Seven Citys Tour: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion

The Sete Cidades tour on São Miguel Island offers a fantastic way to experience one of the Azores’ most iconic landscapes. Though I haven’t done it myself, this 4-hour journey promises a combination of scenic views, local history, and authentic moments that make it a standout choice. From lush volcanic lakes to quaint villages, it’s designed for those eager to see the best of the island in a manageable timeframe.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural sights with cultural highlights. The fact that it includes a visit to the world-famous green and blue lakes, a stop inside the biggest crater of the Azores, and a scenic overlook of the entire area makes it a real highlight. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to add a personal touch, sharing insights that elevate the experience. One potential consideration is the duration—at four hours, it’s quite packed, so if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace, you might want to consider how this fits into your overall itinerary.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive glimpse of São Miguel’s most photogenic and historic spots in a single outing. If you’re short on time but want to get a real taste of the landscape and local culture, this is a great pick. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate guided tours with insightful commentary and scenic stops.

Good To Know

• Iconic Destination: Sete Cidades is the most recognized natural monument in the Azores, offering unforgettable views.
• Diverse Stops: From pineapple plantations to volcanic lakes and scenic viewpoints, the tour delivers a mix of natural beauty and local culture.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, making the experience informative and engaging.
• Value for Money: At $74 per person, the tour combines multiple highlights into a compact, well-organized package.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and a small-group feel add to the ease of the experience.
• Authentic Experience: Visiting local sites like the Church of São Nicolau and stopping at viewpoints for sunsets gives a genuine feel of São Miguel.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Details of the Sete Cidades Shore Excursion

An Itinerary Designed for Balance and Beauty

This four-hour tour begins around 9:00 am, starting with a visit to a pineapple plantation. Here, you’ll learn about the local cultivation methods and enjoy about 30-45 minutes amidst lush greenery, tasting fresh fruits if you’re lucky. Many reviews, like that of Natalie, highlight how this sets a pleasant tone for the day, with her describing it as “very beautiful” and a great way to kick things off.

Next, the guide takes you along the southwest coast, climbing into the mountains with a stop at Miradouro do Pico do Carvão. This viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the coastline and volcanic landscape, usually for about 15-20 minutes. Reviewers mention the scenic drive and “breathtaking views,” which are definitely the highlights here.

Exploring the Volcanic Lakes

The tour continues to Lago do Canário, a volcanic crater lake situated roughly 800 meters above sea level. This spot, around 20-25 minutes long, provides a glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins. The concentric layers of the crater and the lush surroundings make it a favorite among visitors seeking striking natural formations. Reviewers like Alexandra appreciated guides who shared extra stories, even suggesting a special hike, which turned the visit into more than just sightseeing.

Then, the group heads to Vista do Rei, one of the most famous viewpoints. From this vantage point, you’ll see the entwined green and blue lakes of Sete Cidades. As one reviewer, Tyler, put it, despite a cloudy day, “we were still able to see everything and all the breathtaking views,” emphasizing how this spot truly lives up to its postcard reputation.

Village and Cultural Highlights

Descending into the village of Sete Cidades, you’ll cross a bridge built in 1967 that separates the iconic lakes. The guide usually stops here for a short while, offering time to enjoy a coffee or visit the Church of São Nicolau, built in the 17th century in neo-Gothic style. Alexandra pointed out the cryptomeria alley nearby adds charm and a peaceful atmosphere.

The last stop is at Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, perched on a cliff on the island’s western coast. Here, you can expect stunning ocean views and, if timing permits, one of the most beautiful sunsets of the trip. Reviewers like Tyler mentioned how this spot provides a perfect ending, with unforgettable vistas.

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Convenience, Comfort, and Cultural Touches

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from four main locations—Ribeira Grande, Capelas, Ponta Delgada, and Lagoa—making it accessible and hassle-free. The vehicle is comfortable, and guides are multilingual, speaking English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish, which broadens the appeal.

While the price of $74 per person is competitive considering the stops, the tour does not include entrance fees like Caldeira Velha, which some travelers might want to visit separately. The small size of the group helps keep the experience intimate, allowing for more personalized attention.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and scenic views. Natalie appreciated the tour’s ability to cover what she wanted to see, and Alexandra highlighted her guide Dennis for making the day particularly memorable—sharing extra hikes and stories. Tyler’s review pointed out that even on a cloudy day, the views were impressive, thanks to the guide’s ability to highlight the landscape’s beauty.

The general consensus is that this tour strikes a good balance between natural beauty, cultural insights, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those who want a well-rounded experience without spending an entire day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This is an excellent option for first-time visitors to São Miguel who want to see the island’s most iconic sights in a short time. It’s also great for travelers who prefer guided experiences, where expert commentary enhances the scenery. If you enjoy picture-perfect landscapes and learning about local culture, this tour ticks many boxes.

Keep in mind, it’s ideal if you’re okay with a fairly packed schedule and don’t mind some driving between stops. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it especially convenient for those staying in Ponta Delgada or nearby.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price of $74, you get to experience a collection of top sights in São Miguel—volcanic lakes, panoramic viewpoints, charming villages, and lush plantations. The tour’s organized structure and the praise for guides like Dennis highlight its value and the potential for memorable moments.

The inclusion of scenic drives and viewpoints ensures you’ll return home with stunning photos and stories. Plus, the flexibility of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

If you’re after a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally engaging half-day trip, this tour offers a dependable, enjoyable way to see the Azores’ crown jewel, Sete Cidades.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting around 9:00 am, including all stops and transfers.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation in a comfortable van, an experienced guide, bottled water, and hotel pickup and drop-off from four main locations.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the tour does not include entrance fees such as for Caldeira Velha, which you might want to visit separately.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed for a broad audience, but keep in mind the stops involve some walking and scenic drives. It’s ideal for those who enjoy natural scenery and scenic viewpoints.

This Sete Cidades Shore Excursion combines the stunning landscapes of São Miguel with the comfort and insights provided by experienced guides. It’s a brilliant way to tick off one of the Azores’ most iconic sights without feeling rushed—perfect for those wanting a taste of volcanic beauty, local culture, and jaw-dropping vistas.

You can check if your dates are available here: