Sete Cidades Experience

Key Points

• Duration: 5-hour experience starting from Ponta Delgada
• Highlights: Walking trail from Miradouro Vista do Rei to Sete Cidades Village, local tasting, and kayaking in Lagoa das Sete Cidades
• Small group: Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience
• Languages: Conducted in English, Portuguese, and Spanish
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now, pay later

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sete Cidades Experience

Scenic Walk from Miradouro Vista do Rei to Sete Cidades Village

This tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Ponta Delgada, setting the stage for a day of exploration. The guided walk traces a trail from the famous Miradouro Vista do Rei to the charming Sete Cidades Village. During this approximately 2.8-mile trek, the route is mostly flat or downhill, making it accessible for most visitors.

As the walk unfolds, you’ll encounter breathtaking vistas of Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, the two lakes that give Sete Cidades its name. The route also passes Caldeira Seca and Caldeira dos Alferes, offering expansive views of the volcanic landscape. At the Lomba do Vasco viewpoint, the scenery shifts to sweeping views of the northwest coast of São Miguel, making it an ideal spot to pause and take photos.

Visiting Sete Cidades Village and Local Tasting

Once in the village, the tour takes a cultural turn. Visitors stop at a wood oven house where they can sample local products such as fresh bread, goat or cow cheese, and poejo tea. These foods are homemade and plentiful, giving a taste of local life and culinary traditions.

The village visit offers a chance to explore a typical Azorean settlement, with its quaint streets and welcoming atmosphere. This stop provides a break from the walking and allows for a relaxed appreciation of the local customs and cuisine.

Kayaking on Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Following the village visit, the focus shifts to the famous lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. The tour includes an excursion in kayaks, allowing participants to glide across the calm waters of these volcanic lakes.

Kayaking offers a close-up view of the lakes’ vibrant colors and tranquil surroundings. The lakes are known for their stunning blue and green hues, which create a remarkable visual contrast. The activity is suitable for all skill levels, and bring your own towel, change of clothes, and water for comfort and convenience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Logistics

This 5-hour tour includes transportation from Ponta Delgada to the Sete Cidades area and back. The group size is limited to 10 people, ensuring a more intimate experience with the guide. The tour operates with experienced guides fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, who provide insights into the landscape, local flora, fauna, and history.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, and to bring snacks, a towel, and water to stay refreshed throughout the day. Since the walk involves some downhill sections, those with knee issues should consider their physical comfort.

Insights from Guest Reviews

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with mentions of friendly hosts who share local information and species details. The scenery is consistently praised for its spectacular views and serene lakes, making the walking and kayaking especially enjoyable.

Reviewers also appreciate the local food tasting, describing the bread and cheese as delicious and plentiful. The kayaking segment is often marked as a highlight, with many noting the quiet lakes and beautiful surroundings.

Some guests mention the small group size as a positive, creating a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. One review notes the importance of bringing extra clothes and sunscreen, especially for kayaking, and warns that the steep downhill at the end could be challenging for those with knees.

Comparing with Other Azores Tours

This experience offers a unique combination of active exploration, culture, and outdoor adventure in a relatively short timeframe. Unlike other tours that might focus solely on scenic drives or boat trips, this tour integrates hiking, tasting, and kayaking for a well-rounded experience.

While some reviews mention minor issues like the need for better pacing or additional support for certain physical activities, overall, this tour provides good value for those seeking an active day immersed in nature.

Why Choose the Sete Cidades Experience?

The personalized small-group setting, expert guides, and diverse activities make this tour appealing for visitors looking to see the lakes up close, enjoy local food, and experience outdoor water activities. The scenic walk from Miradouro Vista do Rei to the village sets a scenic tone, while kayaking offers a memorable way to connect with the lakes.

The flexible booking options and free cancellation add to its convenience, especially for those with unpredictable plans. Be prepared for some physical activity, and remember to bring comfortable shoes and extra clothes for the kayaking.

Final Thoughts on the Sete Cidades Experience

This tour combines the best of São Miguel’s natural beauty and local culture within a manageable 5-hour timeframe. It suits travelers who enjoy active outings, scenic views, and local food tastings. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, guided by knowledgeable hosts who enrich the journey with insights into the landscape and local life.

While some may find the downhill walk at the end challenging, many find the balance of hiking, tasting, and kayaking well worth the effort. The spectacular lakes and peaceful surroundings create lasting memories, making this experience a solid choice for those who want a lively yet relaxed day in the Azores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour starts with pickup from your accommodation in Ponta Delgada and includes transportation to and from Sete Cidades.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, a towel, snacks, and water for the kayaking.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The walk involves mostly flat or downhill terrain, making it suitable for most, though those with bad knees should be cautious due to the steep downhill section at the end.

Are the guides fluent in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, providing clear explanations throughout.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What foods are included in the local tasting?
The tasting features bread, fresh goat or cow cheese, and poejo tea.

Is kayaking included?
Yes, the kayaking activity is part of the tour, offering a chance to paddle on the lakes.

Are the lakes accessible for kayaking?
Yes, the lakes are calm and suitable for all skill levels, providing a peaceful paddling environment.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Azores For All.

What other tours are similar?
Options include guided treks, jeep tours, coastal trips, and more active explorations in São Miguel, which can be found via the provided links.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby