Cruise Travellers: Sete Cidades Volcano, The Blue & Green Lake

If you’re cruising through Ponta Delgada and looking for a way to see the highlights of São Miguel, this tour centered around the Sete Cidades volcano and twin lakes might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice among travelers, especially those who want a taste of outdoor adventure combined with scenic vistas and local culture.

What really appeals here are the stunning views at Vista do Rei and the chance to explore inside the volcano itself. Plus, the tour includes a visit to a pineapple plantation—an unusual feature that adds a local flavor you won’t find in every Azores trip.

However, there’s one thing to keep in mind: the duration is around 3 to 4 hours, which is just enough to scratch the surface. And while most reviews praise the guides and the scenery, some mention inconsistent information or timing issues.

This tour is best suited for folks who enjoy outdoor sights, don’t mind a little walking or driving, and want a well-organized introduction to São Miguel’s volcanic landscape without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery at the Blue and Green Lakes, with breathtaking viewpoints.
• Knowledgeable local guides share stories, legends, and insights about the island and volcano.
• Includes unique stops like a pineapple plantation and inside-the-volcano exploration.
• Price point offers good value for a half-day adventure, especially with transport and guide included.
• Some reviews mention variable guide informativeness and weather-dependent visibility.
• Flexible drop-off options allow you to choose your preferred return point, either the port or the city center.

What to Expect from the Tour

This half-day experience is designed to give you a quick yet meaningful look at one of São Miguel’s most captivating sites—the Sete Cidades crater and lakes. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to savor some of the best scenery and learn about local legends from a passionate guide.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at the Arruda Pineapple Plantation:
The tour kicks off with a brief visit to a pineapple plantation housed in glass greenhouses. If you’ve ever wondered how these unique plants grow on the islands, this is your chance to learn about the cultivation process. It’s a quick stop—about 15 minutes—but it sets a good tone for appreciating local agriculture. Many find it fascinating, especially since it’s the only plantation of its kind in greenhouses on the island.

Next, Vista do Rei Miradouro:
From here, you’ll enjoy one of Portugal’s most renowned viewpoints. It’s the perfect spot for photos, overlooking the twin lakes of Sete Cidades—the famous blue and green lakes that make the landscape so iconic. Travelers consistently praise this view as “magical” and “breathtaking,” though weather can affect visibility. Several reviews highlight that if fog rolls in, the lakes might appear dull, but the scenery still remains impressive.

Inside the Caldeira das Sete Cidades:
Descending into the crater, you’ll have a chance to stroll along the lakes’ edges, visit the local parish, and perhaps peek into São Nicolau church. The scenery here is lush and tranquil, perfect for a walk or a quick exploration. Some travelers mention the opportunity to explore the village or just relax and take photos—an ideal moment to soak in the natural beauty.

Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado:
The last viewpoint provides a dramatic perspective over the rugged coastline and the Mosteiros islets. With black rocks and towering cliffs, this spot offers a different facet of São Miguel’s volcanic terrain. It’s a short stop, but many find it equally captivating, especially if they enjoy dramatic coastlines.

Wrap-up at Ponta Delgada:
The return drive takes about 30 minutes, giving you time to relax and reflect. You can select your drop-off point—either back at the cruise terminal or the city center—making it convenient for your onward plans.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Multiple reviews highlight how knowledgeable and passionate guides make all the difference. One reviewer raved about Andrea, saying, “She was amazing,” emphasizing how her insights added layers of meaning to the scenery. Others appreciated the friendly atmosphere and the way the guide kept everyone engaged, providing tips on where to eat or what else to see.

The scenic stops consistently receive praise. The Vista do Rei, in particular, earns frequent mentions as an unmissable view, with some reviewers calling it “the highlight of the trip.” Even if the weather isn’t perfect, most agree it’s worth the effort for the stunning landscape.

Finally, the inclusion of local wines and cheeses during the tour was a nice touch, adding a taste of Azorean culture in a relaxed setting. Several travelers enjoyed the small-group vibe, which made the experience feel intimate and personalized.

The Downside and Considerations

While most reviews are positive, a few travelers noted some inconsistencies or moments of underwhelming informativeness. One reviewer pointed out that their guide was less engaged, spending time on her phone or speaking Portuguese to the driver. So, if you’re someone who values a very detailed narrative or guide interaction, it’s worth noting that experiences can vary.

Weather is another factor. Since the lakes and viewpoints depend heavily on clear skies, fog or rain can obscure the views, making the visit less vivid. Naomi_S mentioned that due to thick fog, the lakes appeared “grey,” which, while not ideal, still provided a different and interesting perspective.

Transport is generally comfortable, with small groups of up to 33 travelers. The vehicle size and the stops’ timing allow for a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.

Price-wise, at just over $58 per person, this tour offers solid value—covering transportation, local guide, and entry to picturesque stops. If you’re after a quick but meaningful glimpse of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty, it’s hard to beat this price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for cruise travelers who want a well-organized, scenic overview of the Sete Cidades area. It’s ideal if you prefer outdoor sightseeing with minimal walking but still want a knowledgeable guide who can share local stories and legends.

If your priority is capturing iconic views, learning about the island’s volcanic history, or enjoying local flavors like wine and cheese, you’ll find this tour satisfying. However, if you’re seeking a very detailed or in-depth geological exploration, you might find it a bit surface-level. It’s more about enjoying the scenery and local culture quickly and comfortably.

This experience particularly appeals to those who value small group encounters and a casual, friendly atmosphere, rather than a highly formal or lengthy excursion.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, making it convenient for cruise travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 to 4 hours, which makes it perfect for fitting into a cruise schedule.

Can I choose my return location?
Yes, you can opt to be dropped off either at the cruise terminal or the Ponta Delgada city center.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a local guide, bottled water, insurances, and transportation. Entry fees and personal purchases are not included.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the stops are outdoor and scenic, making it generally suitable for travelers of all ages who enjoy nature and sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially if you want to explore on foot at the stops.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
Most reviews suggest the allocated times are sufficient for photos and brief explorations, though some find them a little rushed.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Most travelers say yes; guides are passionate and share local legends and tips. Experiences can vary, but the majority are very positive.

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions obscure visibility, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
No; most costs are included, but personal purchases and optional tips are extra.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a balanced, scenic tour that highlights the beauty of the Sete Cidades lakes and volcano, this experience offers good value and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a practical choice for those who want an overview without a long commitment, and the knowledgeable guides help bring the landscape to life.

While it’s not a deep-dive geology expedition, it hits all the main highlights—viewpoints, lakes, and local culture—in a relaxed, enjoyable setting. Weather can be a wildcard, but even a cloudy day can add a different, atmospheric touch to the scenery.

This tour tends to satisfy most travelers, especially those who appreciate picturesque vistas, local stories, and a comfort-focused approach to exploration. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s well worth considering for your Azores adventure.