Azores Guided Tour to Volcano and Crater of Sete Cidades

If you’re dreaming of lush volcanic landscapes, panoramic lakes, and charming villages, this tour of São Miguel’s most iconic sights might be just what you need. With a focus on the breathtaking Sete Cidades crater and surrounding viewpoints, this experience offers a detailed look at one of the Azores’ most photographed natural wonders.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the chance to walk inside a massive volcanic crater and admire the famous green and blue lakes from multiple vantage points. Second, you’ll enjoy authentic stops like a pineapple plantation and a quaint church, adding local flavor. Lastly, the views from Miradouro do Pico do Carvão and Ponta do Escalvado are simply unforgettable.

A potential consideration? The tour lasts about four hours, but reviews suggest it sometimes ends slightly earlier, around 3.5 hours, which might feel a bit rushed if you love long, relaxed stops. This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate nature, stunning scenery, and well-organized, guided insights, especially if you want a rundown without the hassle of planning.

Good To Know

• Incredible natural scenery with inside-the-crater views and panoramic lakes.
• Expert guides who provide detailed insights and local stories.
• Authentic experiences like a pineapple plantation visit and charming village strolls.
• Value for money at $74, considering the diverse stops and stunning views.
• Multiple viewpoints offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering São Miguel’s Volcanic Wonders

This guided tour is a fantastic way to see the best natural highlights of São Miguel in a manageable four-hour window. It’s designed for travelers who want a mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and insider knowledge. From the start at your hotel or designated pickup points in Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, Capelas, or Ribeira Grande, you’re in good hands with a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transport.

Visiting the Pineapple Plantation

The tour begins with a visit to a pineapple plantation, a highlight for many. For 30 to 45 minutes, you get to see how these sweet tropical fruits are cultivated in a climate that’s perfect for them. One reviewer, Chiara, mentioned that the visit offered “detailed information about the places we visited and spots on the way,” making it not just a sightseeing stop but an enriching experience.

You’ll likely enjoy a guided tour here, learning about the history of pineapple farming in São Miguel and how it’s become a local specialty. Plus, there’s time for souvenir shopping if you’d like to pick up some fresh pineapple or related products.

Scenic Drive Up to Miradouro do Pico do Carvão

Next, the journey takes you along the Southwest coast, gradually climbing into the mountains. The first major stop is at Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Here, panoramic views stretch across lush hills and deep valleys—perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

This viewpoint provides a great vantage point over the volcanic landscape, and many reviews mention how stunning the vistas are. It’s a brief stop but one that sets the tone for the beautiful landscapes ahead.

Lake of Canario & the View of the King

The tour continues upward to the Lake of Canario, located roughly 800 meters above sea level in a volcanic crater. Spending around 20-25 minutes here, you’ll notice the unusual greenish hue of the lake, a result of volcanic minerals and rich vegetation. It’s one of those sights that makes you realize how dynamic and colorful volcanic terrain can be.

From here, you’ll visit the View of the King, renowned for its breathtaking perspective over the Sete Cidades crater and lakes. This spot is a favorite among visitors, often appearing on postcards. The view is so iconic that Reviewer Karen called it “the best-known postcard in the Azores,” emphasizing its photogenic appeal.

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Exploring the Lakes: Santiago & the Green & Blue Lakes

The journey continues with a stop at Lake of Santiago, a volcanic crater lake with an altitude of 334 meters and dimensions of approximately 700 meters long and 475 meters wide. It’s about 15 minutes here, but the view is worth it. This lake is tied to the volcanic formation of the Sete Cidades Massif and is a quieter spot to enjoy the natural serenity.

The real highlight is passing the bridge built in 1967 that separates Green and Blue Lakes—the signature feature of Sete Cidades. One reviewer, Lina, appreciated the “marvellous pics” of the contrasting hues, and this is often considered the most distinctive aspect of the crater. You’ll have a chance to stand in the middle of this bridge or nearby to enjoy a view of both lakes simultaneously, a moment many travelers cherish.

The Village of Sete Cidades and Cultural Stops

Descending into the village of Sete Cidades, you’ll pass the iconic bridge that divides the lakes. Here, there’s a chance to relax with a coffee or visit the Igreja de São Nicolau, a neo-Gothic church from the 17th century, surrounded by a charming alley of cryptomerias. One review noted that this church adds a touch of history and local flavor to the experience.

The village stop lasts around 30 minutes, providing time to wander, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The proximity of the church and the lakes makes this a good spot for reflection and photography.

Ponta do Escalvado: Sunset Views and Sea Cliffs

The final stop is at Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, perched on a cliff on the island’s west end. Many reviewers, including Chiara, rave about this viewpoint—it’s considered one of the best spots to watch the sunset and admire the Atlantic Ocean crashing against rugged cliffs.

The 15-20 minutes spent here are perfect for capturing the dramatic coastline and soaking up the last of the day’s light. Afterward, you’ll head back via the scenic drive, returning to your hotel or designated drop-off points around Ponta Delgada or other areas.

Practical Details: What to Expect

This tour showcases São Miguel’s volcanic core with a good mix of viewpoints, cultural stops, and natural wonders. The duration of four hours makes it manageable for most travelers, though some reviews suggest it ends slightly earlier, around 3.5 hours, especially if traffic or group pace varies.

Transportation is provided via a comfortable van, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, which simplifies logistics. The guide, available in multiple languages (English, Portuguese, German, Spanish), is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly. According to reviews, guides like Rui and Denis go above and beyond, sharing detailed insights and answering questions thoroughly.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $74 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the number of stops, the inclusion of a professional guide, and transportation. The variety of viewpoints and cultural stops provide a well-rounded experience that would be more cumbersome to organize independently.

What Could Be Improved?

Some reviewers felt the tour was slightly rushed or spent too much time driving. One noted that the tour sometimes ends before the scheduled 4 hours, potentially limiting time at some stops. If you’re a photography enthusiast wanting more time at each viewpoint, this may be a consideration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers eager to see São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes and lakes. It’s also suited to travelers who appreciate guided insights and authentic local stops, like a pineapple plantation and a small church.

It’s ideal if you want an efficient overview of the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a scenic, comfortable day out will find this tour rewarding.

FAQ

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, but some reviews mention it might end around 3.5 hours depending on traffic and group pace.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, pickups and drop-offs are included at four central locations: Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, Capelas, and Ribeira Grande.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in multiple languages including English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish.

What is the price?
The cost is $74 per person, which covers transportation, a guide, water, and visits to multiple scenic and cultural stops.

How many stops are there?
There are about 11 stops, including viewpoints, lakes, a church, and a pineapple plantation.

Is the tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The viewpoints offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially the View of the King and Ponta do Escalvado.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, water, and sun protection are recommended. The tour provides water, but having extras is always a good idea.

Can I visit the lakes inside the crater?
Yes, you’ll visit the Lake of Canario and get fantastic views of the Green and Blue Lakes from the bridge.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it suits most ages, especially those who enjoy scenic drives, light walks, and cultural stops.

In The Sum Up

This guided tour of São Miguel’s volcanic and lake landscapes offers a curated experience of the Azores’ most iconic sights. With knowledgeable guides like Rui and Dennis, travelers get more than just photos—they gain insights into the island’s geology, culture, and local life. The variety of viewpoints, coupled with stops at cultural sites, makes it a well-rounded day trip.

Considering the price of $74, it delivers excellent value, especially if you’re short on time but want a rundown. It’s ideal for nature enthusiasts, photography buffs, or anyone eager to see the island’s most celebrated natural features comfortably and efficiently.

While some might find the pace a little brisk, the stunning vistas, engaging explanations, and authentic stops make this tour a memorable way to experience São Miguel. For those seeking a scenic, informative, and hassle-free day out, this guided adventure is hard to beat.

Note: Always check availability and start times, as they can vary, and consider whether you prefer a more relaxed pace or a slightly longer experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: