Walking tour to Sete Cidades with picnic lunch

This carefully curated tour offers a relaxed yet immersive way to experience one of the most breathtaking sights in São Miguel—the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades. With a knowledgeable guide, scenic viewpoints, a gentle hike, and a delicious picnic overlooking the lakes, this experience promises more than just the usual snapshot stops. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking an authentic, intimate encounter with the island’s natural beauty.

One feature that really stands out is the small-group format—capped at just eight people—which creates a welcoming, personal atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and flexibility is appreciated. The inclusion of a picnic lunch during or after the walk adds a special touch, allowing you to soak up the views while enjoying local flavors.

A potential consideration is the weather—since the tour operates in all conditions, you’ll want to dress appropriately for sun, wind, or rain. And while the walk is described as easy, it covers between 7.5 and 11 kilometers, so a reasonable level of comfort with walking is advised. The tour primarily appeals to those who love nature, stunning vistas, and a relaxed pace, making it perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a genuine Azores adventure.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Spectacular Views: Elevated viewpoints like Pico do Carvão provide almost panoramic island sights.
• Authentic Food: Picnic lunch with views over the lakes brings local flavors directly to you.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides like Paulo enhance the experience with insights and flexibility.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz van makes the journey between spots pleasant.
• Flexible Itinerary: Walk distance varies based on your preferences, allowing a tailored experience.

A Closer Look at the Sete Cidades Tour

This tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup at the tourism office in Ponta Delgada, setting the tone for a hassle-free day. Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz van, the group heads westward, aiming for scenic viewpoints and gentle hikes. The small group size—just eight travelers max—helps keep the atmosphere intimate and lively, perfect for sharing photographs and stories along the way.

The Scenic Drive and Viewpoints

The first stop is Pico do Carvão, a viewpoint that might be the highlight for many. From here, you’re treated to almost a full island panorama, giving context to the volcanic origins and lush landscape. The view offers a comprehensive understanding of São Miguel’s geography, with its craters, farmland, and coastlines all visible in one sweeping glance.

This spot is praised by reviewers for its breathtaking vistas, which help orient you before the hike begins. One traveler mentioned that Paulo, the guide, even checked weather conditions to optimize the experience, demonstrating a high level of care.

The Guided Hike: Views, Lakes, and Local Life

The main activity is an easy-paced walk along the southern flank of the crater, covering between 7.5 and 11 km depending on your starting point and preferences. The trail is described as mostly flat, with gentle inclines, meaning that most you will find it accessible. Along the way, you’ll encounter a diverse set of perspectives of the twin lakes—the Blue Lake and the Green Lake, famous for their contrasting colors.

The route also provides glimpses into the surrounding farming areas and small parishes. Reviewers have highlighted how the guide, Paulo, shares entertaining and informative commentary, enriching the experience with insights into the local flora, fauna, and land use.

Picnic with a View

The picnic lunch is a thoughtful addition—served during or after the walk, depending on weather and timing. Overlooking the lakes, you’ll enjoy local delicacies within a scenic setting. Reviewers have praised the quality of the lunch, describing it as a wonderful opportunity to relax and take in the stunning surroundings. If you have dietary preferences such as vegetarian options, be sure to specify when booking.

Post-Hike Exploration

After the walk, the tour visits the charming Sete Cidades parish for some sightseeing and photo opportunities near the twin lakes. This final stop provides a chance to soak in classic views and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs or enjoy more local stories from your guide.

Why This Tour Offers Value

At $82.69 per person for about 8 hours of guided exploration, this tour offers significant value—combining transportation, a knowledgeable guide, a scenic hike, viewpoints, and a picnic. Instead of piecing together individual elements, you get a curated experience that balances adventure with relaxation. The small-group size guarantees more personalized attention and a chance to truly connect with the landscape and your guide.

The Transport: Comfort & Convenience

Traveling in an air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz van means you arrive at each stop refreshed, especially important in warm weather or after a long walk. The pickup at Ponta Delgada’s central tourism office simplifies logistics, removing the need to worry about directions or parking.

The Guides: Knowledge & Flexibility

Reviewers like Paulo are lauded for their expertise, flexibility, and friendly demeanor. They don’t just point out sights—they bring the landscape alive with stories, local insights, and suggestions. One reviewer mentioned that Paulo’s care extended to weather adjustments, which can be crucial on an island where weather can change quickly.

The Walk: Easy but Rewarding

The trail’s moderate length and even terrain make it accessible for most ages and fitness levels. The walk offers diverse perspectives of the lakes and surrounding farmland, all from viewpoints that are easy to reach. The inclusion of photo stops and local insights helps you take home meaningful memories, not just snapshots.

The Picnic: A Special Touch

Having a picnic overlooking the lakes turns a simple hike into a memorable experience. You get to enjoy local flavors, possibly including fresh regional produce or traditional dishes, in a setting that’s naturally inspiring.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, personal exploration of São Miguel’s iconic scenery without the rush of large group tours or the discomfort of self-driving. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, expert guidance, and authentic local experiences. Families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a mix of light activity, breathtaking views, and good food will find this tour ticks all the boxes.

If you’re interested in learning about the land while enjoying scenic vistas and a delicious picnic, this tour will deliver on those expectations. It’s also an excellent choice if you want a flexible, comfortable, and informative way to see Sete Cidades without fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins with a pickup at the tourism office in Ponta Delgada, at 9:15 am, making it easy to join if you’re already in the city.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, stops, and the picnic lunch.

Is the walk suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, the walk is considered easy, with mostly flat terrain. However, children must be accompanied by an adult, and some mobility might be needed for longer distances.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable shoes are recommended—most of the terrain is even and not steep. Dress appropriately for the weather, and consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, or rain gear if needed.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a picnic lunch overlooking the lakes is included, with options for vegetarians if requested at booking.

Can I customize the route?
The walking distance can vary from 7.5 to 11 km depending on your preference for starting points and pace. The guide is flexible within this range.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour operates rain or shine. If weather conditions are poor enough to affect safety or comfort, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Are there souvenirs available?
While no souvenirs are included, photo prints are available for purchase afterward if you wish to keep some memories.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of Sete Cidades offers a well-balanced combination of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and relaxed enjoyment. The small-group format ensures a personal experience, while the carefully chosen viewpoints and picnic lunch make the day memorable without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone eager to see one of the Azores’ most iconic sights in a genuine way, this tour provides excellent value. The knowledgeable guides, especially Paulo, bring the landscape to life with stories and insights, making the experience richer than simply ticking off a popular attraction.

In a nutshell, if you want a thoughtfully curated day that highlights the natural splendor of São Miguel, this tour is a smart choice. It combines comfort, authenticity, and stunning scenery—an ideal way to cherish your time on this extraordinary island.