Seven Citys Tour: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion

If you’re eyeing the Azores for your next trip, chances are the Sete Cidades natural wonder will catch your attention. This tour, often recommended for those seeking breathtaking scenery and local insights, promises a well-rounded experience of one of the most photographed spots in Portugal’s volcanic archipelago. From stunning lakes to panoramic viewpoints, it’s a journey that captures the essence of São Miguel Island in just about four hours.

What really makes this tour stand out are two things we keep hearing from travelers: the knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape to life and the spectacular views from multiple scenic overlooks. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is packed with stops, so if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace or want to spend more time at each place, you might find it a bit brisk. This trip is best suited for those who want a thorough introduction to the island’s natural highlights without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering the best of Sete Cidades’ lakes, viewpoints, and local sights
• Expert guides known for their knowledge and friendly approach, enhancing the experience
• Variety of scenic stops including viewpoints, lakes, and a pineapple plantation
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off at multiple locations around São Miguel
• Time-efficient: Get a good sense of the area in just four hours
• Value for money considering the variety of sights and guided commentary

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a blend of natural beauty, local culture, and panoramic views, making it a well-rounded experience for travelers wanting to see the highlights without a full-day commitment. The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point, giving you a hassle-free start. From there, you’ll be taken on a scenic drive around the island, with plenty of opportunities to soak in views and learn about the area from a knowledgeable guide.

Visiting the Pineapple Plantation

We loved the way the tour kicks off with a visit to a pineapple plantation. This isn’t just a roadside stop; it’s a chance to see how the Azores grow their famous pineapples in a climate that’s perfect for them. It’s a quick but fascinating look into local agriculture, and the guides often share interesting tidbits about how these tropical plants thrive in volcanic soil. Expect around 30 to 45 minutes here, enough to take some photos and maybe sample a fresh piece if available.

Driving Along the Southwest Coast & Miradouro do Pico do Carvão

Next, your journey takes you along the southwest coast, one of the more scenic drives on the island. The highlight here is the Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, an overlook that offers sweeping views over the landscape. This stop is brief—about 15-20 minutes—but the scenery is worth every second. You’ll get a taste of the lush, rugged terrain and perhaps snap a few photos to remember it by.

Exploring Lago do Canário

The next stop is Lago do Canário, situated in a volcanic crater about 800 meters above sea level. This lake’s remote setting makes it feel like a hidden gem, and it adds a layer of diversity to the tour. Spending around 20-25 minutes here allows you to absorb the peaceful atmosphere and appreciate the volcanic origins of the island.

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Vista do Rei: The Iconic Viewpoint

One of the most recognizable views in the Azores is from Vista do Rei. This lookout offers a postcard-perfect panorama of the Sete Cidades caldera and lakes, with lush green hills framing the blue and green waters below. It’s often called a “must-see,” and for good reason. The views are just spectacular, and many travelers report this as a highlight, with around 20-30 minutes allocated for this stop.

Lagoa de Santiago & the Green & Blue Lakes

The journey continues with a brief visit to Lagoa de Santiago, a smaller lake related to the volcanic activity that shaped the area. Its proximity to the main lakes provides a nice contrast. Then, crossing over the bridge that separates the famous green and blue lakes, travelers get a chance to glimpse the distinctive colors that make Sete Cidades so unique. Just passing over this bridge is quite the photo opportunity.

Visiting the Village and Church of São Nicolau

The village of Sete Cidades itself is charming, with a quaint church—the Church of São Nicolau—built in the 17th century. The guides often spend about 30 minutes here, giving you a chance to explore the church’s architecture, stroll through the little streets, or enjoy a coffee in a local café. It’s a nice touch of local life amid the natural wonders.

Ponta do Escalvado: Sunset Views

The final scenic stop is the Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado, perched on a cliff in the western part of the island. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets if your timing aligns. The views over the Atlantic are expansive and calming, and this stop usually lasts around 15-20 minutes.

Returning to Your Accommodation

After this series of incredible sights, your guide will take you back to your hotel or meeting point, typically about 45 minutes from the last stop. The entire experience wraps up in roughly four hours, making it manageable for most travelers’ schedules.

The Experience in Practice

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Rui and Dennis are a major part of what makes this tour stand out. Travelers consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, often saying they explain the island’s geology, history, and culture in engaging ways. This adds depth to the sightseeing, making it more than just a photo tour.

The stops at viewpoints like Vista do Rei or Ponta do Escalvado are frequently praised for their breathtaking scenery. Multiple reviews highlight how these vistas leave lasting impressions, and guides make sure everyone gets good angles for photos.

The pineapple plantation visit is also well-liked, offering a glimpse into local agriculture and allowing for some light shopping or tasting. It’s a gentle start that sets a relaxed tone for the rest of the morning.

Travelers also appreciate the organized nature of the tour—it’s a structured itinerary that ensures you see the key highlights without feeling rushed. The small group size, combined with the flexibility of hotel pickup and drop-off at multiple locations, makes the experience comfortable and convenient.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While pretty much everyone agrees this tour is a fantastic overview of Sete Cidades, some mention that the pace can be quick. If you prefer spending more time at each viewpoint or exploring on your own, you might find this tour a little rushed. It’s designed to pack in as much as possible within a limited window.

Another aspect to keep in mind is that weather can influence the experience. If fog or rain rolls in, some of the outlooks might be less spectacular, but guides usually adapt by sharing local stories or focusing on the landscape behind the clouds.

Finally, for those with mobility issues, remember that some stops involve walking or standing; the terrain varies from paved paths to uneven ground.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love stunning nature, want insightful commentary from passionate guides, and prefer a structured, efficient itinerary, this tour is a solid choice. It offers a well-curated look at the iconic sights of Sete Cidades without the need for self-driving or planning every detail.

This experience also suits those who want a shareable photo collection—viewpoints like Vista do Rei and Ponta do Escalvado are especially photogenic. If your time on São Miguel is limited or you prefer a guided overview, it’s a good pick.

However, if you’re a traveler who prefers to linger longer at each site or explore off the beaten path, you might consider a more flexible or private tour. Also, if weather isn’t cooperative, be prepared for some viewpoints to be less impressive.

FAQs About the Sete Cidades Shore Excursion

How long is the tour?
It lasts about four hours, including pickup and drop-off.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation, with options around Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande, Capelas, and Lagoa.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Starting around 9:00 AM works well, but check availability for different times.

Can I see the lakes from different angles?
Absolutely. Vista do Rei and Ponta do Escalvado are among the best for panoramic views and photography.

Is there time to explore the village or church?
Yes, you’ll have about 30 minutes to walk around the village, visit the church, or relax at a local café.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended. Pack layers and a rain jacket if weather looks uncertain.

Are children welcome?
While not specifically tailored for kids, the stops are short and scenic, suitable for most travelers. Check with the provider if you’re concerned about specific needs.

What’s the value of the tour?
Given the variety of stops, expert guidance, and ease of logistics, many find this tour offers good value for the price, especially for those who want a comprehensive introduction to Sete Cidades.

This tour offers a well-organized, visually stunning introduction to one of the Azores’ most famous landmarks. With knowledgeable guides, scenic viewpoints, and a diverse itinerary, it’s ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially suited for those who value storytelling and insight alongside breathtaking scenery, making the experience both beautiful and informative.

While it’s a somewhat fast-paced overview—perfect for a half-day adventure—those looking to linger longer or explore more privately might want to consider other options or extend their stay. Still, for most visitors, this trip delivers on its promise of memorable vistas and a deeper appreciation for the island’s volcanic beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: