Exploring Sete Cidades: Ultimate Full-Day 4WD Tour with Serra Devassa Hiking
Drive deep into São Miguel’s volcanic heart with a full-day 4WD tour around Sete Cidades crater followed by an easy loop hike on Serra Devassa. Discover twin lakes, volcanic coastlines, and endemic forests on a journey blending rugged adventure and local culture.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trails can be slippery due to volcanic soil and rain; footwear with good grip is essential.
Layer up for variable weather
Crater rim weather changes quickly—bring waterproof jackets and warm layers even in summer.
Stay hydrated during hikes
Carry water as the trail offers no refill points and the climb, though moderate, requires steady hydration.
Book pickup in advance
The tour includes hotel pickups around Ponta Delgada; confirm your pickup location early to avoid delays.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lagoa do Canário viewpoint offers serene reflections away from main crowds
- •Secondary volcanic vents on the coastline emit hot seawater—quietly powerful natural curiosities
Wildlife
- •Azorean bullfinch (a rare endemic bird)
- •Bats nesting in volcanic caves
Conservation Note
The area is protected to preserve its endemic flora and prevent erosion, with visitor guidelines encouraging minimal impact on trails.
Sete Cidades’ twin lakes formed in a volcanic crater thousands of years ago, with local legends attributing their differing colors to a tragic love story that shapes regional culture.
Photographer's Notes
- • Miradouro da Vista do Rei to capture both lakes
- • Serra Devassa vantage point overlooking Lagoa das Éguas
- • Lagoa do Canário for close lake reflections
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking shoesEssential
Handle uneven and potentially wet volcanic terrain comfortably.
Layered clothingEssential
Adapt to rapid weather shifts on the crater rim and coastal areas.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated on the trail where no water sources are available.
Camera with zoom lens
Capture distant lakes and volcanic features without disturbing nature.
Common Questions
How difficult is the hiking portion of the tour?
The Serra Devassa trail is rated easy, with gentle climbs over roughly 2 hours, suitable for most visitors with average fitness.
Is lunch included during the tour?
Yes, a local lunch is provided during the full-day experience, offering a chance to rest and sample Azorean cuisine.
Are hotel pickups available in Ponta Delgada?
Yes, the tour offers multiple hotel pickup locations around Ponta Delgada for convenience.
What should I wear for the tour?
Wear layered, waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking shoes to handle changing weather and variable terrain.
Can the tour be canceled due to bad weather?
Yes, cancellations are possible for adverse weather to ensure safety, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours prior.
Is the tour suitable for children or infants?
Infant seats are available, but travelers with spinal, cardiovascular, or pregnancy-related health concerns should avoid this tour.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours total
Location
Ponta Delgada, Azores
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires moderate stamina for 2-hour hike
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