I’m absolutely passionate about walking tours on Sao Miguel Island – they’re the smartest way to experience this Azorean gem. My favorite is the Sete Cidades trek, where you’ll find the most dramatic volcanic lakes in Europe, with both half-day hikes and full-day Jeep combinations available.
The Salto do Cabrito Waterfall walk from Ponta Delgada is a refreshing forest adventure that I never skip. For culture buffs, Angra do Heroismo’s food walk perfectly blends local sweets with fascinating history, while Ponta Delgada’s architectural tour reveals the city’s soul through its historic buildings. These affordable, guide-led excursions come with reliable transport and local expertise. Let’s explore the best tours this volcanic paradise has to offer.
Good To Know
- The Sete Cidades: Full Day Jeep Tour and Walking Trail offers a comprehensive exploration of Sao Miguel’s stunning natural landscapes through off-road Jeep adventures and easy hikes.
- The Sete Cidades: Half-Day Walking Tour provides an immersive experience with a guided hike through the volcanic landscape, offering panoramic views of the Sete Cidades lakes.
- The From Ponta Delgada: Guided Walking Tour to Salto Do Cabrito takes visitors on a journey to explore the Salto do Cabrito Waterfall, with a 2.5-hour guided walk through the surrounding forest.
- The Angra Do Heroismo: Walking Tour With Local Pasty and Coffee offers an immersive experience beyond sightseeing, with the opportunity to sample traditional sweets and local coffee.
- The Ponta Delgada: Historical Walking Tour explores the rich history and architectural gems of Ponta Delgada, the Azores’ largest city, with visits to historical sites and local markets.
Sete Cidades: Full Day Jeep Tour and Walking Trail
On the picturesque Sao Miguel Island, the Sete Cidades: Full Day Jeep Tour and Walking Trail offers visitors a captivating exploration of the island’s stunning natural landscapes. This 7-hour tour combines off-road Jeep adventures and easy hikes, providing an intimate experience with a small group and a knowledgeable local guide.
Guests will discover several volcanic lakes, explore a quaint parish and volcanic coastline, and enjoy a 2-hour trek along the scenic Serra Devassa trail. The tour includes lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and access to thermal pools and natural parks. Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended for this comprehensive Azores adventure.
Read our full review: Sete Cidades: Full Day Jeep Tour and Walking Trail Review
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Sete Cidades: Half-Day Walking Tour
For those seeking a more intimate exploration of Sete Cidades, the Half-Day Walking Tour provides an immersive experience. The 3.5-hour tour takes small groups of up to 8 participants on a guided hike through the stunning volcanic landscape, led by a knowledgeable local guide.
Highlights include panoramic views over the Sete Cidades lakes, visits to picturesque viewpoints like Canário Lake and Empadadas, and insights into the region’s fascinating geology, history, and culture. With hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the use of walking sticks, the tour offers a comfortable and convenient way to discover the natural wonders of this captivating destination.
Read our full review: Sete Cidades: Half-Day Walking Tour Review
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From Ponta Delgada: Guided Walking Tour to Salto Do Cabrito
This guided walking tour from Ponta Delgada takes visitors on a captivating 3-hour journey to explore the stunning Salto do Cabrito Waterfall. With a maximum group size of 8, the tour offers a personalized experience as you’re transported by van to the waterfall site. Along the way, you’ll learn about the Hidroelectrical power plant, Faja do Redondos Dam, and the Azores’ geothermy.
The 2.5-hour guided walk through the surrounding forest is complemented by the use of walking sticks. Bilingual guides provide commentary in both English and Portuguese. While food and drinks aren’t included, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, those with mobility issues or altitude sickness, or people over 95.
Read our full review: From Ponta Delgada: Guided Walking Tour to Salto Do Cabrito Review
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Angra Do Heroísmo: Walking Tour With Local Pasty and Coffee
Although Angra do Heroismo, the historic city on Terceira Island, has numerous architectural marvels, this 3-hour walking tour provides an immersive experience that goes beyond sightseeing. Led by a live guide, the tour takes visitors to the Church of Misericordia, Santissimo Salvador da Se Cathedral, Palacio Capitaes Generais, Jardim Duque da Terceira, and Alto da Memoria.
Along the way, you will sample the traditional sweet “Dona Amelia” and sip local coffee. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a bottle of water, are included. Comfortable shoes and a windbreaker are recommended, as the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues. The meeting point is the kiosk in Jardim Jose Agostinho.
Read our full review: Angra Do Heroísmo: Walking Tour With Local Pasty and Coffee Review
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Ponta Delgada: Historical Walking Tour
Visitors to the Azores’ largest city, Ponta Delgada, can experience the island’s rich history and architectural gems on this 3.5-hour walking tour. Priced at €35 per person, the tour takes participants to the 18th-century Portas da Cidade gates, the bell tower, and the Manueline-style Parish Church of Saint Sebastian.
Exploring the Mercado da Graça marketplace and visiting the Principe dos Queijos store to see regional products, especially cheese, are also highlights. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, entrance fees, and insurance. Wheelchair accessibility ensures this experience is open to all. Reviewers praise the tour’s personable guides and the great overall experience.
Read our full review: Ponta Delgada: Historical Walking Tour Review
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Lisbon: Old Alfama Quarter Walking Tour
Lisbon’s oldest and most traditional neighborhood, Alfama, offers visitors a captivating walking tour that unveils the city’s rich history and charming ambiance. The 2-hour guided tour, conducted in English, takes you through the area’s winding streets, showcasing stunning views from the Santa Luzia Viewpoint.
Along the way, you’ll learn about Alfama’s charismatic vibe and hear the stories behind Lisbon Cathedral and the National Pantheon. The tour, priced from €37.9 per person, departs from the Boost Shop, with the guide wearing a distinctive dark blue Vox City Walks uniform. With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to book now and pay later, this walking tour is an excellent way to explore Lisbon’s oldest quarter.
Read our full review: Lisbon: Old Alfama Quarter Walking Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Sao Miguel Island offers a variety of walking tours that allow visitors to explore its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and local culture. From full-day Jeep tours to hour-long strolls, these walking experiences provide a great way to discover the island’s natural beauty and unique heritage. Whether you’re interested in the volcanic landscapes of Sete Cidades or the charming streets of Ponta Delgada, there’s a walking tour to suit your interests and fitness level.