São Miguel: Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes Hike

When it comes to experiencing the Azores, few tours deliver such a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and unique geothermal experiences as the Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes Hike. This full-day adventure, offered at $74 per person, takes you across some of the most iconic landscapes of São Miguel island, from the famous twin lakes to soothing thermal baths in Ferraria. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and a moderate trail suitable for most visitors with a decent level of fitness, it’s a compelling choice for those wanting to see beyond the usual highlights.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines active exploration with moments of relaxation—you get your hiking fix, alongside breathtaking viewpoints and a chance to unwind in volcanic thermal waters. That said, a possible consideration is that the day involves a fair amount of walking and climbing, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity. This tour is perfect for travelers who crave authentic, immersive adventures and want to see the island’s most photographed sights with expert insights.

Key Points

• Authentic volcanic landscapes: Experience São Miguel’s volcanic origins firsthand through a guided hike that visits lakes, viewpoints, and lush forests.
• Spectacular views: The tour includes several panoramic viewpoints, like Vista do Rei and Grota do Inferno, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Expert-guided experience: Guides like Ricardo and Tiago are noted for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip both educational and enjoyable.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation, with a picnic lunch and thermal baths included.
• Value for money: At $74, this tour offers a comprehensive day exploring some of the island’s natural wonders with transportation, guides, and activities included.
• Physical requirements: Moderate fitness needed, ideal for active travelers comfortable with outdoor walking and some climbing.

An In-Depth Look at the Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes Hike

Starting Point and Transportation

The day begins with a pickup from one of five central locations in Ponta Delgada, making it easy for most travelers to join the tour without stress. The journey to the west side of São Miguel takes about 25 minutes by van, giving you time to settle in and get excited about the day ahead. The small group format, or private options, ensure a more personalized experience—good news for those who dislike big tour buses and prefer a more intimate vibe.

Exploring the Sete Cidades Complex

Once you arrive at the volcanic complex, your guide will lead you along a trail that passes through lush green areas interspersed with rocky soils—an ideal introduction to the island’s volcanic roots. The highlight here is reaching one of the highest points in the region, where panoramic views stretch across the twin lakes, the lush hills, and the distant coast. This vantage point, Vista do Rei, is often the favorite photo spot, offering a sweeping view of the blue and green lakes encircled by caldera walls.

Hiking and Scenic Stops

The walk continues downward through a landscape dotted with hydrangeas in various shades—a true signature of the Azores. The trail takes you through a cryptomeria forest and mossy terrain, leading to Lagoa das Empadadas and Lagoa do Canário. According to reviews, the hike around the lakes is around two hours, with many commenting on the stunning scenery and the peaceful atmosphere. One reviewer, Diana, mentioned that guide Tiago “did a great job accommodating the weather,” which is important because the weather in the Azores can be unpredictable.

Visiting Key Viewpoints

Next, you’ll visit Grota do Inferno, a viewpoint that offers a dramatic overlook of the coast and the volcanic landscape. Afterward, the Vista de Rei and other scenic spots provide perfect chances for photos, with some reviewers noting the “beautiful views along a 2-hour hike.” The guides are praised for their local knowledge, sharing stories and legends that add depth to the experience.

Picnic Lunch and Cultural Insights

A picnic lunch is enjoyed at the Sete Cidades parish, providing a break to relax and refuel. Reviewers like Emily appreciated how the guides tailored the experience, making it both fun and informative. The meal offers a taste of local life, adding cultural flavor to the day.

Visiting Mosteiros and Ferraria

Post-lunch, the journey continues by van to the Escalvado viewpoint, with sweeping views of Mosteiros and the lava platform leading to Ferraria. Here, you’ll see the famous geothermal pools formed by volcanic activity, where the experience of swimming in natural, volcanic-heated seawater is a highlight. Lovlyikram describes the baths as “worth it,” especially for the chance to relax after a day of hiking.

Thermal Baths in Ferraria

Ending the day at Ferraria is a memorable experience, as the hot springs occur underground and bubble directly into the ocean. The mix of saltwater and thermal water makes for a unique bathing experience, with the tide playing a role—high tide can cool the waters, while low tide can make them hotter. Reviewers often mention how magical the experience is, and it’s a lovely way to unwind before heading back to Ponta Delgada.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The appeal of this tour lies in its combination of active exploration and relaxing moments. The guided hikes are well-paced, with plenty of scenic stops that showcase the island’s volcanic charm. The guides’ local expertise and friendly demeanor are frequently praised; Ricardo and Tiago are highlighted for their knowledge and accommodating style, making the experience both educational and personal.

The scenic viewpoints are genuinely stunning—Vista do Rei and Grota do Inferno are top contenders for the most breathtaking vistas you’ll see on São Miguel. The lakes themselves, particularly Sete Cidades, with their legendary blue and green hues, are not just beautiful but also steeped in local stories, adding a layer of cultural intrigue.

The Value Compared to Other Tours

At $74, this full-day experience provides excellent value considering the included guides, transportation, picnic lunch, trekking poles, and access to thermal baths. For travelers who want more than just a bus ride, the small group or private options mean you’ll receive more personalized attention and flexibility in your itinerary.

Practical Considerations

While enjoyable, this tour does require a moderate level of fitness, as it involves hiking and some climbing. The weather can be unpredictable, so packing appropriate gear—windbreaker, raincoat, sun hat—is essential. The tour’s flexibility to adapt based on weather and tide conditions is a plus, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience.

Final Thoughts

This São Miguel tour is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the island’s volcanic landscapes, with a blend of hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation. It’s particularly suited for active travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to see some of the most iconic spots without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery are the tour’s biggest assets. The inclusion of a picnic lunch and thermal baths makes it feel like a complete day out, giving you both adventure and recovery. While not suited for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or heart problems, the tour offers an authentic, memorable way to experience São Miguel’s natural beauty.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves a moderate hike and some climbing, so it’s best for those with a reasonable fitness level comfortable with outdoor walking.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, rain gear, breathable clothes, reusable water bottle, and a waterproof bag are recommended.

Can I join with a large group?
Yes, but it’s advised to contact the local provider in advance if your group exceeds 8 people for booking arrangements.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can adapt based on weather and tide conditions, and guides will do their best to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from central locations in Ponta Delgada, making it convenient for most travelers.

Are the guides bilingual?
Guides speak both English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication and cultural insights.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for active travelers, but not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility impairments, or heart issues due to the physical nature of the hike.

To sum it up, the São Miguel: Sete Cidades and Crater Lakes Hike offers a well-rounded, authentic adventure into the heart of the Azores’ volcanic landscape. With expert guides, breathtaking vistas, and a mix of activity and relaxation, it’s a rewarding way to see the island’s most iconic sites while enjoying genuine local charm. Perfect for explorers eager to combine physical activity with cultural stories and scenic splendor, this tour promises a memorable day on one of Portugal’s most beautiful islands.