Full Day Scenic Tour Lake Sete Cidades Fogo | Pineapple Farm

Full Day Scenic Tour Lake Sete Cidades Fogo | Pineapple Farm

If you’re dreaming of floating above lush green hills dotted with volcanic lakes, this full-day scenic tour around part of São Miguel Island might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and details that paint a pretty vivid picture of what you can expect. It’s especially appealing if you love nature, stunning vistas, and a relaxed pace that allows you to really soak in the scenery.

What caught my eye? First, the chance to see two of the island’s most iconic lakes—Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo—on the same day. Both are breathtaking and steeped in local legend, which adds a layer of charm. Second, the inclusion of a pineapple plantation visit offers a sweet taste of local agriculture and gives a break from the lakes. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind: the tour covers only the western and central parts of São Miguel, so if you’re after a comprehensive island experience, you might want to explore other options. This tour is a good pick for those who want a curated, scenic snapshot of the island with knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who would love this tour?

It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, guided insights, and a relaxed schedule. Families (excluding wheelchair users), couples, and solo explorers alike can enjoy this, especially if they’re keen on seeing the most photogenic spots without the hassle of driving. If your time on São Miguel is limited but you want a taste of its best landscapes, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Stunning views of volcanic lakes and crater landscapes
• Insightful guides who share local legends and natural facts
• Includes a visit to a pineapple plantation for a taste of local farming
• Comfortable transport in small vans or minibuses depending on group size
• Tour covers only about half of the island’s territory
• Flexible scheduling, weather-dependent but free to reschedule

What to Expect from the Full Day Tour

This tour, offered by ANC Azores Holidays, lasts around 7.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. Starting from a central meeting point in Ponta Delgada, you’ll be picked up in a small van or minibus (depending on the group size) — a cozy setup that allows for a more personal experience compared to large bus tours.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Guided Tour from Ponta Delgada
In just five minutes, your guide will give you a quick overview of the day’s plan. It’s a good chance to ask questions and get a sense of what’s ahead.

Sete Cidades and Vista do Rei
The highlight for many visitors, Sete Cidades is a massive crater lake famous for its twin lakes, one greenish and one bluish, separated by a narrow channel. The viewpoints here, especially Vista do Rei (King’s View), are jaw-dropping. Expect panoramic vistas that look like they belong on a postcard. Many travelers mention being truly amazed by the peacefulness and beauty of this spot, often describing it as a “poetic” landscape.

Lagoa do Fogo
Next, the tour takes you to Lagoa do Fogo, an impressive lake nestled in an extinct volcano crater. About 2 km long and 1 km wide, it’s considered one of the island’s grandest sights. We loved the way the lake’s calm waters reflect the sky—an almost surreal experience. The legend says it was formed from the tears of a shepherd and a princess, which adds a romantic touch to the scenery.

Pineapple Farm Visit
A visit to a local pineapple plantation offers more than just sightseeing. You’ll get to see how these sweet fruits are cultivated in the unique Azorean climate. Travelers often find this stop a refreshing change from lakes and a nice way to connect with local agricultural traditions. Plus, you might get to sample fresh pineapple, making it a sweet highlight of the day.

Pico da Barrosa
The tour also includes a stop at Pico da Barrosa, offering another scenic lookout. The views from here are expansive and give a different perspective of the island’s volcanic landscape.

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Practical Details and Logistics

• The group size varies: small vans for groups up to 8 people, and minibuses for larger groups up to 22. This flexibility can make the experience more intimate and personalized.
• The tour can be rebooked at no extra cost if weather conditions aren’t favorable on your scheduled day, which is a thoughtful feature considering Azores’ unpredictable weather.
• Expect a mix of driving and sightseeing, with plenty of opportunities for photos, short walks, and learning from your guide.

Reviews and Experiences

Multiple reviews highlight guides’ knowledge and friendly manner, with travelers appreciating the insights into local legends and geology. One reviewer noted, “The guide was extremely knowledgeable and made the scenery come alive with stories,” which makes a big difference when visiting natural sites.

Some mention that the views are truly stunning, describing the lakes as “peaceful and poetic,” and note that the stops allow ample time for photos and quiet reflection. On the other hand, a few reviews mention that the weather can impact the experience, as cloud cover or rain might obscure the views, but the flexible rescheduling policy gives peace of mind.

The Value and Who Should Book

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of São Miguel’s most famous lakes and volcanic landscapes without the hassle of organizing transport and routes yourself. The price includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to key scenic spots, making it a good value for those who want an all-in-one experience.

Keep in mind, it’s not a full island tour, but for half a day’s worth of sightseeing—covering some of the most iconic natural sights—it hits the sweet spot. If you’re someone who loves nature, photography, or simply wants a relaxed day learning about Azores’ volcanic origins, you’ll find this tour both beautiful and informative.

The Sum Up

All in all, this Full Day Scenic Tour of Lake Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo is a solid choice for travelers wanting to see the best of São Miguel’s volcanic lakes and landscapes with minimal fuss. The combination of stunning vistas, a friendly guide, and a visit to a pineapple farm makes for a memorable day out. It’s especially suited for those who value guided insights and comfortable logistics over a strenuous or overly comprehensive itinerary.

While it’s not a tour that covers every corner of the island, it does a wonderful job showcasing some of its most beloved natural wonders. The flexible scheduling, small-group setting, and local storytelling make it a rewarding experience—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone short on time but eager to see the highlights.

If you’re after breathtaking scenery paired with engaging guides and a pleasant, relaxed pace, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of memorable moments—and plenty of photos. Just remember, the weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared for all conditions.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s a great experience for most travelers, it’s not specifically tailored for young children or wheelchair users. The focus on natural sites means some walking or uneven paths, so consider your children’s comfort and mobility.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour features guides speaking English, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it accessible for a broad range of travelers.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling due to weather is also free, providing flexibility in case of rain or clouds.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at ANC Azores Holidays, with a meeting point at Avenue João Bosco Mota Amaral, in front of the Hotel Marina in Ponta Delgada.

What transportation is used?
Depending on group size, the tour uses either a 9-seat van or a larger minibus, offering a comfortable ride between scenic stops.

Are meals included?
The tour doesn’t specify lunch or meals, so it’s best to bring some snacks or plan for a lunch break on your own.

How many lakes are visited?
Two major lakes are on the itinerary: Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. The tour focuses on these two, along with viewpoints and the pineapple farm.

Is this a full island tour?
No, it concentrates on about half of São Miguel, mainly the central and western parts. For a full island experience, consider additional tours or activities.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, if you want to see some of the most iconic natural sites on São Miguel with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy a more relaxed, scenic day. It’s particularly good for first-timers or those with limited time on the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: