Ponta Delgada: Private Tour Sete Cidades Green e Blue Lakes

If you’re dreaming of a day surrounded by volcanic calderas, shimmering lakes, and lush landscapes, the Private Tour of Sete Cidades in the Azores offers exactly that. This carefully curated experience promises not just scenic views but a chance to connect with local culture, learn about Azorean agriculture, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty in comfort. The fact that it’s private means you get a personalized touch—an advantage for those who prefer a flexible, tailored day rather than a big bus crowd.

What we really love about this tour is the intimate setting and the expertise of the guides, who seem to have a knack for sharing stories and insights that make the scenery even more meaningful. Plus, the stops at viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Ponta Ponta do Escalvado are genuinely breathtaking. However, keep in mind that this is a 4-hour trip—so it’s a quick but comprehensive look at one of the island’s most iconic spots. It’s best suited for travelers who want a focused, scenic experience without a hectic schedule, and who appreciate a good story alongside their views.

One possible consideration is that the tour, while very comprehensive, doesn’t include meals or snacks—so plan to bring your own or explore the villages for a local coffee break. Still, the tour’s value lies in its personalized attention, expert guidance, and the chance to see the most photogenic landscapes of S. Miguel in a relatively short time.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: Tailored experiences with dedicated guides and transport.
• Stunning viewpoints: Multiple stops at key lookout points offering exceptional views.
• Local culture: Opportunity to walk in a rural village and enjoy local coffee.
• Includes pineapple production visit: Learn about Azorean pineapple and sample local liqueurs.
• Time-efficient: Four-hour tour perfect for those with tight schedules.
• Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and Wi-Fi make the day smooth.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Heart of S. Miguel: An In-Depth Look at the Tour

A Welcome Introduction to Azorean Natural Beauty

The journey begins with hotel or cruise terminal pickup—an easy way to start without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. As you settle into a comfortable private vehicle, your guide will set the tone with stories about the Azores’ volcanic past and lush landscapes. Having a dedicated guide means you’ll get insights tailored to your interests, whether you’re a geology buff, a foodie, or just here for the scenery.

First Stop: Pico do Carvão – Views and Photo Opportunities

Your first stop at Pico do Carvão offers a quick 15-minute window to admire panoramic vistas of the island’s central region, complete with the Mountains of Fogo and Vara looming in the background. Expect to take some memorable photos here—it’s the perfect introduction to the volcanic landscape that defines S. Miguel. The guide’s commentary will help you appreciate how this landscape was shaped by millennia of volcanic activity.

Scenic Drive Along the West Coast

Next, a scenic 15-minute drive along the west coast brings you to the Vista do Rei lookout, where you’ll spend about 30 minutes soaking in views of the Sete Cidades caldera. This is arguably the most famous viewpoint, made even more special by its historical connection—El-Rey D. Carlos I once visited here. The sweeping vistas across the twin lakes, set within a volcanic crater, are genuinely awe-inspiring. It’s a spot that makes you understand why this is the most visited location on the island.

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Exploring the Sete Cidades Lagoons

Descending into the caldera, your guide will take you to Cerrado das Freiras and Ponta do Escalvado, stopping for additional scenic views and photo ops along the way. You’ll spend approximately 15-30 minutes at each stop to appreciate the changing perspectives and capture the lakes’ contrasting colors—Green and Blue—which give the area its name.

In the village of Sete Cidades, you’ll have the chance to stroll along the lakeside, visit Saint Nicolau Church, or relax in a local café. Reviewers often mention how the guides make this part special, with one noting, “He made the tour perfectly suitable for the three of us by making sure he met each one’s individual needs.” This highlights the tour’s flexibility and focus on personal comfort.

Visiting Santiago’s Lagoon & Learning About the Local Agriculture

Another highlight is a brief stop at Santiago’s Lagoon, the deepest of the lakes, before crossing the iconic bridge that separates the Green and Blue waters. Here, your guide will share stories about the volcanic origins and ecological significance of these waters.

Then, the tour heads towards the pineapple greenhouses, where you’ll learn about the unique Azorean pineapple cultivation—an unusual crop for such a climate, but one that has become a local delicacy. Sampling the pineapple liqueur and tasting the fruits fresh are memorable moments, helping you understand the island’s agricultural traditions. Several reviews praise the guide’s knowledge here, with one traveler remarking, “the visit to the pineapple greenhouses was a highlight, especially the tasting.”

Wrapping Up with Local Culture and Return to Ponta Delgada

The tour concludes with a gentle return drive back to Ponta Delgada, generally in about 30 minutes. Along the way, there’s often a quick stop to appreciate the beauty of the island’s landscape from different vantage points. The guide will ensure you’re back in plenty of time for your ship or hotel.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $227 per group (up to 6 people) is quite reasonable considering the private nature of the experience. The package includes hotel or cruise terminal pickup and drop-off, a luxury vehicle, and a dedicated local guide who speaks English and Spanish. You also get a bottle of water and Wi-Fi on board, which helps stay connected or share photos in real-time.

A notable advantage is the “get you back on time” commitment—crucial when traveling with a cruise—so you won’t miss your ship’s departure. The tour is wheelchair accessible, though it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those over 250 pounds.

What to Bring and Tips

Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, and a camera—the views are photo-worthy. Be prepared for changing weather; it can be cool and windy at viewpoints and some cloud cover is common. A raincoat or umbrella is advisable even on sunny days.

Considerations

While this tour is well-paced and thorough, it doesn’t include meals or snacks, so plan accordingly if you like to dine at midpoints. The focus is on sightseeing, culture, and scenery, not on food. Also, because it’s a private tour, it’s ideal for those seeking a flexible, personalized experience—less suited for large groups or travelers who prefer a more structured, large-group outing.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

The reviews highlight how much the guides contribute to making this tour special. Travelers praise guides like Manuel, Eric, and Carlos for their knowledge, friendliness, and personalized approach. One reviewer notes, “He explained everything so well,” which speaks to the quality of the storytelling. This personal touch turns a scenic drive into a memorable experience.

Final thoughts on value

At $227 for a private, fully guided 4-hour tour, the price offers good value for those wanting an intimate exploration of the most iconic landscapes on S. Miguel. The inclusion of pineapple visits and beautiful viewpoints makes it a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty with local culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples, small groups, or families who want to see the best of Sete Cidades without the stress of driving or navigating alone. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown, or repeat travelers eager to capture more views and insights. If you’re short on time but craving a personalized, scenic adventure, this tour checks all the boxes.

However, if you have mobility challenges or prefer a large bus tour with multiple stops, this might not be the best choice. Also, those looking for a food-focused or more adventurous experience might want to supplement this with local dining or other activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers? Yes, the tour specifically offers cruise ship pickups at 8:45 am, ensuring you’re back in time for your departure.

How long does the tour last? It runs for approximately 4 hours, including pick-up, sightseeing, and return to Ponta Delgada.

What’s included in the price? The fee covers private transportation, hotel or cruise terminal pickup and drop-off, a local guide, water, and Wi-Fi (subject to availability).

Can I customize the tour? Being a private experience, the guide will usually tailor parts of the tour to your interests, especially if you express preferences for certain stops or additional insights.

Are meals included? No, meals or snacks are not part of the package. You might want to bring a snack or plan to enjoy a café stop in the village.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues? It’s wheelchair accessible, but travelers with mobility impairments should confirm in advance.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, camera, and weather-appropriate clothing—layers and rain gear are advisable.

What if my cruise arrives later than 9:00 am? The guide will adjust the pickup time accordingly, based on when your ship disembarks and clears customs.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Sete Cidades by IdilicAzores offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and personalized guidance. It’s a fantastic way to see the island’s most scenic spots comfortably and efficiently, especially if you value expert insights and a flexible schedule. The views, the stories, and the local touches—like pineapple tasting—make it stand out among Azorean excursions.

If you’re eager to experience the volcanic grandeur of S. Miguel in an intimate setting, and you appreciate good storytelling paired with stunning vistas, this tour will meet and likely exceed your expectations. It’s best suited for those who want a well-rounded, insightful, and comfortable day exploring one of Portugal’s most captivating islands.

Enjoy your trip to the Azores—and don’t forget your camera!

You can check availability for your dates here: