Buggy Off-road Excursion w/ lunch from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades (Shared)

Exploring São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes becomes an adventure with this Buggy Off-road Excursion from Ponta Delgada. Priced at $129.16 per person, this full-day tour offers approximately 7 to 8 hours of fun, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking an active, scenic experience. With a small-group limit of 10 participants, the tour ensures a personal touch, guided by knowledgeable local experts. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy off-road driving, spectacular views, and a taste of authentic Azorean cuisine, all while comfortably sitting in a shared UTV.

While this tour includes a lunch, hot springs, and multiple scenic stops, it requires driving with a valid license, and some physical activity is involved. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its perfect 5.0 rating based on 57 reviews, emphasizing both the quality of the experience and the friendly, informative guides. For anyone eager to see the impressive lakes and volcano rim views that are hard to reach by car, this adventure provides a memorable way to explore the island’s hidden corners.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure lasting around 7 to 8 hours from Ponta Delgada.
• Includes scenic viewpoints, such as Pico do Carvão, Lagoa do Canario, and Sete Cidades.
• Off-road driving on dirt roads and mountain trails with no UTV experience necessary.
• Small-group tours limited to 10 people for a personalized experience.
• Includes a local Azorean buffet-style lunch and visits to hot springs.
• Requires a valid driving license and physical fitness to handle off-road driving.

Starting Point at ANC Buggy/Quad Tours Office in Valados

The tour departs from the ANC Buggy/Quad Tours office in Valados, located at Rua Eng. Alberto Rodrigues 11-13. The meet-up time is 8:30 am, and the activity concludes back at the same starting point. The convenient location is accessible via public transport, making it easy to join the adventure. The check-in process takes about 10 minutes, and all necessary helmets and fuel are included in the package.

The tour begins with a brief safety and instruction session, after which participants are assigned to their UTVs. Shared driving means you’ll alternate behind the wheel, enjoying the landscape from different angles.

Exploring the Scenic Route: From the Village to Volcano Viewpoints

The first stops include passing through Rua dos Valados and admiring the village scenery. The tour then ventures to the Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, offering sweeping views of the island’s volcanic caldera. Next, the group visits the Lagoa do Canario viewpoint, famed for its lush landscape and dramatic cliffs.

This route showcases multiple viewpoints, each providing unique perspectives of São Miguel’s volcanic terrain. The Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, with its panoramic vistas, allows for plenty of photo opportunities. The tour emphasizes off-the-beaten-path dirt roads that lead to scenic overlooks inaccessible by regular vehicles.

The Highlight: Sete Cidades and Its Lakes

The most notable part of this tour is visiting the Lagoa Verde and Lagoa das Sete Cidades viewpoints. Sitting atop the caldera, these lakes are among the most iconic sights on the island. The tour provides ample time to admire the crystalline waters, framed by volcanic cliffs, from the Vista do Rei lookout.

Afterward, a short drive brings the group to the Caldeira das Sete Cidades, where lush greenery surrounds the lakes, creating a breathtaking scene. The tour offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate the island’s volcanic beauty and the contrast between water and land.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant in Sete Cidades

A key highlight is the lunch stop in the village of Sete Cidades. The tour includes a buffet-style meal, featuring freshly cooked local dishes. Reviewers frequently praise the delicious food, which aligns with the authentic Azorean cuisine.

The restaurant is small but welcoming, offering a variety of options such as salads, meats, and fish—perfect for refueling after several hours of off-road driving. The lunch is included at no extra cost, providing great value for the comprehensive experience.

Visiting the Lagoa de Santiago and Other Viewpoints

After lunch, the tour visits the Lagoa de Santiago, a serene spot offering another perspective of the volcanic lakes. The group then stops at additional viewpoints, giving ample time to take photographs and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Each viewpoint showcases different aspects of the volcano’s rim, with some stops lasting around 10 minutes, other longer stops like 30 minutes at Boca do Inferno. These breaks help balance the driving with enjoying the scenery.

The Ferraria Hot Springs: A Optional Stop

While some reviews mention the Ferraria hot springs, this tour does not include a stop there, likely due to safety conditions. Instead, the tour replaces this with exploration of other volcanic roads and access points. The hot springs are a popular destination on the island, but access may be restricted for safety reasons on certain days.

Travelers should be aware that no swimming or bathing occurs during this excursion, and the focus stays on scenic viewpoints and off-road driving.

The Off-road Experience: Driving and Navigating Trails

The UTVs used in this tour are designed for adventure, capable of handling dirt roads, mountain trails, and volcanic terrain**. The tour’s shared driving format allows each participant to take turns behind the wheel, making it an interactive experience.

Guides like Pedro, Reuben, and Miguel are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling, adding a rich layer of local insight. The off-road routes vary, with some parts presenting mud, dust, and uneven surfaces, so bringing layers and waterproof gear is advisable, especially in unpredictable weather.

Tour Logistics: Group Size, Duration, and Practical Tips

The tour limits 10 participants per group to maintain personalized attention, but the maximum capacity is 25 travelers overall. The pick-up and drop-off are at the same location, and the meeting time at 8:30 am allows for a full day’s exploration.

Travelers should have moderate physical fitness due to the nature of off-road driving and the walking involved at viewpoints. The tour is suitable for those with a valid driving license and a credit card for security deposits.

A full refund is available if the tour is canceled due to weather, or if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. The activity is weather-dependent, so flexible scheduling is recommended.

Why Choose This UTV Tour from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades?

This tour stands out for its combination of off-road adventure, scenic viewpoints, and cultural insights. The local guides excel at sharing stories and knowledge, making the experience both fun and informative. The delicious buffet lunch and inclusion of hot springs visits add extra value.

While some may find the lack of access to Ferraria hot springs a minor disappointment, the route compensates with spectacular views and adventure-driven exploration. The small-group size ensures a more intimate experience, and the reviews consistently praise the guides and scenery.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy driving, nature, and the outdoors, and who are comfortable with moderate physical activity. It offers a comprehensive view of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, coupled with local flavor and warm hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is driving experience necessary for this tour?
Yes, a valid driving license is required to operate the UTVs, but no prior experience is necessary since guides provide instructions.

What should I bring for the off-road drive?
It’s wise to wear layers, as weather can change quickly. Bringing a waterproof jacket or waterproof gear is recommended, especially if rain is forecasted. Sunglasses or goggles can help protect against dust and mud.

Are the hot springs included in the tour?
No, the Ferraria hot springs are not included in this tour, possibly due to safety restrictions. Instead, the focus is on scenic viewpoints and driving adventures.

How long is the lunch break?
The lunch in Sete Cidades is quick but satisfying, with buffet-style dishes served in a cozy local restaurant. The meal is included in the tour price.

What is the group size limit?
The tour is limited to 10 participants for a personal experience, with a maximum capacity of 25 travelers overall.

Can this tour be canceled?
Yes, free cancellation is available if done more than 24 hours in advance. The tour may be canceled due to bad weather, in which case a full refund or alternative date is offered.

This Buggy Off-road Excursion from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades delivers a lively, scenic, and engaging way to experience São Miguel’s volcanic beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure, stunning vistas, or a taste of local cuisine, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day on the island.