Ponta Delgada: Shore Excursion, Sete Cidades, Blue & Green Lake

Exploring São Miguel’s Natural Wonders: A Detailed Review of the Ponta Delgada Shore Excursion to Sete Cidades, Blue & Green Lake

When cruise ships dock in Ponta Delgada, many travelers look for a way to truly experience the island’s breathtaking scenery and charming local spots. This Sete Cidades tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, local agriculture, and panoramic views—all within about four hours. With knowledgeable guides, a focus on authentic sights, and flexible pickup options, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a taste of the Azores’ most iconic landscape.

What we love most? The expert storytelling from guides who genuinely seem to love sharing the islands’ secrets, plus the chance to see the famous Blue and Green Lakes from multiple viewpoints. A potential drawback? The limited time at each stop means no deep explorations, so if you crave in-depth experiences, you may want a longer tour. This experience works best for travelers who want a quick, visually stunning overview of São Miguel’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Authentic local experiences: Visit pineapple plantations and enjoy insider knowledge.
• Stunning viewpoints: Panoramic vistas at Vista do Rei and Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado.
• Flexible scheduling: Tour start time adjusts based on your cruise disembarkation.
• Expert guides: Enthusiastic, knowledgeable storytellers who make each stop memorable.
• Value for money: At approximately $56, the tour offers a compact, scenic overview with many memorable sights.
• Limited group size: Max of 8 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

The Itinerary in Detail: What Makes Each Stop Special

Stop 1: Ananas Santo Antonio – A Sweet Introduction

Your day begins with a visit to a pineapple plantation, housed within glass greenhouses. This stop isn’t just about tasting—it’s about understanding how these unique Azorean pineapples are cultivated, which is a real treat for foodies and curious travelers alike. Reviewers like Rita praised Andrea’s enthusiasm and insider knowledge, which made this stop more than just a quick photo opportunity. She explained the growing process and shared stories that added flavor to what could otherwise be just another farm visit.

Tip: Take your time here if you love local agriculture or want to understand more about Azorean farming traditions. It’s free to enter, so it’s an easy addition to your morning.

Stop 2: Vista do Rei Miradouro – One of Portugal’s Seven Wonders

This viewpoint is a highlight of most Azores tours—and for good reason. Often called one of Portugal’s seven wonders, Vista do Rei offers a sweeping vista of Sete Cidades’s twin lakes—famous for their contrasting colors of blue and green. The view is so iconic that it’s a must-see for any visitor. Reviewers like Joan B mention how they appreciated the rundown, noting that Joao, their guide, made sure everyone understood the significance of the lakes’ formation.

What to expect: Bright, clear views with photo opportunities that will make your camera happy. Consider bringing a zoom lens or phone for capturing the expansive landscape.

Stop 3: Sete Cidades – The Mythical Volcano and Its Lakes

This is the heart of the tour, where the legend of the blue-eyed princess and green-eyed shepherd comes to life. The lush landscapes, craters, and lakes are breathtaking. You can also step into the quaint parish of Sete Cidades, where the main church offers a glimpse into local religious architecture, or pause for a coffee break amid the peaceful surroundings.

Authentic experience: Be aware that the 20-minute stop is brief but enough to soak in the scenery and take photos. Some visitors, like Maria G, mention how the experience was unforgettable, especially with guides like Juan, who added warmth and local flavor.

Stop 4: Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado – Coastal Cliffs and Islets

The last stop before heading back to Ponta Delgada is a dramatic coastal viewpoint. Here, towering cliffs and the small Mosteiros islets create a rugged, wild scene. Reviewers frequently mention the excellent storytelling by guides, who pointed out details about the cliffs’ geological formations and local lore. It’s a fitting farewell to the island’s natural charm.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

The tour is conducted in a comfortable van, and with a maximum of 8 travelers, it offers a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours. The pickup and drop-off from the cruise port make logistics simple—especially for those with tight schedules. The price, around $56.68, is quite reasonable considering the quality of scenery and guides you’ll encounter. With an average booking window of 85 days in advance, it’s clear this tour is popular among cruise passengers wanting a dependable, well-organized outing.

Guides and Authenticity

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and deep knowledge. Andrea and Joao received nods for how they shared insider tips and engaging stories, making the experience feel personal rather than scripted. One guest even praised Joao’s storytelling, calling him a “fantastic guide,” which hints at the authentic local storytelling that elevates this tour above merely visiting a few sights.

Timing and Scheduling

Starting at 9:00 am, the tour is flexible to your cruise schedule, especially if your ship docks after 9 am. The 3–4 hour duration is perfect for travelers who want to see key sights without feeling rushed. Keep in mind, cancellation policies mean you’re protected if the weather turns poor or if minimum numbers aren’t met.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a quick but rich taste of São Miguel’s most iconic landscapes. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate storytelling, authentic local experiences, and stunning panoramic views. If you’re short on time but want a well-organized, insightful tour, this fits the bill. However, those seeking in-depth exploration or a longer, more detailed experience might prefer longer tours or private options.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

For anyone arriving in Ponta Delgada on a cruise, this Sete Cidades tour offers an excellent combination of scenic beauty, local charm, and expert guidance. The viewpoints are unforgettable, and the stories shared by guides like Andrea and Joao bring the landscape to life, transforming a sightseeing trip into a memorable cultural experience. The small group size makes it feel personal, while the price point offers genuine value given the quality and variety of sights covered.

While it’s brief, this excursion hits all the highlights—perfect for those who want a snapshot of São Miguel’s natural wonders without fuss. If you’re after a courteous, well-organized, and engaging introduction to the island, you’ll find this tour hard to beat.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:00 am, but the start time is flexible depending on your cruise disembarkation schedule.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, with a maximum group size of 8, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll have a guided experience with a local storyteller, breathtaking scenery, and insurance. Pickup and drop-off from the cruise port are also provided.

Are there any additional costs?
All stops listed are free to access, but tips are not included, and meals or souvenirs are not part of the package.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket, depending on the weather.

Choosing this tour means opting for an engaging, scenic, and hassle-free introduction to São Miguel’s most iconic sights, guided by passionate locals who love sharing their island. For a memorable glimpse of the Azores’ natural beauty, it’s a worthwhile addition to any cruise itinerary.