Excursion to Furnas and Nordeste with Cozido das Furnas

If you’re visiting São Miguel and want to experience a blend of natural beauty, local culture, and authentic flavors, the Furnas and Nordeste tour offered by Artur Azores Tours is a fantastic choice. With a carefully curated itinerary, small group size, and the benefit of a knowledgeable local guide, this full-day adventure promises to be both enriching and visually stunning.

One aspect we especially appreciate is how flexible and personalized the experience feels, thanks to the guide’s insights and the ability to choose the perfect photo spots. However, since it’s a full-day outing, be prepared for a fair amount of walking and some early starts. This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, cultural spots, and want to see the best of São Miguel without feeling rushed.

If you’re after a relaxed, insightful day that combines breathtaking scenery with local flavors, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially good for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor exploration and cultural discovery, all with a small group atmosphere that enhances the experience.

Key Points

• Personalized guidance ensures you see the best spots and get great photo opportunities.
• Diverse stops from waterfalls and tea plantations to thermal baths and mountain viewpoints.
• Value for money with included lunch and transportation, focusing on authentic experiences.
• Small group size (max 8 travelers) for a more intimate and flexible day.
• Expert local guide enhances understanding and storytelling.
• Flexible cancellation policy for peace of mind.

This tour offers an excellent balance of scenic views, cultural highlights, and local flavors, all wrapped into a manageable eight-hour experience. What sets it apart is the guidance from someone who knows the island intimately—Artur has earned glowing praise, with reviews calling him the “best tour guide ever.” His patience, kindness, and deep knowledge turn what could be a standard sightseeing trip into something truly memorable.

The small group size, limited to 8 travelers, makes this experience more personal and allows for better interaction and flexibility. Plus, with pickup included, the day starts smoothly without the hassle of navigation, giving you more time to enjoy each stop.

Stop 1: Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes

Kicking off in the Nordeste municipality, we’re immediately immersed in lush greenery and rushing waterfalls. This spot is a great way to start, as you’re surrounded by nature in full bloom. The water-powered mills add a charming touch, and the free admission makes it a perfect intro. Expect to spend about 10 minutes here, enough to snap some photos and soak in the peaceful vibe.

Stop 2: Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana

Next, you visit the only tea plantation in Europe that’s still operational since 1883. The landscape here is a patchwork of green tea fields stretching to the horizon, and the small factory tour offers insight into sustainable production. Don’t miss the tasting session—reviewers love sampling the different aromas of Azorean tea, and many mention how this visit feels like stepping into a quiet, aromatic world away from the busy city.

Stop 3: Pico do Ferro

This viewpoint is a real showstopper—a panoramic balcony over the Furnas crater and lagoon. The views are breathtaking, with volcanic landscapes stretching to the sea. It’s a quick stop, about 10 minutes, but the photo opportunities are endless. We loved how our guide knew exactly where to position us for the best shots.

Stop 4: Lagoa das Furnas & Fumaroles

Here’s where the tour gets truly fascinating. We visited the fumaroles and thermal vents, which are hot spots of geothermal activity. This is also where the famous Furnas stew is cooked underground—a slow process that uses natural heat from the earth. Watching the pans being drawn from local restaurants was a real highlight; it’s a glimpse into how tradition and nature blend seamlessly on the island.

Stop 5: Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada

This overlook offers spectacular views over the Atlantic and the island’s volcanic terrain. It’s a quiet, awe-inspiring spot, perfect for reflection and photos. Travelers often comment on how the natural beauty here feels almost untouched—like a secret haven.

Stop 6: Nordeste Village

A charming stop in the heart of the village, where you can admire the Centenary Bridge and the characteristic houses and church. It’s a brief stop but offers a taste of local life and architecture, giving travelers a chance to connect with the community.

Stop 7: Poca da Dona Beija Thermal Baths

End your day with relaxation at these thermal baths, where the warm waters reach around 38°C. Spending about an hour and a half here, you can unwind and reflect on the day’s sights. Entrance isn’t included, but many find it well worth the small extra cost for this soothing finish.

The expert guidance of Artur is a standout feature. Reviewers consistently praise his patience, kindness, and deep knowledge of the island’s history and geology. Knowing exactly where to stop for photos or where to find the best local stories adds a layer of richness that you won’t get in a larger tour.

The variety of stops ensures you see a broad spectrum of São Miguel’s highlights—waterfalls, lush plantations, volcanic craters, and quaint villages—all in one day. The inclusion of a luch in the tour price provides extra value, giving you the chance to taste local cuisine after a morning of exploration.

Another highlight is the stunning scenery. The natural landscapes—verdant hills, steaming fumaroles, and panoramic viewpoints—are unforgettable and give you a real sense of the island’s volcanic energy. Many reviewers mention how the views made them feel like they were in paradise.

Possible Drawback to Consider

Since it’s an 8-hour tour, there’s a fair bit of time on the go, and some stops are brief. If you prefer longer periods at one site or a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the thermal baths are an additional expense, and not included in the tour fee, so budget accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, scenic photography, and learning about local culture. If you appreciate small-group tours that offer flexibility and personalized insights, you’ll find this a great fit. It’s also ideal if you want a comprehensive day that covers both the natural and cultural highlights of São Miguel—without having to organize multiple separate trips.

In addition, those interested in thermal baths, local cuisine, and volcanic landscapes will find plenty to love. But if you prefer a very relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider whether the short walking distances and multiple stops suit your style.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of São Miguel’s best natural sights, combined with local charm and expert guidance. The small group size, personalized approach, and varied stops make it a standout choice for travelers eager to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed.

The knowledgeable guide and the chance to see everything from waterfalls to tea plantations, volcanic craters, and thermal baths make this an experience full of diverse, memorable moments. The added bonus of a delicious included lunch rounds out a day that balances exploration, relaxation, and culture.

This is a tour that delivers excellent value and authentic experiences, especially for those who want to go beyond the typical tourist spots and really connect with São Miguel’s natural beauty and local life. If you’re up for an active, scenic, and insightful day, this tour hits all the right notes.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guided experience, and lunch. Admission tickets to certain spots like the waterfalls, tea plantation, and viewpoints are free, but some attractions like thermal baths are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, with a flexible, guided schedule that allows you to see multiple highlights across the island.

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, it’s limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, visiting the Poca da Dona Beija thermal baths is an optional stop, with an entrance fee not included in the tour.

What is the best way to prepare for the day?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a camera and some water, and be ready for a day of exploration and scenic vistas. It’s also wise to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start won’t be refunded.

Who is the ideal traveler for this tour?
This tour is perfect for those keen on experiencing nature, culture, and local flavors in a small-group setting. If you love scenic views, engaging guides, and a mix of outdoor and cultural stops, you’ll enjoy it immensely.

The Furnas and Nordeste tour represents a well-rounded, authentic way to explore some of São Miguel’s most striking spots. Its combination of natural beauty, knowledgeable guidance, and cultural insights makes it a top recommendation for travelers wanting a memorable, comprehensive day on this volcanic island.