Ponta Delgada: Sete Cidades Volcano Lakes Shore Excursion

This shore excursion in Ponta Delgada offers a captivating peek into the Azores’ most iconic natural wonder: the Sete Cidades volcanic crater, home to its famous Green and Blue Lakes. Designed specifically for cruise travelers, this tour combines breathtaking scenery with authentic local encounters, all within a manageable four-hour window.

What we particularly like about this experience is the expert guidance from local guides who bring the landscape to life with stories and insights. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy scenic viewpoints like Vista do Rei, and to walk around the tranquil village of Sete Cidades, makes this a well-rounded trip.

A potential consideration might be the weather, which can change quickly on the island—rain or wind can obscure views or make some stops less comfortable. Nevertheless, the tour’s flexible structure and stunning highlights mean it still offers great value.

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a compact but immersive taste of the Azores’ volcanic beauty, especially those on cruise ships with limited time but big curiosity about the islands’ natural wonders.

Key Points

• Expert local guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary and insider knowledge
• Stunning viewpoints like Vista do Rei provide picture-perfect moments
• Authentic local stops include village walks and pineapple tasting for a genuine taste of Azores
• Flexible itinerary with scenic drives, photo stops, and free time in Sete Cidades village
• Good value at $51 per person for a 4-hour, all-inclusive tour
• Weather considerations may impact some scenic views, so be prepared with layers

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Easy and Punctual Meeting Points

Starting at the Multiusos Portas do Mar, the tour’s pickup process is straightforward for cruise passengers. Guides from IdilicAzores are clearly signposted with their logo, and the instructions for both the cruise terminal and the commercial harbor are precise. This makes meeting up hassle-free, especially important when you’re eager to explore without delays.

The tour begins promptly around 8:45 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your day. The small-group nature, often around 20 participants, creates an intimate atmosphere where everyone gets personalized attention, and guides like Mario, Francisco, and Vera stand out for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.

The Scenic Drive and Viewpoints

The journey kicks off with a drive along the island’s west coast, passing Pico do Carvão, which offers sweeping views of the north and south coasts. This spot sets the tone for the day—expect to see mountains like Fogo and Vara in the distance, adding to the dramatic landscape.

Next is Vista do Rei, a viewpoint named in honor of King Carlos I, which provides a panoramic vista of the crater and the twin lakes below. As many reviewers noted, this stop is a highlight. One guest described it as “the unique beauty of this dormant volcano,” and many photos taken here capture the lush greenery contrasted with the lakes’ vivid colors.

The Lakes of Sete Cidades

The crater lakes are the star attraction. Lagoa das Sete Cidades offers multiple scenic stops, including a photo opportunity from the viewpoint and some free time to walk around the village. The 30-minute break in the village lets you explore at your own pace, whether you want to stroll along the lakeshore, visit the church of São Nicolau, or simply relax over a coffee with locals.

One reviewer praised their guide for giving excellent directions and engaging storytelling, which made even cloudy or misty weather enjoyable. The lakes’ colors—the Green and Blue—are especially striking when the weather cooperates, but even on a drizzle day, the scenery’s grandeur is undeniable.

Hidden Lagoon: Santiago’s Lake

A quick scenic drive takes you to Lagoa de Santiago, the deepest and most secluded of the lakes. Here, you’ll see the bridge that separates the Green and Blue sections, providing a perfect photo moment. One guest noted that this lagoon feels more intimate and less crowded, a real perk for those seeking tranquility.

Pico do Carvão and Additional Views

Continuing the scenic journey, the guide takes you to Pico do Carvão for more sweeping views. Multiple reviewers highlighted how the guide’s storytelling brought these vistas to life, describing the geology and volcanic history behind the stunning landscape.

A Taste of Local Agriculture: Pineapple Greenhouses

The tour wraps up with a visit to St. Anthony’s pineapple greenhouses, a highlight for many. Here, you’ll learn about the Azorean pineapple industry and get to taste the fresh fruit. Reviewers speak highly of the delicious tasting session, with one noting it as a nice way to connect with local agriculture and culture.

Authentic Local Experiences

Walking in the charming Sete Cidades village and visiting the church add a touch of authenticity to the trip. Local guides often share personal stories and insights, making the experience more memorable. Guests frequently mention their guide’s knowledge, kindness, and enthusiasm—key ingredients for a good tour.

The Guide and Group Experience

From authentic comments like “Mario was a wonderful guide—friendly, knowledgeable, and safe,” to the praise for small groups, it’s clear that the guide’s personality makes a difference. Many reviews mention how the guide answered questions, shared fun facts, and kept the group engaged despite variable weather conditions.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $51 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering all included elements: transportation, guiding, scenic viewpoints, and pineapple tastings. Compared to more expensive cruise line options, this group tour often receives praise for its personal touch and affordability. The reviews consistently highlight how the guide’s expertise and the breathtaking scenery elevate the experience beyond basic sightseeing.

What’s Not Included & Considerations

While the tour covers nearly everything, note that food and drinks during free time in Sete Cidades village are not included. So if you want to linger over lunch or buy souvenirs, you’ll need to budget extra. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility problems or wheelchair users, as some walking and uneven terrain are involved.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Sete Cidades excursion is a fantastic choice for cruise passengers wanting a compact but rich experience of the Azores’ most famous natural feature. If you’re someone who appreciates scenic drives, expert guides, and authentic local touches like pineapple tasting and village walks, you’ll find this tour very satisfying.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers with moderate fitness, as it involves some walking and scenic stops. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will enjoy the personalized attention and stunning vistas. If weather is cloudy or rainy, don’t worry—many reviews say the guides’ storytelling and the lush scenery still make it worth your while.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, starting around 8:45 am, with a flexible itinerary that includes scenic stops, free time in Sete Cidades, and a pineapple tasting.

Where does the tour pick me up?
Pickup is at the Multiusos Portas do Mar, with clear instructions provided. Guides are easily identifiable with the company logo, and the process is designed to be smooth for cruise passengers.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
It’s mainly suitable for travelers with good mobility. The tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, so it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. The weather can change quickly, so packing a light raincoat or jacket is advisable.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, a knowledgeable local guide, scenic viewpoints, the pineapple greenhouse tour, and tasting are all included. Food and drinks during free time in the village are not.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Final Words

This Sete Cidades Volcano Lakes tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and expert guidance—all at a very reasonable price. The small-group format and engaging guides make it especially appealing for travelers who value authentic experiences and personalized attention. While weather can be unpredictable, the scenery and insights provided by guides like Mario or Francisco ensure that even a cloudy day is well worth the visit.

If you’re visiting Ponta Delgada on a cruise and want to see the best of the island’s volcanic lakes, this tour delivers on its promise of scenic views, local charm, and memorable moments. Perfect for those with limited time but a big appetite for natural beauty and cultural connection.