From Ponta Delgada: Vista do Rei to Sete Cidades Guided Trek

Travelers looking to experience the natural beauty of the Azores will find this guided trek from Vista do Rei to Sete Cidades a solid choice. It’s a relatively short adventure—about 2.5 hours—that offers a chance to see some of the most iconic landscapes on São Miguel Island. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just want a scenic walk with a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides a well-balanced mix of nature, viewpoints, and easygoing exploration.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the focus on stunning viewpoints like Vista do Rei, and the chance to see Caldeira Seca and Caldeira do Alferes craters. Another highlight is the small group size—limited to 15 participants—which makes it more personal and easier to ask questions. However, one thing to keep in mind is that, based on some reviews, the guide might not always provide extensive information, so if you’re craving a deeply educational experience, you might want to prepare some questions ahead of time.

This trek is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic walk with gorgeous views and friendly guidance. It’s especially suitable if you’re in Ponta Delgada and want a quick yet meaningful outdoor activity that covers the highlights of the Sete Cidades area.

Key Points

• Short and Scenic: A manageable 2.5-hour trek perfect for those with limited time but a love for nature.
• Breathtaking Views: Offers vistas of the craters, the inlets of Mosteiros, and the coast, making it a picture-perfect experience.
• Small Group: Intimate tours with a maximum of 15 people encourage a more personal interaction.
• Flexible & Convenient: Includes hotel pickup, making it a hassle-free way to explore.
• Multilingual Guides: Conducted in Portuguese, Spanish, and English to cater to diverse travelers.
• Good Value: Combines guided expertise with spectacular scenery, making it worthwhile for nature lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Trek Experience

If you’re considering this guided trek, here’s what you can generally expect. The tour begins with pickup from select hotels in Ponta Delgada—plan to be ready about 10 minutes before your scheduled departure. From there, you’ll head to the starting point at Vista do Rei, which sits on the western slope of the Sete Cidades ridges. This viewpoint is one of the most famous on the island, offering a panoramic view of the Lagoa das Sete Cidades and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

The trail itself is primarily on dirt roads and gentle paths, making it accessible to most fitness levels. During the walk, you’ll pass multiple viewpoints such as Escalvado and Lomba do Vasco, each offering different perspectives on the volcanic caldera and the lush greenery surrounding it. This part of the island is a protected landscape inside the natural park, which adds a layer of preservation and beauty to every step.

As you make your way towards the end of the trek, you’ll have the chance to see the craters of Caldeira Seca and Caldeira do Alferes—impressive, vast volcanic formations that highlight the island’s volcanic activity. The views extend to the northwest coast, where the inlets of Mosteiros shimmer in the distance, giving you a full picture of São Miguel’s rugged coastline and volcanic interior.

The Highlights of the Tour

The Vista do Rei viewpoint is arguably the star of this tour. It’s a spot that’s often featured in photos of the Azores and provides a dramatic overlook of the twin lakes. Many travelers mention that the scenery here is truly breathtaking, with some reviews noting the “magnificent points of view.”

Moving along, the route takes you to Escalvado, another vantage point where you can appreciate the rugged coast and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. Then, the trek continues to Lomba do Vasco, an ideal spot to take in the expansive landscape before heading towards the village of Sete Cidades. This small village is famous for its lakes and the surrounding lush greenery, providing a charming end to your walk.

The tour emphasizes the impressive landscapes of the island—rolling volcanic terrain, vibrant hortensia flowers lining the paths, and views that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s a landscape that lends itself well to photography, relaxation, and appreciating nature’s power.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture of this experience, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 9 reviews. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides; for example, one reviewer from Belgium mentioned their guide as being “very knowledgeable.” Another from the U.S. raved about how the guide, David, was “so kind and informative,” sharing interesting details about the island’s history, geography, and nature.

Some reviews, however, point out that the guide may not always provide extensive commentary. One traveler from Canada gave a 3-star review, noting that the viewpoints are “magnificent,” but felt the guide didn’t share much information, suggesting that a self-guided walk could be just as rewarding for those who prefer to explore independently.

From the positive reviews, it’s clear that the scenery and views are the main attractions, and many find the guided component adds a layer of comfort and insight—especially if you’re new to the area or want someone to point out and explain the landscape.

The Practical Side

This tour is designed to be accessible, including a wheelchair-friendly option, though some uneven terrain may require caution. The duration of 2.5 hours makes it suitable for most travelers, whether you’re fitting it into a busy day or want a leisurely walk. The small group size ensures that interactions are friendly and less rushed.

Pricing-wise, it’s a good value considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, a guide, and the stunning scenery. It’s a balanced experience for those who want to see the highlights without committing to a full-day tour or strenuous hike.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic trek that captures the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, this guided walk from Vista do Rei to Sete Cidades is a solid pick. The views are truly exceptional, and the small group setting makes it easy to ask questions and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty but don’t want to spend hours hiking or navigating on their own. If you’re a curious traveler eager to learn about the island’s geography, you’ll benefit from a knowledgeable guide. But if you’re solely after the views and prefer to explore independently, you might find the experience less detailed.

All in all, this is a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see some of São Miguel’s most iconic landscapes—whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the trail is mostly flat or gently sloping, making it accessible for most people. There is a short section that is a bit steeper but paved, so it shouldn’t be a problem with normal mobility.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is offered in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, so you can choose one that suits you best.

What should I bring on the trek?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Since the terrain is mostly dirt and paved paths, good footwear will help. Bringing some water and perhaps a light jacket is also wise, depending on the weather.

How long is the entire experience?
The guided trek lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including travel time from your hotel via pickup.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is handy if your plans are uncertain.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from select hotels in Ponta Delgada is included, making it very convenient.

What if it’s foggy or the weather isn’t great?
Reviews mention that guides are flexible—some even offered alternatives like biking or visiting local sites if the weather isn’t ideal.

Is there an age limit for this trek?
The tour is suitable for most, but always check with the operator if you have specific needs or concerns about suitability for children.

How many people will be on the tour?
The small group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personal experience.

Whether you’re after some of the best views on São Miguel, a gentle walk in nature, or a chance to learn about the landscape from a friendly guide, this trek offers a pretty good deal. It provides a taste of the Azores’ volcanic splendor without requiring a huge time commitment or strenuous effort.

You can check availability for your dates here: