Sete Cidades, Hike Serra Devassa and Boca do Inferno

An Authentic Hike with Stunning Views in São Miguel

The Sete Cidades, Hike Serra Devassa and Boca do Inferno tour offers an engaging outdoor experience on the scenic island of São Miguel in Portugal. Priced at $63.97 per person, this approximately 4.5-hour adventure takes place in the highlands near Ponta Delgada. It is ideal for those who enjoy moderate physical activity, as it covers 4.9 km (around 3 miles) at a medium difficulty level. The tour begins with a pickup service, making logistics straightforward, and features a mobile ticket for convenience.

This tour stands out by combining a mountain hike with some of the most iconic viewpoints of the caldera of Sete Cidades. It balances challenging trails with rewarding vistas that highlight the island’s volcanic landscapes, endemic vegetation, and beautiful lagoons. The experience is especially suited for active travelers seeking an authentic, nature-focused exploration of São Miguel’s volcanoes and lakes.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of the Sete Cidades caldera from Boca do Inferno and Vista do Rei
• Moderate 4.9 km hike that takes approximately 2 hours, suitable for those with moderate fitness
• Expert-guided tour with a professional guide renowned for friendliness and detailed explanations
• Includes transportation with pickup options, simplifying the logistics
• Unique viewpoints showcasing the island’s volcanic craters, lagoons, and endemic plants
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for flexible planning

Starting Point in the Western Part of São Miguel’s Volcano

This tour begins in the western part of the island, near the Canário park, at the top of the Sete Cidades volcano crater. The departure point is accessible via public transportation and offers a scenic starting location for the hike, with the trail looping back to the same spot at the end. The initial ascent takes you across a trail that winds through lush vegetation, leading to some of the best panoramic views of the caldera rim.

The start near Canário park ensures a smooth beginning, with the trail designed to provide a balance between effort and stunning scenery. As it begins in the highlands, the trail offers a chance to enjoy endemic vegetation and the fresh mountain air, setting a perfect tone for the hike ahead.

Exploring the Serra Devassa Trail

The Serra Devassa trail is the core of this guided adventure. It spans 4.9 km with a medium difficulty level, taking around 2 hours to complete. The trail descends from the highlands, offering hikers breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes and the lush vegetation native to São Miguel.

Throughout the hike, you will see the Canário lagoon, one of the island’s picturesque volcanic lakes, and pass through areas rich with endemic flora. The guide provides insightful commentary about the volcanic formation of the region and its ecological significance, enhancing the overall experience.

Visiting Boca do Inferno for a Full Caldera View

A key highlight of this tour is the stop at Boca do Inferno, one of the most famous viewpoints in São Miguel. From this vantage point, you can see the entire rim of the Sete Cidades caldera in one sweeping view. The breathtaking scenery features colorful lagoons, volcano formations, and the expansive volcanic crater environment that makes the island unique.

The Boca do Inferno viewpoint allows visitors to appreciate the scale and beauty of the caldera, making it a favorite photo spot. It’s an ideal place to pause, take in the scenery, and understand the island’s volcanic history.

The Iconic Vista do Rei Viewpoint: Two Lagoons United

The tour concludes at Vista do Rei, the main viewpoint in Sete Cidades. Here, the two lagoons, known for their contrasting colors, come into view. The sight of the lagoons united within the caldera creates a truly extraordinary visual experience.

From this vantage point, you can observe the distinctive colors and the volcanic landscape surrounding the lakes. This spot is widely regarded as the most famous in the area and provides ample opportunity for photographs. The vista encapsulates the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty.

Practical Information and Tour Logistics

The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as the trail involves some elevation change but remains manageable. The pickup service simplifies logistics, and the mobile ticket ensures easy access. The maximum group size is 99 travelers, maintaining a comfortable and personable atmosphere.

The tour operates subject to good weather, and in case of cancellation due to poor weather, participants are offered a full refund or alternative date. Travelers should be prepared for a moderate-paced walk and bring suitable footwear and water.

Expert Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The tour features a professional guide who is praised for their excellence, politeness, and accurate information. The guide’s excellent English communication enhances understanding of the volcanic landscape and local ecology. The guide’s friendly demeanor and attention to detail contribute to a memorable experience.

One review highlights the guide’s superb explanations and professional approach, which significantly enhances the hike. Their presence ensures that guests not only enjoy the views but also gain meaningful insights into the island’s geology and natural environment.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking this tour offers free cancellation if done at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility allows for any last-minute adjustments due to weather or schedule changes. Since the experience depends on good weather, the provider offers an alternative date or a full refund if the weather conditions deteriorate.

This considerate cancellation policy makes the tour a safe choice for those cautious about weather unpredictability or changing plans.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

At $63.97, this guided hike provides excellent value, combining scenic vistas, ecological insights, and a well-organized experience. The inclusion of transport and the expert guide makes it a convenient and enriching option for outdoor enthusiasts visiting São Miguel.

The tour’s focus on iconic viewpoints like Boca do Inferno and Vista do Rei, along with the moderate trail, ensures that most active travelers will find it both enjoyable and rewarding.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This adventure appeals most to active travelers who are comfortable with a moderate difficulty hike. Those interested in volcanic landscapes, lagoons, and panoramic views will find this tour especially satisfying. It suits visitors seeking a nature-focused day with professional guidance and some of the best vistas in São Miguel.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Educational Volcano Hike

The Sete Cidades, Hike Serra Devassa and Boca do Inferno tour offers a beautiful exploration of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes in a manageable and well-guided format. Expect breathtaking views, endemic flora, and the chance to stand at some of the island’s most iconic viewpoints.

While the trail length and moderate difficulty make it accessible for many, travelers should be prepared for a physically engaging experience. The expert guide and clear logistics make this a reliable choice for those eager to experience the island’s natural wonders up close.

If you prefer a small-group, guided outdoor activity focused on panoramic vistas and ecological insights, this tour offers great value and a genuinely memorable hike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
This tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, and involves a 2-hour hike of 4.9 km with some elevation changes. It may not be ideal for very young children or individuals with mobility challenges.

What should I bring for the hike?
Participants should wear comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for trail walking, and bring water. Since the tour operates in good weather, dressing appropriately for the climate is recommended.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is poor?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. If the tour is canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, the tour offers pickup services to simplify your logistics, and the ticket is mobile for easy access.

How long does the entire experience last?
The hike itself takes about 2 hours, with additional time for stops at viewpoints, making the total around 4.5 hours.

What makes this tour stand out compared to other São Miguel excursions?
This tour combines a scenic mountain trail with visits to two of the most famous viewpoints in Sete Cidades, guided by a professional guide renowned for knowledge and friendliness.