São Miguel Island: Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

This full-day guided tour offers an inviting glimpse into some of São Miguel Island’s most captivating natural sites, from steaming thermal springs to lush tea plantations and volcanic craters. Priced at $74 per person, it promises a well-rounded experience suitable for travelers eager to see the island’s highlights in one day. With a small group limit, the atmosphere remains intimate, and with knowledgeable guides, you’ll get plenty of insights along the way.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances scenic beauty with cultural insights. The stops at viewpoints like Pico do Ferro, along with a visit to the only natural tea factory in Europe—home to Azores tea—are particularly memorable. The chance to relax at thermal springs, like Jardimra Nostra or Dona Beija, adds a rejuvenating touch.

One thing worth considering is the tour’s pace; with so many stops packed into one day, some travelers might find it a bit rushed, especially if they want to linger at certain sites. Still, it’s a fantastic option for those who want a comprehensive taste of São Miguel’s volcanic and scenic wonders. This tour works especially well for first-time visitors, nature enthusiasts, and anyone keen to combine sightseeing with cultural learning.

Key Points

• Authentic Landscapes: Experience volcanic craters, panoramic viewpoints, and lush greenery.
• Thermal Springs: Relax in natural hot springs heated by volcanic activity—perfect for unwinding.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit a historic tea plantation and the only natural tea factory in Europe.
• Stunning Views: Stops at Pico do Ferro and Nossa Senhora da Paz viewpoints offer spectacular photo opportunities.
• Local Cuisine: See traditional dishes cooked in volcanic boilers and possibly enjoy thermal baths (additional cost).
• Small Group: With a maximum of 14 participants, the tour offers a personalized experience with guided insights.

A Detailed Look at the Full-Day Tour

Starting Out: Convenient Hotel Pickup

The tour kicks off with hotel pick-up in Ponta Delgada—an easy way to start your day without worrying about transportation. If you’re staying within five kilometers of the city, your guide comes directly to your accommodation, which is a real plus for convenience.

Scenic Drive and First Stops

Traveling in a comfortable jeep or SUV, you’ll get a taste of São Miguel’s diverse terrain. The initial drive offers glimpses of the northern or southern coast, depending on weather conditions, giving you a sense of the island’s varied landscape.

The first notable stop is at the Santa Iria Lookout, where in about 25 minutes, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coastline and possibly catch a glimpse of the Atlantic. Reviewers like Norah mention that guides like Nuno go above and beyond, pointing out small details and making sure you see the best vistas, which adds depth to the experience.

Gorreana Tea Factory: Europe’s Only Natural Tea Plantation

Next is a visit to the Gorreana Tea Factory, where you’ll spend about 50 minutes. Here, you can learn about the cultivation of Camellia Sinensis—the plant used for black and green teas—grown right in the Azores. Since it’s the only natural tea factory in Europe operating since 1883, the experience feels genuine and rooted in tradition.

Travelers like Leigh praise their guide Francisco for being very knowledgeable. The tea plantation isn’t just a quick stop; it’s an opportunity to understand how Azorean tea is made, taste fresh brews, and walk through beautiful gardens. It’s a refreshing break from typical sightseeing and offers a chance to appreciate local craftsmanship.

Pico do Ferro Lookout and the Furnas Crater

After the tea stop, you’ll head to Pico do Ferro, perched on the edge of the Furnas crater. This is a classic viewpoint, about 25 minutes long, where the volcanic landscape stretches out before you. The panoramic views often surprise visitors, offering a stark contrast between lush greenery and the raw power of geology.

From there, the journey continues to Furnas Lake, where you’ll spend around an hour observing the bubbling waters, thermal activity, and the famous “Ceara” dishes—meals cooked in volcanic soil or thermal boilers. As Jan notes, the food cooked in volcanic boilers is a highlight, giving a taste of traditional Azorean cuisine.

Thermal Springs and Local Thermal Baths

A visit to Furnas isn’t complete without relaxing in its thermal waters. Guests often visit Jardim da Nostra or Dona Beija, where thermal pools are filled with mineral-rich waters heated naturally by the volcano. While entry fees are extra, these baths offer pure relaxation after a day of sightseeing. The experience of soaking in hot springs directly influenced by volcanic activity is both fun and soothing.

Vila Franca do Campo: Historic and Picturesque

On the return route, the tour makes a stop at Vila Franca do Campo. This charming seaside town, once São Miguel’s first city, is a favorite among travelers and guides alike. Norah describes it as a place where you can appreciate the peaceful vibe and take photos of the scenic harbor, enriching your understanding of local history.

Miradouro da Nossa Senhora da Paz

Next, the Miradouro da Nossa Senhora da Paz offers one last chance to take in the island’s lush landscapes. This viewpoint is often praised for its breathtaking vistas, giving you a final memorable photo opportunity before heading back.

Wrapping Up: Return to Ponta Delgada

The day concludes with a 30-minute drive back to your hotel, having covered many of the island’s highlights in one comprehensive trip.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

This tour runs rain or shine, so packing a rain jacket or water-resistant clothing is advisable. Given the full schedule, comfortable shoes are recommended—some stops involve walking on uneven or hilly terrain. The group size is limited to 14, ensuring you get personalized attention from the guides, whose insights are a standout feature, according to travelers.

Transportation in a Jeep or SUV means plenty of space and views from the windows, with the journey itself being part of the experience. The itinerary is packed, but the pacing allows enough time at each stop—though, as Jan observed, it’s not overly rushed.

Pricing at $74 per person offers solid value considering the inclusions—hotel pickup, guided commentary, and multiple key sights. The experience doesn’t include entrance fees for thermal baths or the Terra Nostra Park, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.

Guides and Personal Touches

Reviews highlight guides like Nuno and Francisco for their enthusiasm and knowledge. They often go out of their way to find lesser-known viewpoints or share interesting tidbits about the island’s volcanic activity, agriculture, and history—adding depth that enhances the overall experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors keen to see the major highlights of São Miguel without the hassle of planning individual stops. It’s also suitable for nature lovers who appreciate volcanic landscapes, thermal springs, and local culture. Travelers interested in tradition and authentic experiences will enjoy the visit to the tea plantation and thermal baths.

Note that pregnant women are advised against joining, likely due to the thermal baths and the physical demands of some stops. The tour is designed for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

Final Thoughts

This São Miguel tour offers an immersive day into the island’s volcanic soul, combining scenic views, cultural insights, and relaxation options. While it moves at a brisk pace—packing in many sights—it’s a great value for those wanting a rundown, especially with knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience.

If you’re someone who loves discovering natural wonders, learning about local traditions, and enjoying spectacular vistas, this tour hits all those marks. It’s especially ideal for curious travelers who want a guided experience that balances education, adventure, and leisure.

For the best experience, prepare for some walking, bring your camera, and set your expectations for a full day of memorable sights. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of São Miguel’s volcanic beauty and the warmth of its local culture.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada or within 5 km of the city, your guide will pick you up at your hotel.

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly one day, with a detailed itinerary that includes multiple stops, sightseeing, and breaks.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 14 participants, making it more intimate and allowing for personalized attention from the guides.

Do I need to pay for anything extra?
The tour price covers transportation, guide, and headsets. Food, drinks, and entry to thermal baths like Terra Nostra or Dona Beija are not included.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it takes place rain or shine. It’s best to bring rain gear just in case.

Are children allowed?
This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with large luggage or baby strollers, but it’s generally good for travelers comfortable with walking.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak Portuguese, Spanish, and English.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and rain gear for unpredictable weather.

Will I see thermal springs?
Yes, there will be stops at thermal springs, and if time allows, you can opt to relax in their warm waters for an extra fee.

This tour offers an enriching and visually stunning day that captures the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape, with a touch of local culture and plenty of opportunities to relax. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a fantastic way to get a broad yet authentic picture of the island’s natural beauty.