Sete Cidades and Lagoa Do Fogo – Lakes in Volcano Craters

The Azores, a stunning Portuguese archipelago in the mid-Atlantic, boasts some of Europe’s most captivating natural wonders. Nestled within the volcanic landscapes of São Miguel Island, two lakes stand out as true marvels – Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. These crater lakes, formed by ancient volcanic activity, offer visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s rich geological history and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re drawn to the striking twin lakes of Sete Cidades or the serene waters of Lagoa do Fogo, these natural gems promise an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical tourist itinerary.

Key Points

• The tour explores two volcanic lakes, Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, showcasing the captivating craters and scenic viewpoints of San Miguel Island.
• Visitors have the opportunity to swim in the natural pool of Ponta da Ferraria, weather permitting, adding to the unique volcanic experience.
• The 7-hour excursion includes transportation, an English and Russian-speaking guide, and bottled water, providing a comprehensive and convenient tour.
• Comfortable attire and proper footwear are recommended for navigating the volcanic terrain, and a swimsuit is required for those planning to swim.
• The tour is highly rated by participants, with exceptional guided visits, stunning scenery, and a reasonable price point, making it a recommended activity for exploring the volcanic landscape.

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Activity Overview

Exploring Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, two lakes nestled within volcanic craters, this 7-hour excursion offers visitors a chance to enjoy the dramatic natural landscapes of San Miguel Island.

Priced from $87.85 per person, the tour includes transportation and a live guide who’ll lead you through the highlights. You can opt to swim at Ponta da Ferraria, weather permitting.

The itinerary also covers scenic viewpoints around the craters, providing ample opportunities to soak in the pristine beauty of this volcanic region.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this activity is a convenient and flexible way to explore Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from Ponta Delgada, followed by a 30-minute van ride to the first stop.

Visitors will explore Sete Cidades, a volcanic crater, on a guided tour. They’ll then have the option to swim at Ponta da Ferraria, a natural pool mixing hot springs and ocean water, weather permitting.

Next, the group will visit Lagoa do Fogo, another volcanic lake, and take in the scenic viewpoints along the way, including Miradouro do Pico do Carvão, Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, Miradouro Vista do Rei, and Miradouro Lagoa do Fogo.

The tour includes bottled water and an English and Russian-speaking guide, with lunch available for an additional fee.

Highlights

The tour offers several highlights for visitors.

Travelers can view the captivating crater of the Sete Cidades volcano, a breathtaking natural wonder.

They’ll also experience the pristine beauty of Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning lake nestled within a volcanic crater.

Adventurers can visit the site of the last eruption on San Miguel Island, gaining a deeper understanding of the island’s volcanic origins.

Weather permitting, guests have the opportunity to bathe in a natural pool that mixes hot springs and ocean water, a truly unique and rejuvenating experience.

Inclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, ensuring a seamless transportation experience.

Bottled water is provided throughout the day, keeping you hydrated as you explore the stunning volcanic landscapes.

The tour is led by a live guide who provides commentary in both English and Russian, allowing you to fully understand the history and significance of the sites.

Transportation is handled via a comfortable van, which takes you on the 30-minute journey from Ponta Delgada to the various viewpoints and destinations.

While lunch isn’t included, it can be purchased for an additional fee of approximately 20 euros per person.

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Preparation Essentials

To make the most of your experience, there are a few important items you’ll want to bring along.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves exploring volcanic landscapes.

Bring a towel in case you decide to take a dip in the natural pool.

Sunscreen and a light rain jacket or umbrella are also recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Loose, comfortable clothing that can handle some wind and moisture is ideal.

And don’t forget your swimsuit if you plan to take a refreshing swim.

With these essentials packed, you’ll be well-prepared to fully learn about the breathtaking sights of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo.

Review Summary

Based on the single review available, travelers appear highly satisfied with this tour.

The 5-out-of-5 rating suggests an exceptional experience exploring the volcanic craters of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. Participants likely enjoyed the guided visits, stunning scenery, and optional swimming opportunity, all while benefiting from convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.

The tour seems to offer excellent value, with a reasonable price point and free cancellation policy.

Getting There

Visitors embark on this tour from Ponta Delgada, the capital city of São Miguel Island. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes by van, transporting participants to the stunning volcanic landscapes. Along the way, travelers are treated to breathtaking views of the island’s rugged terrain and lush vegetation.

Transportation	Duration
Van	30 mins
Pick-up Location	Ponta Delgada
Drop-off Location	Ponta Delgada

The tour efficiently navigates the winding roads, ensuring a comfortable and efficient transfer to the highlights of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, allowing guests to fully enjoy the natural wonders of this volcanic paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Fit Do I Need to Be for This Tour?

For this tour, participants don’t need to be extremely fit. The activities involve mostly sightseeing and light walking, with an optional swim, so a moderate level of fitness is sufficient. The tour operator provides transportation to the sites.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks for this tour. The tour includes bottled water, but you can pack a picnic lunch if you prefer to save on the extra lunch fee.

Do I Need a Special Permit to Visit the Lakes?

Based on the information provided, no special permit is required to visit the lakes. The tour package includes transportation and access to the scenic areas, so visitors can simply join the tour without needing any additional permits.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children as it includes guided tours and scenic viewpoints. However, the optional swimming activity at Ponta da Ferraria may not be appropriate for young children without adult supervision.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Other Attractions?

Travelers can inquire about extending the tour to visit other attractions on San Miguel Island. However, this may incur additional costs and require adjustments to the itinerary. It’s best to discuss any desired changes with the tour operator.

Recap

Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo are two stunning volcanic lakes on São Miguel Island in the Azores. Visitors can marvel at their breathtaking scenery, explore scenic viewpoints, and enjoy activities like swimming. These lakes offer a unique opportunity to experience the island’s volcanic origins and natural beauty. Whether visiting one or both, travelers are sure to be captivated by the lakes’ serene and dramatic landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: