Explore the Wonders of Sete Cidades & West side on a Jeep Tour

Exploring São Miguel’s Natural Wonders on a Jeep Tour

If you’re planning a trip to São Miguel, Portugal’s largest island in the Azores, a guided 4×4 Jeep tour of Sete Cidades and the western side of the island is a fantastic way to see some of the most breathtaking scenery without the hassle of navigation. At just under $86 per person, this roughly 3-4 hour adventure is a small-group experience, usually booked about two weeks in advance, offering a more intimate look at the island’s natural beauty. Your day begins with hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada, and you’ll visit iconic spots like the crater lakes of Sete Cidades, the hot springs at Ferraria, and charming seaside villages — all with expert guides leading the way.

What we love about this tour is how it combines off-road excitement with a focus on authentic, lesser-visited locations. The guides are praised for their knowledge, sharing insights that make the scenery come alive — whether it’s the legend of the twin lakes or the volcanic origins of the hot springs. Also, the tour’s limited group size (max six travelers) ensures a personal touch, with plenty of time to ask questions and enjoy the sights at your pace.

A possible drawback? The tour is weather-dependent — cloud cover can obscure some lake views, but guides often tailor the experience to make sure you still get a meaningful look at the landscape. Also, food and entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to enjoy meals or visit additional attractions.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and local insights without the hassle of self-driving. It appeals especially to those eager to see iconic sights but also interested in discovering hidden gems and natural hot springs.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size means more attention from guides and a more relaxed, intimate outing.
• Authentic Sights: Focus on lesser-known landmarks along with famous sights like Sete Cidades.
• Rich Commentary: Guides are knowledgeable and share stories that bring the landscape to life.
• Variety of Stops: From volcanic lakes and hot springs to seaside villages and beaches, the tour offers diverse scenery.
• Value for Money: At around $86 for 4 hours, it’s an accessible way to see a lot without overspending.
• Weather Considerations: Cloud cover can affect lake views; flexibility by guides helps manage expectations.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Caldeira das Sete Cidades

The journey begins with a visit to the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, arguably the island’s most famous natural wonder. This vast volcanic crater lake, renowned as one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, features twin lakes separated by a narrow stretch of land. We loved the way our guide explained the legend behind the lakes — a romantic story of lovers divided by the gods — adding a layer of cultural context. The lush greenery surrounding the caldera and dramatic volcanic cliffs make this a must-see.

Expect about two hours here, giving ample time to take photos, walk along the trails, or simply soak in the views. Because it’s a natural reserve, there’s no admission fee, but the scenery alone justifies the visit.

Mosteiros Beach and Natural Pools

Next, we travel to the village of Mosteiros, a favorite for its stunning beaches and natural swimming pools. The views of the islets offshore are striking, and the atmosphere relaxed. Tourists and locals alike flock here in the summer for swimming, fishing, or just lounging with a good book. The 30-minute stop is perfect for a quick dip or a peaceful stroll along the shore. The reviewer Cassie praised her guide Johanna for showing her parts of the island she wouldn’t have found on her own, and Mosteiros is a perfect example — a quiet, unspoiled corner with picture-perfect vistas.

Ponta da Ferraria Hot Springs

A highlight for many is Ponta da Ferraria, where geothermal activity heats seawater and rocks to over 30ºC. Here, you can relax in natural hot springs while gazing out at the Atlantic. It’s a fascinating intersection of geology and leisure. The 20-minute stop isn’t long, but the experience is memorable — particularly after a morning of sightseeing. The volcanic origins of the landscape are evident, and the warm waters offer a soothing break. As one review mentions, guides often make sure visitors walk along the lakes or get close enough to appreciate their scale and beauty, even if cloud cover limits views.

Exploring Sete Cidades in Depth

The tour’s climax is a more detailed exploration of Sete Cidades — with plenty of panoramic views and photo opportunities. Our guide shared stories about the lakes and the surrounding volcanic landscape, enriching the visual experience. This part lasts about an hour, giving you time to absorb the scenery or enjoy a short walk. Guides are praised for their local knowledge and ability to tailor the experience, making sure everyone gets enough time at each stop.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes professional guiding, hotel and port pickup and drop-off in Ponta Delgada, and the off-road adventure itself, which is the main draw. It’s a great value considering the personalized experience and the diversity of sights covered.

However, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward. Also, entrance fees to individual sites are not included, but most major stops like Sete Cidades are free to explore.

The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives

Reviewers consistently rave about their guides, especially highlighting Johanna’s enthusiasm and storytelling skills. Many mention how guides showed them parts of the island they’d never find alone, making the trip feel special. Walter R. described his trip as “fabulous,” noting the unique places he wouldn’t have reached by himself, and appreciated the off-road element for its fun factor.

Another reviewer, Baruch K., called it an “incredible tour” and “a highlight of our trip,” emphasizing the first-class guide and the value of seeing authentic local spots. Even when cloud cover limited lake visibility, guides made sure everyone still felt they experienced the landscape fully, often by walking beside lakes and soaking in their scale and sound.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour departs at 9:00 am, and the vehicle accommodates a maximum of six travelers, ensuring everyone has space and the opportunity to ask questions. Since most travelers can participate and children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, it’s a flexible option suitable for families and small groups.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, off-road adventures, and local storytelling. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet active day, with plenty of opportunities to photograph, walk, and learn about the islands’ volcanic heritage, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s especially ideal if you want to see iconic sights like Sete Cidades but also want to uncover hidden gems and enjoy the natural thermal springs.

Final Thoughts

In short, this Jeep tour offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of São Miguel’s natural beauty. The combination of expert guides, diverse stops, and off-road fun makes it a standout choice for those who value personal interaction and scenic variety. While weather can influence some views, the knowledgeable guides often adapt to ensure you still leave with a memorable experience. It’s a great way to explore the island comfortably without the stress of self-driving, especially if you prefer a small, intimate group setting.

If you’re eager to see the volcanic lakes, relax in hot springs, and explore seaside villages with local insights, this tour delivers genuine value. It suits travelers who appreciate a blend of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery — and who want their trip to feel both exciting and authentic.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour? Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided from your hotel or port in Ponta Delgada, making it convenient and easy to start your day.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving a good balance of sightseeing and off-road adventure.

What’s the group size? The tour is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and plenty of interaction with your guide.

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees to stops like Sete Cidades or hot springs are not included, but most sites like Lagoa das Sete Cidades are free.

Can children participate? Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for family trips.

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions? The tour is weather-dependent; cloudy skies might limit lake views, but guides will adapt to maximize your experience.

What makes this tour stand out? The off-road driving, knowledgeable guides, and visits to lesser-known spots make it a unique way to explore São Miguel.

Do I need to prepare anything? Bring comfortable clothing, camera, snacks if desired, and be ready for some light walking at certain stops.

How is the price justified? Considering the personalized guide service, diverse sights, and off-road fun, it offers excellent value for a half-day adventure in the Azores.