Paddle through the volcanic crater lagoon of Sete Cidades on São Miguel with Azores Land Tours. This half-day canoe trip offers sweeping views, native flora, and a hands-on connection to one of the Azores’ most stunning landscapes.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for moderate fitness levels; basic paddling stamina needed
Wildlife
History
Sete Cidades crater formed by a massive volcanic eruption approximately 22,000 years ago and holds significant cultural value in local legend.
Conservation
The area is protected as part of the Azores Nature Park, with efforts focusing on habitat preservation and minimizing human impact on the lagoon ecosystem.
Azores Land Tours
Paddle through the volcanic crater lagoon of Sete Cidades on São Miguel with Azores Land Tours. This half-day canoe trip offers sweeping views, native flora, and a hands-on connection to one of the Azores’ most stunning landscapes.
Azores Land Tours is a guided tour operator based in Água de Pau, Açores that offers curated half-day and full-day trips across São Miguel. The operator lists seven distinct experiences that connect travelers with the island’s volcanic landscapes, thermal waters, lakes and coastal viewpoints. Signature full-day itineraries include Furnas Dia Inteiro com Almoço, an eight-hour visit to Furnas that features Terra Nostra Park, natural hot springs, multiple thermal springs, the Gorreana tea factory and the traditional “cozido” cooked using geothermal heat. Another full-day option, Sete Cidades & Lagoa de Fogo Dia Inteiro com Almoço, presents visits to Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo with scenic viewpoints, a local lunch, and optional stops such as the Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Center.
Half-day offerings include Lagoa do Fogo Meio Dia, Sete Cidades Meio Dia and Furnas Meio Dia, which focus on key viewpoints like Santa Iria and Pico da Barrosa, access to thermal waters and tea-culture visits at Gorreana. For active visitors, the Sete Cidades + Canoas trip pairs sightseeing with a guided canoe experience on the Sete Cidades lagoon, with a dedicated team ensuring safety. Azores Land Tours describes each itinerary with listed durations and highlighted stops, departing from Água de Pau and providing structured access to established natural and cultural sites on São Miguel. Tours specify durations and highlighted stops clearly.
Tours Offered
7
Full-day and half-day itineraries
Trip Durations
Half & Full Day
Options from half to eight-hour trips
Key Highlights
Furnas, Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo
Volcanic lakes, thermal springs, viewpoints
Departure Base
Água de Pau, Açores
Central starting point on São Miguel
Reserve full-day or half-day tours departing from Água de Pau. Check each tour page for durations, included highlights and practical details.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Bring moisture-wicking layers because splashes and light spray are common while canoeing.
Bring sun protection
The open water and reflective lagoon surface increase sun exposure—use sunscreen and a hat.
Arrive early for calm waters
Morning paddling conditions tend to be calmer and less windy, making navigation easier.
Wear sturdy water shoes
Non-slip footwear that can get wet will help with launching and exiting the canoe safely.
Light waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry during unexpected light rain showers.
spring
Sun hat
Protects from direct sun when on open water.
summer
Water shoes
Provides grip and comfort while launching and walking around the lagoon edges.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the paddle.