Plan your visit
Planning your trip
Prepare for rapidly changing weather, steep trails, and limited public transport. Here is how to organize your day.
Getting there
Getting to the caldera
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive west from Ponta Delgada via the EN1-1A and EN9-1A roads. | 40-45 minutes | Free parking | The easiest and most flexible way to visit, allowing stops at various rim viewpoints. |
| Bus: Take AzoresBus Line 205 from Ponta Delgada (Forte S. Brás) to Sete Cidades. | 80-85 minutes | €3-€5 | Services are very limited (often only a couple of departures a day), so check the latest printed timetable at the tourist office. |
| Tour: Book a guided 4x4 Jeep tour, van excursion, or hop-on hop-off bus from Ponta Delgada. | Half-day or full-day | €30-€80+ | Jeep tours are highly recommended as they can traverse dirt trails along the crater rim that regular rental cars cannot access. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The caldera is open year-round. Summer months (June to September) offer the warmest weather and clear skies. This is also when the hydrangea hedges bloom. Always check live webcams before driving up, as clouds often obscure the crater rim.
What to bring
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Bring layered clothing.
Weather changes quickly at 800 meters.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries
See the main viewpoints and the lakeshore village.
- Miradouro da Boca do Inferno
Hike the short trail for a classic view of the lakes.
- Vista do Rei
Stop at the accessible roadside viewpoint and see the abandoned hotel from the outside.
- Lagoa de Santiago
Pull over on the descent to view this deep green crater lake.
- Sete Cidades Village
Walk across the stone bridge and get lunch in the parish.
Combine the caldera with nearby geothermal ocean pools.
- Caldera viewpoints
Visit Boca do Inferno and Vista do Rei before the crowds arrive.
- Village and Lakes
Eat lunch in Sete Cidades and walk the flat lakeside trails.
- Ponta da Ferraria
Drive to the coast and swim in the naturally heated ocean pools (tide permitting).
- Ponta do Escalvado
Watch the waves and get ready for a coastal sunset.
Packing for the crater
Weather at Sete Cidades changes quickly. Pack a windproof and waterproof rain jacket. Wear hiking boots with good grip for muddy trails. Dress in layers to adjust to altitude changes.
If you plan to visit Ponta da Ferraria afterward, bring a swimsuit, a towel, and reef-safe sunscreen. A small daypack is useful for carrying water and snacks.
Easiest way to do it
Sao Miguel West Van Tour Sete Cidades and Fogo Lake plus Lunch
8 h 5.0 (1,827)
- Lunch, with food, drink, dessert, and coffee
- Transportation in a modern 100% electric van
- Small-group experience — maximum 8 guests per vehicle
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (In selected areas)
From$96per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can I take a bus from Ponta Delgada?
Yes, AzoresBus Line 205 runs to Sete Cidades. However, departures are very limited. The ride takes about 80 to 85 minutes.
How long is the drive?
Driving from Ponta Delgada via the EN1-1A and EN9-1A takes roughly 40 to 45 minutes.
Are there restaurants in the village?
Yes. The village has a few cafes and places to eat lunch. You can also pack your own snacks for the trails.