Ribeira Grande: Sete Cidades Quad / Buggy Tour

If you’re looking for an activity that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and a chance to see off-the-beaten-path sights on São Miguel Island, this quad/buggy tour around the Sete Cidades volcano might just be the highlight of your trip. It’s a four-hour journey through some of the island’s most iconic and lesser-known viewpoints, guided by local experts who know the terrain and stories behind the landscapes.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it offers a fun, interactive way to explore the volcanic craters and lagoons — no hiking boots required. The second thing that stands out is the personalized guidance; reviews repeatedly praise the knowledgeable guides who add context and humor, making the experience not just scenic but also engaging.

However, keep in mind that this activity is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems or medical conditions. It also requires a valid driver’s license, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable behind the wheel or eager to learn. Overall, if you crave adventure with authentic local insights and incredible panoramic views, this tour deserves a top spot in your Azores itinerary.

Key Points

• Unique exploration: Off-road trails and mountain peaks provide a different perspective of the Sete Cidades crater.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides share local secrets and enhance the experience.
• Stunning viewpoints: Stops at Pico da Cruz, Miradouro das Cumeeiras, and Vista do Rei offer breathtaking vistas.
• Highly rated: Consistently praised by travelers for safety, scenery, and guide friendliness.
• Limited group size: Smaller groups or private options create a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Cost-effective: Offers great value considering the scenic views, guided expertise, and variety of terrain.

Starting from the charming village of Pico da Pedra, the tour begins at Largo de S. José 4, where the guides give a quick safety briefing and introduce the powerful all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) or buggies you’ll be driving. The initial stretch is on paved roads, which helps everyone get comfortable before heading into more challenging terrain.

You’ll quickly realize that the guides are the backbone of this adventure. Multiple reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly they are, often sharing stories and local facts that aren’t in typical guidebooks. One traveler raves, “Pedro is an amazing guide and the route was really well designed,” emphasizing how carefully the routes are curated to maximize scenery and interest.

Muro das Nove Janelas is the first major stop, where a guided tour leads you through scenic views and off-road trails. This is a perfect spot to get a feel for the ATV and soak in spectacular vistas of the surrounding hills and coastline. Expect to see photo stops, sweeping landscapes, and a chance to stretch your legs before climbing higher.

Next, the tour takes you up to Pico da Cruz at 845 meters above sea level. This is one of the tour’s highlight viewpoints, where you’ll have the chance to admire the Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa Verde, Lagoa Azul, and the entire crater of the Sete Cidades volcano. The panoramic views are often described as “breathtaking” — a phrase repeated by multiple reviewers who appreciate the unspoiled scenery.

From there, the route continues to Miradouro das Cumeeiras and Lagoa das Sete Cidades, where guided commentary and pictures are encouraged. The scenic drive through lush landscapes and volcanic terrain is complemented by fun off-road sections that keep the adrenaline flowing.

A visit to Vista do Rei Lookout offers a classic view of the twin lakes, Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, which are the icons of São Miguel. Here, the guides often stop for photos, and guests can marvel at the volcanic crater’s openness and the vibrant green and blue waters below. The journey wraps up at Miradouro do Maranhão, a quieter spot perfect for reflecting on the day’s adventure.

Finally, the tour concludes back at the starting point, with many travelers commenting on how the experience exceeded expectations, thanks to the well-maintained equipment, personalized attention, and stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included & What to Expect

The tour fee covers a knowledgeable guide, helmet, gloves, insurance, fuel, and raincoats—a thoughtful touch for those unpredictable Azores weather. The group is kept small, enhancing safety and interaction, with options for private bookings.

You’ll want to bring your passport or ID, driver’s license, comfortable clothes, and a jacket as the high-altitude stops can be cooler. Sandals or flip-flops are discouraged for safety reasons. The activity lasts up to four hours, offering ample time to soak in views and enjoy the ride without feeling rushed.

The tour is flexible; guides are known for adapting routes based on weather and group comfort levels. Many reviews highlight the guides’ willingness to go at a pace that suits everyone, especially those new to ATV riding.

The Natural Beauty and Unique Perspectives

The main draw of this tour is the chance to see Sete Cidades from angles that are inaccessible on foot or car. Driving through mountain peaks, dirt trails, and secondary paths, you get to experience the raw beauty of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape.

Travelers particularly love the views from Pico da Cruz and the scenic stops around the crater rim. The combination of off-road fun and spectacular panoramas makes for a memorable day. Multiple reviews mention how the guides pick the best viewpoints and take photos, so you’ll leave with great memories and plenty of pictures.

Authentic Local Insights

Reviews consistently praise guides like Pedro for sharing local stories, history, and tips. One reviewer notes how Pedro’s knowledge “made the route really well designed,” and another says, “he shared a lot of cool history about places off the main tourist stops.” The guides don’t just lead the way—they enrich the experience with personal stories and insider tips, like where to get a cheap, quality lunch afterward, or how to avoid foggy spots.

This personalized approach elevates the tour from just another sightseeing activity to a genuine local experience, perfect for travelers who want to connect with the island beyond the typical tourist spots.

Price & Value for Money

While prices aren’t explicitly listed here, reviews suggest this activity offers great value. Considering the guided expertise, equipment, transportation, and scenic stops, many find it worth every euro. The smaller group size, personalized attention, and the variety of terrain all add to the experience’s value.

Compared to other Azores tours, this ATV adventure offers a more interactive, close-to-nature feel for a reasonable price. Plus, many reviews mention that guides like Pedro go above and beyond—sharing local tips, helping with photos, and adjusting the route to weather conditions—adding extra value.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone comfortable on a quad or ATV. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to see the island from unusual angles and enjoy small-group or private tours.

However, it’s not suitable for young children, pregnant women, or people with certain health issues. Travelers should also have a valid driver’s license and be prepared for some off-road driving.

This Sete Cidades quad/buggy tour offers a fantastic way to explore the volcanic landscapes of São Miguel in a fun and engaging manner. It balances adventure, breathtaking scenery, and expert guidance, making it a top choice for those who want a memorable day out. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking viewpoints make it a standout experience at a fair price point.

Travelers looking for an authentic, active adventure that takes them off the beaten track will find this tour well worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy driving, scenic drives, and insider tips from locals. If you want a trip that combines thrills with lush landscapes and a touch of local flavor, this ATV tour might just be the highlight of your Azores holiday.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews mention that guides walk you through the ATV operation, and the route is tailored to comfort levels. It’s designed for both novices and experienced riders.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, driver’s license, comfortable clothes, a jacket, and possibly a raincoat. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes for safety.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts around four hours, including stops and sightseeing.

Are photos included?
Guides like Pedro often take pictures during the stops, so you’ll have plenty of memories without needing to bring your own camera at all times.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, the activity is not suitable for children under 10 years old.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private or small group options are available, offering a more personalized experience.

What’s the weather like?
The Azores can be unpredictable, so rain gear is provided, and guides adapt routes based on weather conditions.

How do I get to the starting point?
The meeting point is a green-colored house with parking nearby, about 10 meters from the activity’s start location, easily accessible from Ponta Delgada.

Are the ATVs in good condition?
Yes, reviews confirm that the vehicles are well maintained, with many noting they are almost new.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing some flexibility if your plans change.

This comprehensive review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect on the Sete Cidades Quad / Buggy Tour, helping you decide if it’s the right adventure for your Azores visit. It’s a perfect mix of scenic beauty, local insight, and fun — a true highlight for active travelers ready to explore São Miguel’s volcanic wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: