Jeep Off-road Excursion w/ lunch Sete Cidades (Shared)

Discover the rugged beauty of Sete Cidades with a 7 to 8-hour off-road UTV tour in Sao Miguel, Portugal. Priced at $104.18 per person, this guided adventure by ANC Azores Holidays promises access to hidden rural sites and spectacular views that are otherwise hard to reach. You’ll enjoy a traditional Azorean lunch included in the price, along with visits to lakes, viewpoints, and thermal pools, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an active day immersed in nature.

While the tour is designed for small groups—maximum of five travelers—which allows for a more personalized experience, it’s important to note that it requires a minimum of two adults to operate. The route covers some of the most stunning sights around Sete Cidades, with a flexible schedule that adapts to weather conditions, all led by knowledgeable guides. This tour suits outdoor lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore the natural charms of Sao Miguel off the beaten path.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $104.18, the tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours, providing a full day of exploration.
• Access to Hard-to-Reach Places: The off-road UTV vehicles allow you to visit rural spots that are difficult to reach by regular vehicle.
• Lakes and Viewpoints: Stops include Lagoa do Canario, Vista do Rei, and Lagoa das Sete Cidades, offering breathtaking views.
• Included Lunch: A traditional Azorean meal is part of the experience, complemented by local drinks.
• Small-Group Experience: The tour maintains a maximum of five participants, offering a more intimate and flexible visit.
• Expert Guidance: The guide leads you through each stop, sharing insights about the landscape and local features.

Starting Point at the ANC Buggy/Quad Tours Office

The adventure begins at the ANC Buggy/Quad Tours office located at Rua Eng. Alberto Rodrigues 11-13, Valados. The tour kicks off at 8:30 am, giving you a full day to enjoy the sights of Sao Miguel. The meeting involves a short 10-minute stop for initial introductions and briefing, and the tour ends back at the same location. This makes logistics straightforward, especially since the activity is near public transportation options.

Accessing Remote Locations with Off-road UTVs

Traveling in off-road UTV vehicles is the key feature of this tour. The vehicles are specially designed to navigate rural terrain, giving access to areas that are otherwise difficult to visit. This allows you to enjoy the scenic Empadadas Lakes, Canário Lake, and the thermal Ferraraia thermal pool in a way that is both comfortable and adventurous. The vehicles are fueled and insured, making the ride safe and worry-free.

Visiting Covoada and Miradouro do Pico do Carvão

The tour passes by the charming village of Covoada, offering a glimpse into local rural life. Afterward, the guide takes you to the Miradouro do Pico do Carvão viewpoint, where a 10-minute stop allows for spectacular panoramic photos of the landscape. This spot is known for its impressive scenery and is a favorite for capturing memorable views of the island’s volcanic terrain.

Scenic Stops at Lagoa do Canario and Boca do Inferno

One of the most memorable stops is at Lagoa do Canario, where a brief 5-minute view point offers a close-up look at this picturesque lake. Then, a 30-minute visit to Miradouro da Boca do Inferno provides a dramatic overlook, famous for its rugged cliffs and sweeping vistas. These viewpoints highlight the island’s volcanic features and lush greenery, making them perfect for photography.

Vista do Rei and Sete Cidades Viewpoints

The Vista do Rei viewpoint stands out as a highlight, with a 1-hour stop that offers sweeping views of the Sete Cidades crater lakes. This is one of the most iconic spots in the region, renowned for its vibrant blue and green lakes embraced by volcanic walls. Just nearby, a quick 10-minute visit to the Sete Cidades Viewpoint lets you take in the expansive landscape from a different angle.

Exploring the Caldeira das Sete Cidades

The Caldeira das Sete Cidades is a major highlight, with a 1-hour stop at the Vista das Cumeeiras. Here, visitors enjoy expansive views over the crater’s lakes and the surrounding lush landscape. The location provides a sense of the island’s volcanic origins and natural grandeur. This stop also offers free access, making it an ideal photo opportunity and a peaceful place to soak in the scenery.

Visiting Lagoa Verde and Thermal Pools

The tour also includes another chance to see Lagoa Verde / Lagoa das Sete Cidades, with a brief 10-minute stop at a viewpoint. Later, travelers can unwind at the Ferraraia thermal pool, where relaxation is complemented by the natural thermal waters. The inclusion of a delicious Azorean lunch adds a satisfying break mid-day, giving a taste of local cuisine and drinks, including the best local beers.

Practicalities and Group Size

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a minimum age requirement generally low, and it is designed to accommodate most physical fitness levels. The small-group size of up to five travelers ensures that the guide can offer personalized attention, answer questions, and adapt the itinerary if needed. The tour is confirmed within 48 hours of booking, and cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The included features are comprehensive: lunch, guide, fuel, and insurance (PAI). The tour does not include items not explicitly mentioned, so personal extras or additional activities are at your discretion. The meeting point is conveniently located, and the tour has a flexible schedule that can adapt to weather conditions at no extra cost. It’s recommended for those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and exploring remote island landscapes.

Why Choose This Off-road Adventure in Sao Miguel?

This tour stands out for its focus on accessing remote sites using UTV vehicles, which open up the island’s most scenic spots. The combination of spectacular viewpoints, lakes, and thermal pools offers a varied experience that balances adventure with relaxation. The small group size ensures a more intimate environment, perfect for those who prefer personalized guidance and fewer crowds.

While the tour is well-rated at 4.2 out of 5, the most praised aspects are the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious local food. The 8-hour experience provides enough time to see a wide range of sights without feeling rushed.

This Sete Cidades off-road UTV tour offers a comprehensive way to enjoy Sao Miguel’s natural beauty. It combines adventure, scenic viewpoints, and local cuisine in a well-organized day. For those seeking to explore the island’s rural landscapes and volcanic craters, this tour provides an exciting, accessible, and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $104.18 per person, including lunch, guide, fuel, and insurance.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to the meeting point.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It begins at the ANC Buggy/Quad Tours office at Rua Eng. Alberto Rodrigues 11-13, Valados, and ends back at the same location.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Pico do Carvão, Lagoa do Canario, Vista do Rei, Sete Cidades Viewpoint, and Caldeira das Sete Cidades.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but specific physical fitness and age considerations may apply. The small group size allows for personalized attention.

What should I bring?
Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. The tour provides the vehicles, guide, and lunch, so prepare for a full day of exploration.

Are there any cancellation policies?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are available if canceled within this window.

Can I change the tour date?
The tour date can be changed depending on weather conditions at no extra cost.

What makes this tour unique?
The use of off-road UTV vehicles to access remote viewpoints and lakes, combined with small-group intimacy and local cuisine, makes this a distinctive way to experience Sao Miguel.

Is the tour environmentally friendly?
The tour includes insurance and fuel, and is designed for minimal environmental impact, allowing you to enjoy nature responsibly.

This Sete Cidades UTV tour combines adventure with scenic beauty, offering a well-rounded day in the Azores. It’s perfect for those who want to see the island’s highlights in a relaxed yet active setting, with the comfort of a guided, small-group experience.