Quad 1/pax – Off-road Excursion w/ lunch – Sete Cidades

If you’re seeking a way to truly see the wild, scenic side of São Miguel, this full-day quad bike excursion offers a memorable blend of adventure, spectacular views, and authentic local experiences. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a tour packed with highlights, perfect for those who love outdoor exploration and are ready for a bit of off-road fun.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guides are well-regarded for their knowledge and hospitality—a crucial aspect when navigating unfamiliar terrain. Second, the views of volcanic lakes and waterfalls are truly breathtaking, giving travelers a sense of wilderness that’s hard to match elsewhere. Third, the inclusive nature of the tour—lunch, transport, fuel, helmets, and personal insurance—means you get great value for your money.

A potential consideration? You’ll need moderate physical fitness and a valid driving license to handle the quad bikes, and some might find the entire day a bit physically demanding, especially if the weather turns hot. But for most adventure-loving travelers, this is a small price to pay for a full immersion into São Miguel’s dramatic landscapes.

This experience suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and small-group tours. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the limited group size (up to 10 people) ensures a personalized feel while discovering some of the island’s most iconic sights.

Good To Know

• Off-road exploration of São Miguel’s volcanoes, lakes, and waterfalls.
• All-inclusive price covering lunch, fuel, helmets, and transport.
• No experience necessary—full instructions provided.
• Small-group tour for personalized attention.
• Highlights include Fogo crater lake, Salto do Cabrito waterfall, and Pópulo beach.
• Optional swim in the Caldeira Velha thermal pools adds a relaxing finish.

What to Expect from the Full-Day Quad Bike Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive journey through some of the most scenic spots on São Miguel, with plenty of opportunities to stop, take in views, and snap photos. Starting early, the itinerary is carefully curated to balance adventure and sightseeing, making sure you get the most from your day without feeling rushed.

The Departure and Introduction

The adventure begins at the ANC Guided Tours office in Valados, just outside Ponta Delgada, where you’ll meet your guides and receive a safety briefing and instructions. No prior experience is needed, but you should have a valid driving license and be comfortable operating a quad bike. The guides are praised for their patience and knowledge, often sharing insights about the landscapes and local flora along the way.

First Stops and Scenic Drives

From the start, you’ll venture along mountain roads, passing through Covoada and making your way to Miradouro do Pico do Carvao. These initial stops are brief but scenic, giving you panoramic views of the island’s volcanic terrain. Travelers have appreciated how guides point out interesting features and share local stories, adding depth to the experience.

Lagoa do Canario and Miradouro da Boca do Inferno

Next, the tour takes you to Lagoa do Canario, a striking crater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy the scenery, take photos, or simply soak in the tranquility. Some reviews mention this as a highlight, praising the guide’s storytelling and the vivid colors of the water.

A brief drive through the Boca do Inferno viewpoint is optional but offers dramatic vistas of the coast and rugged cliffs. This stop is appreciated for its photo ops and the chance to stretch your legs before heading into more remote areas.

Sete Cidades and the Lunch Break

The tour’s crown jewel is the Sete Cidades region, famous for its twin lakes—Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul—set within a volcanic caldera. After a hearty lunch, travelers can explore the area further, walking along the lakes or relaxing by the water. Several reviews emphasize how the guides show you the best viewpoints, sharing stories about the legend behind the lakes and the island’s volcanic past.

Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Surrounding Highlights

Post-lunch, you’ll pass through Lagoa de Santiago and enter the tunnel that leads to Lagoa das Sete Cidades. Expect stunning views and photo opportunities during this part of the trip, with some reviews mentioning how peaceful and surreal these lakes are—truly evocative of a different world.

Waterfalls, Beaches, and Thermal Pools

The last part of the tour includes a visit to Salto do Cabrito waterfall, where you might get a chance to cool off and admire the cascading water. For those interested in relaxing, an optional swim at the Caldeira Velha thermal pools is available, offering warm, mineral-rich waters that are perfect after a day of adventure.

Return Journey

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Ponta Delgada, wrapping up around late afternoon. The overall duration is approximately 7 to 8 hours, with plenty of time to absorb the landscapes and enjoy the company of fellow travelers.

The Experience on the Ground: What Travelers Say

Feedback consistently highlights the knowledgeable guides, especially Joao and Miguel, whose enthusiasm and storytelling make the trip more engaging. One reviewer praised Joao’s hospitality at a resort, describing a “delicious volcano-cooked meal” and homemade salads, which shows how the guides often go the extra mile to make the experience memorable.

Many travelers appreciated the stunning scenery, particularly the views of the lakes and waterfalls—perfect for photography and quiet reflection. The inclusion of lunch is also well-regarded, with comments about hearty, local-style meals that complement the day’s adventure.

On the practical side, reviewers point out that the small group size creates a friendly, personalized environment, and the full instruction reassures even complete beginners about operating the quads safely.

What Makes It a Great Value?

At around $149 per person, this tour delivers a lot: transportation, guide service, fuel, helmets, insurance, and a full meal. Considering the number of stops, the scenery, and the chance to operate an off-road vehicle, it’s a compelling package for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that the physicality of the day may not suit everyone. The terrain can be bumpy, and the weather unpredictable, so be prepared for possible sun exposure or rain. Also, the requirement for a driver’s license means this isn’t suitable for those without a valid license.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventure-loving travelers who want a hands-on experience of São Miguel’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for those comfortable on quad bikes or willing to learn, and who appreciate a small-group atmosphere. Families with older children or teenagers, and couples seeking a mix of adventure and scenic beauty, will find it particularly appealing.

The Sum Up

This off-road quad bike tour presents a fantastic way to explore São Miguel’s most iconic landscapes beyond the usual tourist spots. With knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and a well-rounded itinerary, it strikes a good balance between adventure and sightseeing, all at a reasonable price point.

The inclusion of lunch and transport makes it a convenient day out, especially for those keen to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. The tour’s emphasis on small-group intimacy ensures a more personal experience, allowing you to learn about the island’s volcanic features and local stories from your guides.

If you’re craving a mix of adrenaline, natural beauty, and local hospitality, this tour will deliver. It’s especially suited for active travelers eager to see São Miguel from a different perspective—on wheels, off the beaten path, and immersed in the island’s stunning wilderness.

FAQ

Do I need a driving license to participate?
Yes, a valid driving license is required to operate the quad bikes safely during the tour.

Is prior experience necessary?
No, full instructions are provided, and no previous quad biking experience is needed. The guides are experienced at helping beginners.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Helmets are provided.

Can I swim in the thermal pools?
Yes, there’s an optional opportunity to swim in the Caldeira Velha thermal pools, which many travelers find relaxing after the day’s adventure.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including stops, lunch, and travel time.

What is included in the price?
Fuel, guide, personal insurance, lunch, and helmets are included. Any additional products or services are not.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transport from the ANC Guided Tours office in Valados is included.

When does the tour start?
The tour departs at 8:30 am, and the activity concludes back at the meeting point later in the afternoon.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour date can be changed at no cost if weather conditions are unsuitable, ensuring safety and comfort.

This full-day quad biking adventure offers a fantastic mix of fun, scenery, and local flavor. For those ready to get a bit dirty and see São Miguel’s wild side, it’s a memorable way to explore the island’s volcanic heart.