Azores Guided Tour to Volcano and Crater of Sete Cidades

When you’re planning a trip to the Azores, one of the most iconic sights is definitely the Sete Cidades crater. This guided tour promises to take you inside the largest volcanic crater on São Miguel, showcasing the famous green and blue lakes that make this spot so photogenic and special. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, reviews and details paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that many travelers find quite rewarding.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with informative stops — from pineapple plantations to breathtaking lookouts. Plus, the price is quite reasonable at $74 per person, especially considering the variety of sights included. On the flip side, some might find the timing a bit rushed or feel that the drive takes up too much of the day. Still, for those looking to see the highlights of São Miguel’s volcanic side, this could be a good pick.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of the island’s volcanic features, with the convenience of a guided trip that covers multiple viewpoints and attractions. If you’re keen on scenic drives, interesting local stops, and big-picture views, you’ll likely enjoy it.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour covers multiple viewpoints, including Miradouro do Pico do Carvão and Vista do Rei, offering classic postcard-worthy scenery.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: From pineapple plantations to volcanic lakes, the stops are varied and well-selected.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviews highlight guides who are friendly and full of helpful information.
• Good Value: At $74, the tour includes transportation, water, and multiple scenic stops, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Timing and Length: Lasts about 4 hours, but some travelers note slight time constraints, especially on the drive.
• Family Friendly: The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it’s more about sightseeing than activities for children.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: From Pineapples to Volcanoes

This tour starts early, around 9:00 am, with a visit to a local pineapple plantation. Here, you’ll spend roughly 30 to 45 minutes exploring and learning about how pineapples are cultivated on the island. It’s a charming start that offers a taste of local agriculture and a chance to snap some photos of the lush greenery.

Many reviews, like Chiara’s, praise this first stop as a pleasant and informative way to get a feel for local life. She mentions that the plantation visit was “pleasant and informative,” and appreciated the detailed explanations from the guide. It’s a relaxed way to begin, setting the tone for the beauty and richness of São Miguel’s scenery.

The Scenic Drive Up to the Crater

Next, the tour heads along the southwest coast and ascends into the mountains, with stops along the way that are designed to maximize your viewing experience. The first major stop is Pico do Carvão, a viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas of the island’s landscape. Expect to spend about 15-20 minutes here, soaking in the scenery and snapping photos.

The drive itself is part of the charm, as you wind your way up through lush, green hills and volcanic terrain. It’s a good way to get a feel for the island’s volcanic origin and varied topography. According to reviews, guides are happy to share insights that help you understand what you’re seeing — for instance, how the lakes and craters formed.

Exploring Volcanic Lakes and Craters

One of the highlights is the stop at Lake of Canario, nestled about 800 meters above sea level. It’s a volcanic crater, and you’ll spend around 20-25 minutes here. This is a quieter spot, offering an intimate view of the volcanic landscape. Travelers might find it a peaceful contrast to the busier viewpoints.

Another must-see stop is Vista do Rei, which offers a jaw-dropping view over the Sete Cidades lakes. Here, you’ll spend 20-30 minutes, taking in the panoramic perspective of the twin lakes, which are famous for their contrasting colors — one green, one blue. This view is often described as postcard-perfect, and many reviewers mention how they enjoyed capturing the scenery in leisurely photography sessions.

The Colorful Lakes and the Village of Sete Cidades

Descending into the crater village of Sete Cidades, you’ll see the famous bridge that separates the green and blue lakes — built in 1967, it’s a fun photo spot and an interesting piece of local infrastructure. The tour includes about 35 minutes here, giving you time to explore the village, enjoy a coffee, or visit the Igreja de São Nicolau, a charming neo-Gothic church built in the 17th century.

Many guests, like Chiara, appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to walk beside the lakes, soaking in the serenity. She notes that the viewpoints at Miradouro dos Cerrado dos Freiras and Lagoa de Santiago simply made for “marvellous photos” and memorable moments.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Final Sunset and Scenic Wrap-up

The last stop is at the Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, perched on a cliff at the island’s western tip. This spot is renowned for its spectacular sunsets and panoramic sea views. Spending around 15-20 minutes here, you’ll likely feel the satisfying conclusion of a day well spent exploring São Miguel’s volcanic heart.

Afterward, the group heads back along the southwest coast to your starting point, typically arriving around 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm — slightly shorter than the full four hours, as some reviews mention.

What You’ll Actually Experience

This tour packs in a lot, but it’s important to understand what that means for your day. You’ll be on a comfortable van with an experienced guide, who will provide commentary in multiple languages including English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish. Since the trip is about scenic viewpoints, geological sights, and local culture, expect a good mix of photo stops, short walks, and relaxed sightseeing.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase the diverse volcanic landscape — from lakes inside craters to viewpoints that highlight the island’s lush, volcanic terrain. The inclusion of a pineapple plantation adds a tangible taste of local agriculture, rounding out the experience.

The Value of the Experience

For $74, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic features. Transportation, a guide, bottled water, and multiple scenic stops are included, making it a convenient way to see a lot without the hassle of self-driving or planning individual visits.

Many reviews note the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging. As Karen states, “Denis Correia showed us some very beautiful places and took his time explaining things. I wouldn’t change a thing.” This personal touch can make a big difference, especially if you’re curious about the natural history of the island.

However, some travelers, like Lina, comment that the timing can be tight — they felt the tour was a bit rushed, especially the drive back to Ponta Delgada. And at 3.5 hours of actual sightseeing, it might feel a little compressed if you’re keen on lingering longer at each stop.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided outing is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a well-organized overview of São Miguel’s volcanic attractions. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer comfort and convenience over self-guided exploration, as it covers major sights with minimal hassle.

Travelers interested in photography will find plenty of stunning viewpoints, and those curious about the island’s geology and farming traditions will appreciate the pineapple plantation stop. If you enjoy small group tours where the guide can answer questions and provide local insights, this one hits the mark.

It’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include long hikes or physically demanding activities, so it’s accessible to most. But if you’re looking for an in-depth, full-day exploration or a tour that lingers longer at each site, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Azores Guided Tour to the Volcano and Crater of Sete Cidades offers a well-balanced introduction to São Miguel’s most iconic volcanic landscapes. For $74, you get a mix of spectacular views, local culture, and geological marvels all wrapped into a manageable 4-hour experience. The highlights—like the lakes, viewpoints, and the charming village—are genuinely beautiful and provide ample photo opportunities.

The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, help bring the scenery to life, making it not just a sightseeing trip but an engaging storytelling experience. While the timing can be a little tight, especially with the drive, most travelers find the trip worth the cost and effort, especially if they’re short on time or prefer guided tours.

Overall, if you’re after a convenient, scenic, and educational way to see the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic heart, this tour could be a great choice. Just be prepared for a day filled with stops, vistas, and plenty of opportunities to appreciate the natural wonders of the Azores.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour focuses on sightseeing and short walks, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, including families, as there are no demanding activities involved. However, always consider your children’s comfort with long drives and sightseeing.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation and stops. Some travelers mention that it can feel slightly rushed, especially on the drive back.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak in English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish, so you can expect explanations in at least one of these languages.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can grab a coffee or snack during the stop in the village of Sete Cidades or at the pineapple plantation.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunglasses, and some water. Comfortable shoes are recommended for short walks at viewpoints and villages.

Is the price of $74 per person good value?
Considering the multiple stops, guided commentary, transportation, and included water, most travelers find it to offer good value for an overview of São Miguel’s volcanic sights.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to book with flexibility.

Do I need to pre-book?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy travel times.

If you’re seeking a practical and scenic introduction to São Miguel’s volcanic wonders, this tour stands out as a solid choice that balances views, culture, and convenience without overextending your day.

You can check availability for your dates here: