Guided Tour to the green & blue Lake of Sete Cidades

Traveling to São Miguel in the Azores offers an abundance of natural beauty, but few sights captivate like the Sete Cidades. This guided tour promises to take you inside the island’s most famous volcanic crater, where you’ll witness the legendary green and blue lakes, and enjoy some of the best panoramic views the Azores has to offer. If you’re looking for an experience that combines scenic beauty with cultural charm, this outing is worth considering.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is its focus on scenic viewpoints and authentic local stops, like a pineapple plantation and a historic church. Plus, the fact that it’s all packed into about four hours makes it a manageable half-day adventure. However, since the itinerary involves multiple stops and scenic drives, travelers should be prepared for a somewhat full schedule. This tour is best suited for those who love outdoor vistas, photography, and discovering volcanic landscapes in a small group setting.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Offers some of the best vistas of the Sete Cidades crater and lakes.
• Diverse Stops: Combines natural sights with cultural visits, like the Church of São Nicolau.
• Value-packed: At $74, it offers a well-rounded look at São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and plan your trip with ease.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, saving you time and hassle.
• Small-group Atmosphere: Enhances the experience with a more personal touch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This four-hour guided tour offers a thorough exploration of the Sete Cidades volcanic complex. Starting around 9:00 a.m., the day kicks off with a visit to a Pineapple Plantation. This stops isn’t just about tasting—though that’s a bonus—it’s about understanding how these tropical fruits thrive in the Azores’ climate. A guided tour here provides insight into local agriculture and the chance to pick up some unique souvenirs.

From there, the tour moves to a scenic drive along the southwest coast. You’ll stop at Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, where the views of the coast, volcanic terrain, and distant islands are simply stunning. This spot is perfect for snapping photos or just marveling at the landscape’s rugged beauty.

Next, we visit Lago do Canário, a crater lake perched roughly 800 meters above sea level. The short walk here gives you a chance to see a true volcanic marvel and appreciate how volcanic activity shaped the island’s terrain. The lake is often quiet and photogenic—the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

The Vista do Rei lookout is one of the tour’s highlights. It’s arguably the most famous viewpoint over the Sete Cidades crater, with Lake das Sete Cidades as a postcard-perfect backdrop. This is where you’ll want to take your time—perhaps snap some photos, soak in the scenery, or simply absorb the tranquility of the landscape.

Descending toward the village of Sete Cidades, the tour makes a stop over the bridge that separates the green and blue lakes—built in 1967. Standing here, you’ll appreciate the clever natural color contrast of the lakes, a phenomenon that’s both visually striking and a favorite among visitors. A visit to the tiny Church of São Nicolau offers a glimpse into local religious tradition and history, and provides a charming contrast to the volcanic landscapes.

The next stop, Lagoa de Santiago, is a smaller volcanic lake that adds variety to the day’s scenic stops. At just 15 minutes, it’s a brief but worthwhile viewing spot, with volcanic origins clearly evident.

Your last major stop is at Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. This vantage point is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the most breathtaking sunset views—though the timing depends on the day. It’s the ideal spot to reflect on the day’s sights and perhaps capture some last photos before heading back.

The tour wraps up with a 45-minute drive back to your hotel or meeting point, giving you time to relax and process the scenic overload.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The highlights are clear: you get to see Sete Cidades, one of the most iconic landscapes in the Azores, and experience it from multiple angles. The crater lake itself is the showstopper, with its vivid green and blue waters that seem almost surreal. The views from Vista do Rei and Ponta do Escalvado** are exceptional, making this tour a treasure trove for landscape photography and those wanting a visual feast.

The inclusion of cultural elements, like a church visit and a pineapple plantation, enriches the experience. It’s a good reminder that São Miguel isn’t just about volcanic craters but also about the local way of life, traditions, and agriculture.

The tour’s small group size and guided format add a personal touch, allowing for questions and tailored attention. Plus, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included, you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics—just relax and enjoy the ride.

The Practical Side—Value and Logistics

At $74 per person, this tour offers decent value, especially considering the variety of sights covered in just four hours. The fee includes van transportation, an experienced guide, bottled water, and hotel transfers, which simplifies the logistics of exploring São Miguel’s highlights independently.

Timing-wise, starting around 9:00 a.m. keeps you out of the midday crowds and allows for a relaxed pace. The stops, mostly between 15 and 40 minutes, are well-paced to give you time for photos and brief sightseeing without feeling rushed.

The tour is available in multiple languages—English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish—which broadens accessibility. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind for flexible travelers.

The Experience Based on Reviews

Though only 13 reviews are available, the overall rating of 4.2 suggests a positive reception. One reviewer, Elena, praised the “super guide, lots of information,” which indicates the guide’s knowledge and helpfulness. Such personal insights can make your experience richer, especially when visiting volcanic landscapes and cultural sites.

Some travelers might find the day slightly rushed, considering the number of stops packed into four hours. However, if you’re focused on seeing the highlights and don’t mind a busy schedule, this is a very efficient way to cover a lot in a short time.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of São Miguel’s volcanic wonders without the hassle of planning multiple independent visits. It’s especially suited for those who value scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and a small-group atmosphere. If you’re short on time but eager to see Sete Cidades, this tour balances convenience with authentic experiences.

However, if you prefer to spend more time exploring each stop or want a more leisurely pace, you might consider a full-day tour or self-guided exploration.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a photo-rich, scenic exploration of one of the Azores’ most famous landscapes, this tour offers excellent value and a well-rounded experience. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase both the natural and cultural richness of São Miguel, all within a manageable four-hour window.

You’ll love the breathtaking views from various lookout points, the chance to see the green & blue lakes up close, and the opportunity to learn about volcanic geology and local culture. The inclusion of hotel transfers and a knowledgeable guide makes it accessible and convenient, especially for first-time visitors.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a fun, visually stunning introduction to the island—and don’t mind a bit of a busy schedule to see it all.

FAQs

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately four hours, including stops and driving time.

Are hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off at designated locations, making it easy to join without extra planning.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While generally suitable for most, some stops involve short walks and scenic viewing. Families with children should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $74 per person, which includes transportation, guide, bottled water, and transfers.

What are the main highlights?
The Sete Cidades crater and lakes, scenic viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Ponta do Escalvado, and cultural stops like the church and pineapple plantation.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The various lookout points and lakes provide excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunset from Ponta do Escalvado.

To sum it up, this guided tour of Sete Cidades offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and convenience. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to experience São Miguel’s iconic landscapes in a short, manageable outing. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat explorer, the views and stories you’ll collect will make your trip memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: