Sete Cidades, Hike Serra Devassa and Boca do Inferno

Exploring the Sete Cidades, Serra Devassa, and Boca do Inferno Tour

If you’re heading to São Miguel and looking for a way to truly connect with the island’s natural beauty, this hiking tour offers a fantastic blend of mountains, lakes, and breathtaking vistas. While I haven’t done this trek myself, plenty of travelers rave about its highlights and thoughtful organization. It’s perfect for those who enjoy moderate hikes and want to experience some of the most scenic spots without spending entire days on the trail.

What really draws people in are the spectacular views of the two-color lagoons in Sete Cidades and the chance to stand at Boca do Inferno, where the caldera rim gives you a sense of the island’s volcanic power. Plus, this tour is praised for its professional guide, Samuel, and the genuine value it delivers for its price. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s a medium difficulty hike, so some level of fitness helps, especially if you’re not used to mountain trails.

This tour is well-suited for active travelers who want a manageable but memorable outdoor experience. If you’re not keen on long or intense hikes, or if you prefer guided tours with detailed insights, this might be a great choice. It’s also a solid pick for those who appreciate stunning vistas and want to avoid the crowds while exploring the island’s volcanic landscapes.

Key Points

• Moderate 2-hour hike covering 4.9 km, suitable for those with a decent fitness level
• Stunning views of the São Miguel volcano caldera, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and Boca do Inferno
• Expert guide providing accurate, friendly commentary, enhancing the experience
• Includes access to viewpoints like Vista do Rei, offering iconic photo opportunities
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Good value for money considering the scenic highlights and guided experience

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off in the western part of São Miguel, near the Canário park, right on the rim of the Sete Cidades volcano crater. From here, you start your moderate trail that winds through the volcanic landscape, offering views of endemic vegetation and the surrounding valleys. The trail length is about 4.9 km, which should take roughly 2 hours, depending on your pace. This means you’ll get a decent workout without feeling rushed.

The walk itself is designed to highlight the island’s volcanic origins and lush flora. As you follow the trail, you’ll see various viewpoints and natural beauty spots, including the Canário lagoon — a serene spot often overlooked by visitors. The guide typically shares interesting tidbits about the geology and local flora, making this more than just a walk through nature.

After the hike, you’ll descend toward the main viewpoint of Sete Cidades, known as Vista do Rei. Here, you’ll witness the iconic two-tone lagoons, which form a mesmerizing scene. Many describe this as a highlight of the trip, and it’s easy to see why — the colors and scale are mesmerizing.

One of the standout features of this tour is the stop at Boca do Inferno, which offers a dramatic view of the caldera’s rim. From this vantage point, you can see the entire volcanic structure and feel the raw power of the island’s volcanoes. The views are often described as impressive and unforgettable.

The Guide and the Overall Experience

The tour is led by Samuel Rego, whose professionalism and friendly demeanor get high marks from travelers. His English is excellent, and he’s known for providing accurate, engaging commentary without overwhelming you. As one reviewer put it, “The tour guide Samuel was excellent! Very professional, very accurate, very polite and decent! Super friendly!”

Reviews also highlight the value for money, with many noting that the experience exceeds expectations for the price. The combination of stunning vistas, informative guidance, and manageable walking distance makes this an attractive option for travelers who want a balanced outdoor activity.

The Practical Side: Logistics and Considerations

For those wondering about the logistics, the tour is about 4.5 hours long, including pickup, the hike itself, and viewpoints. The price of around $64 per person is reasonable given the quality of the experience and the guide’s expertise.

The tour offers pickup, which makes logistics easier, especially if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada. You should have moderate physical fitness — the hike is classified as medium difficulty, so if you’re comfortable walking for two hours on varied terrain, you’ll enjoy this fully.

Weather can impact the experience — since it’s outdoor and mountain-based, poor weather might lead to cancellations. Luckily, the provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and if weather conditions are bad, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

The group size is capped at 99 travelers, but most groups tend to be smaller, allowing for a more personal experience. Service animals are permitted, and the tour is accessible to anyone comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this tour apart is the combination of professional guidance, stunning views, and the opportunity to explore a relatively untouched part of São Miguel. You won’t just see the popular spots; you’ll experience the volcanic landscape, endemic plants, and lagoons up close.

The stop at Boca do Inferno is particularly memorable — it offers a dramatic, panoramic view of the caldera rim that’s hard to match elsewhere. The Vista do Rei viewpoint is another highlight, often leaving visitors in awe of the natural beauty.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want a manageable hike with plenty of visual reward. It works well for those interested in geology, volcanic landscapes, or simply enjoying nature away from crowded tourist spots.

If you prefer guided tours with knowledgeable guides and are comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity, this one’s a good fit. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate well-organized, scenic excursions that don’t take up an entire day.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a well-rounded, scenic experience that highlights some of São Miguel’s most stunning natural features. The combination of a moderate hike, spectacular viewpoints, and a professional guide makes it a worthwhile outing for those wanting to see the island’s volcanic beauty without committing to a full-day trek.

If you’re looking for an experience that balances exercise, breathtaking scenery, and expert insights, this hike from Sete Cidades to Boca do Inferno is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to step away from the crowds, breathe in fresh mountain air, and capture those unforgettable island views.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Tour

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about logistics.

How long does the hike take?
The hike itself lasts approximately 2 hours, covering about 4.9 km at a moderate difficulty level. The entire experience, including stops and viewpoints, lasts around 4.5 hours.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, along with weather-appropriate clothing. Bringing water, sunscreen, and a camera is also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically advertised as family-friendly, the moderate difficulty and scenic nature make it manageable for older children or teenagers with good fitness levels.

What’s the main highlight?
Most travelers mention the Vista do Rei viewpoint and Boca do Inferno as the standout moments, offering truly spectacular views.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If weather conditions lead to cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people typically join the tour?
Groups can be up to 99 people, but most are smaller, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Is the guide fluent in English?
Absolutely — reviews highlight Samuel’s excellent English and informative commentary.

What’s the value like for this price?
Considering the scenic spots and guidance, many travelers rate this as good value, especially given the beautiful views and the convenience of a guided hike.

If you’re craving a scenic, moderate adventure amid São Miguel’s volcanic grandeur, this tour ticks many boxes — stunning vistas, expert guides, and a memorable outdoor experience.