Shore Excursions to Volcano Crater and Lake of Sete Cidades

Exploring the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Azores is a must-do for many travelers visiting this stunning Portuguese archipelago. One of the crown jewels of the region is the Sete Cidades, a breathtaking caldera hosting twin lakes that captivate visitors with their vibrant hues. Shore excursions to this natural wonder provide an immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore the area’s rich history and natural beauty. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and must-see sights along the way, these tours offer a seamless and unforgettable way to discover one of the Azores’ most iconic destinations. But what really sets these excursions apart are the unique perspectives and insider insights that elevate the experience to an entirely new level.

Key Points

• This 4-hour tour offers visits to the iconic Sete Cidades crater, including the breathtaking Vista do Rei Lookout and exploration of the serene Lagoa de Santiago.
• Guests can witness the unique green and blue lakes within the volcanic caldera, recognized as the most iconic natural monument in the Azores.
• The tour includes a stop at a pineapple plantation, providing insights into the region’s agricultural heritage, and comfortable van transportation with an experienced guide.
• Scenic drives showcase the lush hills, forests, and villages of São Miguel Island, immersing travelers in the natural beauty of the Azores.
• With pickup locations in Ribeira Grande, Capelas, Lagoa, and Ponta Delgada, the tour is accessible to a wide range of travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour to Sete Cidades Volcano on São Miguel Island in the Azores lasts 4 hours and costs €58.00 per person.

Offered in English and Portuguese, it features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

Pickup locations include Ribeira Grande, Capelas, Lagoa, and Ponta Delgada, with drop-offs at the same locations.

The guided tour includes van transportation, a bottle of water, and multiple stops for sightseeing, such as a pineapple plantation, scenic viewpoints, and the village of Sete Cidades.

Unique aspects include the only location to see the iconic green and blue lakes, and visiting the largest crater in the Azores, a recognized natural monument.

Itinerary Highlights

During the tour, visitors are treated to a variety of captivating sights and experiences.

They’ll visit a pineapple plantation, take in the scenic views from Pico do Carvão, and explore the stunning Canary Lake nestled within a volcanic crater 800 meters above sea level.

The highlight is the breathtaking Vista do Rei Lookout, where they can gaze upon the Sete Cidades crater.

The tour also includes a stop at the picturesque Lagoa de Santiago and the charming village of Sete Cidades, home to the 17th-century neo-Gothic Church of São Nicolau.

Tour Features

This tour offers a range of convenient features to enhance the experience. Guests will be transported in a comfortable van with an experienced guide. Bottled water is provided, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

The tour features scenic drives with multiple stops for sightseeing, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Azores. Whether it’s the stunning views from the Ponta do Escalvado Lookout or the opportunity to explore the village of Sete Cidades, this tour provides a comprehensive and memorable experience for visitors.

Unique Aspects

What makes the Sete Cidades tour truly unique is that it is the only location where visitors can witness the breathtaking green and blue lakes. Nestled within the caldera of an ancient volcano, these two lakes offer a captivating and rare sight. Plus, the tour takes guests to the largest crater in the Azores archipelago, providing a chance to fully take in the region’s remarkable volcanic history. Sete Cidades is also recognized as the most iconic natural monument in the Azores, attracting travelers from around the world to experience its serene beauty.

Unique Aspects	Description
Green and Blue Lakes	Only location to see these color-contrasted lakes
Largest Crater	Tour explores the largest crater in the Azores
Iconic Monument	Sete Cidades is the most renowned natural attraction in the Azores
Volcanic History	Discover the region’s remarkable volcanic origins
Stunning Vistas	Breathtaking views from various lookout points

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Customer Feedback

Travelers who’ve experienced the Sete Cidades tour consistently rate it highly, with an overall average of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 9 reviews.

Positive reviews highlight the excellence of the tour guides, who provide informative commentary and facilitate additional hiking opportunities to capture breathtaking views.

Reviewers praise the scenic drives and multiple stops for sightseeing, allowing them to fully immerse in the natural wonders of the Azores.

The tour’s unique aspects, such as being the only location to see the green and blue lakes and visiting the largest crater in the Azores, further contribute to its popularity among visitors.

Pickup Locations

The tour provides pickup locations at several key points on São Miguel Island, including Ribeira Grande, Capelas, Lagoa, and Ponta Delgada. This ensures convenient access for travelers from various parts of the island. The table below outlines the pickup locations, their proximity to the tour’s highlights, and the approximate time spent at each stop.

Pickup Location	Proximity to Highlights	Time Spent
Ribeira Grande	Close to Pineapple Plantation	30-45 minutes
Capelas	Near Canary Lake and Vista do Rei Lookout	40-55 minutes
Lagoa	Convenient for Lagoa de Santiago stop	15-20 minutes
Ponta Delgada	Central location, easy access to drop-off	30-45 minutes

These strategic pickup points make the tour accessible to a wide range of travelers, allowing them to embark on the journey to the iconic Sete Cidades crater and lakes with ease.

Scenic Drives

Along the tour’s winding routes, travelers are treated to a series of scenic drives that showcase the island’s breathtaking landscapes.

As the van navigates the curving roads, visitors are treated to panoramic vistas of the lush, rolling hills, dotted with verdant forests and picturesque villages.

The drive to the Pico do Carvão offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, while the journey to the Vista do Rei Lookout provides a breathtaking glimpse of the iconic Sete Cidades crater.

Throughout the excursion, the scenic drives allow travelers to enjoy the natural beauty of São Miguel Island, creating unforgettable memories of their Azorean adventure.

Sightseeing Opportunities

The sightseeing opportunities throughout the tour provide visitors with a comprehensive glimpse into the natural wonders of São Miguel Island.

At the pineapple plantation, guests can learn about the cultivation of this exotic fruit.

Perched atop Pico do Carvão, stunning vistas of the Sete Cidades crater await. The tour then ventures into the crater itself, visiting the serene Canary Lake and the breathtaking Vista do Rei Lookout.

Afterwards, guests explore the village of Sete Cidades, including the historic Church of São Nicolau.

The final stop, Ponta do Escalvado Lookout, offers panoramic views and beautiful sunsets.

Throughout, the guided commentary provides valuable insights into the island’s unique geology and rich cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for This Tour?

No, special equipment isn’t required for this tour. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, but the tour includes transportation and the guide provides any necessary equipment. Just bring your camera to capture the stunning volcanic landscapes.

Are There Any Restrictions on What Can Be Brought on the Tour?

There are no major restrictions on what can be brought on the tour. Participants can bring personal items like cameras, sunscreen, and snacks. However, it’s recommended to avoid bringing large or bulky items that could be difficult to carry during the tour.

What Is the Weather Typically Like During the Tour Season?

The tour operates year-round, but the weather is typically mild and pleasant during the popular tour season. Expect temperatures in the 60s-70s Fahrenheit with low chances of precipitation, making for ideal sightseeing conditions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

While the standard tour duration is 4 hours, the tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the tour. Guests who wish to spend more time exploring the Sete Cidades area can arrange for a private tour with a customized itinerary.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Groups or Seniors?

The tour operator offers a 10% group discount for parties of 4 or more. Plus, seniors aged 65 and above receive a 5% discount on the tour price. These discounts can be combined for additional savings.

Recap

This shore excursion to Sete Cidades offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the iconic volcanic crater and its stunning lakes. With comfortable transportation, guided visits to a pineapple plantation and historic landmarks, and breathtaking views, it’s a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the Azores. Travelers can enjoy the unique geology and vibrant cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: