Kayaking in Sete Cidades: A Peaceful Paddle Through a Volcanic Wonder

Sete Cidades isn’t just one of the most famous spots in the Azores — it’s one of the most magical. Nestled inside a massive volcanic caldera, the twin lakes of Sete Cidades (the Green and Blue Lakes) offer a surreal setting for a quiet kayaking adventure.

Gliding over calm, mirror-like water, surrounded by steep crater walls blanketed in green, you feel like you’ve entered another world. The sound of the paddle dipping into the water, the gentle breeze, the occasional bird — it’s all peaceful, almost meditative.

From the middle of the lake, you get a completely different perspective of the landscape. You can paddle under the famous bridge that separates the two lakes, explore the shoreline with its reeds and wildflowers, or simply float and take in the stillness. If you go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, the light creates reflections so perfect it’s hard to tell where the water ends and the sky begins.

No experience? No problem. Kayak rentals are easy to find by the lakeside, and the water is so calm it’s ideal for beginners and families. It’s also a great break from hiking or road trips, letting you slow down and connect with nature in a different way.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or serenity, kayaking in Sete Cidades is one of those “must-do” experiences that captures the spirit of São Miguel: dramatic landscapes, peaceful moments, and unforgettable beauty.