Sao Miguel Island’s best walking tours pack a powerful punch of volcanic scenery, thermal wonders, and cultural treats.
The standout Sete Cidades trek offers both full-day Jeep adventures and half-day hikes around the island’s famous crater lakes. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Salto Do Cabrito trail, where pristine forests and steaming geothermal features create an otherworldly experience.
Ponta Delgada’s city walks beautifully combine centuries-old architecture with bustling market life, while the Angra Do Heroismo route serves up authentic Azorean pastries along with its history lessons.
I especially love the Sete Cidades guided hikes for their expert commentary and jaw-dropping viewpoints, while the Salto Do Cabrito trail wins points for its off-the-beaten-path thermal pools and waterfalls.
Let’s explore these outstanding walking adventures on Sao Miguel Island.
Key Points
- The Sete Cidades Jeep tour offers a full-day experience with a 2-hour hike and highlights of volcanic lakes and craters.
- The Half-Day Walking Tour provides a personalized experience covering 6.3 km and focusing on the island’s geology, history, and culture.
- The Guided Walking Tour to Salto Do Cabrito features lush nature and geothermal highlights, suitable for adults with proper mobility.
- The Angra Do Heroismo Walking Tour explores iconic landmarks and offers a 25-minute snack break, with guides available in multiple languages.
- The Ponta Delgada Historical Walking Tour showcases the architectural heritage of the city, including the 18th-century Portas da Cidade and local markets.
Sete Cidades: Full Day Jeep Tour and Walking Trail
This full-day excursion to Sete Cidades offers an immersive experience that combines an off-road Jeep adventure and a scenic hiking trail.
For $95.37 per person, guests can explore the stunning natural wonders of this volcanic region, including multiple lakes and craters. The small-group tour, available in Portuguese and English, includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a provided lunch.
Highlights include visiting a small parish, coastal volcanic sites, and hiking the 2-hour Serra Devassa trail, offering breathtaking views of Lagoa das Éguas and Lagoa Rasa.
With a minimum booking of two people, this tour is perfect for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience in the Azores.
Read our full review: Sete Cidades: Full Day Jeep Tour and Walking Trail Review
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Sete Cidades: Half-Day Walking Tour
Exploring the diverse natural landscapes of Sete Cidades, this half-day walking tour offers an immersive experience for visitors seeking a more intimate encounter with the region’s volcanic wonders.
Covering a distance of 6.3 km over 3.5 hours, the tour takes adventurers on a guided hike through the stunning Canary Lake and surrounding viewpoints. Along the way, participants learn about the local geology, history, and culture, while marveling at the panoramic vistas of the Sete Cidades lakes.
With a maximum of 8 participants, this small-group experience ensures personalized attention and ample opportunities to explore the area’s endemic vegetation and legendary lore.
An ideal option for active travelers, the tour includes transportation and walking sticks, making it a well-rounded and accessible exploration of Sao Miguel’s natural beauty.
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
Departing from the heart of Ponta Delgada, this guided walking tour takes adventurers on a captivating 3-hour journey to the enchanting Salto do Cabrito waterfall.
Accompanied by a bilingual guide, the small group of up to 8 you will first hop into a van for a 30-minute transfer to the trailhead.
The 2.5-hour walk showcases lush nature, vibrant landscapes, and highlights like the old hydroelectric power station, Faja do Redondos Dam, and geothermal features.
Along the way, the group will encounter suspended iron bridges and steep trails, culminating in breathtaking views of the Salto do Cabrito waterfall.
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, those with mobility issues, or the elderly.
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
Angra do Heroismo, a picturesque town on Terceira Island, offers visitors a captivating walking tour that showcases its rich history and local charm.
Priced at $37.09 per person, this 3-hour tour takes participants to iconic landmarks like the Palácio Capitães Generais, Sé Catedral, and the ornate Igreja da Misericórdia.
Along the way, a 25-minute snack break at a local pastry shop provides the opportunity to sample traditional sweets and sip on coffee.
With live guides available in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, the tour is designed to accommodate all participants.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provide valuable insights into the island’s history, dining, and attractions.
Read our full review: Angra Do Heroísmo: Walking Tour With Local Pasty and Coffee Review
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Ponta Delgada: Historical Walking Tour
The Ponta Delgada Historical Walking Tour takes participants on a captivating 3.5-hour journey through the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Starting at the 18th-century Portas da Cidade, the tour visits key landmarks, including the bell tower, Parish Church of Saint Sebastian, and the charming rua dos mercadores.
Guests will discover regional products, particularly renowned cheeses and fresh fruits, at the Principe dos Queijos store and Mercado da Graça.
Led by knowledgeable guides fluent in several languages, the tour provides a rundown of Ponta Delgada’s history.
With a 4.4/5 overall rating and rave reviews for the guide’s expertise, this walking tour offers excellent value at just $37.09 per person.
Read our full review: Ponta Delgada: Historical Walking Tour Review
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Lisbon: Old Alfama Quarter Walking Tour
Visitors to Lisbon can discover the charming Alfama quarter on a captivating 2-hour walking tour. Priced at just $15.89 per person, the tour takes participants through Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, including visits to the Lisbon Cathedral, Santa Luzia Viewpoint, and Church of Saint Estevao.
The guided experience also includes the iconic Tram 28 and Baixa de Lisboa. With a live English-speaking guide, interactive audio maps, and public transportation tickets included, the tour offers excellent value.
Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and personalized experiences. Reviewers rate the tour 4.9/5, highlighting its high quality and great value for money.
The tour departs from the Boost Shop at Commerce Square, and participants are advised to arrive 15 minutes early.
Read our full review: Lisbon: Old Alfama Quarter Walking Tour Review
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Break Down
Sao Miguel Island offers a diverse array of walking tours, each showcasing its unique natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the stunning Sete Cidades to the historic Angra do Heroismo, these tours provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes and discover its rich traditions. Whether seeking a full-day adventure or a leisurely stroll, Sao Miguel Island’s walking tours cater to diverse interests and preferences.