São Miguel Azores: Explore the dramatic crater of Sete Cidades

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through a volcanic landscape dotted with shimmering lakes and panoramic viewpoints, a tour of Sete Cidades on São Miguel Island might just be your perfect escape. Although we haven’t personally trekked the trail, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what to expect—an experience filled with jaw-dropping scenery, expert guides, and a taste of local charm.

What we love most about this tour is the diversity of viewpoints, from the iconic Vista do Rei to the secluded Lagoa de Santiago, each offering a new perspective on the island’s volcanic beauty. The knowledgeable guides are another highlight, often praised for their friendly demeanor and deep love of the Azores. Plus, at just over $90 per person, it’s an accessible way to see some of São Miguel’s most photogenic sights without the hassle of planning every stop yourself.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the limited tour duration of roughly three and a half hours—so if you’re craving a more in-depth exploration or want to include additional sites, some customization may be needed. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to the Sete Cidades region, with plenty of opportunities for photo ops, cultural insights, and scenic strolls.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: The tour covers the highlights of the Sete Cidades volcanic crater, featuring lakes, viewpoints, and historic sites.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Gabriel and Carla are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to tailor the experience.
• Flexible & Customizable: The itinerary can be adjusted based on your interests, making it suitable for different types of travelers.
• Value for Money: At just under $100, it offers a well-rounded introduction to São Miguel’s natural beauty with included viewpoints and historical sites.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup service and a small group size (max 8 travelers) ensure a personal, comfortable experience.
• Authentic Local Experience: Visits to viewpoints like Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras and the Monte Palace Hotel ruins add unique touches beyond typical tourist spots.

A Deeper Look at the Tour Experience

Introduction to São Miguel’s Volcanic Wonders

This tour is designed as a highlight reel of São Miguel’s natural beauty, focusing on the famous Sete Cidades caldera. The drive from Ponta Delgada, where you’ll start, sets the scene – gentle rolling hills, patches of lush farmland, and the first glimpses of the volcanic landscape. Expect the journey to be smooth and comfortable, with a small group that allows for personalized attention and spontaneous questions.

The Main Attraction: Sete Cidades

The crater of Sete Cidades is a must-see. Covering about 5 km in diameter, it’s the kind of place that commands awe. The tour offers approximately 1.5 hours here, giving enough time to appreciate the two contrasting lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. These lakes are famously different in color—one vibrant blue, the other lush green—but the true magic lies in how they seem to coexist within the same volcanic bowl.

Travelers are often blown away by the scale of the crater and the vibrant hues of the lakes, which are visible from multiple viewpoints. One reviewer mentioned that the scenery is “breathtaking,” emphasizing the stunning vistas that make this area a true highlight.

Vista do Rei and Cerrado das Freiras: The Viewpoints

Next up are the Vista do Rei and Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras. Vista do Rei is probably the most iconic viewpoint—perched on the edge of the crater, it offers sweeping views that capture the lakes below and the surrounding mountains. The included ticket makes it easy to enjoy without extra cost, and the 25-minute stop allows ample time for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Cerrado das Freiras, which translates to “Nuns’ Clearing,” is equally impressive. From here, you get a vantage point that’s perfect for capturing the verdant landscape and appreciating the volcanic formation of the island. Many reviews highlight how these viewpoints are “worth every minute,” with some mentioning that they provide a sense of scale and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Lagoa de Santiago and Ponta do Escalvado

Moving further, Lagoa de Santiago offers a quieter, lush green water lake with a roadside viewing platform. Reviewers have noted the beauty of this crater lake, which adds variety to the landscape and a touch of serenity after the more crowded viewpoints.

The Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado is a former whale lookout that provides a dramatic view of the coast and the village of Mosteiros. It’s less trafficked but equally stunning—more rugged, more intimate. Expect to see rocky cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, with views extending over the volcanic coastline.

Monte Palace Hotel Ruins: A Glimpse into History

The tour’s final stop is the Monte Palace Hotel ruins. Once an elegant retreat offering panoramic views, today, the remains evoke a sense of nostalgia and history. Visitors will enjoy imagining the luxury once experienced here, while taking in the spectacular scenery of the lagoons and surrounding mountains. It’s a short but evocative stop that adds a storybook element to the day.

Transportation, Timing, and Overall Value

The tour features pickup service from the Ponta Delgada area, which makes logistics straightforward. The small group size—limited to 8 travelers—ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get tailored recommendations.

At 3.5 hours, the duration is enough to see key sights without feeling rushed. It’s a great value for the price of just over $90 per person, especially considering that all viewpoint tickets are included and the guide’s local expertise.

Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides, like Gabriel, Carla, and Filipe, who go the extra mile to make the experience memorable. Several reviews highlight that guides are personable, well-informed, and eager to share insights about local culture and history, which elevates the tour from just sightseeing to a meaningful cultural experience.

Customization and Flexibility

A real advantage is the ability to customize the itinerary. If you’re interested in additional stops or specific sights, you should reach out. Tour providers seem responsive and open to tailoring the experience, making it ideal for different interests—whether you want more nature, history, or photo opportunities.

Authenticity and Unique Experiences

Beyond the typical scenic overlooks, many travelers appreciated the less-touristy spots like the Lagoa de Santiago and the Monte Palace Hotel ruins. The tour doesn’t just focus on the most famous points but also offers chances to explore quieter areas, which often provide a more authentic sense of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape.

The inclusion of viewpoints like Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras and the coastal views from Escalvado give a layered experience—combining inland caldera vistas with rugged coastline panoramas. This variety ensures your day feels balanced and full of discovery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded introduction to the Sete Cidades region, especially those who appreciate expert guidance and flexible itineraries. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a rundown without the hassle of planning, or for cruise passengers with limited time. Nature lovers, photographers, and those interested in volcanic landscapes will find plenty to love.

However, if you’re after an in-depth, all-day exploration or want to combine multiple regions, you might want to look at other options or customize this tour.

This tour offers a beautiful, manageable glimpse into the stunning volcanic landscapes of São Miguel. With a guide who’s both knowledgeable and friendly, you’ll get insider tips along with breathtaking views at every stop. The inclusion of viewpoints, historic sites, and quieter lakes makes it a well-balanced experience, especially for those new to the Azores or constrained by time.

For travelers eager to experience the essence of Sete Cidades—from vivid lakes to panoramic vistas—this tour provides excellent value, comfort, and flexibility. It’s perfect for those wanting a personalized, scenic, and educational journey with a touch of local charm.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, covering main sights and viewpoints around Sete Cidades.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered from the Ponta Delgada area, making it convenient to start and end your day comfortably.

What is included in the price?
The $92.49 fee covers the guided tour, viewpoint admission tickets, and pickup service. It does not specify lunch or other extras.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary can be tailored to your interests and preferences—just contact the provider to discuss additional stops or adjustments.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Any specific considerations should be discussed with the provider.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. The tour vehicle is sanitized for safety.

Is this tour suitable for cruise travelers?
Absolutely. Several reviews mention being picked up and dropped off at the cruise terminal, making it an excellent option for short stays.