Furnas Private & Customizable Tour (group price)

Exploring São Miguel with the Furnas Private & Customizable Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Azores and seeking a flexible, in-depth way to experience São Miguel’s volcanic marvels, this Furnas Private & Customizable Tour might just be what you need. Offered by FUNtastic Azores tours, it balances personalized exploration with the ease of luxury transport, all wrapped into a full-day adventure full of highlights and surprises.

What really stands out is the ability to tailor the day to your interests—whether that’s soaking in hot springs, tasting local delicacies, or simply soaking up the stunning scenery at your own pace. The luxury Mercedes minivan ensures comfort, and the included hotel or port pickup makes logistics straightforward.

One thing to consider is that lunch is not included, which gives you the option to dine where you prefer or try the famous cozido stew at your own expense. This flexibility is perfect for foodies and those wanting to avoid set menus.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate customization, enjoy scenic drives, and love learning from knowledgeable guides. It’s especially suited to those who want a relaxed, private experience that can adapt to their interests, rather than a rigid group schedule.

Key Points

• Fully customizable itinerary allows for flexible exploration of São Miguel’s highlights.
• Luxury transportation ensures comfort during the approximately 8-hour tour.
• Visit iconic sights like Furnas Lake, Vila Franca do Campo, and scenic viewpoints.
• Expert-guided commentary enriches your understanding of the island’s volcanic features.
• Hotel or port pickup/drop-off adds convenience, especially after a long day of sightseeing.
• Lunch is on your own, giving you control over what and where to eat.

Discovering São Miguel’s Volcanic Beauty

This private tour offers a fantastic way to see the volcanic heart of São Miguel without the rush of big group tours. With a cost of around $416.45 for up to six people, it presents excellent value for such a personalized experience. The fact that it is booked about 97 days in advance speaks to its popularity among travelers seeking a tailored day out.

The 8-hour journey is designed to be comprehensive yet relaxed, with plenty of stops to truly take in the views and learn from your guide. The tour’s flexibility means it can be adapted on the fly—if you’re especially interested in the volcanic phenomena, or perhaps want more time at the tea plantations, your guide can accommodate.

Itinerary Breakdown and Insights

Vila Franca do Campo

Your day begins with a stop in this charming old capital of São Miguel. Here, you’ll enjoy coastal views over the islet of Vila Franca do Campo, a striking geological formation that’s perfect for photos. Reviewers love this stop for its scenic beauty and the chance to try the traditional small pastry from the village. This part is quite brief—about 45 minutes—but offers a peaceful intro to the island’s history and coastal charm.

Caldeira das Furnas

The highlight for many is the Furnas Volcano area, an active crater with a stunning lake, fumaroles, and hot springs. The tour includes multiple stops, where you can appreciate the volcanic activity firsthand and learn about the local cozido stew, cooked naturally in the geothermal heat. Some reviewers, like Michael, remark that the trip to Furnas was the best, especially experiencing the hot springs and panoramic views from Pico do Ferro at 570 meters.

The volcanic landscape here is both dramatic and educational—fumaroles releasing steam and bubbling mud pits showcase the island’s geothermal vitality. You can also choose to take a dip in a hot spring, though this is not included in the ticket price.

Tea Plantations

Next, you’ll visit Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, one of the few tea plantations in Europe. Here, you’ll get a glimpse into the history of tea production on the island and enjoy free tastings. Several reviewers mention that this is a highlight, especially for those interested in local products and learning about Azorean agriculture.

Scenic Viewpoints

The tour includes stops at Miradouro de Santa Iria and Miradouro do Piasa—two of the most stunning viewpoints. Expect breathtaking vistas over the cliffy northern coast and the lava delta of Caloura. Reviewers consistently praise these stops for their amazing photo opportunities and tranquil atmosphere.

Transportation and Practicalities

Travel is in a luxury Mercedes minivan, which adds a layer of comfort and privacy that big bus tours simply can’t match. The hotel or port pickup is highly appreciated, especially after a full day of sightseeing, and ensures you start and end the day seamlessly.

While the tour runs in all weather conditions, it’s wise to dress appropriately, especially if you plan to spend extra time outdoors at viewpoints or hot springs. The 8-hour duration is ample for a comprehensive experience, but not so long as to be draining.

The group price of $416.45 is quite reasonable considering it covers up to 6 people, making it a good deal for families or small groups wanting privacy and flexibility.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

Guests repeatedly mention how knowledgeable guides like Paulo or Marco made their day special. From insider tips on local restaurants to navigating the best photo spots, guides seem to go above and beyond. Several reviews highlight the personalized pace and attentiveness, especially with children or specific interests.

One reviewer loved that their guide took them to a delicious cafe and a hidden gem restaurant, which they wouldn’t have found alone. This emphasizes the value of a private guide who can adapt the day based on your preferences.

How to Maximize Your Day

• Bring your own lunch or snacks if you prefer not to pay for meals during the stop at Furnas.
• Ask your guide for recommendations on local eateries, especially for the cozido stew—an authentic, geothermal-cooked dish.
• Dress in layers—the weather can change quickly, especially around viewpoints and volcano areas.
• Allocate extra time at the viewpoints if you love photography or want to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.
• Consider adding a hot spring visit if you’re keen on relaxing in thermal waters, though note it’s not included in the standard tour.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private, customizable tour is perfect for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience of São Miguel’s volcanic sites. It’s ideal for families, small groups, or couples who value personal attention and the ability to adapt the itinerary.

It’s also well-suited to those who enjoy learning from guides with local knowledge, and who appreciate scenic drives and viewpoints that reveal the island’s raw natural beauty. If you’re after a structured, crowded bus tour, this might be too tailored, but for an immersive experience, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

The Furnas Private & Customizable Tour offers a fantastic way to explore São Miguel’s volcanic heart while enjoying the comfort and flexibility that private transport and guides provide. From the breathtaking views at Miradouro de Santa Iria to the bubbling fumaroles at Furnas, this tour showcases the island’s most compelling features with the added bonus of guided insights and a personalized pace.

At about $416 for a group of six, the value is clear—especially considering the flexibility, comfort, and expert guidance included. It’s a great choice for those who want an authentic, in-depth experience without the constraints of a fixed group schedule.

Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a foodie eager to try cozido, or simply someone who loves scenic landscapes, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting memories of São Miguel’s volcanic wonderland.

FAQ

Is hotel or port pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or the cruise port, making logistics simple.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely, this is a fully private and customizable tour, so your guide will tailor the day according to your interests.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore comfortably.

What sights are included?
Stops typically include Vila Franca do Campo, Furnas volcano area, Gorreana tea plantation, and scenic viewpoints like Santa Iria and Piasa.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, which allows you to choose your own dining options or try the local cozido stew at your expense.

What transportation is used?
A luxury Mercedes minivan ensures a smooth, comfortable ride throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, especially since guides are known for keeping kids engaged and flexible regarding stops.

What’s the best time to book?
It’s advisable to book at least 97 days in advance, especially if you want a specific date or customization.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Are weather conditions an issue?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain or shine.

This private, customizable tour promises a comprehensive, relaxed way to see São Miguel’s volcanic highlights—perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing rush and truly absorb the island’s natural beauty.