Ponta Delgada Sete Cidades: An Open Review of the Jeep, Bike & Kayak Ride
Dreaming of an escape, too, to the Azores? Maybe pictures of the stunning Sete Cidades caldera, that natural wonder found smack-dab in São Miguel Island, really have already caught your eye. And maybe you’re weighing all the tour options to actually get there. This review, well it’s completely centered around the “From Ponta Delgada: Sete Cidades Jeep Bike Kayak Ride.” I had it in my travel plans, and this is all about what I felt was good, what I thought could’ve been a little bit better, plus everything that anyone considering it really should know.
Booking and First Impressions
Booking the tour wasn’t really a huge task. I made my booking on the web, a bit ahead of time, and received an automatic confirmation just moments after. Very stress-free. Yet, truth be told, information about the specifics – where to meet, just exactly what to bring – actually felt pretty thin. I, basically, think the tour company needs to pump up the pre-tour communication a little.
Come tour day, that pick-up spot in Ponta Delgada, too it’s almost, simple enough to find, still the Jeep arrived nearly fifteen minutes behind schedule. Not a crisis, arguably, but waiting around always eats at your anticipation. Getting in the Jeep, anyway, that’s where things seriously started looking up. The ride itself really offered views that photos just fail to catch. It might be something you’d like. Passing green pastures, glimpsing the coastline – that really does ramp up the adventure feels!
The Jeep Tour Section
That Jeep section really showed off some hard-to-access lookout points. Our driver, more or less, provided just enough information – just a few historical tidbits and also some geography to keep the trip fun, but it’s almost, true that some more depth in his knowledge might, actually, spice up the experience that bit extra. Imagine hearing epic tales, or genuinely insightful bits of info while gazing across all that majestic scenery!
One spot we stopped at, basically it, gave such a fantastic view, I would say! I definitely spent maybe half an hour taking pictures. A good guide makes all the difference. Though some of those roads, they sure can be bumpy in that Jeep! But the excitement really distracts you from those hard knocks and jumps. Prepare for some mud; if it rains you’ll probably appreciate those views.
Biking Around Sete Cidades
We transitioned to the bikes; there were different quality levels to these, and it’s almost, true that some TLC could be really put into ensuring they are actually tip-top shape. I, in fact, traded mine out almost immediately; it seemed to, arguably, have dodgy brakes. You would be able to get going after that.
That cycle, yet, went down to Sete Cidades village and even circled part of the lake shore – probably one of the most thrilling experiences the whole tour offered. But that path is shared; prepare to ride with pedestrians as well as cars sometimes. I got distracted a few times gazing outward. Honestly I was so blown away that it nearly took me off-course, lol!
Kayaking on the Lake
Jumping onto those kayaks certainly put you, basically, in probably one of those iconic Sete Cidades postcard scenes from up close. So relaxing drifting in the kayak, while admiring everything around. You should probably bring your waterproof camera.
Yet, I was sort of let down with that kayak equipment. The paddles seemed to be kind of flimsy; plus, there were life vests, although wearing something fitted better would feel better. Still, seeing reflections off both the green as well as blue lakes and that breathtaking view more than make up for it. Paddling close near that shore helps to immerse you.
Food and Drink
Lunch comes with, actually. I expected more, perhaps; still they do make an honest attempt, I reckon. Sandwiches, water plus one regional snack that really works well – it keeps things fueled, I would say, though if people had options catering more for personal needs I suppose people might rave some more!
I do propose that visitors, by the way, may bring a number of personal snacks for energy since the activity keeps you really busy during the whole day! Take, for instance, energy bars or trail mix, in case that meal isn’t completely adequate for whatever hunger level might hit you.
Things to Keep in Mind
There’s quite some sun exposure, okay. Don’t show up and forget sunscreen. The weather’s apt to swing suddenly, too, so bring layers; windbreaker plus a rain jacket, very good thinking! Besides that, comfortable shoes; ones for walking and perhaps for biking or kayaking are also quite wise, especially those that handle rain.
Something everyone who books this tour must know is that the level is reasonably high. That combination out of Jeep, bike and kayak does need a particular level regarding strength along with stamina, so anybody with knee troubles or serious health issues may want an alternative.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Sete Cidades Jeep, Bike & Kayak tour, yeah it’s a wonderful opportunity for taking everything these sights offer, from many distinctive points of view. I feel that some modest upgrades to some equipment along with adding depth concerning what that tour guide shares would take all that experience up some notches. As it stands currently? Arguably, a great experience to have, but bear those points in mind when scheduling!
Key points:
- Fantastic tour taking place across the fantastic landscape out near Sete Cidades.
- The biking and kayaking components do provide remarkable views and immersive experience.
- Equipment could see modest improvements.
- Make certain the fitness matches activity intensities.
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