Private Tour Furnas: Furnas Lake Hike & Terra Nostra Park

Exploring Furnas: A Private Tour of Nature, Thermal Waters, and Hidden Gems

Taking a day to explore Furnas on a private tour offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, geothermal wonders, and charming local culture. This 8-hour experience, offered by Alma Verde Tours, is designed for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth look at one of São Miguel’s most scenic areas. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll enjoy a mix of easy walks, spectacular viewpoints, and relaxing dips in mineral-rich waters—all tailored to give you a genuine taste of the island.

What stands out most about this tour is the combination of stunning scenery and insightful guidance. We loved the way your guide, Deborah, or similar local experts, bring the landscape to life with stories and detailed explanations. One potential downside is that the tour involves a moderate 2-hour walk, so it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness. This experience appeals to nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a relaxed yet explorative day in the Azores.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy private, flexible experiences and want to see the highlights of Furnas without the crowds. If you’re after authentic local flavors, lush gardens, and breathtaking vistas, this is one to consider.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with a dedicated guide enhances your understanding and connection to the landscape.
• Varied Highlights: Mix of scenic viewpoints, nature walks, waterfalls, and geothermal baths keeps the day engaging.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Sampling mineral waters and a traditional lunch enriches the cultural experience.
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and door-to-door pickup/drop-off make logistics seamless.
• Moderate Activity: Suitable for most with reasonable fitness but involves some walking and outdoor exposure.
• Outstanding Value: At $317 for up to 2 people, the tour offers a comprehensive and personalized day out.

A Deep Dive into the Furnas Private Tour

Starting with the Best Views: Pico do Ferro Lookout

The day kicks off with a pickup from your lodging—whether you’re in Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande—making it easy to begin your adventure without hassle. The first stop is the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, arguably one of the island’s most breathtaking spots. From this perch, you get a sweeping panorama of the volcanic crater, including the lush Lagoa das Furnas below. The views here are enough to make your camera jealous, and it sets the tone for what’s to come.

Walking the Wonders: Lagoa das Furnas

Next, you’ll join a guided walk around Lagoa das Furnas—a crater lake famous for its bubbling fumaroles and vivid green hues. Visitors consistently praise the guided nature walk, which lasts around two hours and meanders through forest paths, lakeside scenery, and fumaroles. This is where you truly get a sense of the island’s volcanic soul. Reviewers describe it as a “stunning and easy walk,” perfect even for those not in tip-top shape.

During the walk, your guide will point out geothermal steam vents and explain how the landscape is constantly reshaping itself. This is not just sightseeing—it’s an educational experience that will give you a real appreciation of the island’s volcanic activity and lush ecology.

Discovering Hidden Gems: Mata-Jardim José do Canto

After soaking in the views, the tour takes you to Mata-Jardim José do Canto, one of São Miguel’s most beautiful and historic gardens. Expect tranquil paths lined with exotic trees and a quiet waterfall that many visitors find enchanting. As one reviewer mentioned, “the hidden waterfall and the beautiful garden made it feel like a secret world.” It’s a peaceful spot perfect for stretching your legs and snapping photos.

Witnessing the Geothermal Oven: Caldeiras da Lagoa das Furnas

No visit here is complete without observing the famous Cozido das Furnas, a stew slow-cooked underground in geothermal steam. You’ll see the steam vents at Caldeiras da Lagoa das Furnas**. The sight of steam billowing from the earth is fascinating, and your guide will share insights into how the locals use this natural oven for cooking traditional dishes. It’s a vivid reminder of how humanity has learned to live in harmony with these geothermal forces.

Lunch in Furnas

Midday, you’ll take a break in the charming town of Furnas. The area’s flower-lined streets and hot springs make it a relaxing stop. While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, the guide will recommend local spots where you can sample regional flavors, including the famous Cozido if you wish. Many find that this break allows for a taste of authentic Azorean cuisine and a chance to chat with locals.

Relaxing in Terra Nostra Park

Post-lunch, you’ll visit the renowned Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, which offers the highlight of many visitors’ days—a dip in the thermal mineral pool. The warm, iron-rich waters are reputed to have health benefits, and soaking in them amid lush surroundings is a highlight.

Reviewers, including Ana Perez from Spain, rave about this part of the tour: “Deborah’s knowledge made the visit even more enjoyable, and the hot water in Terra Nostra is just perfect.” You’ll have around 1.5 hours here to relax, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the therapeutic waters.

Final Stop: Pico do Ferro Viewpoint

To cap off the day, your guide will take you back to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint for that perfect photo opportunity. Sunset or midday, the views over the crater and lake are spectacular and offer a fitting end to your adventure.

Convenient Drop-offs and Overall Comfort

The tour concludes with drop-offs at your accommodation—whether in Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande—making it easy to unwind after a full day of exploration. Transport is comfortable, air-conditioned, and private, ensuring your experience isn’t marred by crowds or bus schedules.

Analyzing the Experience: Is It Worth It?

For $317 per group (up to two people), this private tour delivers a comprehensive look at Furnas. The price includes pickup, drop-off, a professional guide, entrance fees to Furnas Lake, Terra Nostra Garden, and the Mata-Jardim, plus bottled water. Given the personalized nature, flexible pacing, and all the highlights, many will find this to be excellent value.

One reviewer highlighted Deborah’s enthusiasm and extensive knowledge, which adds a layer of depth often missing from group excursions. Her ability to adapt the tour based on the group’s wishes means you get a day tailored to your interests.

The experience balances sightseeing, learning, and relaxing, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy moderate outdoor activity combined with cultural insights. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or small children under 10, but overall, it offers a well-rounded and memorable day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after an intimate, guided exploration of Furnas, this tour is a strong pick. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic hikes and the chance to see volcanic activity up close. Those interested in local culture and cuisine will enjoy the geothermal cooking demonstrations and the chance to sample mineral waters. It’s also a good choice for couples, small groups, or friends who prefer private outings over crowded bus tours.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in your chosen location, with comfortable, air-conditioned private transport.

How strenuous is the walk around Lagoa das Furnas?
The guided walk lasts about 2 hours and is described as easy and suitable for most fitness levels, but it involves some outdoor walking on forest paths and lakeside terrain.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included; the tour provides a stop in Furnas for you to choose your own meal from local restaurants. You’ll also have bottled water included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, snacks, water, a light jacket, and a reusable water bottle are recommended. Weather can change quickly, so packing accordingly is wise.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 10 or for those with mobility impairments, as the tour involves a moderate walk and outdoor exposure.

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

Final Thoughts

This private Furnas tour by Alma Verde Tours offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty, geothermal wonders, and cultural insights. With a small-group feel, expert guides, and a balanced itinerary, it’s an excellent way to discover São Miguel’s volcanic heart. You’ll leave with stunning photos, a deeper understanding of the island’s geothermal activity, and perhaps even some mineral-rich waters to take home.

Ideal for travelers who want an authentic, tailored experience, this tour provides a meaningful way to connect with the landscape beyond the typical sightseeing stops. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone seeking relaxation in hot springs, it’s a day packed with memorable moments and picturesque views.

If you’re ready to explore Furnas with a knowledgeable guide, personalized attention, and a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour is worth considering.