Side by Side Tour – Sete Cidades from North Coast (Half Day)

The Side by Side Tour of Sete Cidades from the North Coast offers an exciting way to explore one of São Miguel’s most stunning landscapes in a small group setting. Priced at $88.87 per person and lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours, this half-day adventure from Ponta Delgada combines off-road fun with incredible panoramic views. A key feature of this tour is the rugged ride in a UTV, where participants can choose to drive or ride as a passenger, making it accessible for different comfort levels. This experience is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a lively, outdoor excursion that balances adventure with sightseeing.

What sets this tour apart is the focus on scenic viewpoints and local villages. From the north coast starting point, the route takes you through dirt roads and paved paths, making the ride both fun and manageable. All necessary safety equipment—including helmets—is provided, ensuring a safe experience, even for those new to off-road vehicles. The guide’s attentive approach and the well-maintained vehicles earn praise, along with the tour’s unbelievable views that nearly dominate the entire route.

Key Points

• Affordable half-day adventure exploring São Miguel’s Sete Cidades from Ponta Delgada
• Includes all safety gear and insurance with options to drive or be a passenger
• Multiple scenic stops, including Pico da Cruz and Vista do Rei viewpoint
• Small group sizes maximize guide attention and personalized experience
• Weather can vary, so bringing warm layers and rain gear is recommended
• Free cancellation available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance

The Route: Off-Roading from Fenais da Luz to Pico da Cruz

This tour begins and ends at Fenais da Luz, located on the north coast of São Miguel. Starting on paved roads, the journey quickly shifts to dirt paths, allowing for that rugged, adventurous feel. The initial ride along the seafront offers a taste of local scenery before heading inland for spectacular views. The dirt roads add an authentic off-road vibe, making the ride lively but manageable for beginners.

The route’s highlight is the visit to Pico da Cruz, a mountain at 845 meters altitude. From here, visitors enjoy breathtaking views of Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa Verde, and Lagoa Azul, as well as a panoramic view of the Sete Cidades crater. On clear days, this spot delivers almost the entire island in sight, making it a true photo opportunity.

Panoramic Views from Vista do Rei Miradouro

The Vista do Rei Miradouro, sitting at 540 meters altitude, provides a classic view over the Sete Cidades crater lake. From this vantage point, the green and blue lakes are visible in their full splendor, framed by lush volcanic landscape. If dirt conditions permit, the tour also visits Miradouro das Cumeeiras, which offers a different perspective of the crater’s lakes from the opposite side, adding variety to the sightseeing.

These viewpoints are frequent highlights in reviews, praised for their stunning scenery and the unique perspectives they offer of the iconic volcanic crater.

Dirt Paths and the Blue Lagoon: Unique Perspectives of Sete Cidades

Beyond the main viewpoints, the tour takes travelers to Miradouro do Cerrado das Freiras, where dirt paths surround the Blue Lagoon. Here, the views over the lakes are particularly impressive, with the dirt roads providing a fun off-road experience and the chance to take in incredible scenery from different angles.

The tour also passes through the parish of Sao Vicente Ferreira, where the old whale factory chimney remains a silent reminder of the island’s history. Passing by Poços, the local bathing area, adds a touch of local life to the adventure, along with a dirt path connecting this area to Fenais da Luz on the way back.

Essential Stops: Villages and Coastal Views

The tour includes stops in Fenais da Luz at both the start and end of the journey, allowing for a full round-trip experience along the seafront dirt roads. The villages and coastal scenery provide a peaceful contrast to the rugged inland landscapes. These stops are brief but give a chance to appreciate the local environment and enjoy some photo moments.

The dirt roads around these villages also add to the adventure, making the ride more dynamic and less predictable. The route’s diversity keeps the experience engaging, with varied scenery from coastlines to volcanic craters.

Guide and Vehicle Experience

The guide is consistently praised for being knowledgeable and helpful, making the ride both fun and safe. They are attentive to weather conditions and group needs, often explaining the significance of each stop.

The UTVs are described as well-kept and easy to ride, suitable for beginners but still engaging for more experienced riders. Participants can choose to drive or ride as a passenger, adding flexibility. The helmets and insurance are included, emphasizing a safe and organized experience.

Practical Tips for the Ride: Weather and Packing

Many reviews mention changing weather conditions, including rain, wind, and fog, so packing warm coats, raincoats, and gloves is highly recommended. The temperature can be cooler at higher elevations, and wearing layers helps ensure comfort throughout the ride.

The tour is moderate in physical effort, making it accessible for most visitors with moderate fitness levels. However, a driver’s license (+18) is required for those wishing to operate the UTVs, so younger participants need to ride as passengers.

Group Size and Booking Details

This tour accommodates up to 14 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience without large crowds. The small group setting enhances the opportunity for interaction with the guide and for capturing better photos.

The activity starts and ends at the same meeting point at R. Nossa Sra. das Candeias 1D in Ponta Delgada. Booking includes a mobile ticket, and the tour is offered with free cancellation if booked at least 24 hours in advance.

Comparing This Tour to Alternatives

The Sete Cidades buggy tour offers a more active, off-road experience compared to standard sightseeing options. It’s similar in spirit to other outdoor activities like quad tours or canyoning, but stands out for its focus on scenic viewpoints and local villages.

While other tours on the island might focus on whale watching or food tasting, this adventure provides a balance of scenic beauty and off-road thrill. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a fun, scenic, and authentic way to see São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes.

Concluding the Sete Cidades Buggy Tour Experience

This half-day buggy tour from Ponta Delgada delivers a rich blend of adventure, scenic views, and local culture. The multi-stop route highlights Sete Cidades’ most breathtaking viewpoints, while the off-road riding adds a sense of fun and exploration.

The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention and makes the experience feel more exclusive. Its affordable price, combined with well-maintained vehicles and a knowledgeable guide, makes it an excellent option for active visitors.

However, weather variability can impact the visibility of some viewpoints, so preparation with warm and rainproof clothing is smart. This tour appeals most to those who enjoy outdoor activities and stunning natural scenery—perfect for those looking for a memorable half-day adventure on São Miguel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for small groups and families, especially if children are comfortable riding in a UTV.

What should I wear?
Wearing warm coats, raincoats, and gloves is recommended due to variable weather conditions.

Can I drive the vehicle?
Yes, drivers must have a valid driving license (+18), and you can choose to drive or be a passenger.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including stops and scenic viewpoints.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at R. Nossa Sra. das Candeias 1D in Ponta Delgada.

Is this tour canceled easily if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is subject to good weather, and cancellation due to poor conditions is possible with full refunds or rescheduling.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes UTV, guide, helmets, and insurance.

Are snacks or drinks included?
No, snacks, alcohol, and lunch are not included, so plan accordingly.

Is physical fitness required?
A moderate level of physical fitness is needed, but the ride is generally beginner-friendly.

How many people can join this tour?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.