Full-Day Private São Miguel Tour with Furnas and Hot springs

Exploring São Miguel: A Full-Day Private Tour of Furnas and Hot Springs

When it comes to experiencing the natural beauty and unique local flavors of São Miguel, this private tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights in one day. Offering a personalized touch, this 8-hour journey takes you from breathtaking viewpoints to steaming volcanic calderas, finishing with a soak in thermal waters that soothe both body and mind.

One of the standout features? The chance to taste the famous Cozido das Furnas, a slow-cooked stew prepared underground with volcanic heat. Plus, the intimate, private format ensures you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, making for a relaxed and flexible experience.

A possible consideration? The day is packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to linger longer at certain stops, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Still, if you’re eager to see a wide swath of the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love a combination of nature, culture, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those wanting a comprehensive, guided view of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes with local insights.

Key Points

• Customized Experience: Private tour tailored for up to four people, ensuring flexibility and personal attention.
• Diverse Highlights: From viewpoints and plantations to volcanic calderas and thermal baths, it covers a broad spectrum.
• Culinary Highlight: The chance to taste authentic Cozido das Furnas, cooked underground using volcanic heat.
• Relaxation Focus: The thermal park at Terra Nostra offers a soothing end to the day.
• Expert Guide: Tours are led by knowledgeable guides, like Lena, who share captivating stories and tips.
• Value for Money: All-in-one day trip at a reasonable price considering the private transportation and exclusive access.

A Deep Dive into the São Miguel Experience

A Comfortable and Convenient Start

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am with pickup included, which means you don’t need to worry about navigating or parking. The private transportation is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort even on warm days. Bottled water and beach towels are provided, adding touches of convenience that make a big difference when you’re on the go.

Spectacular Viewpoints

The first stop is the Miradouro de Santa Iria, perched at 190 meters above sea level. From here, you’ll gaze over lush green fields on the north side of the island, stretching down to the Atlantic Ocean. This spot is perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the fresh, salty breeze. Reviewers mention how this viewpoint offers a fantastic introduction to São Miguel’s verdant landscape.

Next, you’ll visit the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, Europe’s oldest tea plantation. Here, you can walk around the lush green fields and the historic factory, tasting some of the finest local teas—black, green, or white. Reviewers highlight how walking through the plantation’s quiet pathways offers a peaceful break and a taste of the island’s agricultural heritage.

Stunning Views of the Volcano and Crater Lake

The Miradouro Pico Do Ferro at around 570 meters provides a panoramic view of the volcanic crater of Vale das Furnas and the serene Lagoa das Furnas. The sight of the crater’s vastness, coupled with the steam rising from the hot springs below, makes this a memorable photo stop. Reviewers praise this spot for its “immense view” and the feeling of being in a truly volcanic landscape.

The Heart of Furnas: Volcano, Hot Springs, and Cooking

The tour’s centerpiece is the Lagoa das Furnas. This historic lake, sitting at 600 meters elevation, is famous for its volcanic activity. The bubbling waters and geothermal activity are part of what makes São Miguel so special. Here, you’ll see the traditional Cozido das Furnas being cooked in holes dug into the ground, with steaming pots buried over volcanic heat.

While the actual cooking process takes six to seven hours, you’ll observe the process and learn about its cultural significance. Many reviews mention how fascinating it is to see the stew slowly cooking underground, a culinary tradition rooted in the island’s volcanic character. The stew itself is a hearty, slow-cooked dish filled with local flavors—an experience that food lovers will appreciate.

Tasting and Dining in Furnas

Following the lake visit, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy authentic local cuisine at Restaurante Tonys, located in the center of Furnas. Besides Cozido, they serve other traditional dishes, making it a good spot to relax and refuel. Keep in mind that the meal isn’t included in the tour price, so budget around 13 euros per person for a typical meal. Reviewers mention how tasting the cozido is a highlight, with many describing it as “delicious” and “authentic.”

Volcanic Geothermal Activity and Mud Baths

Next, you’ll explore the Caldeira das Furnas, an area buzzing with geothermal activity. Geysers, mineral waters, and medicinal muds pour out from various vents—an active reminder of the island’s volcanic nature. Visitors have noted how fascinating it is to see the spouts of mineral waters with different flavors and temperatures, all naturally bubbling away.

Relaxation at Terra Nostra Park

Finally, the tour wraps up at Parque Terra Nostra, a botanical garden with a renowned thermal pool. The park has been around for over 200 years and showcases native Azorean flora alongside exotic plants from other climates. The thermal spring water, maintained at a comfortable 35-40°C (95-104°F), is perfect for a relaxing soak. Reviewers describe the experience as “wonderful” and “a perfect way to unwind after a busy day.”

Additional Practical Details

The entire itinerary is carefully timed, with each stop lasting around an hour, allowing you to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The total cost for entrance fees is approximately 13 euros per person, which is not included in the tour price. This makes it worth planning ahead to have some cash on hand.

The tour’s price of $277.82 per group (up to four people) offers a good value considering private transportation, guided insights, and multiple exclusive stops. Lena, the guide, is frequently praised for her friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, all-in-one day experience without the stress of organizing individual visits. It’s ideal for those keen on volcanic landscapes, local cuisine, and relaxing in thermal waters, especially if they prefer a private, intimate setting. Nature lovers will appreciate the spectacular viewpoints and geothermal activity, while foodies will enjoy tasting the traditional cozido cooked in volcanic steam.

It’s a great choice for first-time visitors who want to hit multiple highlights with a knowledgeable guide, or for those short on time but eager to see and do a lot in one day. If you’re traveling as a family or small group who values personalized attention, this tour provides a nice balance of sightseeing and relaxation.

The Sum Up

This private São Miguel tour provides a beautifully curated slice of the island’s natural beauty, cultural traditions, and geothermal wonders. The combination of breathtaking viewpoints, a historic tea plantation, the culinary spectacle of cozido, and time in thermal pools makes it a well-rounded experience.

Travelers who are eager to see São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, learn about local customs, and relax in soothing hot springs will find this tour a valuable investment. The personalized guide service, along with the flexible schedule, allows for a more tailored experience than larger group excursions.

While the itinerary is packed, the thoughtful balance of activities and stops ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed—just enriched and inspired by the island’s volcanic charm. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this full-day adventure offers a genuine taste of what makes São Miguel so special.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops are around one hour, allowing enough time to enjoy the views and learn about each site.

What is the tour price per group?
The cost is $277.82 for up to four people, which includes private transportation and guide service.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fee (around 13 euros per person) is paid separately and is not included in the tour price.

Can I swim in the Terra Nostra thermal pool?
Yes, the thermal spring water at Parque Terra Nostra is at a comfortable temperature for bathing and is included as part of the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but be cautious around hot springs and geothermal areas. It’s best for older children who can appreciate the sights and activities.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, cash for entrance fees, and a swimsuit if you want to enjoy the thermal pool at Terra Nostra.

In the end, this tour offers a well-balanced introduction to São Miguel’s natural wonders and culinary traditions. It’s a rewarding way to spend a day on one of Portugal’s most beautiful islands, especially if you’re after a personal, guided experience with plenty of unique sights.