Furnas – Full Day Tour

If you’re exploring São Miguel in the Azores and looking for an experience that combines nature, local culture, and relaxation, the Furnas – Full Day Tour offers a compelling package. This guided adventure takes you through the lush landscapes of Furnas, famous for its geothermal activity, hot springs, and the iconic Cozido das Furnas—a stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat.

What we love about this tour is how seamlessly it blends scenic beauty with authentic local flavors. The chance to try the Furnas Stew cooked right in the volcanic soil is truly a highlight, giving you a taste of Azorean tradition you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, the guided aspect means you’ll get detailed insights into the volcanic activity and history of the region.

One potential consideration is the tour’s structured schedule—some travelers might prefer a more relaxed pace or additional free time at each stop. However, for those interested in a comprehensive day of sightseeing with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers excellent value. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, especially if they’re visiting São Miguel for the first time.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Enjoy the unique opportunity to taste Cozido das Furnas, a memorable local dish cooked underground.
• Guided Knowledge: The tour is led by an engaging guide, like Thiago, who shares detailed insights about the island’s volcanic features and history.
• Stunning Views: The ascent to the top of the volcanic crater provides breathtaking vistas over Furnas Valley.
• Thermal Baths: Relax in thermal pools at Terra Nostra Park, a highlight for many travelers, with a small additional fee.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: The tour covers the south and east sides of São Miguel, including other scenic spots, viewpoints, and a tea factory.
• Value for Money: For $85, you get a full day of activities, meals, and expert guidance—an excellent investment for an immersive Azores experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Furnas Full Day Tour

Starting the Day: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins with pickup around 9:00 am in Ponta Delgada, with the option for pickups in Ribeira Grande or Lagoa for an extra €25. The small-group setting (limited to 8 participants) ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd and can enjoy a more personalized experience. Transport is comfortable, equipped with free WiFi, making it easier to relax or catch up on photos.

South Side of São Miguel: Scenic Highlights

The journey kicks off with visits to several key tourist spots in the southern part of the island. While the itinerary specifics aren’t exhaustively listed, the knowledgeable guide, such as Thiago, tends to share interesting tidbits about each location. This initial part sets the tone for the day—showcasing the island’s lush landscape, volcanic features, and local life.

The Heart of the Day: Furnas Village and the Volcano

Arriving at Furnas, you’re greeted with the distinct scent of sulfur and the sight of bubbling hot springs. Walking through the area, you’ll witness the geothermal activity that makes Furnas so special. Here, you’ll have the chance to try the famous Azorean Stew—Cozido das Furnas—at a local restaurant.

According to a review, this experience is “one of the most unique things you can do”, and the stew’s slow cooking underground adds a fascinating cultural dimension to the meal. The guide explains the process, emphasizing the volcanic heat’s role in preparing this local specialty. The meal also includes dessert, rounding out the culinary experience.

Thermal Baths and Terra Nostra Park

In the afternoon, the tour dedicates time to relaxation. The hot springs at Terra Nostra Park are a standout feature. For an additional €10, you can enter this botanical garden, which boasts thermal pools perfect for unwinding. One hour is allocated for enjoying the pools, which are both relaxing and visually stunning, set among lush greenery and exotic plants.

Guests often highlight the knowledgeable guidance and the stunning views from the park, making it a memorable part of the day. The park entrance fee is separate, and towels or bathing suits are not included, so plan accordingly.

The Return Journey: North Side Explorations

After a leisurely soak, the tour heads back along the north side of the island. This route offers additional scenic viewpoints, giving you perspectives of São Miguel’s varied terrain. On the way, you’ll visit a tea factory—an interesting cultural stop for those curious about local agriculture—and other viewpoints that offer sweeping landscapes.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This tour balances structured sightseeing with opportunities for spontaneous exploration. The small group size and detailed guiding make for an intimate, engaging day. As one reviewer expressed, the guide’s “explanation and detailed storytelling” enrich the experience, transforming a sightseeing trip into a deeper understanding of the island’s geology and culture.

Pricing and Value

At $85 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive package that includes transportation, guiding, and a full meal. The additional fee for parks and thermal baths should be factored in, but even with that, the total cost remains quite reasonable considering the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Compared to solo visits, where you’ll pay entrance fees and likely miss out on insider knowledge, this guided tour offers excellent value. Plus, the convenience of door-to-door pickup and small-group intimacy enhances the overall experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day adventure is perfect for first-time visitors to São Miguel who want an all-encompassing view of Furnas and its surroundings. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling and cultural insights, as the guide provides more than just sightseeing—they add context and background, making each stop more meaningful. Those who value relaxing in thermal pools or trying authentic local dishes will find this tour especially rewarding.

If your schedule is tight but you want a taste of the island’s highlights, this tour packs in a lot without feeling rushed. However, it might not be ideal for travelers seeking a more leisurely or flexible pace, or those with mobility challenges, as some stops involve walking or a bit of terrain.

The Sum Up

The Furnas – Full Day Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to São Miguel’s volcanic wonders, local cuisine, and lush landscapes. The inclusion of thermal baths at Terra Nostra Park and the opportunity to try the famous Azorean stew make it a memorable experience worth considering. The guide’s knowledge, combined with stunning vistas and authentic cultural experiences, makes this tour a standout choice for those wanting an immersive day on the island.

This experience is best suited for travelers who seek a guided, insightful tour that balances scenic beauty with cultural flavor, all at a reasonable price. While it’s structured and somewhat full, the variety and depth of the stops ensure you walk away with a true sense of Furnas and São Miguel’s natural and cultural heritage.

FAQ

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour starts around 9:00 am in Ponta Delgada, with some options for earlier pickups in Ribeira Grande or Lagoa for an extra €25.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup in the specified areas is included, with comfortable transport equipped with free WiFi. Additional pickups outside Ponta Delgada require an extra fee.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing ample time to explore, eat, and relax.

What is included in the price?
The price of $85 covers transportation, the guide, all visits, and a full meal with dessert. Entry fees to parks (like Terra Nostra) and thermal baths are extra.

Can I visit Terra Nostra Park?
Yes, for an additional €10, you can access Terra Nostra Park’s thermal pools, with about one hour allocated for soaking.

Are there dietary considerations?
The tour features local cuisine, including the famous Cozido, but specific dietary restrictions are not specified. It’s worth mentioning if you have special needs.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some stops might involve walking on uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, and a towel are recommended, especially if you plan to enjoy the thermal baths.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

This full-day Furnas tour offers a meaningful glimpse into the volcanic heart of São Miguel, blending natural marvels with local flavor for a truly enriching experience.