Azores: Shore Excursion Sete Cidades – Blue & Green Twin Crater Lakes

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $68.23 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a 3 to 4-hour experience.
• Highlights Include: Visiting the Sete Cidades twin lakes, pineapple plantation, and several breathtaking viewpoints like Vista do Rei.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and more flexibility.
• All-Inclusive Transport: Pickup and drop-off at the Ponta Delgada port make logistics hassle-free.
• Guides with Local Knowledge: The tour features multi-lingual guides who share insights about the island’s geology, wildlife, and local culture.
• Weather Dependency: The experience is best on clear days; poor weather can affect views, and some tours are canceled with a full refund.

This tour from Azores Dream Tours takes you on a scenic journey around the São Miguel Island’s most iconic sights. For travelers seeking a manageable, well-organized trip to explore Sete Cidades, with guides who share local stories, this experience delivers. Keep in mind that bad weather may cause cancellations, but when skies are clear, you’ll enjoy some of the most spectacular views in the Azores.

Exploring the Sete Cidades Twin Lakes and Volcanoes

The main draw of this shore excursion is the chance to see the famous Blue and Green Lakes of Sete Cidades, which are often called the most beautiful sights on São Miguel. The Vista do Rei viewpoint provides a panoramic vista of these lakes, offering uninterrupted views that impress even seasoned travelers. The blue and green lakes are especially photogenic, despite some reviews noting that weather can sometimes obscure their vivid colors.

Travelers also visit Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, the first view inside the volcano crater, giving a sense of the island’s volcanic origins. The rugged coastline and lush landscapes surrounding these sights give an authentic feel of the Azores’ volcanic terrain. The scenic drives to these viewpoints are complemented by informative commentary from guides, making the experience not just visually stunning but also educational.

A Unique Pineapple Plantation Experience

One of the tour’s special features is the visit to Arruda Pineapple Plantation, where pineapples are cultivated inside glass greenhouses. This is a rare opportunity to see how pinesapples grow in the Azores, with guides explaining their cultivation process. The 20-minute stop is free of charge and provides a glimpse into the island’s agriculture, which is both practical and interesting.

The plantation visit offers a break from the natural scenery and combines agricultural insight with the chance to taste local produce. This stop is appreciated for its informative approach and the unique greenhouse setup that allows pineapples to thrive in the climate. It’s a small but memorable part of the overall journey, emphasizing the Azores’ diverse landscape.

The Viewpoints That Capture the Best of São Miguel

The tour includes several short stops at renowned viewpoints, such as Pico Carvao and Miradouro da Boca do Inferno. Pico Carvao offers spectacular vistas over half the island, giving travelers a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s varied terrain. The 10-minute stop allows for photo opportunities and taking in the landscape.

The Miradouro da Boca do Inferno offers the initial glimpse into the volcanic crater, setting the tone for the rest of the tour. Its short duration makes it suitable for quick photo stops, but the views are notable enough to make it a highlight. These viewpoints show off the island’s volcanic origins and are praised for their breathtaking scenery.

The Famous Vista do Rei Viewpoint and Its Significance

The Vista do Rei viewpoint is undoubtedly the most famous on this tour, offering a spectacular vista of Sete Cidades lakes in full view. This 10-minute stop is often the highlight, providing a sweeping panorama of the blue and green lakes, with lush green hills and volcanic formations surrounding them.

Many reviews emphasize how guides explain the geology and history behind this iconic sight. Despite some weather-related limitations, visitors appreciate the opportunity to capture memorable photos and absorb the beauty of the landscape. The Vista do Rei serves as a perfect spot for a photo break and to appreciate the scale and complexity of the volcanic crater.

The Small Group Advantage and Customized Pacing

With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour provides a more intimate experience compared to larger bus trips. The small van style transport allows guides to be more flexible, making additional stops and adjusting pacing based on weather or interest. This also means more personalized attention and the chance to ask questions.

The less crowded environment enhances the overall atmosphere, making it easier to connect with the guide and get tailored insights about each location. Many reviews mention the friendly and knowledgeable guides, such as Carlos and Pedro, who share stories and answer questions, boosting the experience’s depth.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Timing, and Group Size

The tour departs from Ponta Delgada at 9:00 am, with pickup included at the cruise port. The duration is approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity. The tour is designed to suit most travelers, with most participants able to participate, and children are required to be accompanied by an adult.

The group size of up to 8 travelers is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed, flexible experience. The mobile ticket system simplifies access, and pickup and drop-off at the port ensure a smooth start and end to the day.

Comparing the Tour’s Value and Common Criticisms

This Azores shore excursion offers excellent value, especially when considering the small group size and inclusions like transport, guide services, and stops at key sights. The price of $68.23 is competitive compared to larger cruise line options.

However, some reviews note discomfort in transportation, such as hot and stuffy conditions inside the vehicle due to poor air conditioning. Others highlight that weather can impact the experience, with views sometimes obscured by clouds or rain. Cancellations due to weather are possible, and refunds are issued if this occurs.

The Role of Guides and Personalized Service

The success of this tour often hinges on the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Carlos, Pedro, and Henry are praised for their responsive and caring approach, sharing local lore and geological facts. The small group size allows guides to customize explanations and spend more time at each stop.

Some reviews mention the guide’s enthusiasm and responsiveness as key elements that elevate the experience, making visitors feel more connected to the landscape and culture of the Azores.

Weather Considerations and Cancellation Policy

The tour depends on good weather to showcase the lake colors and volcanic views. If the weather is poor, cancellations are possible, with the option for a full refund or to rebook for a different day. It’s advised to check weather forecasts in advance and be flexible if conditions are unfavorable.

One notable review mentions a cancellation due to weather conditions that prevented docking, with the customer unable to get a refund from the tour provider due to the timing of the cancellation and the booking process.

Summary of the Experience for Potential Participants

This Sete Cidades lakes tour from Ponta Delgada offers a well-rounded introduction to the island’s volcanic landscapes, viewpoints, and agricultural tradition. The small-group format enhances the experience through personalized attention and flexibility. The guides’ local expertise helps bring the scenery to life with interesting stories and explanations.

While the vehicle comfort could be improved, the spectacular views and informative stops make this tour a strong choice for travelers seeking a cost-effective, scenic, and educational half-day adventure. Most participants find the experience worth the price, especially with good weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation with pickup and drop-off at Ponta Delgada port, a driver/guide, and a local guide during stops.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a convenient half-day activity.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Arruda Pineapple Plantation, Pico Carvao, Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, and Vista do Rei viewpoint.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate.

How does weather affect the tour?
The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather can lead to cancellations with full refunds.

What makes this tour different from other Azores excursions?
Its small group size, personalized guiding, and visit to the pineapple plantation set it apart, offering an intimate experience with a focus on natural beauty.

Can I customize stops or the pace?
Due to the small group format, guides can often accommodate additional stops or adjust pacing based on weather and interest.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The Blue and Green Lakes, Vista do Rei, volcano crater views, and local agriculture stand out as top highlights.

Is this tour worth the price?
Most reviews agree that at $68.23, the tour offers good value for the quality of sights and guides, especially considering the small group size and included transportation.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the provided platform, with confirmation received within 48 hours and most bookings made 79 days in advance for optimal planning.