São Miguel: Quad & Buggy Sete Cidades Crater Tour

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines stunning scenery with a dash of adrenaline, this São Miguel quad and buggy tour might just be your perfect fit. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty compelling picture of what to expect. It’s clear that this experience offers a fantastic way to see the island’s wild side, away from the usual tourist spots.

What particularly caught our eye are the knowledgeable guides who make the journey more than just a ride, and the unbeatable views from remote viewpoints that you wouldn’t easily access on your own. On the flip side, since it involves driving on uneven paths and off-road routes, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or who prefer smooth, leisurely sightseeing. This tour suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a taste of local life and breathtaking vistas all in one go.

Key Points

• Adventure-packed experience: Ride quad bikes or sit back in a buggy, exploring rugged terrain and scenic viewpoints.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to show you hidden spots.
• Stunning vistas: From volcano craters to panoramic viewpoints, this tour is a feast for the eyes.
• Unique access: Off-road routes lead to remote areas that normal vehicles can’t reach, giving you a more authentic experience.
• Flexible options: You can choose to drive or sit in the buggy, depending on your preference.
• Value for money: The tour includes all viewpoint entries and a safety briefing, making it a well-rounded adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the São Miguel Quad & Buggy Tour

First off, this tour offers a fantastic way to experience São Miguel’s rugged beauty. For those who love a bit of thrill, the chance to drive your own quad bike along untamed paths really hits the spot. Or, if you’d rather relax a bit while someone else handles the steering, the buggy option is equally appealing. Either way, you’re in for a day packed with incredible sights and fresh air.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the R. da Mãe de Deus 50 meeting point, where you’ll meet your guide and get a safety briefing—usually about 20 minutes. This is an important step, especially if you’re new to off-road vehicles. Expect a clear explanation of how to handle your quad or where the buggy will take you.

Next, the adventure really begins as you explore São Miguel’s remarkable landscapes. One of the first stops involves driving through remote paths, offering a chance to see São Miguel from a different perspective—beyond the usual viewpoints. The highlight here is the drive to the Volcano of the 7 Cities, which is over 36,000 years old. This volcano is one of the island’s main attractions, and you’ll visit it in a way that most travelers don’t get to—by stepping onto craters and paths inaccessible to regular vehicles.

Visiting the Volcano and Viewpoints

The tour includes visits to several viewpoints, each with their own appeal. Miradouro do Pico do Carvao is renowned for its incredible scenery, offering sweeping views that make the climb worth it. Then, you’ll head to the Lagoa das Sete Cidades complex, a stunning crater lake area.

One of the most talked-about stops is Das Cumeeiras viewpoint. Many reviews highlight how this spot delivers breathtaking vistas over the lagoons. This stop is considered a must-see, and travelers often say it’s one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the island.

Following that, you’ll visit the Vista do Rei Miradouro—famous for its panoramic view over Sete Cidades—and the nearby abandoned Hotel das 7 Cidades, a slightly eerie but captivating reminder of tourism past.

Off-Road Fun and Scenic Exploration

What sets this tour apart is the mix of off-road driving and scenic sightseeing. Many reviews emphasize how the off-road paths are a real highlight, letting you venture into areas that are inaccessible for normal tourist buses. The routes taken are part of the Azores Rally roads, which adds an extra layer of excitement for rally fans or adventure seekers.

During the stops, you’ll get a combination of guided commentary and free time to take photos or soak in the views. The guides are often praised for their local knowledge and friendly attitude, making the experience more engaging and personalized.

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The Experience of Riding

If you opt to drive a quad, you might find the experience exhilarating yet manageable, especially with a safety briefing beforehand. For those in the buggy, it’s all about relaxing and enjoying the ride while your guide takes you on the best routes. As one review put it, “The 4X4 was a lot of fun and a great way to see it,” and many appreciated the balance between adventure and comfort.

Weather and Conditions

Since the tour runs rain or shine, it’s wise to come prepared for weather changes. Some travelers noted that fog and rain could obscure the views, but they still enjoyed the experience. The equipment, such as helmets and ATVs, is reported to be in excellent condition and very clean, which adds to the overall positive vibe.

Length, Price, and Value

This is a 4-hour tour, making it a solid half-day activity. It includes helmet and vehicle use, along with entry tickets to all viewpoints—so you’re paying for a comprehensive experience. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ expertise, and many think the price offers value given the variety of sights and the off-road fun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers who want more than just a sightseeing bus ride. If you enjoy being active and exploring remote areas, you’ll find this tour a memorable part of your trip. It’s also great for solo travelers who want a guided adventure or small groups seeking a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this São Miguel quad and buggy tour offers a lively way to see the island’s volcanic landscapes and scenic viewpoints. The combination of off-road driving, expert guides, and breathtaking vistas makes it stand out from more typical sightseeing options. Many travelers rave about the scenery and their guides’ knowledge, which really enhances the experience.

That said, be aware that at times the paths can be dusty and muddy, and the tour isn’t suited for those with physical limitations or very young children (under 8). But if you’re after a day of adventure, with plenty of picture-perfect moments, this tour is likely to leave you with some wonderful memories—and maybe a little dust on your clothes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are allowed in the passage seats of the buggy or ATVs, but the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old, and drivers need to be at least 18 with a valid driver’s license.

Do I need my own driver’s license?
Yes, all drivers must have a valid driver’s license and be 18 or older to drive the quad bike or ATV.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place regardless of weather conditions, so it’s best to come prepared for rain or fog.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the activity begins and ends at the designated meeting point at R. da Mãe de Deus 50.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, and don’t forget rain gear if the forecast looks wet. Helmets and safety gear are provided.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, including safety briefing, stops, and sightseeing.

Can I choose between a quad or buggy?
Yes, you can opt to drive your own quad bike or sit in a buggy driven by a guide.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers helmet and vehicle use, as well as entry tickets to viewpoints.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, oversize luggage is not allowed, and alcohol or drugs are prohibited. The tour is also not suitable for people with heart problems or those who are not comfortable driving off-road.

If you’re eager to explore São Miguel’s volcanic terrain and enjoy a mix of adventure and scenic beauty, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and maybe some extra clothes for getting a little dusty.

You can check availability for your dates here: