Full Day Sete Cidades + Lagoa Do Fogo

Explore the volcanic wonders of São Miguel island on this captivating full-day tour. Witness the mesmerizing twin lakes nestled in ancient craters, where one shimmers in emerald green and the other in vivid blue. Hike through lush, verdant slopes surrounding the serene Lagoa do Fogo crater lake, taking in breathtaking panoramic vistas. Discover the charming Sete Cidades village and learn about the island’s remarkable volcanic heritage, including the historic Muro das Nove Janelas aqueduct. This tour offers a chance to explore the natural beauty and engineering marvels of this captivating volcanic landscape. What secrets might you uncover?

Key Points

• Explore the stunning volcanic crater lakes of Lagoa do Fogo and Lagoa Sete Cidades, offering breathtaking natural scenery and insight into the island’s volcanic heritage.
• Visit the charming Sete Cidades village, nestled within the crater rim, to experience the local way of life, traditional architecture, and authentic Azorean cuisine.
• Marvel at the engineering prowess of the Muro das Nove Janelas aqueduct, a historic landmark that once supplied water to surrounding communities.
• Take in the panoramic vistas from the Vista do Rei Lookout, overlooking the picturesque Sete Cidades lakes and surrounding volcanic landscape.
• Discover the coastal charms of Ribeira Grande, a vibrant town with colorful architecture, bustling markets, and opportunities to sample local Azorean liqueurs and spirits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Volcanic Crater Lake

The tour’s first stop is the stunning Lagoa do Fogo, a volcanic crater lake nestled within the island’s rugged interior.

Formed thousands of years ago by a volcanic eruption, this picturesque body of water is surrounded by lush, verdant slopes and offers breathtaking views.

Visitors can stroll along the lake’s edge, taking in the serene atmosphere and observing the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique ecosystem.

The clear, blue waters reflect the surrounding landscape, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.

Whether admiring the lake from afar or exploring its shores up close, Lagoa do Fogo is a highlight of the tour, showcasing the island’s remarkable volcanic heritage.

Stunning Twin Lakes

Next, the tour ventures to the stunning Lagoa Sete Cidades, a pair of twin lakes nestled within a volcanic crater. Formed by a massive eruption centuries ago, these serene, mirror-like bodies of water captivate visitors with their striking contrast – one lake is emerald green, the other a brilliant blue. Surrounded by lush, verdant hills, the Sete Cidades lakes offer a breathtaking visual spectacle that reflects the island’s volcanic origins.

Lake	Color	Depth	Size
Lagoa Verde	Emerald Green	28 meters	2.3 square km
Lagoa Azul	Brilliant Blue	24 meters	1.9 square km
Sete Cidades	–	–	4.2 square km

Sete Cidades Village

After taking in the breathtaking views of the Sete Cidades lakes, the tour typically winds its way down to the charming Sete Cidades village nestled within the crater’s rim.

This quaint, picturesque town is a highlight for many visitors, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.

Stroll through the narrow streets, admiring the traditional architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings. Stop by the local shops and cafes, where you can interact with friendly residents and sample authentic Azorean cuisine and drinks.

The serene setting and unhurried pace of Sete Cidades village provide a welcome respite from the day’s earlier activities, allowing you to learn about the island’s tranquil ambiance.

Aqueduct Masterpiece

Muro das Nove Janelas, an ancient aqueduct dating back centuries, stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the island’s early inhabitants. This impressive structure, comprising nine arched windows, once supplied water to the surrounding communities.

Visitors can marvel at its imposing presence and imagine the skill and labor required to construct such an enduring architectural masterpiece. The aqueduct’s strategic location and thoughtful design allowed it to efficiently channel and distribute water, playing a crucial role in the island’s development.

Today, it remains a beloved landmark, showcasing São Miguel’s rich history and the ingenuity of its people. Exploring this aqueduct offers a unique glimpse into the island’s past and the remarkable achievements of its past residents.

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Panoramic Viewpoint

From the Vista do Rei Lookout, visitors are treated to a panoramic vista of the breathtaking Sete Cidades lakes, nestled within the ancient volcanic crater.

This elevated vantage point offers a sweeping view of the twin lakes and the surrounding lush, green landscape, showcasing the island’s stunning natural beauty.

The viewpoint provides an opportunity to take in the full scope of the Sete Cidades region, with the vibrant blue and green hues of the lakes contrasting against the rolling hills and forests.

Visitors can linger at the lookout, snapping photos and admiring the picturesque scenery that has made this destination a highlight of the São Miguel island tour.

Charming Coastal Town

Along the northern coast of São Miguel island, the charming town of Ribeira Grande welcomes visitors with its picturesque streets, historic architecture, and vibrant local culture.

Strolling through the town center, you’ll discover quaint cobblestone lanes lined with colorful houses, cafes, and shops. Don’t miss the imposing Igreja Matriz, a 15th-century church with a remarkable Baroque façade.

For a taste of local life, visit the bustling Mercado da Ribeira Grande, where vendors offer a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and traditional delicacies.

After exploring the town, take a scenic drive along the northern coastline, admiring the rugged cliffs and crashing waves that characterize this picturesque region of São Miguel.

Local Spirits Tasting

After exploring the charming streets of Ribeira Grande, visitors can head to the Mulher de Capote to sample the island’s renowned local spirits.

This traditional hotel offers a unique opportunity to taste a variety of Azorean liqueurs and brandies, each with its own distinct flavor profile.

From the smooth and aromatic Licor de Cura to the robust and herbaceous Ginjas, these artisanal spirits showcase the island’s rich culinary heritage.

Guests can learn about the production methods and the stories behind these traditional beverages while savoring the local flavors.

This stop on the tour provides a delightful introduction to the vibrant drinking culture of São Miguel, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the island’s unique gastronomic offerings.

Waterfall and Power Plant

The tour next takes visitors to Salto do Cabrito, a captivating waterfall and hydroelectric power plant nestled within the island’s lush natural landscape. Cascading waters plummet over the rocky terrain, generating renewable energy that powers the surrounding communities.

Guests can admire the impressive engineering feats and the breathtaking scenery that this stop on the itinerary has to offer.

At the site, travelers can observe the inner workings of the hydroelectric facility and learn about its role in harnessing the island’s natural resources. The thunderous roar of the waterfall provides a dramatic backdrop as visitors explore the area.

This unique combination of natural beauty and sustainable energy production makes Salto do Cabrito a must-see destination on the Sete Cidades tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Capacity and Group Size?

The tour doesn’t specify a set group size, but it’s likely a small group experience to allow for personalized attention. The capacity may vary depending on demand and transportation logistics.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions, and it welcomes guests of all ages. Children can participate and enjoy the sights and activities alongside their families.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to individual preferences. Travelers can request to visit additional attractions or focus on specific highlights based on their interests. The tour operator will work with customers to personalize the itinerary.

What Type of Transportation Is Provided During the Tour?

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, so transportation is arranged for customers. They’ll be driven to the various highlights around São Miguel island during the 7-hour excursion.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Hidden Fees for the Tour?

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and there are no additional costs or hidden fees. Customers are only responsible for the tour price, which can be refunded up to 24 hours in advance.

Recap

Exploring São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes on this full-day tour is a must-do. Witness the breathtaking twin lakes, hike around the Lagoa do Fogo crater, and discover the charming Sete Cidades village.

Learn about the island’s remarkable volcanic heritage and admire engineering marvels like the historic Muro das Nove Janelas aqueduct.

Cap off the day with a local spirits tasting and a visit to a picturesque waterfall and power plant.

You can check availability for your dates here: