Cruise rugged volcanic landscapes and vibrant lagoons on a half-day 4x4 adventure with Azores Trails of Nature. Discover the hidden layers of Sete Cidades beyond the famous lakes.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels since the main travel is by jeep and walking is minimal
Wildlife
History
The aqueduct visited during the tour was built in the 19th century to support farming communities, illustrating human adaptation to volcanic landscapes.
Conservation
Sete Cidades is a protected area with efforts focused on preserving native species and controlling invasive plants that threaten the ecosystem’s balance.
Azores Trails of Nature
Cruise rugged volcanic landscapes and vibrant lagoons on a half-day 4x4 adventure with Azores Trails of Nature. Discover the hidden layers of Sete Cidades beyond the famous lakes.
Azores Trails of Nature is a São Miguel–based operator located in Sao Roque, Azores, offering a wide range of guided outdoor experiences across the island.
The company arranges walking tours that explore iconic landscapes such as Moinhos de Félix, Mata do Canário and Faial da Terra (Sanguinho), and organized beach and crater lake hikes to Lagoa do Fogo. Van tours visit major volcanic highlights including Sete Cidades, Furnas, Nordeste and Lagoa do Fogo with half‑day and full‑day options. Off‑road adventures are available through 4x4 safari routes that reach remote viewpoints, crater rims and natural thermal pools. For cyclists, mountain‑bike itineraries traverse Furnas valleys, lakeshores and mountain‑top tracks.
Marine activities include private 4‑hour boat tours along the south coast to view caves and local marine life, and coastal and big‑game fishing charters (4 or 8 hours) targeting species such as tuna and marlin. Some tours include cultural stops like Chá Gorreana tea factory, a pineapple plantation and traditional pottery sites.
Guided experiences vary in duration from roughly 3.5 hours to full‑day routes of 7–8 hours and are offered as private or small‑group options depending on the trip. Azores Trails of Nature focuses on authentic island routes and logistical planning from its Sao Roque base, connecting visitors to Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Furnas, Nordeste and coastal highlights on São Miguel.
All descriptions here reflect the operator’s published itineraries and trip summaries.
Base Location
Sao Roque, Azores
Operating from São Miguel island
Tours Offered
22 tours
Hiking, van, jeep, boat, MTB, fishing
Trip Durations
3.5–8 hours
Half‑day to full‑day adventures
Top Highlights
Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo
Trails, viewpoints, tea factory, pineapple farm
Reserve walking tours, 4x4 safaris, van excursions, MTB rides, private boat trips or fishing charters — spaces are limited.
Wear sturdy shoes
Even though this is a 4x4 tour, some uneven walking at viewpoints is required.
Bring layered clothing
Weather can change quickly on São Miguel—prepare for sun, wind, and occasional rain.
Charge your camera fully
You’ll want to capture expansive vistas and colorful lagoons from multiple stops.
Stay hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, as the tour lasts several hours with limited stops for refreshments.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides traction and stability when stepping out at viewpoints on uneven terrain.
Windbreaker or waterproof jacket
Protects against changing weather and occasional rain showers common in the Azores.
spring|fall|winter
Sunhat and sunscreen
Necessary for sun protection during midday stops with limited shade.
summer
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
To capture the vibrant lakes, volcanic rock formations, and sweeping landscapes.