Buggy Off-Road Excursion from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades – HD

Explore Sete Cidades in a Buzzy Off-Road Style for $94.79

For those looking to see the breathtaking scenery of São Miguel in a dynamic, fast-paced adventure, the Buggy Off-Road Excursion from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades offers an exciting half-day experience. Priced at $94.79 per person and lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours, this tour combines off-road driving, scenic viewpoints, and a guided exploration of some of the island’s most iconic sights. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 83 reviews, it’s a popular option, especially considering that 93% of participants recommend it.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing from afar. It’s perfect for those who enjoy off-road adventures, stunning lakes, vistas, and local villages. Keep in mind that driving experience is required, and the tour operates in a small group setting. While most find this tour highly enjoyable, potential participants should be prepared for cold mornings and dusty conditions during the ride.

Key Points

• Affordable adventure at $94.79 per person for a half-day excursion.
• Duration of 3 to 4 hours, with multiple scenic stops.
• Includes a guide, helmets, gasoline, and personal insurance.
• Access to off-road sites like Pico da Cruz and Lagoa Verde.
• Small group tours with shared driving allow for personalized attention.
• Highly rated with 83 reviews and 4.7/5 overall score.

Start at the ANC Buggy/Quad Tours Office in Ponta Delgada

The adventure begins at the ANC Buggy/Quad Tours office located at Rua Eng. Alberto Rodrigues 11 13, Valados. This meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to reach from central Ponta Delgada. The check-in process includes a brief safety briefing and the distribution of helmets, ensuring everyone’s safety before hitting the trails.

Once briefed, participants are paired with guides experienced in navigating the island’s terrain. This tour operates with a minimum of 2 adults and can accommodate up to 20 travelers, emphasizing an intimate, small-group atmosphere. The shared driving setup allows everyone to experience driving the buggies and quads, making it engaging for all skill levels.

Scenic Off-Road Drives and Access to Hard-to-Reach Spots

The tour’s route is designed to maximize scenic views while offering off-road driving experiences that are inaccessible by regular vehicles. Travelers pass through the village of Covoada and enjoy short stops including the Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, where a panoramic view of São Miguel unfolds before the eyes.

The journey continues to the famous Vista do Rei, where stunning viewpoints overlook the Sete Cidades Lakes. This spot is renowned for its picturesque scenery, with lush mountains surrounding the twin lakes. The tour then advances to the Caldeira das Sete Cidades, giving visitors a closer look at the volcanic crater’s spectacular landscape.

Accessing the Lakes: Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul

A highlight of this excursion is the visit to the Lagoa Verde and the Lagoa das Sete Cidades. These lakes are among the most iconic sights in São Miguel, with crystal-clear waters reflecting the lush surroundings. The tour includes a view of the side of the lagoon and sometimes an optional stop at Lagoa de Santiago, which provides a more secluded perspective of the lakes.

Travelers appreciate how the guide explains the significance of these natural features and helps uncover their geological origins. The views from these stops are breathtaking and often lead to plenty of photo opportunities.

The Off-Road Trail to Pico da Cruz

One of the most exciting aspects of this tour is reaching Pico da Cruz, an off-road site accessible only via dirt trails. This vantage point offers spectacular views over the lakes and the surrounding landscape. The accessibility of this site in a buggy makes it a unique experience, as most visitors would not be able to reach it by foot or regular car.

The guide leads the convoy through dirt paths and rugged terrain, providing an adventure-filled experience that combines fun driving with stunning scenery. Travelers note that the off-road driving is the favorite part for many, especially in good weather conditions.

The Village of Sete Cidades and Optional Lagoa de Santiago

The village of Sete Cidades itself is a charming stop, giving guests a chance to see the local architecture and small community life. Visitors can take a short walk around the area or simply enjoy the view from the viewpoint.

The tour also offers an optional visit to Lagoa de Santiago, a small lake that is less crowded, providing a quiet, picturesque setting. This stop is brief, about 5 minutes, but adds a peaceful contrast to the more popular lakes and viewpoints.

Return to Ponta Delgada and Final Stop

After exploring the lakes and viewpoints, the tour concludes with a 15-minute drive back to the original meeting point at the ANC Tours office in Ponta Delgada. This return leg is an opportunity to relax after the active day, which includes gasoline and insurance already covered in the price.

Travelers often comment that the timing of the stops is well-paced, allowing enough time to enjoy the scenery and take photos without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and What to Know Before Booking

This tour is designed for most travelers, with most people able to participate. The main requirement is a valid driving license for Portugal, as driving is part of the experience. Participants should be prepared for cold mornings, especially in higher elevations, and consider bringing sunglasses and dust protection due to the dusty trails and dust clouds from off-road driving.

The booking process is straightforward, with the confirmation provided immediately. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of weather changes or other plans.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

Unlike many sightseeing tours, this buggy excursion offers direct interaction with the terrain, making it especially appealing for adventure lovers. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with informative commentary about the landscape and local culture.

The small group setting, combined with shared driving, fosters an engaging, personalized experience. The inclusions of helmets, gasoline, and insurance ensure a safe and hassle-free adventure. On top of that, the viewpoints visited are some of the most iconic and difficult to access without off-road vehicles.

The Experience’s Strengths and Considerations

The most praised aspects are the spectacular views, friendly and knowledgeable guides, and the fun off-road driving. Many reviews mention the breath-taking scenery and the ability to see hidden spots away from tourist crowds.

A notable limitation is the potential for cold and dust, which some travelers find uncomfortable if unprepared. Also, timing issues have been reported when starting late, so arriving punctually is advised. Participants should be comfortable driving or riding in a shared vehicle setup.

The Sum Up: An Exciting Way to Discover São Miguel’s Natural Beauty

The Buggy Off-Road Excursion from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades provides a dynamic and scenic way to explore the island’s most famous lakes and viewpoints. With a knowledgeable guide, off-road access to normally inaccessible spots, and stunning scenery, this tour offers great value for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

While the cold mornings and dusty conditions require some preparation, most travelers find the fun driving and breathtaking vistas outweigh these minor inconveniences. This tour suits those who want to see São Miguel from a different perspective and enjoy some thrilling off-road driving in a small-group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is driving experience required for this tour?
Yes, a valid driving license for Portugal is required as you will be driving the buggies or quads.

How long does the tour last?
The itinerary lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including stops at key viewpoints and off-road sites.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers a guide, gasoline, helmets, and personal insurance.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; however, specific age restrictions are not listed. The requirement focuses on having a valid driving license.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses and warm clothing, especially for cooler mornings, and be prepared for dust.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at the ANC Buggy/Quad Tours office in Valados, Ponta Delgada.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the activity is suitable for most travelers, including families, given most can participate and enjoy the adventure.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers, fostering a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
Access to off-road sites, knowledgeable guides, and spectacular viewpoints make this experience unique on São Miguel.