São Miguel: Quad & Buggy Sete Cidades Crater Tour

This 4-hour adventure offers an exhilarating way to see the highlights of São Miguel, one of the best-known islands of the Azores. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a quad bike or relaxing in a buggy driven by a local guide, this tour unearths the island’s most dramatic volcanic landscapes and secret viewpoints. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who crave a taste of off-road exploration and authentic scenery far from the busy tourist paths.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines adrenaline, stunning views, and local insights — all in one package. Plus, the chance to drive your own quad or sit in a comfortable buggy really makes it feel active and personalized. A potential drawback is the dust factor — as many reviews mention, it’s a dusty ride, especially off-road, so expect to get a bit messy. This tour suits travelers who are comfortable with some dirt and are eager to see the island’s natural beauty from a fresh perspective.

If you’re visiting São Miguel for a single day or simply want a memorable, outdoorsy experience, this tour will appeal most to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting to explore the island’s volcanic heart with expert guides. It’s an energetic, fun way to cover ground and discover sights that aren’t accessible by regular vehicle.

Key Points

• Authentic adventure: Quad bikes and buggies allow for off-road exploration and access to remote viewpoints.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable locals, like Tiago and Branquinho, enhance the experience with interesting insights.
• Stunning viewpoints: Highlights include Miradouro do Pico do Carvao, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and Das Cumeeiras, offering panoramic views.
• Flexible options: Choose between driving yourself or sitting comfortably in a buggy, depending on your preference.
• All-in-one ticket: Entry to viewpoints is included, making it a convenient, value-packed experience.
• Suitable for most: Children over 8, those with a valid driver’s license, and adventure lovers will find this tour rewarding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience and Its Highlights

This tour kicks off at the R. da Mãe de Deus 50 meeting point, where you’ll meet your guide and get a safety briefing — usually about 20 minutes long. After that, your adventure begins, whether you’re on a quad bike or a buggy. You’ll be exploring the island’s rugged paths, remote roads, and stunning viewpoints that are often off-limits to standard vehicles.

One of the standout moments is visiting the Volcano of the 7 Cities, which is about 36,000 years old. This isn’t just a volcano; it’s a giant crater with incredible views that many visitors never see. Exploring its top in a quad or buggy makes the experience even more special, as you can access areas where normal vehicles can’t go. Reviewers mention how guides like Tiago and Branquinho bring the landscape alive with stories and insights, adding depth to the spectacular scenery.

Itinerary Breakdown

Safety Briefing & Preparation

The tour starts with a safety briefing — a crucial component that prepares you for the off-road experience. Expect to be shown how to operate the quad bike or 4×4 buggy, and learn safety protocols. This phase is especially helpful if you’re new to riding ATVs or driving buggies. The guides are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making even nervous riders feel comfortable.

Sete Cidades & Remote Viewpoints

Next, the tour takes you to Sete Cidades, one of the island’s most iconic sights. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour (around 40 minutes) that allows you to appreciate this massive volcanic crater lake from different angles. The views from the Vista do Rei Miradouro are particularly remarkable, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the twin lakes and lush surroundings.

From here, your guide takes you to Coal Peak Viewpoint, a less-visited spot providing a panoramic outlook, and then onwards to Das Cumeeiras, which is often highlighted as a “must-see” stop. Reviewers describe this as a full hour dedicated to exploring one of the most breathtaking viewpoints, with some noting it’s a highlight of the trip.

More Great Tours Nearby

Off-Road Exploration & Scenic Drives

You’ll follow parts of the Azores Rally roads, which add a sense of adventure and adrenaline. Driving along these rugged tracks offers a taste of rally racing for the casual rider. Many reviews note how guides like Branquinho make the journey fun and educational, sharing insights about the island’s volcanic activity, local flora, and history.

Final Stops & Return

After visiting the Lagoa das Sete Cidades and other viewpoints, your tour winds down with more scenic drives and photo stops in the crater. You’ll return to the starting point roughly four hours later, having covered a lot of ground and seen aspects of São Miguel most travelers miss.

The Guides and Their Impact

Multiple reviewers emphasize how guides like Tiago and Branquinho make the trip memorable. Tiago, in particular, is described as “super knowledgeable,” blending expert commentary with a friendly approach. Branquinho is praised for his calm demeanor, humor, and ability to tweak the tour based on weather conditions and group interests — even when visibility is low due to fog or rain, they find ways to make it still worthwhile.

The Value of This Tour

While the tour’s cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest it’s a cost-effective way to access remote viewpoints and experience the island’s volcanic terrain without renting a vehicle or organizing your own transport. Included in the price are helmets, the quad or buggy ride, and entry tickets to all viewpoints, which adds to the overall value.

You’ll find that many travelers consider this tour a highlight of their time in São Miguel, especially those with a sense of adventure or a love for nature and panoramic views. Since it’s a small group experience, it also offers a more intimate, flexible atmosphere compared to larger tours.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

• Duration: 4 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.
• Participants: Must be 18+ with a valid driver’s license; children over 8 allowed in passenger seats.
• Weather: Tour takes place rain or shine, so bring appropriate clothing.
• What’s included: Helmets, quad/buggy ride, viewpoint entry tickets.
• What’s not: Hotel pickup/drop-off (so plan your transportation), and a deposit may be required for driving an ATV.
• Group size: Small groups are available, making for a more personalized experience.
• Language: Guides speak English and Portuguese.

Authentic Experiences & Hidden Gems

One aspect many reviews highlight is how guides show lesser-known viewpoints, like Coal Peak or the more secluded parts of Sete Cidades. This off-the-beaten-path approach means you’ll get a more intimate experience of the island’s volcanic landscape, away from crowded spots. The tour’s ability to access hard-to-reach areas is what sets it apart, providing unique photo opportunities and a real sense of discovery.

This adventure is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see São Miguel from a different angle. It’s perfect if you enjoy driving or riding off-road vehicles, and don’t mind some dust and dirt. Nature lovers will appreciate the breathtaking viewpoints and geological wonders, while those who enjoy engaging guides will find the local insights added value. It’s also suitable for solo travelers or small groups seeking a memorable, active day out.

However, it’s not suited for those with heart problems, very young children, or anyone uncomfortable with driving or sitting in dusty environments. Make sure to have a valid driver’s license if you plan to drive, and be prepared for a physically engaging experience.

This São Miguel quad and buggy tour offers an energetic, authentic way to explore the island’s volcanic landscapes. From remote viewpoints to the famous Sete Cidades, it combines stunning scenery with the thrill of off-road driving. The knowledgeable guides elevate the experience, sharing fascinating insights while navigating rugged terrain. For those craving adventure and panoramic views, it’s a fantastic choice that balances fun, discovery, and value.

Travelers who want to see São Miguel’s hidden gems, enjoy a personalized tour with smaller groups, and don’t mind a bit of dust will find this experience memorable. It’s especially suited for active visitors eager to add some adrenaline to their island adventure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 8 years old can participate as passengers in the buggy or ATV seats. Drivers must be 18+ with a valid driver’s license.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and weather conditions. The tour provides helmets, but consider sunglasses or sun protection. Since it’s an off-road experience, expect some dust.

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, all drivers must be 18 or older and have a valid driver’s license to operate the quad bike or buggy.

Can I choose between driving or sitting in the buggy?
Absolutely. You can opt to drive your own quad bike or relax in a buggy driven by your guide.

What if it rains?
The tour takes place rain or shine, so dress appropriately. Rain can add to the adventure, but be prepared for muddy or slippery tracks.

Is there a group size limit?
Small groups are available, which helps create a more personal experience. The exact size depends on availability but generally remains intimate.

What viewpoints are included?
You’ll visit key spots such as Miradouro do Pico do Carvao, Das Cumeeiras, and the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, along with lesser-known viewpoints.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including stops, sightseeing, and travel between sites.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, hotel pickup or drop-off is not included, so plan your own transport to the starting point.

What is the price point relative to value?
Considering the included viewpoints, guided insights, and off-road access, many reviewers find it excellent value for an action-packed half-day adventure.

This detailed review paints a clear picture of what to expect from the São Miguel: Quad & Buggy Sete Cidades Crater Tour. Whether you’re after adventure, stunning views, or authentic exploration, it’s a memorable way to experience the volcanic beauty and rugged charm of São Miguel.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby