Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

Discover the Best of São Miguel with the Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

If you’re planning a day exploring São Miguel, Portugal’s lush island of volcanic beauty, this Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour promises a well-rounded experience. Priced at around $75.49 per person, it combines nature, local culture, and breathtaking views, all within a manageable 7-hour window. From scenic viewpoints to geothermal springs, you’ll get an authentic taste of the island’s natural wonders.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances popular sights with lesser-known gems, giving you a genuine sense of local life and volcanic landscapes. Plus, with the convenience of pick-up and a small group size (max 8 travelers), it offers intimacy and personal insights. A possible consideration? The itinerary involves some quick drives and tight schedules, so if you prefer a more relaxed, unhurried pace, it might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want to see a variety of highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives, panoramic viewpoints, geothermal phenomena, and local culinary surprises—all in one day. If you’re after a comprehensive yet authentic experience of São Miguel, this tour is a worthy choice.

Key Points

• Balanced combination of scenic viewpoints, geothermal sites, and cultural stops
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and less crowding
• Includes free access to several natural attractions, offering good value
• Highlights like Furnas Lake, Pico do Ferro, and Gorreana Tea Plantation provide varied experiences
• Early start and efficient pacing maximize the day without feeling rushed
• Guided insights from local experts add depth to the visit

Exploring São Miguel: A Complete Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point in Ponta Delgada and First Stop at Miradouro de Santa Iria

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup typically around 9:00 am in Ponta Delgada, the island’s main hub. This small-group tour (max 8 travelers) begins with a scenic drive toward Miradouro de Santa Iria, a lookout offering sweeping views over the north coast of São Miguel.

From the reviews, it’s clear this viewpoint is a crowd-pleaser. You’ll see stunning coastlines and rolling hills — perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. The fact that admission is free makes it a great budget-friendly start to your day. Expect about 20 minutes here, which is enough to snap some shots and appreciate the landscape.

Tea Time at Gorreana Tea Factory

Next, there’s a short 15-minute drive to the Gorreana Tea Factory, the only tea plantation in Europe still producing tea commercially. Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at traditional tea-making processes, something quite unique for an Atlantic island. The visit lasts about 50 minutes, giving you enough time to explore the plantation and sample some local varieties.

Travelers consistently mention the deliciousness of the teas and the informative guides. As one reviewer put it, “The visit to Gorreana was interesting, and tasting the teas was a highlight.” The peaceful greenery and the chance to see a working tea factory make this stop both educational and relaxing.

Pico do Ferro for Panoramic Views

After the tea, the tour heads to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, about a 15-minute drive away. Climbing up here rewards you with a panoramic vista of Lagoa das Furnas and the surrounding volcanic landscape. It’s a perfect spot to see how volcanic activity has shaped the island.

Expect about 50 minutes here, which is ample time for photos, soaking in the views, and maybe a quick snack. From reviews, we know visitors love the way this viewpoint makes the island’s volcanic origins come alive, offering a sense of perspective.

Lagoa das Furnas and Geothermal Wonders

Next, the tour visits Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic crater lake famous for its bubbling geothermal activity. Here, you’ll witness natural phenomena—stews cooked ‘under the ground’ and steaming vents—adding a touch of volcanic magic. The tour allows about 40 minutes at this stop, enough to appreciate the scenery and observe the geothermal activity.

Following this, there’s a visit to Furnas, where you’ll have free time to explore the thermal springs, botanical gardens, and Terra Nostra Park. One reviewer mentioned enjoying the thermal waters, highlighting how relaxing and rejuvenating they are. Entrance fees to the springs are not included, but the park’s natural hot waters make for a memorable experience.

Pico do Ferro Revisited and Lunch Options

The tour then re-visits Pico do Ferro for further views, and after about 1 hour and 20 minutes at Furnas, you’ll drive to Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s first capital. This town offers both historical charm and stunning views, including the famous islet nearby.

Here, you’ll also get the chance to try the local cheese tart—a small but delicious treat that many reviews praise. It’s a great way to indulge in local flavors without much fuss.

Serenity at Nossa Senhora da Paz

The final stop is the Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Paz, perched above Vila Franca do Campo. This sanctuary offers quiet, stunning vistas over the islet and the surrounding ocean—an ideal spot to reflect on the day.

The tour then heads back to Ponta Delgada, arriving after about 30 minutes of driving, giving you a full, satisfying day of discovery.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour price covers all fees and taxes, making it straightforward and transparent. However, note that entry to Furnas Lake (for thermal springs or Terra Nostra Park) is not included, so if you wish to indulge in the thermal waters, budget accordingly.

Transportation is comfortable and air-conditioned, making the roughly 7-hour experience manageable, even for those who prefer a less strenuous pace. The small group size means more personalized attention and a chance to ask lots of questions.

Insights from the Reviews

One reviewer pointed out a slight hiccup with pick-up logistics, noting that the guide drove a little fast and that they had trouble with pick-up points outside the primary area. However, the guide was described as professional and friendly overall. This suggests that while the team is committed, punctuality and clarity about pick-up locations could be improved.

Analyzing the Value

At $75.49, this tour offers a good value for a full-day exploration of São Miguel, considering the included stops, guide expertise, and transportation. The fact that several attractions are free or have minimal costs enhances the overall value. Plus, the small group size ensures a more intimate, engaging experience, unlike larger, more rushed tours.

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and natural hot springs, you’ll find this tour checks lots of boxes. The variety of stops means you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of São Miguel’s volcanic soul and local character.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is excellent for travelers who want to see key highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s perfect if you appreciate scenic viewpoints, geothermal activity, and local food, all in one go. It suits those who enjoy a small-group atmosphere and are comfortable with a somewhat structured schedule. If you’re looking for a comprehensive introduction to São Miguel’s natural beauty and cultural charm, this tour fits well.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour is a thoughtfully curated way to experience some of São Miguel’s most iconic sights. From panoramic vistas to geothermal marvels, it captures the island’s volcanic essence while providing opportunities to taste local products and learn about its history. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides help make it a personal and engaging journey.

While the pace might feel a little brisk for those who prefer to linger longer at each site, the overall value and diversity of experiences make this an attractive option, especially for first-timers or travelers short on time.

Whether you’re captivated by the volcanic landscapes, intrigued by the local culinary treats, or simply seeking a day of natural beauty, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of São Miguel.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included, and it’s comfortable and air-conditioned, making the long drives more pleasant.

What’s the approximate duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are all attractions included in the price?
All fees and taxes are included, but entry to Furnas Lake (thermal springs or Terra Nostra Park) is not, so plan to pay separately if you want to enjoy the thermal waters.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved at some stops and the pace of the day.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, meals are not included, but there will be opportunities to taste local snacks like the cheese tart at Vila Franca do Campo.

Is the tour available in different languages?
The data doesn’t specify language options, but typically tours with local guides may offer basic explanations in multiple languages or require confirmation.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or fog, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there a recommended time to book?
The tour is usually booked 19 days in advance, so early booking is advisable to secure your spot.

This full-day journey promises a fantastic blend of volcanic scenery, cultural insight, and local flavors—perfect for travelers eager to see the real São Miguel in one memorable day.