Side by Side Tour – Sete Cidades from North Coast (Half Day)

Experience the Azores in a Whole New Way with the Side-by-Side Tour of Sete Cidades from Ponta Delgada

When visiting São Miguel Island, one of the highlights is undoubtedly the iconic Sete Cidades crater lake. This half-day adventure, priced at just under $89 per person, offers an exhilarating way to explore the area in a small group setting, typically lasting around 3 to 4 hours. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll hop into a UTV (utility task vehicle) and traverse both paved and dirt roads, taking in spectacular viewpoints, charming villages, and rugged landscapes.

Two things we love about this experience: First, the combination of off-road excitement and scenic vistas makes it more than just a sightseeing tour—it’s an active, memorable day. Second, the small group size means personalized attention, with guides genuinely eager to share insights and ensure everyone feels safe, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider.

A potential consideration is weather variability—the Azores can be unpredictable, and some reviews mention rain, which might limit visibility. It’s wise to bring warm layers and rain gear, especially if the forecast calls for showers.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure, love breathtaking views, and don’t mind getting a little dusty. Families with children, couples, and small groups seeking an authentic, fun experience will find this trip a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Adventure and Comfort: Ride in a well-maintained UTV, with options to drive or be a passenger.
• Stunning Views: Access panoramic vistas of Sete Cidades and surrounding lakes from high-altitude viewpoints.
• Authentic Experience: Travel through dirt roads and small villages, away from typical tourist crowds.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share local insights.
• Weather Preparedness: Bring warm clothes and rain protection due to the unpredictable Azorean climate.
• Good Value: For less than a hundred dollars, you get a memorable half-day of exploration, fun, and scenery.

Exploring the Sete Cidades Side-by-Side Tour

This tour is a fantastic way to get off the beaten path and see São Miguel’s most renowned volcanic landscapes in a dynamic, engaging manner. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, the mix of scenic stops and the thrill of driving a UTV create a memorable experience that’s quite different from a typical bus or walking tour.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Fenais da Luz, a quaint parish on the island’s north coast, marks the beginning and end of the route. Here, you’ll immediately appreciate the contrast between the seafront paved roads and the dirt trails that lead into the more rugged parts of the island. The start is gentle, easing you into the adventure while offering your first glimpses of the Atlantic.

Next, Pico da Cruz (at 845 meters high) is the star of the high-altitude viewpoints. From this vantage point, you’ll see the crater lakes of Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa Verde, and Lagoa Azul, along with the entire dormant volcano’s crater. Many reviews highlight this as a definite highlight—the views are breathtaking, especially on clear days. Expect a sense of awe as you look down on the lakes from a height that gives new perspective on this volcanic wonder.

Vista do Rei is the most iconic viewpoint, perched at 540 meters, offering a sweeping panorama of Sete Cidades’ twin lakes. Depending on the road conditions and weather, your guide might take you to Miradouro das Cumeeiras, which offers a different angle—more green and blue lakes framed by lush volcanic terrain.

Moving on, you’ll navigate dirt paths around the Cerrado das Freiras, where you’ll get closer to the Blue Lagoon, with incredible views over the lakes. This part of the tour is particularly popular among reviews for its picturesque scenery and sense of off-road adventure. Expect some dusty trails and an authentic connection with nature.

Passing through Sao Vicente Ferreira, you’ll traverse a small parish known for its old whale factory site and natural bathing spots (Poços). Here, the mix of old industrial remnants and peaceful coastal scenery highlights the island’s maritime history. The dirt road connecting back to Fenais da Luz adds a sense of exploration and discovery.

Finally, you’ll return to Fenais da Luz, completing the loop with another scenic ride along the coast, soaking in the fresh ocean air one last time.

What to Expect from the Experience

Guides like Bruno and Philippe (mentioned in reviews) are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness. They make sure everyone feels safe, explain each stop’s significance, and even help with taking photos. Many reviews mention how guides go the extra mile, such as providing gloves and raincoats (which can be a lifesaver, as noted in some reviews).

The vehicles are described as well-maintained, comfortable, and suitable for beginners. You can choose to drive or sit as a passenger, which is perfect if you’re not confident behind the wheel but still want to enjoy the ride. The group size maxing out at 14 ensures that each person receives personal attention, and the guide can adapt the experience based on the weather and group interests.

Weather is a mixed bag—some reviews mention fog, rain, or wind, which can obscure views but also add an element of adventure. The tour operators recommend bringing warm coats, rain gear, and gloves. Smart packing means you’ll be prepared for whatever the weather throws at you.

The Value Proposition

At $88.87, this tour offers excellent value for an action-packed, scenic half-day trip. Compared to typical guided tours, it combines adventure, scenic beauty, and local insight at an accessible price point. The inclusion of helmets, insurance, and the guidance of experienced locals makes it a safe and worthwhile investment. Many travelers mention that the views from Pico da Cruz and Vista do Rei alone justify the cost—plus, the fun of driving a UTV adds a layer of excitement you won’t find on standard sightseeing tours.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Insights

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and their willingness to share local stories, history, and tips for capturing the best photos. The off-road aspect gives you a close-up view of the island’s volcanic interior and rustic villages, far from the typical tourist routes. Many note that this experience offers a more active, personalized, and engaging way to see São Miguel.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy outdoor activities and want to see hidden corners of the island, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind getting a little dusty and want a hands-on, fun experience. Couples seeking a romantic adventure, families with kids who can ride safely, or small groups of friends looking for a memorable, scenic ride will find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

This side-by-side Sete Cidades tour combines the thrill of off-road driving with the beauty of one of the Azores’ most famous landscapes. It’s a great option for travelers wanting a more active, authentic, and personalized experience that goes beyond just looking at pictures from afar. The expert guides and well-maintained vehicles help ensure safety and enjoyment, regardless of weather conditions.

While the weather can sometimes limit visibility, most reviews agree that the adventure itself and the views you do get are worth every penny. For those who love nature, adventure, and small-group intimacy, this tour delivers a memorable slice of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially if the children are comfortable riding in a UTV and the group stays within safety guidelines. Always check age restrictions or driver’s license requirements if you plan to drive.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required if you want to drive the UTV. If you prefer to sit as a passenger, no license is necessary.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It’s considered moderate in physical intensity. The main activity is driving or riding in the vehicle, with some walking at viewpoints. Bring warm clothes and rain gear, as weather can be cool or wet.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly, bring raincoats, gloves, and possibly a hat. Sunscreen and water are also good ideas, especially if the weather is clear.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience relies heavily on weather conditions. Poor weather might limit the views, and the tour can be canceled for safety reasons, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 to 4 hours, including stops at several scenic viewpoints and villages.

Can I choose to drive or just ride along?
Yes, you can either drive the UTV or be a passenger. The guide will accommodate your preference, and all safety equipment is provided.

In essence, this side-by-side tour of Sete Cidades offers a blend of adventure, awe-inspiring views, and intimate exploration of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting to experience the Azores in a fun, engaging way—especially if you’re eager to see some of the island’s less accessible spots in a small, friendly group.