Full Day Furnas Volcano, With Traditional Lunch (East Tour)

Exploring Sao Miguel’s Furnas Valley: An Authentic Full-Day Adventure

If you’re considering a day trip to the lush, volcanic landscapes of Sao Miguel, the Full Day Furnas Volcano Tour with Traditional Lunch offers an engaging way to see some of the island’s most remarkable sights. This small-group experience, rated a perfect 5.0 based on 156 reviews, is praised for its knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic local cuisine.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances sightseeing, culture, and comfort — all within approximately eight hours. The tour’s intimate size means you get personalized attention and plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is weather-dependent; if rain hits, some stops might be less visually spectacular but still worthwhile. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxing, and educational day that covers the highlights of the eastern part of Sao Miguel, especially if they’re eager to sample the island’s famous cozido stew cooked underground using geothermal heat.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Personalized and engaging, with a maximum of 32 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and flexible day.
• Authentic Cuisine: Includes a traditional cozido stew, cooked by volcanic heat, which is a highlight for food lovers.
• Diverse Sightseeing: From volcanic lakes and hot springs to ceramic factories and tea plantations, there’s a wide variety of stops.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides like Joaquim, Joao, and Bruno for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Value for Money: For $87.22, the tour covers transport, lunch, and multiple attractions, making it a cost-effective way to see Furnas.
• Flexible and Convenient: Includes pickup from Ponta Delgada, with free cancellation, making planning easier.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickups and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Posto de Turismo de Ponta Delgada at 9:00 am. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned minivan with a small group — generally around 8 to 10 participants based on reviews, which keeps the experience personal and engaging. The driver/guide, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, provides a smooth ride and insightful commentary.

First Stop: Caldeira das Furnas

The first major stop is Furnas village, a delightful place with charming churches, lush gardens, and thermal pools. Reviewers like Megan note that guides like Joaquim go beyond the surface, sharing stories and facts about the area’s geothermal activity and local culture. The two-hour visit allows ample time for photos, wandering, and even relaxing in thermal pools if you choose (though entry is an extra cost). The village’s architecture and natural beauty create a peaceful start to the day.

Lagoa das Furnas: Crater Lake and Hot Springs

Next, you’ll visit Lagoa das Furnas, a striking crater lake famed for its steaming hot springs and bubbling fumaroles. The 40-minute stop offers perfect photo opportunities, especially as the steam rises from the mineral-rich waters. Reviewers like Sandra emphasize that guides are excellent at pointing out the best angles and explaining the volcanic activity that keeps this lake so vibrant.

The Ceramic Factory and Cultural Stops

A highlight for many travelers is the visit to a ceramic factory, where you can see traditional Azorean craftsmanship in action. This stop offers a glimpse into local artisan skills and makes for memorable souvenirs. As one reviewer pointed out, these stops provide a good balance to the more natural sights, adding cultural depth.

The Tea Plantation: A Unique Experience

The tour’s visit to one of Europe’s few tea plantations is a standout. Guided by experts who offer insights into the island’s agricultural history, you’ll see lush tea fields and learn about the production process. Reviewers like Rasa-M note the guide’s extensive knowledge about the tea industry and the area’s history. It’s not just about seeing the plants but understanding their significance to the island’s economy and culture.

Furnas and Surrounding Hot Springs

Returning to Furnas, the tour group explores the geothermal activity that powers the famous cozido stew. Watching the stew being excavated from the thermal pits is a spectacle in itself — a process that takes hours underground. Then, you get to taste this signature dish, which is cooked slowly by natural volcanic heat. Several reviews mention how delicious the lunch is, with some describing it as the “highlight of the day.”

Ribeira Grande and Additional Sights

Depending on timing and weather, the guide may include a quick visit to Vila Franca do Campo or Ribeira Grande, both known for their scenic views and historic architecture. These stops enrich the experience, offering insight into the islands’ coastal communities and their resilience against volcanic activity.

Optional Extras

For those interested in a deeper experience, there’s an optional visit to Terra Nostra Botanical Garden and Geothermal Pools at an extra cost of €16 per person. While not included in the core tour, many guests find this well worth the splurge for a relaxing soak amid beautiful gardens.

Transportation and Group Size: Why It Matters

The minivan is air-conditioned, comfortable, and suited for the island’s winding roads. The small group dynamic fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, giving you a chance to ask questions and tailor your experience. Guides like Joaquim, Bruno, and Hugo are consistently praised for their passion and storytelling ability, making the journey informative and fun.

Timing and Pacing

The 8-hour schedule strikes a good balance between seeing plenty without feeling overwhelmed. Reviewers appreciate the pace — it’s well-paced, with enough time at each stop to explore without rushing. The tour is designed to cater to most travelers, including older visitors, with comments about patience and clear communication from guides.

Food and Drink

Lunch is a standout feature, as the cozido stew cooked underground highlights the geothermal activity uniquely tied to the island. The meal is served with local wine, soda, or water, and reviewers often mention how flavorful and hearty the dishes are. The inclusion of coffee/tea adds a nice touch, making the meal feel complete.

Value and Cost

At $87.22, this tour packs in a full day of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and a delicious lunch. Considering the transportation, guide services, entry to attractions, and the meal, many guests agree it’s excellent value. The reviews repeatedly mention that it’s a smart way to see the highlights of Furnas without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the guides’ expertise, with Joaquim, Joao, and Bruno receiving particular praise. One describes Joaquim as “incredibly knowledgeable,” while others mention that guides went out of their way to adapt the tour to the weather or personal interests. The ability to see Furnas’ volcanic activity, enjoy local cuisine, and learn about Azorean culture in one day makes this tour a comprehensive choice.

Travelers also appreciated the small group size, which fostered a friendly, conversational atmosphere. The scenic stops, especially the crater lake and tea plantation, are memorable for their beauty and educational value, according to reviews.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a full-day, well-rounded experience of Sao Miguel’s Furnas Valley, this tour ticks all boxes. It’s perfect for travelers who want guided insights, local cuisine, and stunning scenery without the stress of organizing logistics. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy learning and culture will find this especially satisfying.

Those on a budget will appreciate the value for money, and anyone with limited time on the island will find this an efficient way to maximize their visit. However, if you prefer a more independent or adventurous trip, some of the optional extras, like the botanical gardens, might be better suited for you.

The Sum Up

This Full Day Furnas Volcano Tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and delicious food. The guides’ stories and local insights make the experience authentic and memorable, while the scenic stops and geothermal cooking process showcase Sao Miguel’s volcanic heart. The small group format ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, creating a more personal connection with the island.

The value is clear — for around $87, you get a full day of exploration, a hearty traditional lunch, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive, engaging, and enjoyable introduction to Furnas and its surroundings.

Whether you’re keen on photography, food, or learning about volcanic activity, this tour has something to offer. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who love stories, scenery, and authentic experiences.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transport in an air-conditioned minivan, a professional driver/guide, lunch (cozido stew), coffee/tea, soda/water, and parking fees.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews note that guides are patient and accommodating, making it suitable for older visitors or those with limited mobility.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel within this window.

Are there optional extras?
Yes, you can choose to visit the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden and Geothermal Pools for an additional €16 per person.

What are the main highlights of the day?
Expect visits to Furnas village, crater lake and hot springs, a ceramic factory, a tea plantation, and the chance to taste the famous cozido stew cooked underground.

How long are the stops?
Most are between 40 minutes to 2 hours, enough to explore, take photos, and absorb the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included, and what is it like?
Yes, a traditional cozido stew cooked with volcanic heat is included, often praised for its hearty and authentic flavors, served with local wine or beverages.

In summary, this tour is a well-rounded, authentic way to experience the highlights of Sao Miguel’s volcanic landscapes and local culture. Guided by passionate, knowledgeable hosts, you’ll leave with not just photos but stories and flavors that will stay with you long after your trip ends.