Walking Tour - Mata do Canário | Sete Cidades

Set on São Miguel Island in the Azores archipelago, the Sete Cidades region offers a rare escape into volcanic landscapes framed by twin crater lakes. Azores Trails of Nature brings adventurers on a 5 to 6-hour walking tour through the Mata do Canário, where the ease of the trail invites steady immersion in both lush vegetation and sweeping geological panoramas. Starting near Ponta Delgada, this 13.5-kilometer trek threads through native laurisilva forests, an ancient subtropical rainforest type that clings to the island’s slopes and shelters endemic plant species.

Along the way, hikers see the verdant greens contrasted sharply against the striking blue-and-green lakes resting in the volcanic caldera below. The trail itself moves at a gentle grade, making it accessible to those with moderate fitness who want to absorb the natural beauty without undue strain. This walk is unique in how it balances tranquil woodland paths with dramatic vistas, including viewpoints overlooking the iconic Sete Cidades lakes—the Green Lake and the Blue Lake.

Azores Trails of Nature’s guidance ensures visitors connect deeply with the island’s volcanic origins and diverse ecology. The local knowledge shared enriches the journey, from understanding the island’s geologic transformation millions of years ago to spotting native birdlife and plants that thrive here. Azores Trails of Nature stands out among outdoor providers in the region by focusing on authentic nature experiences rather than rushed sightseeing.

Their commitment to sustainability and respecting delicate ecosystems helps protect these landscapes for future generations. For anyone wanting an active yet rejuvenating day in one of Portugal’s most extraordinary natural settings, this walking tour through Sete Cidades is hard to top. It’s a revealing way to engage with the Azores’ rugged beauty and serene wilderness just beyond Ponta Delgada’s coastal hum.