In short
- Drive 40 to 45 minutes via the EN1-1A and EN9-1A.
- Take the Line 205 bus for €3 to €5 (very limited schedule).
- Book a 4x4 Jeep tour to access unpaved crater trails.
In this article
Getting to the twin lakes from Ponta Delgada requires navigating the western side of São Miguel. Visitors generally choose between a rental car, a public bus, or an organized tour. Each option changes how much of the crater rim you can explore.
Driving from Ponta Delgada
Drive west on the EN1-1A and EN9-1A roads for about 40 to 45 minutes.
Renting a car provides the most flexibility. You can stop at various rim viewpoints on your own schedule. Parking at the lookouts and in the village is free.
Taking the public bus
AzoresBus Line 205 travels from Forte S. Brás to Sete Cidades in 80 to 85 minutes.
Bus tickets cost between €3 and €5. However, services are very limited. There are often only a couple of departures per day. Always check the latest printed timetable at the Ponta Delgada tourist office before relying on the bus.
Guided Jeep and van tours
Tours depart from Ponta Delgada and cost from €30 to over €80.
Organized excursions range from half-day to full-day trips. Jeep tours are highly recommended. These 4x4 vehicles easily traverse the dirt trails along the crater rim that standard rental cars cannot access.
Which transport method is best?
Cars and guided tours are best for exploring the rim, while the bus is strictly for reaching the village.
Your choice depends on your budget and what you want to see. The bus drops you at the bottom of the caldera, bypassing the high panoramic lookouts.
Accessing the top viewpoints
You need private transport or a tour to reach the main lookouts efficiently.
The public bus does not stop at high viewpoints like Vista do Rei. If you want to photograph the lakes from above, driving yourself or booking a guided 4x4 tour is required.
Questions travellers ask
How long does it take to drive from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades?
It takes 40 to 45 minutes to drive the 25-kilometer route from Ponta Delgada to the caldera.
Can I take a public bus to Sete Cidades?
Yes, you can take AzoresBus Line 205 from Forte S. Brás. The ride takes 80 to 85 minutes, but daily departures are very limited.
Do you have to pay to enter Sete Cidades?
No, entrance to the viewpoints, trails, and lakes is completely free for all visitors.
