Ponta Delgada: Private Tour Sete Cidades Green e Blue Lakes

If you’re visiting São Miguel in the Azores and looking to soak in some of the most iconic sights, a private tour of the Sete Cidades Lakes might just be your best choice. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, from the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s clear this experience offers a fantastic balance of stunning scenery, local culture, and comfort.

What makes this tour special? For starters, it’s completely private, meaning you’ll have your own dedicated guide and vehicle—perfect for those who prefer an intimate day out. Second, the views are extraordinary — the volcanic caldera with its twin lakes is one of the most photographed spots in the Azores. And third, it combines scenic viewpoints with local flavor like visiting a rural village and pineapple greenhouses, giving a genuine taste of island life.

One thing to consider is the duration—at just four hours, this tour is a snapshot rather than a full day of exploring. If you love leisurely mornings or want to combine multiple activities, you might prefer a longer excursion. But for a focused, high-quality experience, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience will suit travelers who want a comfortable, guided exploration of São Miguel’s most famous sights without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for those with limited time, cruise ship passengers wanting a seamless outing, or anyone looking for expert insights delivered with a personal touch.

Good To Know

• Private, personalized experience with dedicated guides and exclusive transport
• Stunning viewpoints at Pico do Carvão, Vista do Rei, and Ponta Ponta do Escalvado
• Authentic local visits, including a rural village and pineapple greenhouses
• Flexible, short duration perfect for tight schedules or cruise days
• Expert guides with extensive knowledge, adding context to the scenery
• Comfort and convenience with hotel or cruise terminal pickup and drop-off

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day of Discovery

Pickup and Convenience

The tour starts with free pickup at your hotel or cruise terminal in Ponta Delgada. This means you don’t have to worry about finding a meeting point or navigating unfamiliar roads—your guide will come to you, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free. The tour lasts approximately four hours, so planning for an early start ensures you hit the best viewpoints while the light is still perfect.

First Stop: Pico do Carvão

Your adventure begins with a photo stop at Pico do Carvão, about 15 minutes. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the central part of São Miguel, including the mountains of Fogo and Vara in the distance. Reviewers appreciate this spot for its breathtaking vistas—it’s the perfect way to set the tone for the day. The guide will share insights into the volcanic landscape, helping you understand how the island’s geology shapes its scenery.

Scenic Drive Along São Miguel’s West Coast

Next, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the island’s west coast, giving you a taste of São Miguel’s varied terrain. The drive itself isn’t just a way to get from A to B—it’s an opportunity to absorb the lush green landscapes and rugged coastline that make this island so unique.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Vista do Rei: The Viewpoint of Royalty

The tour’s highlight is the Vista do Rei, a viewpoint famously visited by King Carlos I. From here, the views of the Sete Cidades caldera and twin lakes are truly unforgettable. Reviewers like Sonja mention that their guide arrived ahead of time, making the experience even smoother. Expect to spend around 30 minutes here soaking in the scenery, snapping photos, and maybe even joking with your guide about how this spot is truly a postcard moment.

Ponta Ponta do Escalvado and the Green and Blue Lakes

From Vista do Rei, the journey continues with stops at Cerrado das Freiras and Ponta do Escalvado. These locations offer different perspectives of the volcanic crater, including views of the green and blue lakes separated by a narrow bridge. These stops are about 15 minutes each, and they’re well-loved for their amazing photo opportunities and peaceful atmospheres.

Exploring the Village and Lagoon of Sete Cidades

After absorbing the views, you’ll visit the charming Sete Cidades village. Here, you can walk along the lakeside, visit the church of São Nicolau, or just sit with locals and enjoy a coffee break. This part of the tour emphasizes the authentic charm of Azorean rural life, away from busy tourist spots. Reviewers like Bob emphasize that their guide Carlos was knowledgeable and fun, making the visit both informative and relaxed.

Pineapple Greenhouses and Local Flavors

The tour wraps up with a visit to greenhouses dedicated to pineapple production, unique to the Azores. You’ll learn about the history and cultivation of the island’s famous pineapples, which are prized for their sweetness and flavor. Sampling a traditional liqueur made from pineapples offers a tasty, memorable ending—reviewers highlight how delicious and distinctive these local products are.

Returning to Ponta Delgada

The entire journey concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel or cruise terminal, ensuring a hassle-free end to your day. The tour’s small-group nature and careful scheduling mean you’ll return on time—something cruise travelers especially appreciate, as highlighted by reviewers.

The Transportation and Guides: Comfort Meets Knowledge

Traveling in a luxury private vehicle, you’ll enjoy ample space, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi (if available). Many reviewers praised their guides for being knowledgeable, personable, and flexible. Sonja notes that Manuel was ahead of schedule and tailored the experience to their needs, which made the day very special. Hajar appreciated the clarity of explanations from guide Eric, especially helpful when traveling with children.

Why It Matters

Having a dedicated guide means you gain local insights and context that you wouldn’t get on a typical bus tour. The private setup also means you can tailor the stops to your interests—whether that’s more time at the lakes or a quick visit to a particular viewpoint. The vehicle’s comfort is particularly valuable when covering a scenic route with several stops.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $227 for a group of up to six, this tour is quite competitively priced considering the private, tailored experience it offers. When you factor in the cost of individual transportation, guide fees, and entry to sites, this is a value-packed option. Reviewers consistently note that the guides’ knowledge, flexibility, and the scenic stops make it a worthwhile investment. Plus, the inclusion of pineapple greenhouse visits and tastings adds a local flavor you’d miss on a larger, less personalized tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples, small families, or friends who want a personalized, comfortable day exploring one of Portugal’s most beautiful natural wonders. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide. Cruise passengers will appreciate the timely pickup and drop-off, ensuring they stay on schedule. However, those with mobility issues might find the walk in the village or certain viewpoints a bit challenging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with children and enjoying the stops, especially the scenic viewpoints. The vehicle is comfortable, and guides are attentive, but walking in the village or at viewpoints may require some extra care.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. Weather can change quickly, so a raincoat or umbrella is handy.

Are meals included?
No, meals or snacks aren’t included during your free time at Sete Cidades, but there are plenty of cafes nearby to enjoy local treats.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
It is wheelchair accessible, but some walking in the village or viewpoints might be limited for those with mobility impairments.

What is the duration of the tour?
Approximately four hours, making it a great half-day activity that fits well into a busy schedule.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Sete Cidades from Ponta Delgada offers an excellent way to experience São Miguel’s most iconic sights in comfort and style. With personalized guides, breathtaking viewpoints, and authentic local visits, it balances scenery with cultural insight effortlessly. The small-group, private format ensures your experience is intimate and tailored, making it perfect for those who prefer a more personalized adventure.

The value is clear: for a reasonable price, you get a luxurious vehicle, expert guiding, and an itinerary packed with stunning vistas and local flavor. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family wanting a smooth day out, or a cruise traveler aiming to maximize limited time, this tour ticks many boxes.

In short, if you’re after a well-rounded, scenic, and authentic experience of São Miguel’s volcanic heart, this private Sete Cidades tour is a fantastic choice that won’t disappoint.

You can check if your dates are available here: