Seven Citys Tour: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion

If you’re visiting the Azores and want to see one of the most photographed spots on São Miguel, the Sete Cidades tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, local culture, and expert guidance. This 4-hour excursion, priced at $84 per person, is designed for those who love natural landscapes and enjoy learning about their surroundings from knowledgeable guides.

What grabs your attention? The chance to witness the famous twin lakes—one green and one blue, the opportunity to stand inside the largest volcanic crater in the Azores, and the stunning vistas from several lookout points. That said, with a tight schedule and a busy itinerary, some might find the pace a little brisk, especially if you like to linger at each stop. This tour suits travelers who want a curated, insightful experience rather than a spontaneous exploration. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided knowledge, scenic drives, and a well-organized day out.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covering all major highlights around Sete Cidades.
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights about the island’s volcanic landscape and local history.
• Beautiful viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Ponta do Escalvado offer picture-perfect moments.
• Balanced mix of driving, stops, and brief walks suitable for most fitness levels.
• Value for money with hotel pickup/drop-off, bottled water, and guided commentary included.
• Potential for busy schedules and limited time at each stop, so plan to be flexible.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction to the Sete Cidades Experience

The Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion promises a glimpse of one of São Miguel’s most iconic natural wonders. We found that this tour combines scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and expert commentary into a manageable four hours. Whether you’re a nature lover or just captivated by volcanic landscapes, it’s a good way to tick off this must-see site.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guided insight from guides like Rui and Dennis, known for their local knowledge and friendly approach. Second, the stunning vistas from points like Vista do Rei and Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado. Third, the chance to see the famous twin lakes in their striking colors, separated by a bridge built in 1967, is a visual highlight.

One consideration? The tour’s eight stops mean it’s a fast-paced day—perfect for those eager to see as much as possible, but maybe less ideal if you want to linger longer at each scenic spot. Still, for the value and the quality of the experience, it’s a compelling option for most travelers.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Pineapple Plantation

The tour kicks off with a 30 to 45-minute visit to a pineapple plantation. Here, you’ll see how these tropical plants thrive on the island, and it’s a great intro to local agriculture. Reviewers appreciate this stop, with one mentioning it as a “nice surprise,” and it’s a good way to get familiar with Azorean farming practices.

Pico do Carvão Viewpoint

Next, the bus heads up the southwest coast, stopping at Miradouro do Pico do Carvão. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy scenic views over the landscape, and the experience lasts about 15-20 minutes. Expect panoramic vistas that give you a sense of the island’s volcanic terrain plus some photo opportunities.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lago do Canário

The next stop is Lago do Canário, located in a volcanic crater at about 800 meters above sea level. This 20 to 25-minute stop allows visitors to appreciate the serenity of this volcanic lake, often overlooked by larger tours. Reviewers note that even brief stops here reveal the raw beauty of the island’s volcanic origins.

Vista do Rei

One of the most famous viewpoints, Vista do Rei, offers a sweeping view over Sete Cidades’ twin lakes. This spot is often called the “postcard view,” and you’ll understand why once you see the twin lakes nestled inside the crater. Expect about 20-30 minutes here to soak in the scenery, take photos, and learn about the geological formation from your guide.

Lagoa de Santiago

Descending further, the tour includes a brief stop at Lagoa de Santiago, a volcanic lake surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a smaller, quieter spot that helps illustrate the volcanic activity that shaped the island, with a quick 15-minute stop allowing for photos and a moment to breathe in the fresh air.

Over the Bridge to Sete Cidades Village

Driving into the village of Sete Cidades, you’ll cross the famous bridge that separates the green and blue lakes. It’s a photo-op in itself, and many reviews mention how surreal and beautiful this view is. The stop here lets you explore the local church, Church of São Nicolau, built in the 17th century, as well as enjoy a coffee break.

Village of Sete Cidades and Church

The tour includes about 30 minutes to walk around the village, visit the church, and enjoy some local atmosphere. Reviewer Ana Cecilia from the US highlights that the guides, Ruy and Dennis, are friendly and knowledgeable, making this part both educational and relaxing.

Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

The final stop, about 20 minutes, offers a stunning cliffside view over the Atlantic Ocean—ideal for sunset photos if your timing aligns. It’s a fitting end to the tour, with breathtaking sea vistas and a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes with a 45-minute drive back to your hotel or meeting point, giving you some time to relax and process the day’s highlights. Reviewers consistently mention the smooth logistics and friendly drivers that add to the overall positive experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Guided Expertise

Multiple reviews praise guides like Rui and Dennis for their deep local knowledge and friendly demeanor. They offer insights beyond just the sights—sharing stories about the island’s volcanic activity, local traditions, and even hints for the best photo spots. One reviewer mentioned Rui’s ability to answer every question and explain the history clearly.

Scenic Overlooks and Photo Opportunities

Each stop is carefully selected to maximize stunning views. Vista do Rei is often named as the highlight, but stops like Ponta do Escalvado are perfect for capturing the rugged coast and sunsets. Reviewers love the variety of perspectives on the crater lakes and surrounding landscapes.

Convenient Logistics

With hotel pickup and drop-off included, the tour eliminates the hassle of navigating on your own. The vehicle is described as comfortable, and the small group size fosters a more intimate experience. Bottled water is provided, adding a small but appreciated touch of comfort.

Value for Money

At $84, the tour includes numerous stops, guided commentary, and transportation—all in a condensed four-hour window. This makes it a good value, especially for travelers who want a curated experience without renting a car or planning multiple stops independently.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers a rundown, the tight schedule means you won’t have time to linger at each stop. If you prefer to explore at your own pace or take longer at scenic viewpoints, this might feel rushed.

Another consideration is the additional cost for entry to Caldeira Velha, which isn’t included. If you’re eager to visit hot springs or thermal baths, you’ll need to budget extra.

Lastly, the length of the tour—just four hours—may feel brief if you’re particularly passionate about photography or want to enjoy a more leisurely experience. But for most, it strikes a good balance between seeing key sights and not overextending your day.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This Sete Cidades shore excursion shines brightest for travelers who want a well-organized, guided overview of one of São Miguel’s most iconic landscapes. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want meaningful insights, breathtaking views, and a taste of the island’s volcanic beauty. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those new to the Azores will find it especially rewarding.

If you’re someone who prefers to explore independently or wants more time at each spot, you might consider renting a car or choosing a longer, more flexible tour. But for a tasteful, expert-led introduction to Sete Cidades, this tour offers a solid, memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately four hours, starting around 9:00 AM with hotel pickup and ending with drop-off about 45 minutes later.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at designated locations like Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, and Capelas.

What is the price?
The tour costs $84 per person, which covers transportation, a guide, bottled water, and the various stops along the way.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour is led by an experienced guide who speaks both English and Portuguese, providing insights into each stop and the island’s geology and culture.

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

Does the tour include entry to Caldeira Velha or thermal baths?
No, the entry fee is not included, so if you wish to visit the baths, you’ll need to pay separately.

This seven citys tour offers a balanced, scenic, and educational glimpse of São Miguel’s most famous crater lakes, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a snapshot of the island’s volcanic soul with comfort and guidance.

You can check if your dates are available here: