Seven Citys Tour: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion

Exploring the Magic of the Azores: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion

If you are visiting São Miguel in the Azores and want to see a landscape that looks like it was painted by nature herself, the Sete Cidades tour might be just what you’re after. This four-hour adventure takes you inside one of the most iconic spots on the island — the famous twin lakes set within a volcanic crater, offering views that are nothing short of breathtaking. Rounded out with visits to pineapple plantations, scenic lookouts, and a charming village, this tour combines natural beauty with a touch of local flavor.

Two things I really like about this experience are the chance to see the distinctive green and blue lakes so close together in the same crater — a sight that’s both surreal and postcard-perfect — and the knowledgeable guidance you’ll get along the way. The tour’s stops at Vista do Rei and the church of São Nicolau allow you to soak in the scenery and learn a bit about local life, making it more than just a sightseeing trip but a genuine taste of the island’s character.

A possible consideration is the weather. As some reviews point out, cloudy days may obscure the views, but even then, many travelers found the experience rewarding. The tour’s flexible itinerary and expert guides often make the most of whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Still, if you’re dreaming of perfect sunshine and crystal-clear lakes, it’s worth checking the forecast before booking.

Key points and Takeaways

• Iconic Views: The twin lakes of Sete Cidades are among the most recognized images of the Azores, and this tour gives you plenty of opportunities to admire them from multiple scenic spots.
• Expert Guidance: Guides like Dennis are frequently praised for their knowledge and ability to make the day memorable, even adding extra hikes and local tips.
• Diverse Stops: From pineapple plantations and volcanic lakes to picturesque villages and cliffside lookouts — each stop offers a different slice of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape.
• Authentic Experiences: Visiting the Church of São Nicolau and enjoying a coffee in the village helps you connect with local life, not just touristic highlights.
• Scenic Drives and Lookouts: The route includes stops at Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, Lago do Canário, and Ponta do Escalvado, all offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.
• Value for Money: For $74, you get a well-rounded tour, including hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and a knowledgeable guide. While it doesn’t include entrance fees (like Caldeira Velha), the overall experience offers good value.

Entering the Heart of São Miguel: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting the Day with Pineapple Plantations
The tour kicks off with a visit to a pineapple plantation, lasting about 30-45 minutes. It’s a surprisingly charming start, giving you a glimpse into an agricultural tradition that’s been part of the island for generations. Here, you’ll see how pineapples grow in the Azores’ unique climate — a fun contrast to the volcanic landscape ahead. The guide usually shares interesting tidbits about local farming, making this more than just a quick photo stop.

Climbing to Miradouro do Pico do Carvão
Next, the mini-ascension begins as you head inland, stopping at Pico do Carvão for about 15-20 minutes. From this vantage point, the views stretch across the lush southwest coast, giving you a taste of São Miguel’s rugged beauty. It’s a perfect spot to snap photos and get your bearings before heading into the crater area.

Lago do Canário: A Volcanic Lake
Moving higher, you’ll visit Lago do Canário, situated within a volcanic crater at around 800 meters above sea level. This tranquil lake is a highlight for its peaceful atmosphere and vibrant surroundings. It’s a short stop, about 20-25 minutes, but enough time to take in the scenery, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the volcanic forces that shaped this landscape.

Vista do Rei: The Iconic Lookout
Probably the most famous stop, Vista do Rei offers a commanding view over the twin lakes of Sete Cidades. According to reviews, this is where many travelers get that quintessential postcard shot, with the lakes’ contrasting greens and blues framed by lush green hills. It’s a must-see, and many mention how the guide’s insights enrich the experience. Expect around 20-30 minutes here to soak in the scenery and snap some photos.

Descending into the Village of Sete Cidades
As you come down toward the village, you’ll pass over a bridge separating the two lakes, built in 1967, a feat of engineering that’s worth noting. Here, you can stop for coffee or stroll through the neo-Gothic Church of São Nicolau, built in the 17th century. The church, with its cryptomeria-lined alley, adds a historical touch to the natural wonders.

Lagoa de Santiago: A Hidden Gem
Next, the group visits Lagoa de Santiago, a volcanic lake at 334 meters altitude. It’s less famous but equally beautiful — a quiet spot to appreciate the volcanic activity that created the lakes. The stop lasts about 15 minutes, offering a peaceful contrast to the more crowded lookouts.

The Main Event: Lagoa das Sete Cidades
The tour’s climax is the visit to the Lagoa das Sete Cidades itself. The lakes are famous for their contrasting colors — one green, one blue — separated by a natural dam. Passing over the bridge, you’ll notice how the lakes seem to shimmer with different hues depending on the weather and sunlight. The guide typically offers insights into the legend behind the lakes’ names and their formation. You’ll spend around 15 minutes here, enough for some memorable photos and a sense of awe.

Exploring the Village and Church
Stopping in the small village, you can visit the Church of São Nicolau and perhaps buy some local souvenirs or enjoy a quick coffee. Travelers like Alexandra have praised guides like Dennis for making extra time to take a short hike, which revealed “the most gorgeous views,” adding a personal touch to the experience.

Ponta do Escalvado: Sunset with a View
The final stop is at Ponta do Escalvado, a cliffside lookout on the island’s westernmost tip. Here, you get sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the chance to enjoy one of the island’s best sunsets — a fitting end to a day of natural beauty. This stop lasts about 15-20 minutes, and many reviews highlight how stunning the vistas are.

Wrap-up and Return
After the scenic drive back, the tour concludes with hotel drop-offs, typically within 45 minutes of leaving the last viewpoint. The ease of pickup and drop-off makes this tour especially appealing, as you don’t have to worry about navigating or parking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, scenic overview of São Miguel’s volcanic marvels without the hassle of self-driving. If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights and quick but meaningful stops at the most photogenic spots, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s particularly suited for those with limited time on the island but still eager to see its highlights. Nature lovers, casual hikers (especially with the optional extra hike), and anyone wanting to capture postcard-perfect views will find this tour rewarding.

The price point of $74 includes hotel pickup, bottled water, and a knowledgeable guide, making it a good-value way to explore. However, if you’re very interested in long hikes or in-depth historical sites, you might want to supplement this with other tours.

Price and Logistics: A Fair Deal?

At $74 per person, this tour offers a solid balance of convenience, scenic diversity, and expert guidance. It does not include entrance fees like Caldeira Velha, but given the comprehensive stops and beautiful vistas, most travelers find this a reasonable investment. The four-hour duration fits well into a day’s itinerary, giving you enough time to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed.

The tour’s multiple pick-up and drop-off points in Ribeira Grande, Capelas, Ponta Delgada, and Lagoa add flexibility, especially if you’re staying in different parts of São Miguel. Booking with free cancellation and pay-later options helps keep the planning stress-free.

Final Thoughts

The Seven Citys Tour: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion offers a well-rounded experience of São Miguel’s most iconic sights. Guided by knowledgeable and friendly guides like Dennis, you’ll enjoy scenic drives, breathtaking views, and a glimpse into local life. It’s a great choice for visitors who want a snapshot of the island’s volcanic beauty in a manageable four-hour trip.

While weather can influence the experience, many reviewers have found it still worth the price, thanks to the guide’s insights and the dramatic scenery. If you love striking landscapes, natural legends, and the convenience of guided touring, this is a superb way to spend part of your time on São Miguel.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about four hours, including stops, pickups, and drop-offs.

What are the main sights I’ll see?
You’ll visit pineapples plantations, viewpoints like Pico do Carvão, Lago do Canário, Vista do Rei, the village of Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, the Church of São Nicolau, and Ponta do Escalvado.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in a van with an experienced guide, plus hotel pickup and drop-off, is included.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a light jacket — especially if the weather is cloudy or windy.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance to places like Caldeira Velha is not included, so plan accordingly if you want to visit additional sites.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes, the stops are mostly short, scenic, and accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, with free cancellation and availability checks, you can book up to 24 hours in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
Even on cloudy days, many travelers still enjoyed the views thanks to their guides’ insights. The experience can vary with weather, so check the forecast.

In sum, this tour offers a balanced mix of natural wonder, local charm, and expert guidance — a solid way to make the most of your time exploring São Miguel’s volcanic heart.