscape with electric assist. You can visit the lakes, enjoy panoramic views, and relax on the lake shores without sweating too much.
This rental is designed for those who want flexibility and independent exploration. At $17 per person, it’s inexpensive and ideal for day-trippers who want to create their own adventure. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with using a bike and want to take your time absorbing the scenery.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly way to see Sete Cidades on your own schedule, best suited for confident cyclists.
5. Half Day Sete Cidades
The Half Day Sete Cidades offers a four-hour private tour that emphasizes panoramic views and alternative roads. For $77 per person, you get a vehicle-based experience starting from three locations—Capelas, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada. This tour uses off-the-beaten-path roads to visit viewpoints like Pico do Carvão, Lomba do Vasco, and Miradouro das Pedras Negras. It’s designed for those who want a more personalized, comfortable way to explore without feeling rushed.
Reviewers note the professional guides and the ability to customize the route. It’s a particularly good choice for travelers who prefer private transportation and a flexible itinerary. The tour’s key selling point is its comfort and the access to lesser-known vistas, making the experience more intimate.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a private, relaxed exploration that includes some off-the-beaten-path spots.
$77 per person
6. Full Day Sete Cidades Lagoa de Fogo
For those wanting a comprehensive experience, the Full Day Sete Cidades Lagoa de Fogo covers both major volcanic attractions over eight hours. Starting with a trip to Pico do Carvão and Caniçal Lake, the tour continues with scenic stops at Vista do Rei and Cerrado das Freiras. The highlight is the visit to Lagoa do Fogo, including a walk around the crater and a traditional Azorean lunch.
The tour’s strength lies in its depth and variety, offering a full day of exploration that includes personalized service and multiple scenic stops. It’s rated 4.9/5, with travelers appreciating the incredible photo opportunities and well-planned itinerary. If you’re interested in a deep dive into São Miguel’s volcanic features, this is a top pick.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an immersive, full-scale day exploring multiple volcanic lakes.
7. Jeep Full Day Sete Cidades & Firelake (Lagoa do Fogo)
At number 7, the Jeep Full Day Sete Cidades & Firelake takes you on an eight-hour journey combining the biodiversity of Sete Cidades with the natural reserve of Lagoa do Fogo. Using a Jeep, the tour navigates alternative roads to reach viewpoints like Salto do Cabrito and Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande. It’s designed for travelers wanting off-road thrills and a comprehensive look at the island’s volcanic landscapes, with a focus on remote vistas and natural beauty.
Guests rave about the panoramic views and the professional guide. The tour’s unique aspect is its combination of volcanoes, lakes, and natural reserves in one day, offering a well-rounded experience. Priced at $89 per person, it balances value and adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a full-day, off-road exploration of São Miguel’s most iconic lakes and natural areas.
$89 per person
8. São Miguel Island: 3-Days Guided Island Tour
For the committed explorer, the 3-Day Guided Island Tour provides an in-depth look at São Miguel’s highlights. This trip covers volcanoes, thermal springs, and landmarks like the Arnel Lighthouse in Vila Nova. Led by a local guide, this experience is perfect for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in the island’s culture and nature over several days.
Rated 4.7/5 from reviews, people appreciate the comprehensive itinerary and the personalized attention. The tour is best suited for those with flexible schedules and a desire to truly understand the island’s volcanic activity and landscapes.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a deep, multi-day experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation.
$215 per person
9. Private Van Tour Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo
Number 9, the Private Van Tour Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo, offers a personalized 7.5-hour experience for up to four people. It includes scenic photo stops, visits to viewpoints like Grota do Inferno, and lunch at local restaurants. The guide shares detailed insights into the volcanic history while customizing the route to your interests.
Guests highlight the comfort and flexibility of this private tour, making it perfect for families or small groups wanting a tailored day. The $318 price covers the entire group, making it a good option for those seeking intimate, exclusive exploration.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers valuing customized itineraries and personal service.
$318 per group up to 4
10. São Miguel: Sete Cidades & Pineapple Plantation Tour
The Sete Cidades & Pineapple Plantation Tour combines stunning lake views with a visit to a traditional pineapple plantation. This four-hour tour takes you to Pico do Carvão and Vista do Rei, with a short walk to Grota do Inferno. Afterward, you’ll visit a local pineapple farm to learn how these sweet fruits are cultivated in volcanic soil.
This tour appeals to those interested in agriculture, local culture, and scenic viewpoints. It provides a good balance of nature and local life, priced at a reasonable four hours. Tourists love the insight into pineapple cultivation, adding a tasty and educational element.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a short, informative, and visually rewarding experience.
$341 per group up to 6
11. Stand Up Paddle Experience in Sete Cidades
For a relaxing, active experience, the Stand Up Paddle Experience is a two-hour adventure rated 4.8/5. It’s suitable for most ages, emphasizing balance and enjoyment on the calm waters of the lake. Guided by a professional, you’ll learn paddling techniques while soaking in the serene scenery.
The highlight is the chance to challenge yourself and experience the lake from the water, with safety instructions and support provided. This is ideal for families or anyone wanting a calm, fun activity during their visit.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable way to experience Sete Cidades from a different perspective, suited for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
$63 per person
12. SUP Yoga in the Lagoa das Sete Cidades
Finally, the SUP Yoga combines mindfulness, balance, and nature in a 1.5-hour class. Practicing yoga on a paddle board in the middle of the lagoon offers a peaceful, almost meditative experience. The instructor creates a safe, welcoming environment suitable for all levels.
Participants report feeling at peace and connected with nature, with personalized support throughout the class. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing, unique activity that nurtures both body and mind.
Bottom Line: A memorable way to unwind and connect with São Miguel’s natural beauty — great for wellness-minded travelers.
$83 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. For a quick intro, the half-day jeep tours are ideal, while the full-day trips suit those wanting a complete experience. If you prefer independent exploration, the e-bike rentals or paddleboard activities are perfect. Private tours, like the van or jeep private experiences, offer flexibility and a more personalized touch, especially for small groups or families.
Booking early is wise, especially in high season, as popular tours like the Sete Cidades Jeep Safari fill up fast. Think about your hiking ability, whether you want adventure or more relaxation, and pick a tour that matches your pace. Check each experience’s availability to find the best options for your travel dates.
Final Thoughts
Sete Cidades offers a dazzling array of tour options that showcase its volcanic lakes, lush valleys, and rugged coastline. For those seeking thrills, the full-day Jeep adventures provide off-road excitement and panoramic vistas. If you enjoy active pursuits, the e-bike and paddleboard options let you experience the landscape from a different angle. For a more personalized experience, private tours are unbeatable.
Whether you want a quick overview or a deep exploration, these tours are a fantastic way to see the best of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty. Don’t forget to book early—in the Azores, these experiences are popular, and the views are worth sharing with fewer people.