Quad /2pax Off-road Excursion Sete Cidades Half Day

If you’re visiting Ponta Delgada and craving a mix of adrenaline, breathtaking scenery, and a taste of local adventure, a quad bike tour of Sete Cidades might be just what you need. This tour, rated 4.5 out of 5 from nearly 100 reviews, offers an exciting way to explore the Azores’ most iconic landscapes in a small-group setting. It’s designed to be accessible to all ages and experience levels, making it a versatile option for families, thrill-seekers, or anyone wanting to see the island’s highlights with a bit of a boost.

One thing we particularly like about this experience is how well it balances adventure with comfort. Your price of around $81.28 per person includes guide service, helmets, gasoline, and insurance—so there’s no hidden cost or hassle about equipment. Plus, the itinerary is packed with stunning viewpoints like Pico do Carvão, Vista do Rei, and the lakes of Sete Cidades itself. However, a consideration to keep in mind is that the vehicles have received some mixed reviews, with a few travelers mentioning concerns about vehicle safety and maintenance. Still, most reviews praise the professional guides and the remarkable scenery.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a hands-on experience of the Azores’ natural beauty without the commitment of full-day excursions. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy a bit of speed and the outdoors, as well as families with teens or groups of friends looking for a shared thrill.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Price: Guides, helmets, gasoline, and insurance are included.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect views of Sete Cidades lakes, Pico do Carvão, Santiago Lake, and more.
• Small Group: Enhances safety and allows for personalized attention.
• Experience Level: Suitable for all ages and skill levels—no prior quad experience necessary.
• Duration: Around 3 to 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure.
• Weather Flexibility: The tour can be rescheduled at no extra cost if weather conditions change.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Meeting Point & Introduction
The adventure kicks off at the ANC Buggy/Quad Tours office in Valados, a convenient spot just a short drive from Ponta Delgada. The staff there will check your driving license (a must for riding the quads), provide helmets, and give a brief safety and instructions session. Guides like Ruben and Pedro, who are praised for their friendly demeanor and local insights, lead the tours.

Stop 1: Covoada & Pico do Carvão Viewpoint
The journey begins with a ride through the countryside, giving you a chance to get comfortable on your quad. The first viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of Covoada and Pico do Carvão, with some visitors noting how this area is a good warm-up for the scenic stops to come. One reviewer mentions that the guides give fun facts about the landscape, making the stops educational as well as beautiful.

Stop 2: Vista do Rei
One of the tour’s highlights, this viewpoint overlooks the famous Sete Cidades lakes. As one reviewer describes, “the view was spectacular from the top,” and the photo opportunities are abundant. During this stop, you’ll have roughly 30 minutes to soak in the scenery, take photos, and learn about the volcanic crater that created these twin lakes.

Stop 3: Lagoa Verde & Lagoa das Sete Cidades
Here, the group might split up to explore different angles of the lakes. One traveler shared that riding around the rim of the crater offered stunning green and blue waters that are only accessible via this tour. The guides often point out interesting facts, enhancing your understanding of the volcanic past and ecological significance.

Stop 4: Caldeira das Sete Cidades & Santiago Lake
Next, you’ll visit key viewpoints that showcase the island’s volcanic caldera and the smaller Santiago Lake. Some reviews note that these stops are brief but very photo-worthy. One reviewer mentions that although it was rainy and cold, it added to the adventure and provided a more authentic experience of the island’s unpredictable weather.

Return & Reflection
The tour wraps up back at the starting point after around 3 to 4 hours of riding. Many reviewers have expressed how the experience exceeded their expectations, with comments like “best excursion ever” and “the views were breathtaking.” Guides like Andres and Luis are praised for their local knowledge, humor, and making everyone feel comfortable, even first-timers.

The Value of the Tour

At roughly $81 per person, this tour offers excellent value given what’s included. You’re getting a guided experience, with all the necessary safety gear and insurance, plus gasoline—eliminating surprises or additional costs. The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, which means more personalized attention and safety.

While the price might seem higher than some basic excursions, remember that you’re not just paying for transport—you’re paying for an immersive, scenic adventure that combines off-road riding with the chance to see the island’s most iconic vistas. Several reviews highlight how guides like Felipe, Luis, and Pedro make the trip special with their local insights and friendly approach.

The Challenges & Considerations

Some reviews point out the state of the vehicles—a few travelers felt that the quads could be better maintained. One reviewer expressed concern about the safety of the vehicles, mentioning a mishap and difficulty seeing a waiver. While most reports praise the professionalism of the guides and the safety measures in place, it’s worth keeping in mind that off-road riding on older vehicles can carry risks.

Weather can also impact the experience—if it’s raining or cold, the scenery might be less vibrant, and comfort levels could decrease. However, many reviews note that the guides adapt well, and the experience still remains worthwhile even in less-than-ideal weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This half-day quad adventure is perfect for those looking for an active way to explore Sete Cidades without the demands of a full-day trip. It suits families with teens, adventure lovers, and anyone eager to see the island’s top viewpoints with a bit of speed and fun. It’s also a fantastic choice for first-time quad riders, given the guidance and manageable group size.

If you’re after a mix of scenic beauty and adrenaline, and don’t mind the possibility of variable weather, this tour offers an authentic taste of the Azores’ wild side. Just be prepared for some bumpy rides and ensure your driving license is valid.

The Sum Up

This quad off-road tour of Sete Cidades combines exhilarating riding with stunning landscapes, guided by knowledgeable locals who care about your experience. For around $81, you get a well-rounded, scenic adventure that covers everything from viewpoints to volcanic lakes, all within a manageable 3-4 hour window. It’s a great way to add some excitement to your Azores trip, especially if you’re eager to see the natural beauty from a different perspective.

However, potential participants should consider the condition of the vehicles and the weather forecast. If safety and vehicle reliability are your top priorities, reading recent reviews or asking questions beforehand will help you decide.

This tour is best for adventurous travelers who love the outdoors and are open to a bit of mess and mud. Families with older children, groups of friends, and those craving a unique way to see Sete Cidades will find plenty to love here.

FAQ

Do I need a special driving license?
Yes, a valid driving license is required to operate the quad bikes.

Is this experience suitable for children or teens?
It’s designed for all ages, but you should check if your teen has a driver’s license and is comfortable riding a quad.

What’s included in the price?
Guide service, gasoline, helmets, and personal insurance are included. No hidden costs.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather—bring waterproofs if rain is forecast, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor riding.

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

Are there any safety concerns?
Some reviews mention the vehicle condition, so safety depends on the current state of the quads. Guides are generally professional and attentive.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be rescheduled at no extra cost depending on weather conditions. Rain or shine, the guides will adapt.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most travelers book about 40 days in advance, but last-minute availability depends on demand.

What’s the group size?
Up to 20 travelers, but most groups are smaller to ensure safety and personal attention.

Whether you’re chasing breathtaking views, craving a bit of adventure, or both, this quad tour of Sete Cidades offers a memorable way to experience the Azores’ volcanic beauty. Just buckle up, hold tight, and enjoy the ride!