The Azores are a fantastic place for bike tours, offering a unique mix of volcanic landscapes, lush green hills, and peaceful lakes. Unlike many destinations, the islands’ terrain encourages off-road riding, and electric bikes make tackling steep paths both manageable and fun. One tour we particularly like is the Sete Cidades Guided E-bike Cycling Tour, which combines ease of riding with unforgettable panoramic views. Plus, it gets you close to one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, making it a top pick for active travelers seeking scenic beauty without the strenuous effort.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up two of the best bike tours in Azores. The first offers a half-day, guided e-bike experience ideal for those wanting a relaxed yet immersive exploration of Sete Cidades. The second is a longer, multi-activity day trip that mixes bike, kayak, and jeep rides, perfect for adventurous types eager to see different sides of the island. Read on to find out which tour suits your travel style.
1. Sete Cidades: Guided E-bike Cycling Tour
For around $74 per person, this 3-hour guided e-bike tour provides a smooth and scenic way to discover the Sete Cidades area. The tour is centered around the natural beauty of the volcanic crater lake, with stops at several viewpoints and attractions like Vista do Rei and the Church of Sao Nicolau. The use of electric bikes means you can focus on the views and history rather than sweating up steep hills.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of easy riding and expert guidance. The route covers both scenic off-road tracks and paved roads, giving you a well-rounded experience. The guide’s local knowledge enhances your understanding of the landscape, which is especially helpful if you’re not familiar with the area’s geology and history. The reviews praise the friendly guides and the mostly off-road route, which keeps you immersed in nature and away from traffic. Some riders suggest gel seats for comfort and would appreciate more historical context, but overall, it’s a compact, well-balanced experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, scenic ride that hits the highlights of Sete Cidades without strenuous climbing, this e-bike tour offers excellent value and memorable views.
2. From Ponta Delgada: Sete Cidades Jeep, Bike, & Kayak Ride
This full-day adventure, priced at around $91 per person, is designed for those who want more variety and hands-on activities. Over about 7 hours, you’ll ride a jeep through rugged dirt tracks and local roads, bike along the lake’s edge, and paddle a kayak inside the volcanic crater. It’s a multi-sport experience that showcases the diverse landscapes of the region.
What makes this tour special is the combination of adventure and scenery. You’ll explore on a fierce Jeep through slopes and rough tracks, then switch to a bike for a leisurely ride along the lake shore, and finish with a kayak inside the crater—something most tours don’t offer. The itinerary emphasizes outstanding views of the crater and a chance to see the area from multiple angles.
Guests mention the well-organized logistics and the variety of activities, which makes it great value for a full day of fun. However, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a full day of physical activity and some time on water and dirt tracks. The tour has received high ratings (4.7/5), with reviewers appreciating the diverse experiences and the friendly guides.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an active, all-in-one day exploring the iconic crater area. It’s more costly but offers a comprehensive taste of the region’s natural beauty.
How to Choose the Right Bike Tour in Azores
When selecting your tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and time availability. If you prefer a short, scenic ride focused on beautiful viewpoints and easy riding, the Sete Cidades Guided E-bike Cycling Tour is ideal. It’s perfect for those new to biking or who want a relaxed, informative experience.
If you’re after more adventure and enjoy trying different activities, the Full-Day Jeep, Bike, & Kayak Ride offers a varied itinerary that covers multiple ways to explore the volcanic crater. Be prepared for a full day and physical activity, but in return, you get a rich, diverse experience.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot. Both tours are suitable for different budgets: the e-bike tour offers good value at $74, while the full-day adventure provides a comprehensive experience at $91.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want a half-day relaxing ride or a full-day multi-activity experience, Azores offers excellent options for cycling enthusiasts. The e-bike tour of Sete Cidades is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, scenic journey with minimal effort. Meanwhile, the full-day adventure appeals to those eager for a mix of biking, kayaking, and exploring with a bit of adrenaline.
If you’re visiting the islands and want to see the iconic crater lake in an active, memorable way, these tours are sure to deliver. Be sure to book early, pack suitable gear, and prepare for some of the most stunning landscapes Portugal has to offer. Happy cycling!
