Full Day: Furnas, Tea Plantations & More With Lunch

Discovering São Miguel’s Natural and Cultural Treasures in a Full-Day Tour

This full-day tour on São Miguel Island promises a blend of volcanic landscapes, thermal relaxation, cultural insights, and scenic beauty—all packed into a comfortable, well-organized experience. While it’s not a private tour, the small-group size (limited to 8 participants) means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention from knowledgeable guides like Eric, who many reviewers praise for their friendly demeanor and local expertise.

One of the things we especially like about this tour is how it balances natural wonders with local culture, offering not just sightseeing but true experiences—like the unique “Cozido” lunch, traditional to the area, and a walk through Europe’s only tea plantations. However, a potential consideration is the additional cost for thermal pool entry, as that isn’t included in the tour price. Still, the value for the chance to see so many highlights in one day is definitely worth it for those seeking a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, educational journey that covers key highlights without the hassle of planning multiple activities. It suits those who appreciate natural beauty, local traditions, and the company of a small, engaged group. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing day immersed in volcanic scenery, this tour offers a well-rounded adventure.

Key Points:

• Authentic Experiences: Includes traditional “Cozido” lunch cooked with volcanic heat, adding an authentic taste of local culture.
• Natural Highlights: Features iconic sights like Furnas Lake, thermal pools, and geothermal fumaroles.
• Cultural Insights: Visits Europe’s only tea plantations, with tastings and scenic views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Eric enhance the experience with local stories and attention to detail.
• Small Group Comfort: Limit of 8 participants ensures personalized attention and relaxed sightseeing.
• Price & Value: At $85, the tour covers transportation, a traditional lunch, and entry to major sights, making it a good value.

Exploring São Miguel’s Diverse Landscape in a Single Day

This tour offers a fantastic snapshot of São Miguel, showcasing how the island’s volcanic origins shape its landscape and culture. It begins with a scenic drive along the South Coast, where you’ll first stop at Caloura, a stunning coastal village with rugged cliffs and crystal-clear Atlantic waters. This initial stop sets the tone for the day, offering great photo opportunities and a taste of the island’s rugged beauty.

Next, you’ll visit Vila Franca do Campo, the first capital of the Azores. Here, panoramic views of its small volcanic islet are a highlight, along with charming streets that reveal a bit of the island’s history. The guide’s storytelling makes these stops more meaningful—enriching the visual experience with local lore and anecdotes.

The Heart of the Tour: Furnas and Thermal Wonders

Arriving in Furnas marks the true heart of the journey. This geothermal hotspot is famous for its steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and lush green surroundings. We loved the way guides like Eric explained the area’s volcanic activity, making the sights more fascinating than just pretty scenery. The highlight here is Furnas Lake, a serene volcanic crater lake framed by vibrant greenery—ideal for photos and peaceful reflection.

One of the most memorable parts of the day is relaxing in thermal pools, which offer a soothing experience after a morning of exploration. Many reviewers, like Laura, mention the thermal pools as a key highlight, describing them as a natural and therapeutic way to unwind. However, note that the thermal pools are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay for entry separately.

The “Cozido” Experience: A Unique Culinary Adventure

Lunch is a true standout—“Cozido das Furnas”, a traditional dish slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat. This method of cooking results in a hearty stew full of local flavors, and many travelers find it a fascinating cultural experience. From reviews, guides like Eric are praised for their attention to detail, making sure everyone understands the cooking process and gets a taste of the rich flavors.

The Tea Plantations: A Surprising European Exclusive

After lunch, the tour heads to Europe’s only tea plantations. Here, you’ll walk through lush green fields, learning how the tea is cultivated, harvested, and processed. The complimentary tea tasting is a delightful addition, giving you the chance to sample some of the island’s finest brews while enjoying scenic views. This is a rare experience you won’t find anywhere else in Europe, making it a highlight for tea enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Coastal Charm and Return to Ponta Delgada

On the return trip along the North Coast, you’ll pass through scenic landscapes, with stops in Caloura and Coura villages. These provide a peaceful conclusion to the day, with opportunities for photographs and soaking in the tranquil island atmosphere. The tour concludes back in Ponta Delgada, where many travelers appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day hassle-free.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Transportation: Traveling in a climate-controlled van, the journey is comfortable and smooth, even on longer stretches. The small group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and your guide can tailor the experience to your interests when possible.

Duration & Timing: The tour lasts a full day—approximately 8 hours—with check-in times varying based on availability. It’s a well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with enough time at each stop to truly enjoy it.

Cost & Value: At $85 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusive elements, such as a traditional lunch, expert guidance, and scenic drives. Keep in mind, the thermal pool entry is extra, but most travelers find the overall experience worth the additional cost.

Small Group Dynamics: Limited to 8 people, it’s ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience, personalized attention, and the opportunity to ask questions directly to guides like Eric, who reviews praise for his friendliness and depth of knowledge.

Authentic Experience and Local Insights

One standout feature noted in reviews is the guide’s ability to share personal stories and local insights, making the experience more genuine. For instance, Eric’s attentiveness and storytelling made the geothermal activities and culinary traditions come alive, turning a sightseeing tour into a culture.

Travelers also appreciated how this tour balanced natural wonders with cultural authenticity—such as the tea plantation tour and the local cooking method, which reveal how residents have adapted their environment for daily life and tradition.

The Sum Up: Who Would Love This Tour?

This full-day exploration of São Miguel’s highlights is perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded, engaging experience that combines natural beauty, local culture, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided tour that minimizes planning hassle but still feels intimate and authentic. The inclusion of a traditional “Cozido” meal, scenic stops, and expert guides makes it a compelling option for first-time visitors wanting to see the best of the island.

If you’re interested in geothermal activity, lush landscapes, and a dash of cultural discovery—this tour ticks all those boxes. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized, memorable day that captures the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers transportation in a climate-controlled van, an expert guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off within designated areas, and a traditional “Cozido” lunch cooked with volcanic heat. The tea plantation visit and tasting are also part of the experience.

Is the thermal pool entry included?
No, the entrance fee to the thermal pools in Furnas and Furnas Lake is not included. You might want to budget extra if you wish to enjoy these relaxing waters.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour generally lasts around 8 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability. It’s designed to be a relaxed yet comprehensive exploration of São Miguel.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention from your guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for most age groups, especially those interested in nature and culture. However, consider mobility levels if you plan to visit the thermal pools or walk through the plantations.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of geothermal wonders, cultural experiences like the Cozido, and Europe’s only tea plantations makes it a unique and well-rounded day trip.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just comfortable clothing, suitable footwear for walking, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Remember that thermal pool entry is extra, so plan accordingly.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speak Portuguese and Spanish in addition to English, providing options for a wider range of travelers.

This tour offers a rich taste of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty and cultural heritage, all wrapped into a manageable, highly-rated package. Whether you’re drawn by the natural geothermal marvels, the scenic landscapes, or the chance to taste local traditions, it’s an experience that promises memorable moments at a reasonable price.