Furnas: Night-Time Experience with Thermal baths and Dinner

This tour offers a memorable combination of relaxing in geothermal hot springs, savoring delicious regional cuisine, and discovering the dramatic scenery of Furnas after sunset. It’s perfect if you’re seeking an evening filled with natural beauty, cultural flavors, and a touch of adventure. With glowing reviews praising guides, the food, and the magical atmosphere, it’s clear this experience has a lot to offer.

One of the things we love most is how seamlessly the tour combines relaxation and culture—bathing in thermal waters under the starlit sky while enjoying a hearty, traditional meal cooked in the volcanic ground. However, a possible consideration is that the thermal baths can get a bit crowded, especially during peak times, so arriving later in the evening might be ideal for a more tranquil experience. This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, local cuisine, and guided insights into geothermal activities, making it a flexible choice for families, couples, or solo explorers alike.

Key Points

• Relaxation in geothermal hot springs with glowing reviews about the tranquil, starry setting and soothing waters.
• Authentic regional cuisine, notably the famous cozido, cooked using volcanic heat, offering both cultural insight and hearty flavors.
• Guided nature walk within the Furnas volcano complex, providing scenic views and photo opportunities.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants), ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert local guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and add value through regional stories and tips.
• Value for money considering the included dinner, transport, and guided experience—many guests find it well worth the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Furnas Night Tour

This 6-hour journey begins in Ponta Delgada, where your tour provider, Into The Wild Azores Tours, picks you up from your accommodations between 5:30 and 6:00 pm. The early evening timing is perfect for catching the sunset and experiencing Furnas in a different light—literally. The transport is air-conditioned and comfortable, making the drive to the volcanic complex both pleasant and scenic.

The Journey to Furnas

As you leave the city behind, the landscape quickly transforms into lush, green volcanic terrain. Your guide is instrumental in setting the tone—sharing insights about the island’s geothermal activity, volcanoes, and local traditions. The small group size (limited to 8) means you’ll likely get personalized attention and have plenty of chances to ask questions.

Bathing in Poça da Dona Beija

The highlight for many guests is the opportunity to bathe in the thermal waters of Poça da Dona Beija. This hot spring complex offers several pools of varying temperatures, all set in a tranquil environment. Reviews consistently mention how relaxing and magical this experience feels at night, with many noting the peacefulness of soaking in warm mineral waters while gazing at the starry sky.

Some reviewers have pointed out that the baths can be busy, but visiting later in the evening helps avoid crowds. Notably, the thermal waters are a natural feature of the active volcano, so bathing here feels authentic and uniquely connected to the landscape.

Guided Nature Walk

After the baths, your guide leads a guided walk through the Furnas volcano complex. This isn’t a strenuous hike but enough to appreciate the volcanic landscape, lush flora, and bubbling calderas. Guests have appreciated the opportunity to capture photos of the dramatic scenery—steam vents, crater lakes, and verdant surroundings—making for great souvenirs.

Reviews highlight guides like Eduardo and Hervé, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. Many mention that guides shared fascinating tidbits about the island’s geothermal activity and local life, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The Traditional Dinner: Cozido na Caldeira

As night falls, the tour concludes with a dinner featuring the famous cozido, a hearty stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat. This dish, cooked inside a clay pot buried in the ground, is a regional specialty. Guests rave about how delicious and comforting it is—”like grandma’s cooking,” as one reviewer put it. The meal includes wine, beer, desserts, and coffee or tea, making it a full, satisfying experience.

Some reviewers have mentioned that the cozido is served in a cozy restaurant setting, though it’s prepared in the traditional way underground. The combination of flavors, the regional ambiance, and the accompanying drinks make for a memorable dining experience.

Final Touch: Stargazing and Reflection

The tour caps off with a chance to relax further in the thermal waters or simply enjoy the night sky. Many guests remark on how peaceful and enchanting the setting feels, especially with the absence of city lights. The quiet night, warm waters, and stunning scenery create a truly atmospheric experience.

Practical Details and Tips

Price: $82 per person, which includes dinner, transportation, a guided walk, and the services of a knowledgeable guide. While the ticket for the hot springs (about €16) isn’t included, many guests consider the overall value fair given the comprehensive experience.

Timing: Departures are usually between 5:30 and 6:00 pm, lasting around 6 hours. It’s a good idea to check availability and confirm your pickup time. The tour is ideal for those who want an evening activity that combines relaxation, nature, and culture.

What to Bring: Pack swimwear and a towel for the thermal baths. Dress in layers, as temperatures can change quickly—especially if you’re returning from the baths and heading outdoors. Light shoes work well in summer; hiking boots are advised for cooler months.

Additional Info: The tour offers a small group setting, which enhances the experience with more personal interaction. It’s accessible for most, but note that the walk up to certain viewpoints can be steep, so consider mobility levels if you have mobility concerns.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Insights

The reviews reveal a lot about what makes this tour special—knowledgeable guides like Eduardo and Hervé bring a friendly, personal touch, sharing stories that deepen your understanding of Furnas and the Azores. Many mention how the tour added value through regional insights, local tips, and humor.

Guests also appreciate the quality of the food—the cozido is often described as delicious, and the wine and desserts complement the meal beautifully. The thermal baths are a major highlight, with many reviewers describing the experience as “magical,” especially at night. One guest noted that the baths aren’t very crowded at this time, making it easier to relax and enjoy.

The scenery, from steaming calderas to lush landscapes, is frequently praised for its photogenic qualities—ideal for travelers looking to capture memorable images.

The Sum Up

This Furnas night tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances relaxation, culture, and scenic beauty. The combination of geothermal baths, traditional cuisine, and local storytelling makes it a standout activity for visitors wanting to see Furnas in a different light. The small group size ensures a personal touch, and the knowledgeable guides elevate the experience from typical to memorable.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local foods, enjoy soaking in natural thermal waters, and want to explore volcanic landscapes without strenuous hikes. The inclusive dinner and the chance to stargaze add to the value, making this a worthwhile choice for a relaxed, enriching evening.

If you’re seeking a mix of nature, culture, and comfort in the Azores, this tour ticks all those boxes—and then some.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and manageable walk make it suitable for families, especially those with children who enjoy nature and hot springs.

What does the dinner include?
The dinner features a traditional cozido cooked in the ground, along with drinks, dessert, and coffee or tea.

How is the transport arranged?
Transport is via air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off inside Ponta Delgada, typically between 5:30 and 6:00 pm.

Does the tour include a ticket for the hot springs?
No, the hot springs entry fee (~€16) is not included but can be purchased separately at Poça da Dona Beija.

Is the thermal bath experience at night busy?
Many reviews indicate that late-evening visits are quieter and more relaxing, with fewer people and a more peaceful atmosphere.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and dress in layers to stay comfortable. Light shoes are perfect for summer, while hiking boots are recommended in winter.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Guests frequently praise guides like Eduardo, Hervé, and Joaquim for their friendliness, regional insights, and ability to make the experience engaging.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 6 hours from pickup to drop-off, with the main activities spread out in the evening hours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience worth the price?
Most guests find it offers excellent value, considering the included dinner, guided walk, transport, and the unique opportunity to relax in geothermal waters at night.

This detailed review should help you decide if this combination of geothermal relaxation, cultural cuisine, and volcanic scenery fits your Azores adventure. It’s a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Furnas after dark—authentic, scenic, and relaxing.