São Miguel: Furnas and Nordeste Full-Day Tour with Lunch

This guided tour promises an extensive peek into some of São Miguel Island’s most captivating spots, all packed into roughly eight hours. From volcanic landscapes and bubbling fumaroles to lush gardens and traditional watermills, it’s designed for travelers eager to see the island’s natural beauty without renting a car or planning multiple outings.

One thing we love about this experience is how it combines diverse highlights—hot springs, scenic viewpoints, and cultural stops—into a well-organized day. Plus, the inclusion of a hearty lunch featuring the famous Azorean stew (Cozido) cooked in volcanic earth is a definite highlight. However, a possible consideration is that some attractions, like Terra Nostra Park or the hot springs pools, have optional entry fees that aren’t included in the price, which could add up if you plan to visit all.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, rundown of São Miguel’s key sights without the hassle of navigating alone. It suits those looking for a mix of nature, culture, and delicious local cuisine, especially if they prefer small group experiences for a more personal touch.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, and cultural sites
• Small group size (limited to 8), ensuring a more personalized experience
• Includes a traditional Azorean lunch cooked in volcanic soil
• Flexible options for visiting thermal pools and gardens (additional entry fees apply)
• Expert guides providing insightful commentary and local knowledge
• Convenient transportation with hotel pick-up and drop-off

An In-Depth Look at the São Miguel Tour

Starting Point and Initial Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off with morning pick-up from one of 13 conveniently located spots around Ponta Delgada—meaning you can typically join close to your accommodation. From there, the journey begins along Avenida do Mar, with views of the beaches at Água D´Alto, setting the tone for a day filled with stunning coastal scenery.

Traveling toward Vila Franca do Campo, you’ll pass Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, a small volcanic islet formed by an eruption over 100,000 years ago. The viewpoint here is a major highlight, offering a sweeping vista of the islet, which doubles as a popular spot for Red Bull Cliff Diving competitions. One reviewer mentioned how this quick stop offers “incredible views” and a chance to snap photos of this volcanic marvel.

Exploring the Volcanoes and Fumaroles of Furnas

Next, the tour heads to Lagoa das Furnas, where the landscape is dominated by fumaroles and boiling springs. It’s here you’ll witness the site where Cozido das Furnas—a traditional stew—is cooked underground for about 6 hours using geothermal heat. Some local restaurants remove the pots from the ground, and watching this process adds a touch of authentic local flavor to the experience.

While entry to the lake itself isn’t included, the highlight is observing the steamed pots being lifted from the earth—”a fascinating glimpse of volcanic cooking,” as some travelers put it. The fumaroles and volcanic boilers in the area are striking, with steam rising from the ground, creating a surreal atmosphere.

Relaxing in Thermal Hot Springs

After the volcanic cooking demonstration, you have the option to relax in hot spring pools over 30°C (86°F)—a real treat after a morning of sightseeing. The tour offers two popular choices: Poça da Dona Beija or Parque Terra Nostra. Both are incredible; Poça da Dona Beija is a series of thermal pools with a peaceful atmosphere, while Terra Nostra Park features a massive botanical garden and a large thermal pool where you can swim amid lush greenery.

One reviewer appreciated the flexibility here, noting that Rafael, their guide, “handled speaking in both Portuguese & English with ease” and was very accommodating. Keep in mind that entrance fees for these pools are not included, and prices vary—so if you want to indulge, plan accordingly.

Lunch with a Cultural Flavor

Around midday, the tour pauses for a lunch break at a local restaurant. The included meal features the famed Cozido das Furnas, slow-cooked in volcanic earth, but travelers also have the option to choose other dishes, which is great for dietary preferences or fussy eaters. As one reviewer said, “the lunch was amazing,” with a nice variety of starters, main courses, desserts, and drinks.

Lunch is not just about the food but also about soaking in the local ambiance, with conversations often revolving around the volcanic traditions and how deeply the Azoreans integrate geothermal energy into daily life.

Exploring Nordeste and Watermills

Post-lunch, the journey continues northward to Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, a lush area renowned for its watermills and waterfalls. This part of the tour adds a charming, almost storybook quality to the day. Traversing the park, you’ll see five traditional watermills, some still operating, and gaze at the powerful cascading waterfall—perfect for photos and a quick walk.

A reviewer described this stop as “beautiful sights and amazing experiences with the hot springs,” emphasizing how such natural landscapes make the trip worth the effort.

The Tea Route and Final Stops

The last part of the day takes you along São Miguel’s famous tea route. You’ll visit one of the two main tea factories—either Gorreana or Porto Formoso—where you can walk through the plantations, learn about tea processing, and enjoy a tasting session. Travelers have mentioned how the views of the “splendid bay” from the factories are spectacular, and the tea tasting offers a delightful way to end a busy day.

The tour wraps up with a visit to Our Lady of Peace Chapel, a peaceful spot for reflection and photos, before being dropped off at your accommodation.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $107 per person, which includes the guide, transportation, water, and a generous lunch. Entry to some attractions like Terra Nostra Park or hot springs pools is optional and paid separately—something to keep in mind if you’re eager to indulge in the thermal baths or botanical gardens.

The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures a more intimate experience, allowing guides like Rafael or Vera to give personalized insights—many reviewers praised guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and flexibility. For example, Rafael’s ability to speak both Portuguese and English with ease was especially appreciated, as it helped foster a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

The duration of eight hours makes this a full, satisfying day without feeling rushed. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough stops to enjoy each location properly while covering a good range of sights.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a comfortable van, you’ll enjoy scenic drives through the island’s diverse landscapes. The stops are conveniently spaced, and the itinerary is designed to maximize viewing opportunities without long stretches of travel.

Considerations

While the tour packs in a lot, some attractions’ entry fees aren’t included, which could add to your costs if you choose to visit everything. Also, the tour is suitable for those with comfortable shoes, as some stops involve walking on uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This São Miguel Furnas and Nordeste tour offers a well-rounded, deeply engaging way to explore the island’s highlights in one day. It balances natural beauty, cultural insights, and culinary experiences, making it perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress of independent planning.

The expert guides, especially those like Rafael and Vera, are a standout feature, adding warmth and local knowledge that elevate the experience. The inclusion of a traditional Azorean lunch and optional visits to geothermal pools make this tour feel authentic and indulgent at the same time.

Whether you’re fascinated by volcanic landscapes, eager to relax in thermal waters, or interested in local traditions like tea and cooking, this tour has something for you. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small groups and personalized service, ensuring a memorable day on São Miguel.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a local guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, water, chargers, an umbrella, and lunch with a choice of traditional stew or other dishes.

Are entrance fees included?
Entry to Terra Nostra Park, Dona Beija, or Furnas Lake is not included. These are optional and can be paid on-site if you wish to visit.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours, with starting times depending on availability. The schedule is designed to offer a full day of sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as some stops involve walking on uneven or natural terrain. An umbrella and water are also useful.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, child seats are available if requested in advance, and the tour is generally suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with walking and bus rides.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is fixed, guides like Rafael are known for being flexible. You can opt to visit pools or gardens if you’re willing to pay the entrance fees.

How many people are on the tour?
The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its combination of volcanic landscapes, cultural attractions, and a delicious, authentic lunch sets it apart, along with the small group size and knowledgeable guides.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot through the provided platform and choose to pay later for flexibility.

This tour offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, culture, and culinary delights, making it a great choice for those wanting a comprehensive day on São Miguel.