Shore Excursions to the volcano and crater of Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Exploring the Lagoa das Sete Cidades: A Detailed Review of the Azores Shore Excursion

If you’re cruising into Ponta Delgada and looking for a way to see the iconic landscapes of São Miguel, this tour to Lagoa das Sete Cidades offers a compelling option. This experience combines scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and a bit of local flavor, all packed into around four hours. While it’s not a full-day trek, it provides a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s breathtaking natural beauty and charming villages.

One of the most appealing aspects is the small group size, capped at just eight travelers, which means you’ll get more personalized attention and richer insights from your guide — Carla, who’s notably knowledgeable and passionate about her island. The tour’s price point ($67.47) is quite reasonable considering the number of stops, the included admissions, and the personalized service.

However, some might find the overall experience a bit rushed, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal — fog can obscure the incredible views, as noted by a reviewer. Still, the tour’s strength lies in its diverse stops and local storytelling, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer curated, manageable excursions over self-driving or more extensive tours.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, small-group atmospheres, and a mix of natural beauty with cultural insights. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized introduction to São Miguel’s highlights, this tour delivers.

Key Points

Small group size enhances the experience with personalized attention.
Diverse stops showcase the island’s natural beauty and local culture.
Expert guide offers rich knowledge and personal insights about the Azores.
Value for money given the inclusion of multiple admissions and round-trip transport.
Flexible cancellation policy allows for peace of mind.
Potential weather impact can affect the scenic views, especially at viewpoints.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins conveniently with pickup from your cruise port or hotel, in an air-conditioned vehicle. This reduces the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads and allows you to relax while your guide, Carla, shares tidbits about the island’s history and geography even before reaching your first stop. With a maximum of eight travelers, the journey feels intimate and allows for easy conversation and questions.

Stop 1: Plantação de Ananas dos Açores

Your first stop sets the tone with a visit to a pineapple plantation. Here, you’ll watch a brief video explaining the history and cultivation process of the unique Azorean pineapples, which are prized for their sweetness and resilience. This stop isn’t just about tasting (though you might get a sample), but also about understanding the island’s agricultural heritage. The admission ticket is included, making this a smooth start to the experience.

Stop 2: Miradouro do Pico do Carvão

Next, you’ll ascend to around 800 meters altitude for panoramic views of both the north and south coasts. This viewpoint is a highlight, offering a sweeping vista of the island’s rugged coastline and lush landscapes. Though the time here is brief (about 15 minutes), the views are worth it. Reviewers have noted that fog can sometimes obscure the scenery, but the guide’s commentary about the island’s geography adds value, regardless of the weather.

Stop 3: Lagoa do Canário

This crater lake, with its striking turquoise waters, is a peaceful spot that allows for photos and a quick walk around the rim. The crater’s volcanic origins make it a fascinating feature, and the relatively short 25-minute stop is well-paced. Visitors often remark on its serene atmosphere and the stunning contrast of colors in the landscape.

Stop 4: Miradouro da Vista do Rei

Arguably the most iconic viewpoint, this site offers breathtaking vistas of both the blue and green lagoons of Sete Cidades. The panoramic perspective here is what many travelers come to see, making it a prime photo opportunity. The stop is brief but impactful, giving you time to take in the scenery and listen to stories about the legend of the twin lakes.

Stop 5: Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras

This lower viewpoint offers a different angle of the lakes and the surrounding village of the Seven Cities. It’s a less crowded spot, providing a quieter moment for reflection and photography. The 15-minute stop provides a fresh perspective and adds to the scenic diversity of the tour.

Stop 6: Igreja de São Nicolau

This charming neo-Gothic church, built in the 17th or 19th century, offers a cultural touchstone amid natural beauty. The alley lined with cryptomerias is especially picturesque. At 35 minutes, it’s a leisurely stop that allows you to soak in some local history and architecture, adding a meaningful cultural layer to your day.

Stop 7: Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

The final viewpoint provides sweeping views of the west coast, with rugged cliffs and ocean vistas. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the day’s sights and snap some last photos. The 20-minute stop is well-positioned to conclude your scenic journey on a high note.

Final Stop: Feteira and Coastal Drive

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive along the southwest coast passing through villages such as Ginetes, Candelária, and Feteira. This 45-minute drive offers a taste of authentic local life and beautiful coastal scenery. Reviewers mention this part as a relaxing way to end, with one noting it as a free addition that adds value.

Insights from Travelers

Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guide, Carla, who shared insights about the island’s geology, agriculture, and local stories. One reviewer described her as “extremely knowledgeable,” which significantly enhanced their experience. People also loved the small-group setting; it fostered conversations and made the entire trip feel personalized rather than touristy.

On the downside, some travelers found the ride in an “old, creaky van” a bit uncomfortable, especially in the back seats where hearing the guide was difficult. Weather was also mentioned as a factor that could diminish the views — fog at the lagoons can obscure the scenery, but even then, the guide’s commentary kept things interesting.

The pineapple plantation was a somewhat divisive stop; while some found it fascinating, a reviewer felt it wasn’t worth the time. The stops at Sete Cidades and the viewpoints are the main attractions, which most agree are worth the brief detours.

Valuing the Price: Is It Worth It?

At $67.47 per person, this tour offers solid value, particularly considering the included admissions, bottled water, guide, and door-to-door pickup. For a well-organized, small-group experience with multiple viewpoints and cultural stops, it’s a good deal. The quick pace means you get to see many highlights without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.

Given the reviews, the tour provides a good balance: you get stunning landscapes, informative commentary, and an authentic taste of São Miguel. The price also makes it accessible for most travelers, especially compared to private tours or self-driving options, which can be more expensive or complicated.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion suits travelers who want a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and expert guidance. It’s perfect for those arriving via cruise who want to maximize their limited time, but also for visitors who prefer small groups and personalized service. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the viewpoints offer plenty of opportunities, especially at Vista do Rei and Ponta do Escalvado.

However, if weather conditions are poor or you’re after a more physical or adventure-focused experience, you might want to consider alternative tours or a private option that allows more flexibility.

The Sum Up

This small-group tour to Lagoa das Sete Cidades and surrounding viewpoints is a solid choice for travelers seeking an authentic, scenic, and culturally enriching experience in São Miguel. The knowledgeable guide and well-planned itinerary highlight the island’s most iconic landscapes without feeling rushed. While weather can sometimes play spoilsport, the overall value, comfort, and diversity of stops make it a worthwhile addition to any Azores itinerary.

Ideal for those who love stunning vistas, local stories, and manageable group sizes, this tour offers a balanced, enjoyable way to see the best of São Miguel’s natural wonders. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet comprehensive excursion that captures the essence of the island, this experience from Azores Magic Tours is worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, bottled water, an experienced guide, and all admission tickets for the stops.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, which covers all stops and transportation time.

Is it suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the small size and moderate pace make it ideal for those comfortable with a few hours of sightseeing and walking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and some extra cash if you want souvenirs or snacks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Will I see the lakes clearly?
Views can sometimes be impacted by fog, but the guide will share plenty of stories and insights regardless.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The viewpoints, especially Vista do Rei, are perfect for capturing the landscape.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The panoramic vistas of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, along with the guide’s local insights, make this a memorable experience.