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

Exploring Lagoa das Sete Cidades: A Practical Guide to the Azores’ Most Iconic Landmark

If you’re heading to São Miguel Island in the Azores, chances are you’ve heard about Lagoa das Sete Cidades. This volcanic crater filled with twin lakes is a postcard-worthy scene that appears in nearly every brochure about the region. A guided tour that covers this area promises a taste of its breathtaking landscapes, local culture, and hidden viewpoints.

From what we’ve seen and heard, this tour offers a solid way to experience the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Two things we really like about it: first, the small group size and knowledgeable guide who can make the scenery come alive, and second, the variety of stops, each offering a different perspective on the island’s volcanic beauty.

However, one aspect to consider is the common complaints about transport comfort—some reviews mention an older van with less-than-smooth suspension, which might make the ride less comfy, especially if you’re sensitive to bumpy roads. Still, if you’re after a cost-effective, well-organized way to see the main sights, this tour may suit travelers who enjoy guided sightseeing and are okay with a few minor vehicle issues.

In short, this experience seems best suited for those who want a rundown of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes without the need to rent a car or navigate solo. It’s especially good if you value insider knowledge and are happy with a group small enough for personalized attention.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery with multiple viewpoints of Lagoa das Sete Cidades
• Knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the island’s landscapes and culture
• Comfortable pickup and drop-off included, making logistics simple
• Varied stops including pineapple plantation, historic church, and scenic overlooks
• Value for money considering the inclusion of multiple stops, water, and transportation
• Potential comfort issues due to older vehicle with rough suspension

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

This tour, roughly four hours long, packs in a good mix of nature, culture, and scenic vistas. It’s designed to show you the highlights, but knowing what each stop entails can help you decide if it’s the right fit.

Plantation de Ananas dos Açores

Your day kicks off at a pineapple plantation. What’s special about this stop is the chance to see the local pineapple-growing process firsthand. You’ll watch a short video explaining the history and cultivation methods of the unique Azorean pineapples—a crop that’s both important economically and culturally on São Miguel.

Some reviews mention that this part may not be the most exciting for everyone, but the inclusion of the admission ticket and the informative video adds value, especially if you’re curious about local agriculture. Plus, it’s a good way to start your day with a bit of local flavor.

Miradouro do Pico do Carvão

Next, you’ll head up to an altitude of 800 meters at this lookout point. The views here are often described as stunning, with sightlines stretching over both sides of the island, mainly towards the north coast.

Travelers have appreciated this stop for its breathtaking vistas—a perfect photo opportunity. However, weather conditions can affect visibility—some reviews mention fog obstructing views, which is common in mountain areas. Still, the guide’s commentary can make this part informative and engaging, even if the weather isn’t perfect.

Lagoa do Canário

This volcanic crater lake is a highlight for many. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a serene view that you can admire from the roadside. It’s a relatively quick stop, but the scenery is worth it for a snapshot or just to appreciate the volcanic forces that shaped the island.

Miradouro da Vista do Rei

Arguably the most famous viewpoint, this spot provides a classic view of the twin lagoons—one blue, one green—that give Lagoa das Sete Cidades its name. The nickname “Seven Cities” refers to the legend of the seven villages that once existed here, now submerged beneath the lakes.

Photographers rave about this stop, and many reviews mention capturing incredible photos. It’s a must-see, especially if you want that iconic shot of the lakes.

Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras

From a slightly lower perspective, this viewpoint offers a different angle of the lakes and the surrounding town. Travelers like seeing the landscape from varied heights and appreciating the scale of the volcanic caldera.

Igreja de São Nicolau

A charming neo-Gothic church built in the 17th century, this stop provides a peaceful snapshot of local history and architecture. The alley lined with cryptomerias adds a picturesque touch, and it’s a quieter moment amid the natural grandeur.

Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

The last scenic stop offers sweeping views of the West coast. Travelers often find it a fitting conclusion to the tour, soaking in the dramatic cliffs and ocean vistas.

Feteira

Finally, the tour winds along the southwest coast through small parishes like Ginetes, Candelária, and Feteira. This scenic drive offers a glimpse into local life and landscapes away from busy tourist spots. It’s a nice, relaxed way to round off the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $67.47 per person, this tour offers quite a bit. Included are bottled water, a guide, pickup and drop-off service, and air-conditioned transportation—all of which make the day comfortable and hassle-free. The ticket price also covers all the entrance fees for the stops, like the pineapple plantation and viewpoints.

One thing to note is that airport pickup isn’t included, so if you’re arriving or departing from the airport at different times, you’ll need to arrange your own transfer. The tour’s small group size (max 8 travelers) means you get more personalized attention, which many travelers appreciate.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Review snippets paint a clear picture of what to expect. For example, Rick_M appreciated the stunning views, despite fog limiting the crater scenery, and noted that the driver’s knowledge and sharing made up for the weather. Mary_H highlighted the social aspect, enjoying the small group and the variety of places to take photos.

Jeanette_H also enjoyed the comprehensive coverage, mentioning how they walked around a small village and learned about local agriculture. She praised the guide, Carla, for her extensive knowledge.

On the flip side, James_L voiced disappointment for not finding the ride very engaging and felt that some stops, like the pineapple plantation and Canary Lake, were not worth the time. His experience was hampered by the vehicle’s discomfort and a less informative guide.

This mixed feedback underscores the importance of managing expectations: if you’re after a panoramic, well-organized, small-group tour with knowledgeable guides, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding. But if comfort in transit or very detailed insider info is your priority, you might want to consider other options or prepare for some bumpy roads.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see the most iconic natural sights of São Miguel, this tour checks many boxes. Its small group size and guided experience make it ideal for travelers wanting personal attention and local insights. The stops—especially the viewpoints—are genuinely impressive, offering some of the best photo opportunities on the island.

It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a slightly older vehicle or quick stops, as some travelers found the vehicle rides less comfortable. The included visits to a pineapple plantation and historic church add a nice cultural touch, rounding out the experience for those interested in both nature and local history.

Travelers who prioritize comfort and a highly polished experience might find this tour a bit rough around the edges, but for most, it offers a satisfying snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty. The value lies in the combination of scenery, expert guidance, and the variety of sites covered.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off are included, and you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all listed stops like the pineapple plantation, viewpoints, and church include their admission tickets.

What should I bring?
Bottled water is provided, but it’s good to bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a camera.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically designed for kids, the stops are mostly outdoor scenic views and a small church, so it can work for families, but check individual needs for comfort and pace.

What if the weather is Foggy or Rains?
The guide will do their best to show the best views, but weather can impact the scenery—especially at mountain viewpoints.

Is the tour stroller-friendly?
Most stops involve short walks and accessible viewpoints, but some terrain might be uneven.

How many people usually travel on this tour?
A maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate group.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
It runs year-round, but clear weather days will offer the best views—check local forecasts before booking.

If you’re seeking a straightforward, scenic, and informative way to see Lagoa das Sete Cidades, this tour from Azores Magic Tours might just be a good fit—especially if you appreciate a guided experience with flexible stops and a small group.