Azores – Seven Cities & Lagoa do Fogo tour

The Azores – Seven Cities & Lagoa do Fogo tour, offered by Safari Azores, provides an engaging full-day experience exploring some of São Miguel’s most iconic natural sights. Priced at $74.52 per person, this approximately 7-hour tour departs from Ponta Delgada and is perfect for travelers seeking a rundown of the island’s volcanic beauty. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the small-group format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

This tour is especially valued for its stunning views, well-planned route, and friendly guides. The use of high-clearance 4-wheel vehicles enables access to unpaved roads, opening up vistas that are otherwise hard to reach. It’s a flexible, informative option for those eager to see lakes, villages, waterfalls, and panoramic landscapes all in one day. The tour’s reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery, making it a popular choice. However, travelers should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing with some unpaved roads and walking at stops.

Key Points

• Full-day exploration of São Miguel’s highlights for $74.52
• Approximately 7 hours long with pickup service included
• Visits to Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Ribeira Grande, and more
• Access to unpaved roads using high-clearance 4-wheel vehicles
• Small group size ensures personalized attention
• Highly praised for stunning views and friendly guides

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The tour begins at the Posto de Turismo de Ponta Delgada, located at Av. Infante Dom Henrique. It kicks off promptly at 9:00 am and returns to the same meeting point after approximately 7 hours of sightseeing. The tour includes pickup service, making it convenient for guests staying in or near Ponta Delgada.

This schedule suits travelers who prefer a well-organized, full-day experience without the hassle of planning individual transport. The 7-hour duration allows for plenty of sightseeing without feeling rushed, though it still covers a broad range of locations.

Scenic Views from Vista do Rei Miradouro

The Vista do Rei Miradouro is one of the tour’s first stops, offering breathtaking views of the Green Lagoon and Seven Cities Lagoon. These volcanic lakes sit within a massive caldera, with contrasting blue and green waters framed by lush hills. Visitors get ample time here to take photos of the impressive landscape and appreciate the island’s volcanic origins.

The viewpoint is a highlight for many, thanks to the picturesque scenery and the chance to understand the island’s volcanic activity. The free admission makes this a perfect start to the day’s journey.

Exploring the Village of Sete Cidades

After descending from the viewpoint, the tour stops in the quaint village of Sete Cidades. Known for its picturesque lagoons and charming streets, this village offers a closer look at local life amid stunning natural surroundings. Visitors can admire the contrast between the blue and green lakes from various viewpoints and enjoy some free time to walk around or grab a snack.

This stop provides an authentic taste of island life and a deeper appreciation for the volcanic landscape that shapes São Miguel’s scenery.

Discovering Rabo de Peixe and Capelas

The journey continues to the fishing village of Rabo de Peixe, where the tour offers a glimpse of traditional Azorean coastal life. Not far from here is the village of Capelas, known for its panoramic views and historic sites. These stops emphasize the diverse coastal culture and provide opportunities for photo breaks amid the scenic settings.

In Capelas, the tour also features a visit to Licores Mulher de Capote, where guests can taste local liqueurs crafted from fruits and herbs. This small but meaningful cultural activity adds flavor to the day’s exploration.

Sampling Local Flavors at Mulher do Capote

The visit to Mulher do Capote introduces guests to traditional Azorean liqueurs, a well-loved local specialty. Here, tasting sessions showcase the use of native fruits and herbs, offering an authentic taste of regional craftsmanship. This stop allows for a relaxed break and a chance to bring home a local souvenir.

The free tasting enhances the cultural experience, making it more memorable and personal.

Ribeira Grande’s Historic Charm

Next, the tour takes visitors to Ribeira Grande, the island’s second-largest city. Known for its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere, Ribeira Grande offers a glimpse of local life and some free time to explore its streets and shops. The visit highlights the cultural heritage and traditional character of São Miguel.

From here, the tour proceeds to Caldeira Velha, a natural thermal site, adding a relaxing element before heading to Salto do Cabrito for a view of a spectacular waterfall and the old hydroelectric plant—a symbol of the island’s use of water for energy.

Salto do Cabrito Waterfall and Historic Hydro Plant

Salto do Cabrito is an impressive waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The site offers great photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the island’s rich natural resources. Nearby, the hydro power plant showcases historic water energy use, blending nature and industry in a fascinating way.

This stop combines scenic beauty with an educational glimpse into São Miguel’s sustainable energy history.

Panoramic Views from Pico da Barrosa

The final major stop is Pico da Barrosa, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged coastline and interior landscapes. Visitors get a last memorable vista of the island’s volcanic terrain and coastlines, perfect for photos and reflection on the day’s journey.

This spot captures the diversity of São Miguel’s geography and is a fitting end to the tour.

Lagoa do Fogo and Miradouro Viewpoint

The tour concludes with a visit to the Lagoa do Fogo, one of the most iconic lakes on the island. From the Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo, visitors enjoy spectacular views of the volcanic lagoon and surrounding landscape. The viewpoint offers a perfect chance to breathe in the scenery and capture memorable photos.

This final stop emphasizes the raw beauty of São Miguel’s volcanic terrain and leaves guests with lasting impressions.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour’s maximum group size of 8 ensures an intimate experience with personalized guidance. The tour includes pickup from Ponta Delgada, making logistics straightforward. The confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the full refund policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour runs in good weather conditions—cancellation is possible if the weather is poor, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Why Choose This Tour?

The Seven Cities & Lagoa do Fogo tour stands out for its careful route planning that covers the most scenic locations efficiently. The use of 4-wheel drive vehicles grants access to unpaved roads and hidden viewpoints, adding an adventurous edge. The small-group setting makes the experience more personal, and the knowledgeable guides help visitors understand the island’s volcanic features and local culture.

While the 7-hour schedule is packed, it balances driving, sightseeing, and cultural stops well. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the tour, with free tastings and entrance fees included in many stops.

Final Thoughts on the Azores Seven Cities & Lagoa do Fogo Tour

This tour offers a rich, well-rounded view of São Miguel’s natural and cultural highlights in a manageable day. The stunning viewpoints, charming villages, and authentic tasting experiences make it a valuable choice for travelers wanting to make the most of their time on the island.

The small group size and friendly guides contribute to a comfortable, engaging experience. While some stops involve unpaved roads and moderate walking, the overall pace remains accessible for most visitors. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guides who share insightful information and spectacular vistas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $74.52 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Posto de Turismo de Ponta Delgada and finishes back at the same location.

Are meals or drinks included?
The tour includes tastings of local liqueurs at Mulher do Capote but does not specify other meals.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup service, and the vehicles used are high-clearance 4-wheel drive.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Vista do Rei, Sete Cidades, Capelas, Ribeira Grande, Caldeira Velha, Salto do Cabrito, Pico da Barrosa, and Lagoa do Fogo.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops involve walking and uneven terrain, especially at viewpoints and natural sites.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Are small groups guaranteed?
Yes, the tour limits group size to 8 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Is this tour recommended for photography?
Absolutely—many stops offer excellent photo opportunities of volcanic lakes, waterfalls, and panoramic landscapes.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
The experience requires good weather; cancellations are possible if the weather is poor, with options for rescheduling or refunds.