Seven Citys Tour: Sete Cidades Crater Lake Shore Excursion

Discover the Unique Charm of the Sete Cidades Crater Lakes Tour

This 4-hour shore excursion from Azores Magic Tours takes you to one of the most celebrated natural sights in the Azores: Sete Cidades on São Miguel Island. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 33 reviews, this tour offers an accessible way to experience the island’s most iconic landscape, even if time is limited. The tour is ideal for cruise passengers or those short on time but eager to see the green and blue lakes that define the region.

The highlights include visiting inside the largest crater of the Azores, enjoying scenic viewpoints, and exploring the charming village of Sete Cidades. The tour also features a pineapple plantation visit, a stop at Lago do Canário, and stops at key lookouts like Vista do Rei, making it a well-rounded introduction to this stunning volcanic area.

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Convenient Pickup and Drop-off at Multiple Locations

The tour departs from four different pick-up points: Ribeira Grande, Ponta Delgada, Capelas, and Lagoa. This flexibility helps travelers easily fit the experience into their day, especially if they are arriving via cruise or staying in different parts of São Miguel. The pick-up and drop-off are arranged at hotels or accommodations, ensuring a smooth start and finish to the tour.

Booking is flexible with a full refund available for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, offering extra convenience and peace of mind when planning their Azores adventure.

Visit a Local Pineapple Plantation in the Heart of São Miguel

The tour begins with a 45-minute visit to a pineapple plantation. This stop offers a glimpse into the local agricultural tradition and the opportunity to learn how pineapples are cultivated on the island. It’s a pleasant way to start the day, giving insight into the island’s farming practices and the importance of pineapple production in the Azores.

This visit also provides a chance to enjoy the lush rural scenery and possibly sample fresh or processed pineapple products, depending on the plantation’s offerings. The guide’s knowledge enhances this experience, sharing interesting facts about local crops and farming techniques.

Scenic Drive Along São Miguel’s Southwest Coast

After the plantation, the tour takes a scenic drive along the southwest coast of São Miguel, setting the stage for the day’s main sights. The drive itself offers impressive coastal views and a chance to see the lush greenery that covers much of the island’s terrain.

From here, the route climbs upward toward various viewpoints, with the first being the Miradouro do Pico do Carvão. This 15-20 minute stop provides sweeping vistas over the landscape, giving travelers a glimpse of the island’s volcanic features and natural beauty from above.

Lago do Canário: A Volcanic Crater Lake at 800 Meters

Next, travelers visit Lago do Canário, which is situated in a volcanic crater approximately 800 meters above sea level. This 30-minute stop allows visitors to appreciate the tranquil waters and surrounding volcanic terrain. The location’s elevation ensures a cooler, refreshing atmosphere, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

The lake’s volcanic origin adds to the sense of wonder, revealing how the island’s volcanic activity has shaped its landscape. It’s a unique chance to see a crater lake that’s less crowded than the main tourist spots.

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Vista do Rei: The Iconic Viewpoint of Sete Cidades

The Vista do Rei lookout is one of the most photographed spots in the Azores. From this 20-30 minute stop, the panoramic view over Sete Cidades and its notable twin lakes – the green and blue lakes – unfolds before visitors’ eyes.

This location offers a postcard-perfect scene of the lakes, with lush hills surrounding them. The guide explains the geological and cultural significance of this site, making it clear why it’s regarded as the most iconic viewpoint on the island.

Descending to Lagoa de Santiago and the Village of Sete Cidades

Following the view, the tour heads toward Lagoa de Santiago, a small volcanic lake located at 334 meters above sea level. The 15-minute stop here showcases a gentle, scenic spot connected to the larger volcanic formation of the area.

The journey continues into the village of Sete Cidades, where travelers cross a historic 1967 bridge that separates the green and blue lakes. This crossing is a highlight, as it marks the transition between two distinct, vibrant waters.

In the village, visitors have 30 minutes to explore, visit the Church of São Nicolau — a small, neo-Gothic church built in the 17th century — or enjoy a local coffee in one of the quaint cafes. The church’s cryptomeria alley adds charm and a sense of history to the village experience.

Scenic Drive to Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado

The final scenic stop is at the Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado. Perched on a cliff in the westernmost part of the island, this 20-minute stop offers breathtaking views of the sea and rugged coastlines.

This lookout is also an ideal spot to enjoy the sunset, with the clifftop vantage point providing sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a peaceful, picturesque ending to the tour before the group heads back to the meeting point, approximately 45 minutes later.

Tour Logistics and Guide Quality

The guided tour includes live guides speaking English, Portuguese, German, and Spanish. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable explanations, especially about the island’s geology and local history.

The group size is likely small to medium, allowing for personalized attention and questions. The timing is paced to cover all stops comfortably, with the scenic views and local insights highlighted throughout.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This Sete Cidades tour is notable for its comprehensive itinerary packed into just 4 hours. It combines scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and natural wonders, making it a good choice for those with limited time yet eager to see the best of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape.

The visit to the pineapple plantation and the village exploration add local flavor to the experience, beyond just the lakes and viewpoints. The expert guides and well-organized stops earn consistent praise, especially for their depth of knowledge and friendly approach.

Potential Considerations

While the tour covers many highlights efficiently, the short duration means it’s a snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration. The 30-minute visits to several sites require quick walks or viewing from viewpoints, which may not suit visitors wanting longer, immersive experiences.

The tour is best suited for those cruise passengers or travelers with tight schedules, who want a curated overview of Sete Cidades without the hassle of self-driving or arranging multiple stops.

Final Thoughts on the Sete Cidades Shore Excursion

The Seven Citys Tour provides a balanced and informative introduction to São Miguel’s most famous volcanic landscape. The stunning viewpoints, local stops, and knowledgeable guides make it a reliable choice for anyone wanting a compact, scenic, and culturally engaging experience.

While it may not cover every detail of the area, its well-paced itinerary and friendly guides ensure visitors leave with a good overview and plenty of photo opportunities. It is particularly valuable for first-time visitors or those with limited time but a desire to see the best of Sete Cidades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour’s stops are mostly sightseeing and easy walks, making it suitable for most age groups.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include meals, but there are opportunities to buy coffee or snacks at the village of Sete Cidades.

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

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops range from 15 to 30 minutes, providing enough time for sightseeing and photos.

Can this tour be canceled?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is provided as part of the guided tour, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

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