Ponta Delgada: Seven Cities & Furnas Volcano Shore Excursion Tour

Planning a visit to São Miguel Island and wondering how to make the most of your limited cruise stop? This Seven Cities & Furnas Volcano Shore Excursion from iGoAzores offers a compact yet comprehensive glimpse into the island’s natural wonders, blending panoramic viewpoints, geothermal marvels, and local culture—all within around six hours. With a 4.5/5 rating from 36 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and great value.

One feature we really appreciate is the small group size, which makes for a more relaxed and intimate experience. The fact that it includes local storytelling and some free tastings, like the famous Gorreana tea, adds a genuine touch often missing in larger tours. That said, a potential drawback is that the itinerary can sometimes feel rushed—especially if your cruise ship’s timing introduces delays or late arrivals. But overall, this tour appeals most to travelers who want a well-rounded, authentic taste of São Miguel without breaking the bank or losing sight of the landscape’s true beauty.

If you’re someone who loves stunning viewpoints, stories behind the sights, and a peek into local life, this excursion could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers wanting a hassle-free experience with carefully curated stops.

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines viewpoints, geothermal sites, and local culture efficiently for a 5-6 hour experience.
• Expert Guides: Tour guides are praised for their knowledge, fluency, and friendly storytelling.
• Stunning Vistas: Highlights include the iconic Vista do Rei and Pico do Ferro viewpoints, offering breathtaking views.
• Unique Stops: Visit the Gorreana Tea Plantation and Furnas hot springs for local flavors and geothermal activity.
• Value for Money: At approximately $105, the tour offers a lot of sights and stories for the price.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 36 travelers, making for a more personal and comfortable day.

Booking and General Information

This tour is designed specifically for cruise ship passengers, with pickup and drop-off included directly at the Ponta Delgada cruise terminal. Starting at 9:00 AM, it’s timed to fit into most ship schedules, and reviewers highlight that the company is punctual and professional, with early pickups and clear signage. Booking around 108 days in advance suggests this is a popular choice, and the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind—full refunds if canceled 24 hours ahead.

The price of $105.46 per person might seem modest considering the diversity of stops. When you think about how much you’d pay for entrance fees, transportation, and guides independently, this package offers genuine value—especially with the included storytelling and tastings.

Itinerary Breakdown

Pick-up at the Cruise Terminal

Your adventure begins with a hassle-free pickup at the terminal, which is a big plus for cruise travelers. The driver and guide meet guests with a visible sign, reducing any stress about locating the group.

Stop 1: Vista do Rei Miradouro

First stop is one of Portugal’s seven wonders, offering a view of the famous twin lakes—the blue and green lagoons of Sete Cidades. Travelers consistently praise this view, describing it as “magical” and “breathtaking”. The 15-minute stop allows for photo opportunities and a quick appreciation of the volcanic landscape, with no entrance fee.

Stop 2: Miradouro de Santa Iria

Next, the north coast viewpoint delivers sweeping vistas of sea cliffs and wildflowers. Reviewers note that this spot provides fantastic landscape contrast—lush greenery against deep blue ocean. It’s an ideal location for photographs and just absorbing the wild natural beauty of São Miguel’s coast.

Stop 3: Gorreana Tea Plantation

A highlight for many, the Gorreana Tea Plantation offers a rare glimpse into Europe’s only remaining tea factory. Visitors can walk among lush tea fields and taste freshly brewed green and black teas. Guides often share insights about the traditional cultivation and processing methods, making this stop both scenic and educational.

One reviewer mentioned that they enjoyed learning about the distinct flavors of each tea, noting that it added a special local flavor to the trip. It’s a peaceful spot that breaks up the drive and introduces travelers to the island’s agricultural heritage.

Stop 4: Pico do Ferro Viewpoint

Perched high above the Furnas Valley, Pico do Ferro provides panoramic views of rolling hills, lush farmland, and Lake Furnas below. This 10-minute stop is praised for its “wow” factor, giving visitors a true sense of the island’s volcanic landscape.

Stop 5: Furnas and Terra Nostra Park

The volcanic heart of São Miguel, Furnas is a must-see. The tour stops at Terra Nostra Park, famous for its thermal pools, where you can dip your feet in hot mineral waters—an experience many travelers find rejuvenating. Entrance fees are not included, but the park’s thermal pools are a delightful way to relax after a busy morning.

Just outside, you’ll see steam rising from the geothermal activity, with bubbling hot springs and the smell of sulfur permeating the air—an authentic natural phenomenon. If your schedule permits, a quick optional visit to a pineapple plantation is available, highlighting the island’s unique cultivation techniques.

Authentic Experiences and Local Insights

Throughout the tour, guides are consistently praised for their friendly, informative storytelling. One reviewer fondly described a guide who went out of his way to show hidden local gems and share personal stories about the island’s history and culture.

Another highlighted the guide’s fluency and depth of knowledge, which made the experience not just sightseeing but also a learning opportunity. From the legend of the twin lakes’ creation to the volcanic activity shaping the landscape, the guides bring São Miguel’s natural features alive with engaging narratives.

Practical Considerations

The tour is very much tailored for cruise passengers, with pickup and return directly at the terminal, minimizing hassle. The small group size ensures that everyone can hear the guide clearly and ask questions. The duration of around 5.5 hours is perfect for fitting in the main highlights without feeling rushed.

However, some reviews mention that the tour can get slightly rushed if other ships’ passengers join late or if delays occur. A few noted that the itinerary may sometimes feel tight, especially if weather conditions or late arrivals cause schedule adjustments.

Price-wise, at just over $105, you’ll find a good balance between cost and the variety of sights visited. Entrance fees for parks or thermal pools are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge in the hot springs.

The Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for cruise travelers who want a rundown of São Miguel’s scenic and geothermal highlights without the hassle of arranging multiple stops on their own. The expert guides and well-chosen stops make it suitable for anyone craving authentic insights and breathtaking views.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small group experiences, meaningful storytelling, and the chance to sample local flavors like tea and thermal waters. If you’re short on time but still want a genuine taste of the island’s beauty and culture, this tour offers solid value.

This Seven Cities & Furnas Volcano Shore Excursion from iGoAzores offers a thoughtfully curated journey through some of São Miguel’s most iconic sights. With knowledgeable guides, scenic viewpoints, and unique local stops, it provides a well-rounded experience for travelers eager to see the best of the island in a limited timeframe.

While it might feel a bit rushed for those wanting deep explorations, it delivers a lot of highlights at a reasonable price. The small group format and engaging storytelling elevate the experience beyond simple sightseeing, making it a memorable part of any cruise visit to the Azores.

If you’re after an authentic, beautifully scenic, and informative tour that balances adventure and comfort, this excursion is definitely worth considering—especially if you want to grasp the essence of São Miguel without sacrificing too much time.

Is pickup offered at the cruise terminal?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off directly at the Ponta Delgada cruise terminal, making it very convenient for cruise passengers.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 AM, with pickups starting earlier. Most guests are picked up between 9:00 and 9:30 AM, depending on arrival times.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, allowing ample time to explore multiple highlights comfortably.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for parks like Terra Nostra and thermal pools are not included. Costs are around 10 euros for Terra Nostra Park, for example.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Highlights include Vista do Rei, Santa Iria viewpoint, Gorreana Tea Plantation, Pico do Ferro, and Furnas with optional thermal pools.

Can I visit a pineapple plantation during this tour?
Yes, if time permits and your cruise schedule allows, you can visit a local pineapple plantation that showcases the island’s unique cultivation process.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but some stops involve walking on uneven terrain or slight uphill climbs. The driver is attentive to mobility needs.

How is the group size?
The tour limits to 36 travelers, which balances a small-group feel with enough participants to keep the trip lively.

What do travelers say about the guides?
Reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, fluency, and wealth of knowledge, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours before the tour start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this tour fits your expectations for a memorable, hassle-free day exploring São Miguel’s natural beauty and local culture.