Guided Tour to the green & blue Lake of Sete Cidades

Exploring the Azores offers some of Europe’s most striking landscapes, and this guided tour to the Sete Cidades lakes stands out as a highlight. It’s a well-rounded experience, combining scenic drives, iconic viewpoints, and a taste of local culture—all within about four hours. The tour covers some of the island’s most famous sights, with a particular emphasis on the twin lakes that have long captivated visitors.

One feature that many travelers appreciate is the opportunity to stand on the bridge that separates the green and blue lakes, a sight that truly feels like stepping into a postcard. The tour is carefully curated to give a rundown of the volcanic landscape, complete with viewpoints, lakes, and a charming village.

A possible consideration is the tour’s duration—while four hours is enough to see the main sights, it’s a packed schedule, so those looking for a slow, in-depth exploration might feel a bit rushed. Still, for most visitors, the balance of sightseeing and comfort hits just the right note.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and convenient transportation. It suits those with limited time but a desire to see the best of São Miguel’s volcanic scenery.

Key Points

• Best for scenic views: The tour offers several panoramic viewpoints, including Vista do Rei and Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado.
• Well-organized itinerary: Multiple stops are designed to showcase key volcanic and lake features within a manageable time frame.
• Comfortable transportation: Transport is in a van with hotel pick-up and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides, possibly bilingual, provide insights into the volcanic history and local culture.
• Value for money: At $74, it’s a solid option considering the stops and included amenities.
• Authentic experiences: Visiting a pineapple plantation and a small village adds local flavor beyond the lakes.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Journey—From Your Hotel to the Volcano

Most tours begin with convenient hotel pickups around 9:00 am, with options in Lagoa, Capelas, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada. This flexibility means you won’t need to worry about navigating or parking, allowing you to relax from the start.

The first stop is a pineapple plantation, where your guide provides a 30 to 45-minute overview. Here, you may learn about the island’s unique pineapple cultivation methods and browse local products. Many reviewers mention enjoying the guided tour and the opportunity to shop for handmade souvenirs, which adds a tangible touch of local life.

Scenic Drive and Viewpoints

Leaving the plantation, your journey takes you along the southwest coast, with a scenic climb up the mountains. One of the first highlights is the Pico do Carvão viewpoint, where you’ll pause for 15 to 20 minutes. Expect sweeping vistas over the lush landscape—perfect for photos and soaking in the Azores’ volcanic charm.

Continuing upward, you’ll visit Lago do Canário, situated in an 800-meter-high crater. This serene lake offers a quieter, less crowded spot to appreciate the volcanic origins of the island. Many travelers find it a peaceful contrast to the more popular viewpoints.

The Iconic Sete Cidades – The Main Event

The crown jewel of this tour is the Vista do Rei viewpoint. Here, you’ll have around 20 to 30 minutes to marvel at the spectacular view of the twin lakes, set in a massive volcanic crater. The eye-catching contrast of the green and blue lakes—seen from this vantage point—is what makes Sete Cidades so famous. One reviewer notes that this is “probably the most iconic and recognized natural monument in the Azores,” and it’s not hard to see why.

Descending into the village of Sete Cidades, you’ll pass over the bridge that separates the lakes, built in 1967. Standing on this bridge, many say it’s one of the most memorable moments, especially since it signifies being right over the twin lakes—a unique feature in the Azores. Here, you’ll have time to walk around, enjoy a coffee, or visit the Church of São Nicolau, a small neo-Gothic church built in the 17th century, which adds a charming historical dimension.

Lagoa de Santiago and Other Volcanic Lakes

Next, your guide will take you to Lagoa de Santiago, a volcanic crater lake at 334 meters altitude. This spot, about 700 meters long and 30 meters deep, offers a different perspective of the island’s volcanic activity. The 15-minute stop allows for some quick photos and appreciation of the crater’s beauty.

The Charm of Sete Cidades Village

After the lakes, the tour continues into the quaint village of Sete Cidades. Here, you’ll see locals going about their day and perhaps enjoy more photos and exploration. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to walk around at their own pace.

Final Stop—Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

To cap off the day, the tour visits Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This dramatic vantage point is ideal for stunning sunset views and a memorable farewell to the volcanic landscapes of São Miguel. Many reviews emphasize the breathtaking scenery and the peaceful atmosphere of this spot.

Returning and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a 45-minute drive back to your hotel or meeting point, giving you time to relax and reflect on a day filled with the island’s natural grandeur.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a comfortable van with hotel pick-up and drop-off makes this tour accessible and hassle-free. The small group setting ensures you can ask questions and get personalized insights from your guide, likely fluent in multiple languages including English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish.

Duration and Flexibility

Clocking in at four hours, the tour is designed to maximize sightseeing while respecting your schedule. The flexible start times mean you can select a slot that fits your plans, and the cancellation policy allows for full refunds if your plans change—up to 24 hours beforehand.

Cost and What’s Included

At $74 per person, this experience offers a fair exchange for what you get. It includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, and hotel transfers. The inclusion of local stops like the pineapple plantation adds value, giving you a taste of Azorean life beyond just the lakes.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

Many travelers mention the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, which enhances the experience. The visits to local spots like the village and plantation make this more than just a sightseeing bus tour—it’s a chance to connect with the island’s culture and landscape.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re looking to see the most iconic sights of São Miguel without dedicating an entire day. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time, but who still want to experience the island’s volcanic scenery and local charm. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in volcanic geology will especially enjoy the viewpoints and lakes.

If you prefer a relaxed pace or want to explore beyond the standard route, you might find this tour a little rushed, but for most, it strikes a good balance. It’s also a cost-effective way to access multiple key sites with ease and comfort.

The Sum Up

In all, this guided tour of the Sete Cidades lakes offers a well-rounded snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase the island’s most photogenic and culturally significant spots, with an emphasis on stunning views that will leave lasting impressions.

The convenience of hotel transfers, combined with a knowledgeable guide, makes it a practical choice for visitors short on time but eager to see the highlights. The inclusion of a pineapple plantation and the village gives a taste of local life, balancing natural splendor with cultural insights.

While the schedule might feel a bit tight for those wanting to linger longer at each stop, most will appreciate the rundown and ease of access. The affordable price point underlines the value of this experience, especially considering the quality of viewpoints and the opportunity to learn about the island’s volcanic origins.

If stunning scenery and iconic landscapes are what draw you to the Azores, this tour should definitely be on your list. It’s a fantastic way to tick off the must-see sights and leave with a collection of unforgettable photos and stories.

FAQ

What’s the starting point for this tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up from four main locations: Lagoa, Capelas, Ribeira Grande, and Ponta Delgada, making it easy to arrive without hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately four hours, including stops and travel time, which is a good duration for a quick yet enriching overview.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation in a van, an experienced guide, bottled water, and hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

Is there free time at the lakes and village?
While the itinerary is structured, you’ll have periods of free time to walk around, take photos, or enjoy a coffee in Sete Cidades village.

This tour offers a balanced, scenic introduction to one of the Azores’ most famous landmarks, making it a worthy choice for anyone wanting a snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape with minimal hassle.