São Miguel Azores: Explore the dramatic crater of Sete Cidades

São Miguel Azores: Explore the dramatic crater of Sete Cidades

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing on a viewpoint where lakes of contrasting colors lie inside a vast volcanic crater, this tour is just what you need. For around $92, you’ll spend approximately 3.5 hours exploring Sete Cidades, one of the most iconic landscapes on São Miguel Island. Led by guides like Gabriel or Carla—both highly praised in reviews—you’ll visit stunning viewpoints, learn about the island’s volcanic history, and enjoy a relaxed, informative experience.

What we love about this tour are two main things: first, the expert guides who seem genuinely passionate about sharing their knowledge and love of the island, making the scenery even more meaningful. Second, the variety of stops, from breathtaking vistas to historic sites, ensures a well-rounded view of São Miguel’s natural and cultural highlights.

One potential consideration is the group size, limited to 8 travelers, which is generally a plus for personal attention but might feel a little tight if you’re seeking a more private experience. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, engaging, and value-packed way to explore São Miguel’s famous crater lakes and viewpoints, especially if you’re short on time but want authentic insights.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Explore the famed lakes of Sete Cidades, with their contrasting colors and huge caldera views.
• Expert guidance: Guides like Gabriel and Carla receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, enriching your experience.
• Convenience: Pickup and drop-off at Ponta Delgada make logistics simple, especially for cruise passengers or those short on time.
• Authentic insights: Learn about the volcanic history and local culture while taking in breathtaking vistas.
• Flexible and customizable: The itinerary can be tailored, and private options are available for a more personalized experience.
• Great value: At less than $100, this tour offers a lot of scenery, history, and guidance for the price.

Exploring São Miguel’s Crater of Sete Cidades

This tour offers a beautifully balanced journey through São Miguel’s most famous volcanic features, combining natural wonders with engaging storytelling. The main highlight is the Sete Cidades caldera, a vast volcanic crater measuring about 5 kilometers across. Inside, you’ll find the Lagoa Azul (Blue Lake) and Lagoa Verde (Green Lake)—two lakes with distinct colors caused by differences in mineral content and algae. The sight of these twin lakes, separated by a narrow dam but viewed from the Vista do Rei viewpoint, is often called one of the most memorable on the island.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Sete Cidades
The tour kicks off here, at the heart of São Miguel’s volcanic history. The caldera itself is formed from ancient volcanic activity, and walking around it, you can feel the power of the earth that created it. Most travelers find the lakes absolutely captivating — the blue and green hues are as vibrant as any postcard. We loved the way the guide explained how these lakes got their colors, adding a layer of understanding to the view.

Stop 2: Vista do Rei Miradouro
This popular viewpoint is a must-see, offering sweeping panoramas of the entire crater. From here, the lakes seem close enough to touch, and the view of the surrounding mountains is spectacular. Reviewers mention that this spot alone justifies the trip, with one noting, “The views here are breathtaking, and it’s a perfect place for photos.”

Stop 3: Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras
Another viewpoint that provides a different angle of the crater, Cerrado das Freiras offers a more secluded feel and equally stunning views. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid crowds but still enjoy the scenery. Many say it’s a “must-visit” for its postcard-worthy vistas.

Stop 4: Lagoa de Santiago
This lesser-known spot is a peaceful green lake in a volcanic crater, with a roadside viewing platform. It provides a quieter, more intimate experience of the island’s volcanic landscapes. Reviewers appreciate the chance to see a different crater lake, with one describing it as “absolutely stunning and surrounded by lush greenery.”

Stop 5: Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado
Once a whale lookout, this viewpoint offers views over the sea and the village of Mosteiros. It’s a great spot for a quick photo and to appreciate the rugged coast. Guests often mention the dizzying cliffs and panoramic ocean views here.

Stop 6: Monte Palace Hotel Ruins
A remnant of luxury from a bygone era, the ruins of the Monte Palace Hotel sit in a scenic location amid the volcanic landscape. It’s a fascinating stop for history buffs or those interested in the island’s development. Reviewers note that walking around these ruins adds a “touch of elegance and history” to the day.

Practicalities and Experience

The small group size (max 8 travelers) enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction with guides who are enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Many reviews highlight guides like Gabriel and Carla, emphasizing their friendly demeanor, local expertise, and willingness to go beyond the usual sights. One reviewer praised Carla for making the experience “way better than expected,” while others appreciated Gabriel’s ability to share insightful stories about the island’s geology and culture.

The tour includes pickup from Ponta Delgada, making it very convenient, particularly for cruise travelers or those staying nearby. The duration of about 3.5 hours strikes a good balance—enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The price of $92.49 per person is reasonable, considering the guided nature and diverse stops, especially when compared to the cost of multiple individual excursions or rentals.

What’s Included and What to Expect

• Admission to viewpoints and parks is included, so no extra costs for scenic stops.
• The guides are praised for their local knowledge, making the landscapes come alive with stories and explanations.
• The vehicle is sanitized before and after each tour, providing peace of mind.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with easy walking and near public transportation options.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

A standout feature of this tour is the blend of natural beauty and personal storytelling. Multiple reviewers mentioned guides like Gabriel or Carla going the extra mile, taking travelers to less touristy spots or sharing personal insights into the island’s volcanic activity and history. This personal approach makes the experience more meaningful, especially when paired with breathtaking views.

The Value and Who It’s Best For

For just under $100, you get a well-rounded glimpse of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape, guided by experts who truly love the island. The tour delivers stunning scenery, educational content, and convenience, making it a good choice for travelers wanting an authentic and relaxed experience. Families, cruise passengers, or anyone short on time but eager to see the highlights would especially benefit.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Sete Cidades and surrounding viewpoints offers a highly engaging and value-rich experience. The combination of stunning landscapes, expert guides, and the flexibility to customize makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a personalized and informative introduction to São Miguel’s volcanic beauty. Whether you’re snapping photos from Vista do Rei or learning about the island’s geology from a passionate local, this tour promises a memorable day on one of Portugal’s most captivating islands.

For those who love breathtaking scenery paired with authentic local insights, this is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for visitors who appreciate small groups, knowledgeable guides, and diverse viewpoints—and who want to take home not just photos but stories of the Azores’ volcanic soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from the designated meeting point at Ponta Delgada, and transportation is provided as part of the tour, ensuring a smooth experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to see the main sights without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary and group size can be tailored upon request, allowing for a more personalized experience if desired.

Are admission fees included?
Most of the viewpoints and parks have free or included admission, such as Vista do Rei and the viewpoints. The tour price covers these, so no extra costs are necessary.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews mention that a car seat was provided for a toddler, making it family-friendly.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
While most weather conditions are suitable, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What language are the guides?
Guides like Gabriel and Carla speak excellent English, making the experience accessible and engaging for international visitors.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, which helps maintain a personal, flexible atmosphere.

What makes this tour stand out?
The knowledgeable guides, stunning viewpoints, and the opportunity to explore less crowded spots make this tour a memorable way to see São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes.

If you’re eager to see São Miguel’s most iconic volcanic scenery with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this tour strikes a wonderful balance between comfort, insight, and authentic landscapes. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to explore the island’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.