Quad Excursion Around the Crater of Sete Cidades
Ride the rim of an ancient volcano and discover twin lagoons from the saddle of a quad.
This Sete Cidades quad tour guides you along the full crater rim of one of the Azores' most iconic volcanic calderas, combining panoramic Atlantic views with a genuine off-road experience aboard a two-person quad. The route links belvederes, forest tracks, and lakeside stretches that are simply unreachable by conventional transport. Whether you are a first-time rider or a seasoned adventurer, the varied terrain keeps every kilometre engaging.
The volcanic landscape of Sete Cidades sits within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and holds two distinct lagoons — the blue Lagoa Azul and the green Lagoa Verde — separated by a narrow bridge at the village of the same name. Riding the perimeter of the caldera means you encounter dense laurel forest, open ridgelines, and dramatic coastal escarpments within a single half-day outing.
The itinerary passes through viewpoints such as Vista do Rei and Muro das 9 Janelas, each offering a different perspective over the crater basin and the surrounding Atlantic ocean. Road sections alternate with unpaved tracks, providing a rewarding mix of riding conditions that suits the shared-quad format perfectly.
A qualified guide accompanies the group throughout, ensuring navigation is handled while guests focus on the scenery and the ride. Personal insurance, helmets, and fuel are covered, so the practical side of the adventure is taken care of from the moment you depart Valados.
Tour Highlights
Sweeping crater-rim views from Vista do Rei, one of the most photographed viewpoints in the Azores.
Ride alongside the shores of Lagoa de Santiago and cross the iconic Ponte da Lagoa das Sete Cidades.
Traverse forest tracks and open ridgelines inside a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on an off-road quad.
Pass through the historic Túnel and explore the picturesque Vila das Sete Cidades village.
Personal insurance, helmets, and an experienced guide are included for the full duration of the tour.
Tackle diverse terrain on a two-person quad, balancing off-road thrills with spectacular scenery.
Itinerary Overview
The tour begins at the Valados meeting point, where guides brief all participants, check driving licences, and carry out a safety induction before setting off onto the crater road.
The route climbs through agricultural land and forest tracks, passing the Unileite and Bom Pastor area before following the Canada Goyanes trail deeper into the caldera highlands.
Three of the most rewarding viewpoints appear in close succession here: Pico do Carvão offers commanding Atlantic vistas, Muro das 9 Janelas frames the lagoons through its historic stone wall, and Vista do Rei provides the classic overhead perspective of the twin lakes.
The descent into the caldera floor leads to the quiet village of Sete Cidades and a ride along the peninsula that juts into the lagoon system, a stretch of track unique to this tour format.
The group passes through the historic tunnel, crosses the Ponte da Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and follows the shoreline of Lagoa de Santiago before turning back toward the starting point.
The excursion concludes with the return journey to Valados, completing the full loop around the crater of Sete Cidades in approximately four hours.
What Is Included
Included
- Experienced guide throughout
- Personal accident insurance
- Fuel for the full route
- Safety helmets
Not Included
- Private tour upgrade (available on request)
- Vehicle damage excess (client liability)
- Personal items and clothing
- Gratuities
Important Information
Ready to Ride the Crater Rim?
Secure your place on this half-day off-road adventure around the volcanic caldera of Sete Cidades. Spaces are limited on each shared departure, so early booking is recommended.
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