Furnas Volcano Wonders, Tea Plantation & Waterfall Tour

Furnas Volcano Wonders, Tea Plantation & Waterfall Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into São Miguel’s volcanic heart. For just $76 per person, this 8-hour small-group adventure takes you through some of the island’s most stunning landscapes, from bubbling geothermal springs to lush tea plantations. It’s a fantastic way to see the east side of the island without the hassle of renting a car, especially if you’re short on time but eager for an authentic and comprehensive experience.

What we love about this tour is its focus on local highlights—like visiting the last 100% natural tea plantation in the world and tasting their products, along with uncovering the unique geothermal activity that defines Furnas. The tour’s small-group size ensures you get a more personal, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for asking questions or simply soaking in the scenery at your own pace. One potential drawback to keep in mind: the tour does involve some walking and outdoor exposure, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a deep dive into São Miguel’s volcanic and cultural landscape without the stress of planning each stop themselves. If you’re into nature, geothermal wonders, local cuisine, and engaging guides, this tour will suit you perfectly. It also offers great value, balancing a wide variety of activities with a reasonable price point.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit the last natural tea plantation and learn about Azorean products.
• Scenic Highlights: Enjoy breathtaking views from Santa Iria and the waterfalls in Nordeste.
• Volcanic Wonders: Explore fumaroles, bubbling springs, and geothermal activity in Furnas.
• Local Culture & Food: Tackle the famous “Cozido das Furnas,” cooked underground in volcanic soil (optional).
• Small Group Atmosphere: Personalized experience with knowledgeable guides like Andrea and Diogo.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes multiple stops, scenic drives, and cultural insights.

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Off with a Viewpoint: Santa Iria

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your accommodation, usually between 09:00 and 09:20, followed by a short 15-minute drive to the Santa Iria viewpoint. This spot offers sweeping views of São Miguel’s rugged coastline and volcanic cliffs—an excellent way to set the tone for the day. The scenery is dramatic, with cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, and you’ll get many chances to snap photos of the wild Atlantic crashing below.

Gorreana Tea Plantation: Europe’s Only Remaining Tea Factory

Next, you’ll visit Gorreana, the only tea plantation in Europe that’s still fully natural. This 25-minute stop includes a guided tour, tasting sessions, and plenty of chances to wander through the rolling green hills of tea bushes. Reviewers like Marta from the UK have expressed their delight at this stop, especially noting how much they learned about the different types of tea—black, green, and white—coming from the same plants.

Traveling here reveals a slice of Azorean life—tea has been grown here for over a century, and the plantation’s methods stick to traditional, chemical-free processes. The lush landscape and the aroma of fresh tea leaves make this one of the most memorable parts of the tour.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park: Waterfalls & Heritage

The journey continues to Nordeste, a beautifully untouched part of São Miguel. Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park is the perfect place to experience azorean rural charm—with waterfalls, a watermill museum, and shaded walking trails. Reviewers like Jeva from Latvia appreciated the peaceful vibe and the “magical setting,” perfect for a short walk and some photos.

This stop combines natural beauty with a touch of local heritage, giving travelers a sense of how the Azoreans have historically interacted with their environment.

Exploring Furnas: The Island’s Volcanic Core

The highlight of the day arrives at Furnas Valley, a place of geothermal activity and bubbling springs. The landscape here is surreal, with fumaroles, mud pools, and steam rising from the earth. The tour guides you through the geothermal area, explaining how the hot springs and mineral-rich waters shape the landscape.

A visit to Terra Nostra Botanical Garden is often included, where you can admire the lush gardens and, if you opt to, soak in the thermal pool for some relaxation. The waters are said to have medicinal properties, and the experience of swimming in a thermal pool surrounded by vibrant greenery is unforgettable. Reviewers like Rene from Portugal loved the thermal baths, especially after a day of walking.

The Famous Furnas “Cozido” (Optional)

Food lovers will appreciate the opportunity to try Cozido das Furnas—a stew cooked underground in volcanic soil for 6-7 hours. The tour offers an optional lunch, which includes the stew, drinks, dessert, and coffee. Multiple reviews, including Ana from Croatia, mention how delicious and authentic the Cozido is, praising its unique cooking method and rich flavors. Vegetarian options are available, making this a flexible choice.

Scenic Drive, the Chapel, and Islet Views

After lunch, the tour continues with a drive around Furnas Lake, where you can see the neo-Gothic Nossa Senhora das Vitórias Chapel—an idyllic spot with views over the water. Passing through Vila Franca do Campo, you get a glimpse of the island’s history and natural beauty, including its famous islet, often called the Princess Ring.

End of the Day: Relaxed and Enriching

The trip wraps up with a scenic journey back along the southern coast, offering more picturesque views and reflecting on the day’s experiences. The tour usually concludes between 17:30 and 18:00, leaving travelers with plenty of memories and stunning photos.

Why This Tour Works and What You’re Getting

Transportation & Group Size

Travel is via air-conditioned minivan, which is comfortable and convenient. The small-group format means around 10-15 travelers, fostering a friendly atmosphere where questions are encouraged and the guide can focus on individual interests. Reviewers like Ieva from Lithuania appreciated the extra miles their guide Andrea went to, even showing her more sites outside the itinerary.

Guides & Local Knowledge

Guides like Andrea, Diogo, and João consistently receive praise for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. They often share personal insights and local stories that add layers of authenticity to the experience—something that many reviews highlight as a key benefit.

Timing & Pacing

At 8 hours long, the tour strikes a balance—covering many highlights without feeling rushed. The itinerary includes enough stops to truly enjoy each place, with some flexibility depending on group interest or weather conditions.

Value & Cost

At $76, the tour offers substantial value. It includes hotel pickups, a guided experience, tea tastings, bottled water, and the possibility of a memorable local meal. Additional costs like thermal pool entry or the botanical garden are relatively modest, and some reviewers note that the tour is especially worthwhile considering all the sights packed into one day.

Considerations

• The optional lunch, while delicious and filling, is an extra expense if chosen.
• The tour involves walking and outdoor exposure, so bring suitable shoes and weather gear.
• If thermal baths or botanical gardens are of prime interest, budget for those entrance fees separately.
• The schedule can be affected by weather or road conditions, but guides are usually flexible and communicative.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the best of the east side of São Miguel without renting a car. Nature lovers will especially appreciate the waterfalls, geothermal marvels, and lush landscapes. Food enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to taste authentic Cozido and learn about local agriculture. It’s also great for those wanting a relaxed, guided day that covers more ground than you could easily do on your own.

If you’re after a comprehensive, educational experience with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited to travelers who value small group intimacy, knowledgeable guides, and authentic local experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Ponta Delgada or designated meeting points.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, typically ending between 17:30 and 18:00.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, swimwear, a towel, and a jacket are recommended since you’ll be walking outdoors and possibly swimming in thermal pools.

Can I buy lunch on the tour?
Lunch is an optional add-on, featuring the traditional Cozido cooked in volcanic soil, with drinks, dessert, and coffee included. Vegetarian options are available.

Are there any extra fees I need to know about?
Yes, entrance fees for Terra Nostra Botanical Garden (17€) and the Furnas Lake Natural Park (3€) are not included. Thermal pool fee is 16€.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of volcanic landscapes, cultural sites, and local foods, alongside the small-group setting and expert guides, makes it a memorable way to experience São Miguel.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking and outdoor activities, so it’s best suited for those able to handle light hikes and uneven terrain.

How many people are in each group?
Typically 10-15 travelers, fostering a more personal experience.

What is the guide’s role in enhancing the experience?
Guides like Andrea, Diogo, and João bring personal stories and local knowledge, making each stop more meaningful and engaging.

Final Thoughts

The Furnas Volcano Wonders, Tea Plantation & Waterfall Tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized look into São Miguel’s volcanic landscape, local culture, and natural beauty. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see a broad spectrum of what the island has to offer without the hassle of planning or driving. With experienced guides and a balanced itinerary, you’re likely to walk away with memorable views, new insights, and a deeper appreciation of the Azores’ volcanic soul.

If you’re after an authentic, engaging, and value-packed day on São Miguel, this tour hits all the right notes.