Guided Visit to the Crater and Volcano of Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Exploring São Miguel’s most famous crater lake, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, is a must for anyone visiting the Azores. This 4-hour guided tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s volcanic beauty, featuring scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and local production stops.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the knowledgeable guides, the stunning vistas from multiple viewpoints, and the excellent value for the price. A possible consideration is that, during peak times, larger groups might feel a little crowded or rushed — but overall, it’s a balanced and rewarding trip.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive but relaxed day out, especially those curious about volcanic landscapes, local culture, and superb photo opportunities. If you prefer small group experiences with expert guides, this could be just the right fit.

Good To Know

• Impressive views from multiple scenic viewpoints across the island.
• Educational stops, including a pineapple plantation with insights into its history on São Miguel.
• Small-group size ensures personalized attention (max 8 people).
• Value for money with a full itinerary, transportation, and guided commentary included.
• Flexibility with pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for travelers.
• Authentic experiences like visiting a neo-Gothic church and local viewpoints.

An Introduction to the Tour

This guided tour of Lagoa das Sete Cidades and surrounding volcanic scenery has a lot to offer. It’s designed to give you a taste of the island’s volcanic character, stunning lakes, and local culture, all in just a few hours.

The tour is especially appealing because of its expert guides, who bring the landscapes to life with stories and historical context. Plus, you’ll have multiple opportunities for panoramic photos, making it perfect for social media lovers or anyone wanting postcard-worthy snapshots.

One of the biggest perks is the diverse itinerary — from pineapple greenhouses to viewpoints overlooking the crater lake, you’re covering a lot of ground in a short time. However, it’s worth noting that the vehicle capacity (up to 8) can lead to a slightly crowded experience during busy periods, and group timing may be a bit tight if other guests are late or slow.

Ideal for those who value authentic scenery, local insights, and a relaxed pace, this tour strikes a good balance between guided structure and free time to soak in the views.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Visiting Lagoa das Sete Cidades

The highlight, of course, is the Sete Cidades crater lake, one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders. This massive caldera, with twin lakes—one green, one blue—offers some of the most iconic scenery on São Miguel. Several viewpoints like Miradouro do Pico do Carvao and Vista do Rei provide sweeping panoramas, perfect for photography.

Multiple Viewpoints for the Best Photos

You’ll stop at six different viewpoints, including Cerrado das Freiras and Ponta do Escalvado. The latter, built on a cliff, is renowned for its breathtaking sunset views and is considered one of the island’s most beautiful spots. The reviews highlight how these stops deliver “amazing views,” with travelers appreciating the variety of perspectives over the volcanic caldera, ocean, and surrounding landscapes.

Cultural and Local Flavor

The visit to the Plantacao de Ananas dos Acores is a unique insight into São Miguel’s agricultural history. Travelers watch a short video and explore the pineapple greenhouses, which began in the 19th century as botanical experiments. Reviewers enjoyed learning that pineapple cultivation started as a curiosity, eventually evolving into an important local industry, with one reviewer noting, “the pineapple plantation felt like a tourist trap”—a reminder that authenticity varies, but it’s still a fun addition.

Other Highlights

The tour also includes the Igreja de São Nicolau, a small but charming neo-Gothic church built in the 17th-19th centuries, and the Lagoa de Santiago, a deep volcanic lagoon surrounded by Macaronesian forests. For nature lovers, these stops offer peaceful moments amid the island’s volcanic terrain.

Transportation and Logistics

Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off included—adding convenience, especially if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada. The tour is capped at 8 travelers, ensuring you get plenty of attention from your guide, though some reviews mention that larger groups can sometimes feel a bit rushed or crowded.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Plantacao de Ananas dos Acores

This first stop is a delightful way to begin the day. Travelers watch a brief video explaining the pineapple’s history on São Miguel, which dates back to the 19th century. The greenhouses give a fascinating glimpse into how the fruit is cultivated today, a process that has evolved from botanical curiosity to commercial enterprise.

Reviews indicate that visitors appreciated the insight here: “The pineapple plantation felt like a tourist trap,” but most agree it’s an interesting cultural stop. It also offers a chance to stretch legs and get a sense of local agriculture.

Stop 2: Miradouro do Pico do Carvao

Perched in Arrifes, this viewpoint offers sweeping views across the volcanic cones that define the island’s terrain. You’ll see Pico da Vara—the island’s highest peak—and Fogo Volcano, along with a broad vista of Lagoa das Sete Cidades.

Reviewers mention how impressive the scenery is, with comments like “vast expanse of volcanic cones stretching from Ponta Delgada to Ribeira Grande.” The view here emphasizes the island’s volcanic roots and sets the tone for the rest of the tour.

Stop 3: Lagoa do Canario

Housed within a volcanic crater, this lagoon sits at about 800 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush Macaronesian forests. It’s a peaceful spot for photos and a quick walk. The cryptomeria plantations nearby add to the mystical rainforest vibe, making this spot a favorite for nature lovers.

Stop 4: Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras

This viewpoint offers another spectacular perspective of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, with the picturesque parish of Sete Cidades as a backdrop. It’s a short stop but delivers a postcard-perfect view that many reviewers describe as “breathtaking.”

Stop 5: Vista do Rei

Named after the visit of King D. Carlos I and Queen D. Amélia in 1901, this viewpoint is arguably the most famous. Travelers are treated to an iconic view of the twin lakes with the colorful town of Sete Cidades below. This spot is often considered a must-see and is frequently featured in photos of the Azores.

Stop 6: Lagoa de Santiago

Another volcanic lagoon, this one at 334 meters above sea level, offers a more intimate waterbody surrounded by dense forests. Its depth (up to 29 meters) and the surrounding cryptomeria plantations make it a scenic and tranquil spot.

Stop 7: Igreja de São Nicolau

A neo-Gothic church from the 17th-19th centuries, this small but charming religious site provides a quiet moment of reflection. The alley lined with cryptomerias leading to the church is a favorite among reviewers.

Stop 8: Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

To conclude the tour, this cliffside viewpoint is renowned for its sunset views and ocean vistas. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with natural beauty, with travelers describing it as “one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island.”

What’s Included and What You Should Know

This tour offers pick-up and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water, making for a comfortable experience. For just over $67, you get a four-hour journey filled with scenic stops, expert guiding, and local insights.

However, airport pickup is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer if arriving by plane. The small group size (up to 8) enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and easier photo stops.

Value and Booking

Most travelers book this tour approximately 29 days in advance, and it’s priced quite reasonably given the number of stops and expert guidance. Several reviews highlight how the tour provides a great overview of São Miguel—the kind of experience that makes a short visit memorable.

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews note that larger groups might feel a little crowded or that the vehicle isn’t the most comfortable for 8 people. Also, timing can be tight if other guests are late or if stops run over. A few travelers wished for better microphone use, especially on longer journeys, but overall, guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

The Sum Up

This guided tour delivers a well-balanced glimpse of São Miguel’s volcanic marvels, with a focus on the famous Lagoa das Sete Cidades. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a comprehensive, guided experience that includes the island’s best viewpoints, local culture, and stunning scenery—all in just a few hours.

The small group size and expert guides make it a comfortable way to explore without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. The inclusion of cultural stops like the pineapple plantation and church add interesting local touches that enrich the experience.

While not a private tour, most travelers find the value and quality of the trip justify the price, especially given the diverse stops and insights provided. If you want a convenient, scenic, and informative way to see São Miguel’s volcanic highlights, this tour ticks many boxes.

For those who appreciate authentic landscapes, friendly guides, and a good mix of nature and culture, this experience offers a memorable day on one of Portugal’s most beautiful islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day without additional planning.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, which is enough to see many key sights without feeling rushed.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

Are meals or additional costs included?
No, food and other extras are not included, but bottled water is provided.

Can I book a private tour?
This specific experience is with small groups, but some reviews mention private tours. Check with the provider if you prefer exclusivity.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Yes, the transport is air-conditioned, but some reviews note that an 8-person van can feel a bit cramped.

Are the viewpoints accessible for all?
Most viewpoints are accessible via short stops, but it’s good to be aware of walking or standing for a few minutes.

Will I see Lagoa das Sete Cidades?
Absolutely. It’s the central highlight, with multiple viewpoints offering different perspectives.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around viewpoints and lagoons.

What if my plans change?
The tour features a flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start.

This guided tour is a fantastic way to experience the volcanic wonderland of São Miguel, especially if you’re short on time but want a rundown. Its blend of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and expert guidance makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to soak in the best of the Azores.