Quad 1/pax – Off-road Excursion w/ lunch – Sete Cidades

Explore the Wild Landscapes of Sao Miguel with a Full-Day Quad Adventure

The Quad 1/pax – Off-road Excursion with Lunch in Sete Cidades offers an exciting way to experience the natural beauty of the Azores. Priced at $149.33 per person, this 7 to 8-hour tour takes you through mountains, beaches, and lush woodland trails. It departs from Ponta Delgada and is perfect for those seeking an adventurous day outside the usual tourist spots. The tour includes guidance, fuel, lunch, helmets, and personal insurance, making it a comprehensive and good-value experience.

Designed for small groups limited to 10 people, the trip ensures a personalized touch. No prior experience is necessary, as full instruction is provided, making it accessible to most. While the tour is physically moderate, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some active movement. The tour’s flexibility allows weather-dependent adjustments at no extra charge, adding to its reliability.

Key Points

• Full-day off-road quad experience exploring Sao Miguel’s top natural sights
• Includes lunch and round-trip transport from Ponta Delgada
• Visits Fogo crater lake, Salto do Cabrito waterfall, and Pópulo beach
• Optional swim at Caldeira Velha thermal pool
• No experience needed thanks to full instruction provided
• Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized adventure

Starting Point and Tour Logistics at Valados

The adventure begins at the ANC Buggy/Quad Tours office in Rua Eng. Alberto Rodrigues 11-13, Valados. The tour departs promptly at 8:30 am, giving ample time for a full day of exploration. The meeting point is close to public transportation, making access straightforward. The trip concludes back at the same location, after a carefully curated route that includes multiple scenic stops and driving through some of the most beautiful landscapes of Sao Miguel.

The group size of up to 10 ensures a relaxed atmosphere where guides can give individual attention. Travelers are required to have a valid driving license and a credit card for insurance purposes. The physical effort involved is moderate, suitable for most people with average fitness levels. The tour’s flexible scheduling also allows for weather-related changes without penalty, providing peace of mind.

Navigating the Route: From Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades

The route starts with a scenic drive from Ponta Delgada through the countryside, passing Covoada and enjoying views from Miradouro do Pico do Carvao. The route continues to the breathtaking Lagoa do Canario, where a 30-minute stop offers stunning vistas of volcanic terrain. Optional stops include Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, with its dramatic cliffs, and Vista do Rei Miradouro, renowned for panoramic views of the Sete Cidades lakes.

The highlight of the day is the visit to Sete Cidades, where a relaxing lunch break takes place. In this peaceful setting, travelers can enjoy local cuisine in a small-group environment. After lunch, the tour visits the Lagoa Verde and Lagoa das Sete Cidades, including a short tunnel passage, offering fantastic photo opportunities of the twin lakes.

The route also includes a drive through Lagoa de Santiago, giving a comprehensive view of the volcanic scenery. The day wraps up with a return to Ponta Delgada, concluding the circuit after roughly 8 hours of adventure, sightseeing, and discovery.

Highlights of the Off-road Quad Experience

This tour is renowned for its exciting off-road segments, where you zip along mountain trails, woodland paths, and beaches. The guides are praised for their knowledge and hospitality, with reviews highlighting their ability to show hidden gems like Fogo Lake and local spots of interest. The full instruction ensures even beginners can confidently handle the quad bikes, making safety and fun a priority.

Travelers appreciate the chance to explore Fogo crater lake and the lush surroundings that are often inaccessible by traditional tours. The salto do Cabrito waterfall offers a refreshing stop, while the beaches at Pópulo provide scenic coastal views. For those eager to unwind, the optional dip in the Caldeira Velha thermal pool adds a relaxing end to an active day.

The Lunch and Local Hospitality

Included in the tour price is a lunch at a local venue, where guests enjoy traditional Azorean dishes. The food is appreciated for its homemade quality, and guides often take visitors to Joao and Rimi’s resort, which is noted for its incredible hospitality. The meal typically features delicious volcanic-cooked dishes, with fresh salads and desserts.

This aspect of the tour offers a chance to rest, refuel, and experience local flavors in a relaxed setting. The guides’ personable approach enhances the experience, making the break a memorable part of the adventure.

Visiting Fogo Lake and the Scenic Waterfalls

A primary highlight of this tour is the visit to Fogo crater lake, a stunning volcanic caldera with vivid blue waters. The views from the main lookout are described as beautiful, and guides ensure you see the best vantage points. The route also takes you past Salto do Cabrito, a picturesque waterfall that provides excellent photo opportunities and a refreshing pause amid the lush landscape.

The scenic stops at Miradouro do Pico do Carvao and Vista do Rei offer sweeping views of the lakes and volcanic craters. The stops are short but packed with photo-worthy sights and insights from the guides, who share interesting facts about the volcanic activity and formation of these natural features.

Exploring Sete Cidades and Lagoa das Sete Cidades

The Sete Cidades area is the tour’s centerpiece, with a designated hour for lunch and sightseeing. The lakes, Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, are renowned for their contrasting colors, a result of volcanic minerals. Visitors can walk along the lakes’ edges, take photos, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

A tunnel passage connects the lakes, offering a unique perspective of this volcanic caldera. The area’s natural beauty and tranquility make it a favorite stop and a perfect spot to appreciate the Azores’ volcanic landscape firsthand.

The Optional Swim at Caldeira Velha Thermal Pool

While not included in the core route, the Caldeira Velha thermal pool provides an optional opportunity for relaxation. This warm, mineral-rich pool is a popular way to unwind after a day of off-road riding and sightseeing. The natural thermal waters are said to have soothing properties, and the setting is both scenic and peaceful.

Guides can advise on timing and logistics for a visit to this spot, which many travelers find a delightful way to cap off their active day. The thermal pool adds a layer of comfort and indulgence to the overall experience.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Adventure for Active Explorers

The Quad 1/pax – Off-road Excursion with Lunch on Sete Cidades delivers a comprehensive half or full-day adventure that combines thrilling off-road riding, scenic sightseeing, and cultural stops. The small-group format and expert guides ensure a personalized, engaging experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxation.

The tour’s focus on natural wonders like Fogo Lake, waterfalls, and volcanic vistas makes it ideal for those who want an active, immersive day in the Azores. The included lunch and transport add convenience, while the no experience necessary policy makes it accessible for most travelers.

While it’s physically moderate, travelers should be comfortable with driving a quad and have a valid license. Weather conditions can influence the schedule, but flexibility is built into the experience. This tour offers a fantastic way to see Sao Miguel’s wild side, especially for those eager to combine adventure with scenic beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no experience is needed as full instruction is provided, making it suitable for beginners.

What is included in the price?
The price covers fuel, guide, personal insurance, lunch, helmets, and round-trip transport from Ponta Delgada.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including stops, sightseeing, and lunch.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, travelers should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable driving a quad with a valid license.

Can I swim at Caldeira Velha thermal pool?
Swim options are optional; the thermal pool is available for relaxation after the main activities.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour schedule can be adjusted at no extra cost depending on weather conditions.

What are the main highlights of the route?
Key stops include Fogo Lake, Salto do Cabrito waterfall, Lagoa do Canario, and scenic viewpoints like Vista do Rei.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Do guides share local insights?
Yes, guides are praised for their knowledge of local plants, geology, and interesting spots, enriching the experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from the Ponta Delgada base is included.