Cruise Travellers: Sete Cidades Volcano, The Blue & Green Lake

Experience the Magic of Sete Cidades Volcano and Lakes in São Miguel

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of what makes the Azores so special, blending scenic viewpoints, volcanic landscapes, and local culture in just a few hours. It’s particularly popular among cruise travelers, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking vistas. We love that it’s a compact experience, giving you highlights without feeling rushed.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is weather-dependent, and fog or rain can obscure some views, as noted by a few travelers. If you’re after a full, immersive exploration, this might feel a bit quick, but for a snapshot of São Miguel’s most iconic sights, it hits the mark. If you’re seeking an outdoor adventure with authentic local insights, this trip is a great fit.

Perfect for those who want a taste of the island’s natural beauty, especially if time is limited during a cruise stop or short visit. It’s also ideal for travelers who enjoy guided tours with local storytellers and scenic photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Compact and efficient: Covers major highlights in 3-4 hours, making it ideal for cruise visitors.
• Authentic local guides: Passionate, knowledgeable storytellers who share insights beyond the usual facts.
• Stunning scenery: Iconic viewpoints like Vista do Rei and scenic stops at volcanic lakes and cliffs.
• Value for money: Priced at $58.22, it offers a balanced mix of sights, stories, and local experiences.
• Weather matters: Views can be affected by fog or rain, so flexibility is helpful.
• Custom drop-off options: End your tour at the cruise terminal or city center—convenient for further exploring or heading back onboard.

This half-day adventure takes you through some of São Miguel’s most awe-inspiring sights, with a focus on natural landscapes and local stories. The tour, operated by iGoAzores, is priced at $58.22 per person, which, considering the scenic stops, guided storytelling, and bottled water included, presents good value. It’s especially popular among cruise travelers who want to maximize their time on the island without skimping on incredible views.

Transportation and Group Size: The tour typically involves a comfortable vehicle accommodating up to 33 travelers, with most reviews indicating small, friendly groups that allow for personal interaction. The guides, like Diogo and Melissa, are praised for their enthusiasm and local knowledge, adding a layer of authenticity you won’t get from a generic bus tour.

Booking and Flexibility: With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is flexible enough for uncertain weather or changing schedules. Meeting at 9:00 am ensures you’re out early enough to beat the midday crowds at some viewpoints. Travelers can be dropped off either back at the cruise terminal or the city center, making it easy to continue exploring or return to your ship.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look at the Highlights

Stop 1: Arruda Pineapple Plantation

Our journey begins with a visit to a local pineapple plantation, a unique spot where the pines grow in glass greenhouses. Unlike typical open-field growers, this farm uses innovative cultivation methods to produce the island’s famous sweet pineapples.

Travelers frequently mention how informative the guide, like Lydia or Melissa, is during this stop, sharing insights into the cultivation process and local agriculture. The 15-minute stop allows enough time for photos and a quick look at the greenhouses, which are a delight for plant lovers. Many reviews highlight how this stop adds a charming and educational start to the tour.

Stop 2: Vista do Rei Miradouro

Often called one of Portugal’s seven wonders, this viewpoint delivers a jaw-dropping panorama of the famous blue and green lakes. As one reviewer put it, it’s “a magical sight,” and you’ll understand why once you stand there taking it all in.

From the viewpoint, you get a sweeping look at the crater lakes, framed by lush greenery and volcanic terrain. It’s a popular photo spot, and the guide’s storytelling often includes legends and geology behind the lakes. Reviewers like Jill_N say this is “a wonderful way to see this part of the island.”

Stop 3: Caldeira das Sete Cidades

This is the main event—a visit inside the volcano’s caldera, where you can stroll along the shores of the blue lagoon and explore the small parish nestled within. The tour also includes a visit to São Nicolau church, adding a touch of local culture to the natural beauty.

While 30 minutes might seem brief, it’s enough to soak in the scenery and snap plenty of photos. Some reviewers mention that even the interior scenery feels untouched, with lush vegetation and volcanic formations creating a surreal landscape. Several note that the guided commentary helps deepen the appreciation of this unique environment.

Stop 4: Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

As the tour wraps up, you’ll visit this cliffside viewpoint, where black rocks and towering cliffs dominate the landscape. It offers a different perspective of the coast, contrasting the lush lakes with rugged seaside scenery. It’s a short stop (10 minutes), but many mention it as a perfect photo opportunity, especially for capturing the dramatic coastline.

Stop 5: Return to Ponta Delgada

The drive back takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery from your vehicle. Many reviews appreciate the friendly guidance offered by guides like Joan or Melissa, who keep the mood light and informative until the end.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

Throughout the reviews, several key points emerge about what makes this tour stand out. Guides like Andrea, Joan, Melissa, and Diogo are consistently praised for their passion, knowledge, and friendly manner. They often share local legends and personal anecdotes, transforming a sightseeing trip into a story-rich experience.

Many guests appreciated the bottled water and the fact that the tour is designed to maximize scenic stops while respecting time constraints. The tour’s small group feel makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention, which is especially valuable for travelers unfamiliar with the island’s geography.

Weather can be a wildcard, as noted by some travelers who couldn’t see the lakes due to fog or rain. Still, a good guide will often provide alternative points of interest or share stories about the landscape’s volcanic origins, which remains fascinating even if the views are obscured.

Pricing, at just over fifty dollars, offers solid value, considering the included storytelling, scenic views, and transportation. The stops at viewpoints and the pineapple plantation are especially appreciated for their uniqueness and local flavor.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes, especially those eager to learn about the Azores through passionate local guides. It’s a good fit for cruise visitors who want to see the highlights in a short time without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

If you’re a photo enthusiast, the numerous viewpoints provide fantastic opportunities, but be prepared for potentially foggy conditions. For those interested in local culture and food, the pineapple plantation and optional wine and cheese in town are nice added touches.

While the tour offers good value for its price, travelers seeking a very detailed or lengthy exploration might find it a bit rushed, but for a half-day snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty, it’s hard to beat.

This tour offers a well-balanced blend of natural beauty, local culture, and expert storytelling, making it ideal for travelers who want a genuine taste of São Miguel’s iconic sights without spending the entire day on the road. The guides’ enthusiasm and insights elevate the experience, turning simple sightseeing into a memorable journey.

While weather can impact the views, the overall value, scenic diversity, and authentic local flavor make this a strong choice for those on a cruise or short stay. It’s especially perfect for travelers looking for good value, friendly guidance, and a sneak peek into the island’s volcanic wonderland.

In summary, if you’re after a quick yet meaningful introduction to the Sete Cidades area with top-notch guides and spectacular viewpoints, this tour is a solid pick. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast, and you’ll be in for some truly unforgettable sights.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity—especially if you’re on a cruise schedule.

What’s included in the price?
For $58.22 per person, the tour includes guided storytelling by local guides, bottled water, and all the scenic stops detailed in the itinerary. Entrance fees and personal purchases are not included.

Can I be dropped off at the cruise terminal?
Yes, after the tour, travelers can choose to be dropped off either back at the cruise terminal or at the city center, providing flexibility for further exploration.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor walking, and be prepared for weather changes—bringing a jacket or umbrella might be wise.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, provided they are comfortable with the outdoor walking involved.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions, but if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
While mostly accessible, some stops involve walking along uneven terrain or near water, so it’s best to assess based on your mobility needs.

This guided trip to Sete Cidades blends stunning visuals, local stories, and genuine hospitality—all within a manageable timeframe for busy travelers or cruise guests.