
Cumeeiras Trail and Pico da Cruz Ponta Delgada
Explore the stunning Sete Cidades caldera, a volcanic wonder with twin lakes and panoramic island views. Hike trails amidst vibrant hydrangeas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for panoramic views

Cumeeiras Trail and Pico da Cruz Ponta Delgada
Best Time
Best visibility for panoramic views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the stunning Sete Cidades caldera, a volcanic wonder with twin lakes and panoramic island views. Hike trails amidst vibrant hydrangeas.
"The pictures don't do it justice; it's breathtaking to see six dormant volcanoes within a larger volcano."

🎯 Use Trail Coordinates
Trail names can be confusing. Use specific coordinates for trailheads to ensure you're on the right path.
🚗 4x4 Recommended
Gravel and bumpy roads are common. An SUV or 4x4 is recommended, or consider a guided tour.

Quick Facts
Rating
4.9 · 27 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sete Cidades Crater View
Miradouro da Vista do Rei
Witness the breathtaking sight of six dormant volcanoes within a larger caldera, with lakes shifting between blue and green hues.

Pico da Cruz Summit
Highest point on the west side of Sete Cidades
Experience a full 360-degree view of the island, stretching from the north to the south shores on clear days.

Hydrangea-Lined Paths
Various points along the trails
Wander through vibrant landscapes dotted with abundant hydrangeas, adding a splash of color to your hiking experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Trails
Best Views and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Use Trail Coordinates
Trail names can be confusing. Use specific coordinates for trailheads to ensure you're on the right path.
🚗 4x4 Recommended
Gravel and bumpy roads are common. An SUV or 4x4 is recommended, or consider a guided tour.
What trail is this? I know it’s in Sete Cidades, but what is the actual name of the trail? The trail naming is confusing I’m finding, where “regions” or areas are named for a trail, bits not always the actual trail name that I can google and get to the trailhead.
Miradoura da Boca do inferno
📸 Photos Don't Lie
The views are even more stunning in person than in pictures. Prepare to be amazed!
🌸 Hydrangea Season
Visit during hydrangea season for vibrant floral displays along the trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use Trail Coordinates
Trail names can be confusing. Use specific coordinates for trailheads to ensure you're on the right path.
🚗 4x4 Recommended
Gravel and bumpy roads are common. An SUV or 4x4 is recommended, or consider a guided tour.
📸 Photos Don't Lie
The views are even more stunning in person than in pictures. Prepare to be amazed!
🌸 Hydrangea Season
Visit during hydrangea season for vibrant floral displays along the trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, almost surreal beauty of the Sete Cidades caldera, with its uniquely colored lakes and panoramic island views. The abundance of hydrangeas adds to the charm. However, the challenging access via rough roads is a common point of concern, with many recommending 4x4 vehicles or guided tours.
"To me, this is one of the most beautiful places on earth. It's fascinating to see the Cete Cidades. It's breathtaking to see six dormant volcanoes within a larger volcano. The color of the water varies from shades of blue to green.
I did a guided jeep tour, rather than a hike, but we did have the chance to get out and walk around at the top.
I would say the pictures don't do it justice.
There are many hydrangeas growing everywhere. Rather than weeds, flower grow."
Sharon Olson
"Beautiful place, with a breathtaking view. It’s a bit hard to get to, via a gravel road, driving on a bumpy road, off-road vehicle recommended(there are tour companies that drive here, I highly recommend Greenzone tours) or hiking. Full 360• view."
Akira Wanke
"Best view on the craters and Island, See everything from north shore Ribeira Grande, to soth shore Ponta Delgada, road is cross country, not easy to drive, Park at the bottom, walk up that s best, or get a SUV Land Rover to do this safari"
Roger Müller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing these locations often involves navigating gravel and bumpy roads. While hiking is possible, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for easier access. Alternatively, guided jeep tours are a popular option for reaching the best viewpoints without the driving hassle.
Trail naming can be confusing in Sete Cidades. It's best to use specific coordinates for trailheads rather than relying on general area names to ensure you find the correct starting point.
Driving to Pico da Cruz is possible but challenging due to the cross-country, unpaved road. An SUV or off-road vehicle is advised. Some visitors prefer to park at the bottom and hike up for the best experience.
Public transport directly to the trailheads is limited. Most visitors opt for rental cars (preferably 4x4) or organized tours for convenient access to these scenic spots.
Many visitors recommend guided jeep tours for a hassle-free experience and access to prime viewpoints. Hiking is also a great option for those who enjoy trekking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are generally no entrance fees for accessing the Cumeeiras Trail or Pico da Cruz viewpoints. These are natural attractions open to the public.
As natural outdoor attractions, the trails and viewpoints are accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best experience.
Yes, guided jeep tours and other excursions will have associated costs. Prices vary depending on the tour operator and duration.
Yes, there are hiking trails that circle the Sete Cidades lakes, offering different perspectives of the caldera. The Cumeeiras Trail is one such option.
No specific entry restrictions are typically in place. However, always be mindful of the natural environment and follow any posted guidelines.
📸 📸 Photography
The Miradouro da Vista do Rei offers iconic panoramic shots of the twin lakes. Pico da Cruz provides a stunning 360-degree view of the island. Don't miss the viewpoints along the crater rim.
Clear mornings offer excellent visibility for capturing the vibrant colors of the lakes. Late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the landscape's textures.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive crater views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Popular viewpoints like Vista do Rei can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the Sete Cidades area.
🎫 🥾 Hiking & Trails
The Cumeeiras Trail offers a scenic hike around the Sete Cidades caldera, providing stunning views of the lakes and surrounding landscape. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
Trail difficulty varies. Some paths are relatively easy, while others can be more challenging with steep ascents and uneven terrain. The Cumeeiras Trail is moderately challenging.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as trails can be uneven and sometimes muddy. Layers of clothing are recommended as weather can change quickly.
While many trails are well-trodden, it's always safer to hike with a companion. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
Many trails are marked, but it's still wise to carry a map or use a GPS app. Trail naming can be confusing, so having coordinates is helpful.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit