Whale Watching & Jeep Tour to Sete Cidades (full-day)

Trip Overview

Early in the morning, a briefing will explain to you how whale watching transformed a fight for survival into a dance of cooperation and knowledge.

After a tremendous marine adventure that will take you close to the species in their own habitats, we will drive you to the perfect gem of the Azorean craters: a jeep tour to the enchanted, twin lakes in Sete Cidades, where a legendary love story created splendour in nature.

The entire volcanic complex is a maze of lakes that we will explore, and the mirror of its waters reflects the leafy vegetation in unbelievable shades…

For a breathtaking picture, we will climb to Pico do Carvão, Pico da Cruz, and the “Vista do Rei” from where King Carlos of Portugal felt a true sovereign.

Difficulty

Languages

Transport Type

BOAT

JEEP

Tour Starts

Ponta Delgada

Minimum Age

8

Season

Available in all season

Transport Type

BOAT

JEEP

Tour Starts

Ponta Delgada

Languages

Minimum Age

8

Season

Available in all season

Trip Overview

Early in the morning, a briefing will explain to you how whale watching transformed a fight for survival into a dance of cooperation and knowledge.

After a tremendous marine adventure that will take you close to the species in their own habitats, we will drive you to the perfect gem of the Azorean craters: a jeep tour to the enchanted, twin lakes in Sete Cidades, where a legendary love story created splendour in nature.

The entire volcanic complex is a maze of lakes that we will explore, and the mirror of its waters reflects the leafy vegetation in unbelievable shades…

For a breathtaking picture, we will climb to Pico do Carvão, Pico da Cruz, and the “Vista do Rei” from where King Carlos of Portugal felt a true sovereign.

Atlantic Giants & the Wonders of Sete Cidades

Price

105€

Duration

Full day

High Quality Service

Clean & Safe Certified Company

Exceptional & Educational Nature Experience

Free Cancellations

Gallery

Javi Garcia | Visiting Sete Cidades on a guided Jeep tour

Bruno Ázera | Sunset photo from Vista do Rei

Itinerary

Harbor of Ponta Delgada +

This great adventure starts at the Marina of Ponta Delgada, in our shop. Our staff will welcome you for the check-in.

Setting sails +

After the check-in, you will be directed to the boat where our marine biologists will give a briefing. They will tell you about the species that you might see, whale watching history in the Azores as well as how we respect the animals.
Then, we are ready to navigate and look for cetaceans in the wild. On the way, have a look at the coast of our beautiful island, full of magical landscapes.

The deep atlantic +

That is where you will encounter the biggest animals. Whales are living in the deep ocean. Some of them simply pass by our waters during their migration.
Prepare for awe-inspiring moments where time suddenly freezes and natural magic happens right in front of your eyes.

Back to shore +

On the way back to the harbor, take your time to contemplate the amazing landscapes. Try to spot some of the most beautiful sights on the island.
Enjoy the peaceful and positive energies this magical island has to offer.

Lunch at a local restaurant +

Experience some of the most delicious traditional dishes the Azores has to offer. We will have lunch at one of the local restaurants on the island.

Pico do Carvão +

Pico do Carvão Viewpoint, at 825 m of altitude, gives a good panorama over São Miguel island. From there, enjoy lovely views of the coasts, lakes surrounded by lush vegetation and the mountains.

Pico da Cruz +

From this fantastic viewpoint, you will feel small in front of the huge Sete Cidades volcanic complex. If the weather conditions are good, you will be able to contemplate Lagoa de Santiago and Lagoa Rasa.

The picturesque Sete Cidades village +

Inside the massive volcanic crater lays the calm, picturesque village of Sete Cidades. It is common to see farmers using horses as transportation, just like in the “good old days”. Between farmland, forest and grasslands, explore every angle from inside the Volcano.
Also, located at the end of a path flanked by pine trees take the chance to visit the beautiful church São Nicolau.

Vista do Rei belvedere +

Vista do Rei (“the King’s viewpoint”) is one of the most emblematic and best-known landscapes of São Miguel.
The splendid panoramic view over one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal is absolutely magical. Indeed, it is a must-see while on holiday in the Azores.
Its name comes from the visit of King Dom Carlos I and Queen Dona Amelia in 1901. They contemplated Sete Cidades from this very same spot.

Select your departure

105€ per adult + 6.3€ Online Fee

Why Futurismo

Operating since 1990

With almost 35 years of existence, we are one of the most experienced companies in the whole Azores Islands.

Pioneers and Leaders

We have pioneered nature-based adventure travel in the Azores, striving to keep helping the Azores take the right path in tourism.

Proudly Azorean Local Experts

Our team is made up of people who live, breathe, eat, and sleep in the Azores. This is our home and we are eager to share it with the world.

MORE ABOUT US

105€ per adult + 6.3€ Online Fee

Premier Whale Watching Operator

Experienced. Passionate. Respectful.

WCA Certified

Our ethical tourism practices recognized worldwide

Cetacean Sighting Guaranteed

98% success rate on Whale Watching. Tours until seen

21.000+ Sighting Records

30 yrs of scientific research. Collabs with 20+ universities

Top-notch Vessels

Best and biggest Whale Watching fleet in the Azores

KNOW MORE

100% stays in the local community

20% to local small companies

Full time, year round, employed guides

Essencial Trip Information

What's Included

Pre-tour briefing
Raincoat and pants (if necessary)
Life jacket (on zodiac & fiberglass boats)
Marine biologist guides
Lunch in a local restaurant
Guide for the Jeep Tour
Insurance (personal accident and liability)
Drop off in Ponta Delgada city center (please check the map)

Why this Tour

Whale and dolphin watching is not to be missed in the Azores, simply because we have great biodiversity inside the waters around São Miguel island. Plus, with Futurismo, you are sure to do it in a sustainable way, as we are recognized by the largest organization for the protection of cetaceans, as a Responsible tour operator!

Why not combine sea and land to discover more about São Miguel? This tour is perfect to explore one of the most beautiful places in all of Portugal: Sete Cidades. It was elected as one of the seven natural wonders of the country. So, jump on our jeep and let our guide lead you to hidden gems.

Departure and Return

Departure Point

Portas do Mar, Shop 26 Ponta Delgada Harbor São Miguel Island, 9500-771 Ponta Delgada.

Departure Time

Please select a date on the calendar on the top right hand side of this program page and check the available schedule.

Return Point

Returns to the original departure point or the drop of point you indicate during the checkout process.

Are the Azores a good whale-watching destination? +

The Azores are a great whale-watching destination, probably one of the best in the whole world. We have sperm whales all year round. Being in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, lots of cetacean species pass by our islands during their annual migration.

What if the weather isn’t ok? +

If the weather doesn’t allow doing this activity safely, we will cancel it and suggest an alternative date.

Can I use my drone during this tour? +

You cannot use a drone on our tours with other travelers.

Do you sell medication for seasickness? +

No, we do not sell anything on the boat. If you know that you get easily seasick, it is better to purchase adequate medication before the tour.

Cancellation +

Cancellations up to 48 hours before the tour, no penalties are applied.
Cancellations up to 24 hours: 50% of the total amount will be charged.
Cancellations less than 24 hours or no-show: full amount will be charged.
If the weather conditions do not allow the activity to be done safely, we will cancel it and contact you to suggest an alternative date or provide a full refund.

Booking confirmation +

You will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of successful booking.

What to bring? +

Comfortable shoes and light clothes.
Sweater, raincoat.
Sunscreen, hat and backpack.
Water and snacks (we do not sell food aboard).

Advisory +

Babies: 0–5 years old – free of charge | Children: 6–12 years old, 50% discount.
Catamaran is recommended for people with back problems, pregnant women, children and seniors.
Lunch: starter, main dish, dessert, drink, coffee/tea.
Vegetarians: vegetarian meals on request within a maximum of 48 hours before the tour.
If you have any food restrictions, please inform us at least 48h before the tour.