The dramatic landscapes of Sao Miguel Island offer some of Europe’s most distinctive kayaking experiences.
Located in Portugal’s Azores, this volcanic wonderland lets paddlers glide through the twin lakes of Sete Cidades while surrounded by towering crater walls.
The standout tour combines a 5-hour mix of walking, local food stops, and kayaking – perfect for getting the full crater experience.
For independent spirits, the double kayak rentals provide flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Active travelers will love the 3-hour kayak-and-bike combo, which delivers two adventures in one efficient outing.
Let’s take a closer look at these top-rated water adventures.
Key Points
- The 5-hour “Sete Cidades Walk, Tasting and Kayaking” tour offers an immersive experience combining walking, local cuisine tasting, and kayaking on the stunning Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde.
- Double-seat kayak rentals are available for up to 2 people on the Sete Cidades Lake, with easy booking, wheelchair accessibility, and free cancellation.
- The “Kayaking and Biking Adventure” provides a 3-hour experience within the Sete Cidades crater, including both self-guided mountain biking and kayaking activities.
- Kayaking on the twin lakes of Sete Cidades offers the opportunity to enjoy the stunning colors and local flora and fauna of the region.
- With high overall ratings, the kayaking experiences in Sete Cidades are praised for their stunning views and friendly staff.
From Ponta Delgada: Sete Cidades Walk, Tasting and Kayaking
The Sete Cidades Walk, Tasting and Kayaking experience from Ponta Delgada offers an immersive exploration of the island’s natural beauty.
This 5-hour activity combines walking, tasting local cuisine, and kayaking, providing a well-rounded adventure. Participants are picked up from their Ponta Delgada accommodations and taken to the Miradouro da Vista do Rei viewpoint, where they’ll admire the stunning Lagoa Azul, Lagoa Verde, Caldeira Seca, and Caldeira dos Alferes.
The group then visits the Lomba do Vasco viewpoint for breathtaking northwest coast vistas. A highlight is the local food tasting, featuring freshly baked bread, creamy goat/cow cheese, and traditional poejo tea.
The experience culminates in a kayaking excursion on the serene Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. With a maximum of 14 participants, the guided tour ensures a personalized and intimate adventure.
Priced from €1,642 per person, this activity is a must for those seeking an immersive glimpse into São Miguel’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: From Ponta Delgada: Sete Cidades Walk, Tasting and Kayaking Review
Book now: Check availability
Sete Cidades: Double-Seat Kayak Rental at Sete Cidades Lake
A popular activity for visitors to the stunning Sete Cidades on Sao Miguel Island is the double-seat kayak rental at the serene Sete Cidades Lake.
The experience lasts around an hour, with the option to extend, and costs from €50 per group of up to 2 people. The rental is wheelchair accessible and available in both English and Portuguese.
Booking is easy – reserve your spot without immediate payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The meeting point is the shore of the Blue Lake, next to the football field. Included equipment comprises a canoe, life vest, and flippers, with insurance provided. Guests should bring swimwear, but alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.
Paddlers can marvel at the stunning colors of the twin lakes within the volcanic crater and enjoy the unique local flora and fauna.
Reviews highlight the friendly hosts, spectacular views, and memorable moments, like passing under the Sete Cidades bridge, making this an enjoyable and easy kayaking experience.
Read our full review: Sete Cidades: Double-Seat Kayak Rental at Sete Cidades Lake Review
Book now: Check availability
Sete Cidades: Kayaking and Biking Adventure
Situated within the breathtaking Sete Cidades crater, this 3-hour kayaking and mountain biking adventure offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Priced at $31.59 per person, the tour includes self-guided biking and kayaking experiences, allowing participants to explore the serene lake and its surrounding landscapes at their own pace.
The adventure kicks off with a briefing on equipment use and safety rules, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Participants will be provided with a double-seat kayak, life jacket, mountain bike, and helmet, as well as insurance coverage.
The first 1.5 hours are dedicated to mountain biking, followed by 1.5 hours of kayaking, offering visitors the opportunity to fully enjoy the natural wonder of Sete Cidades.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 108 reviews, this adventure is praised for its stunning views, peaceful experience, and helpful, friendly staff.
Advance booking is recommended to take advantage of better pricing.
Read our full review: Sete Cidades: Kayaking and Biking Adventure Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Sao Miguel Island offers a variety of scenic and enjoyable canoe and kayak experiences. Visitors can take a guided tour of Sete Cidades, paddling on the tranquil lake and exploring the stunning volcanic landscape. Alternatively, they can rent a double-seat kayak and explore the lake at their own pace. For a more adventurous outing, a kayaking and biking tour combines the two activities for a memorable outdoor adventure on the island.