Private Guided Tour to Furnas and thermal baths.

This private tour offers a smooth, personalized way to experience some of São Miguel’s most iconic spots — from volcanic calderas and lush gardens to thermal waters and a historic tea plantation. It’s a well-rounded day for those eager to see the island’s natural beauty and enjoy some relaxing moments along the way.

One standout feature of this experience is the flexibility. Your guide, Tiago or Nilton (based on reviews), is praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to tailor the day to your interests. The convenience of door-to-door pickup and quiet, comfortable transport makes it an easy escape from busy schedules.

However, the tour is quite full, with multiple stops packed into roughly five hours. For travelers seeking total tranquility or more leisurely pacing, it might feel a bit hurried, especially during busy seasons when crowds or scheduling can add to the rush.

This tour suits nature lovers, curious explorers, and those who want an authentic taste of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape without the hassle of planning every stop. It’s ideal for visitors who value expert guidance, local insights, and a balance of sightseeing and relaxation.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with flexible options, tailored to your interests and pace.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable local guides, like Nilton and Tiago, who share insider tips and stories.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic viewpoints of the caldera and coast, offering picture-perfect moments.
• Thermal Baths & Gardens: Access to thermal waters and lush gardens, with optional pre-booking for the best spots.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: From volcanic landscapes to the oldest tea plantation in Europe, a well-rounded experience.
• Value for Money: At around $95 per person, with the inclusion of private transport and expert guiding, it offers great value for a half-day adventure.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Getting Started: Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with the convenience of being picked up directly from your accommodation in Ponta Delgada. The use of an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially when navigating the sometimes winding roads of São Miguel. Reviewers consistently highlight the ease of travel, with guides like Nilton and Tiago taking the wheel with care and local knowledge.

If you’re traveling with mobility concerns or just prefer a private, intimate experience, this is a big plus. All activity is exclusive to your group, which means you won’t be sharing the day with strangers—just your loved ones or travel buddies.

Stop 1: Miradouro Pico Do Ferro

Your first stop is the Pico Do Ferro viewpoint — a short 20-minute visit that packs a punch. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of the Furnas volcano caldera, complete with the lagoon and the tiny village nestled inside. It’s a spot that both photographers and nature lovers will appreciate, offering a dramatic backdrop of volcanic activity and lush greenery.

Reviewers like Lorraine mention how the views from this vantage point are impressive and well worth the short stop, giving a perfect introduction to the volcanic landscape.

Stop 2: Miradouro de Santa Iria

Next, you’ll visit the Santa Iria viewpoint, perched 221 meters above sea level. This spot provides breathtaking vistas of the north coast and the ocean, great for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. Reviewers note it as “one of the best in São Miguel”, and it’s easy to see why: the expansive view over the Atlantic makes you understand the island’s rugged beauty.

Stop 3: Parque Terra Nostra

A highlight for many, Parque Terra Nostra is a bicentennial garden full of diverse plant species from across the globe, especially endemic to the Azores. The garden’s real treasure is its thermal waters—guests can soak in a large outdoor pool or smaller jacuzzis (bring your towel and swimsuit).

While the entrance fee (around €17 per person) isn’t included, visitors consistently rave about the relaxing thermal waters amid stunning gardens. Reviews mention how the thermal pools are both therapeutic and picturesque, perfect for unwinding after some sightseeing.

Stop 4: The Village of Furnas

The icon of São Miguel, Furnas village, is set within the volcano caldera, and it’s packed with volcanic activity indicators. Think natural hot springs, bubbling fumaroles, and geothermal vents. The village is also the site of small water springs with different mineral compositions—proof of ongoing volcanic activity.

Reviewers appreciate the authenticity of Furnas, with Nilton sharing interesting tidbits about volcanic secondary activity and local practices. The village’s charm combined with its natural geothermal energy makes it a great stop for curious travelers.

Stop 5: Gorreana Tea Plantation

Your final stop is at Gorreana, the oldest tea plantation in Europe. This site is a must-visit for tea lovers. You’ll have the chance to see the verdant plantations up close, learn about tea production, and even enjoy some tastings.

Reviewers highlight the beauty of the plantation and the insightful factory tour, which enriches your understanding of this traditional craft. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot that nicely caps off the day.

Practical Details and Value

The entire tour lasts about 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity. The cost is approximately $95.05 per person, which is a reasonable deal considering the private service, transportation, and guided insights. Entrance fees to Terra Nostra are not included, but at €17, they add relatively little to the overall experience.

The minimum booking requirement of two persons is important to note, but reviews show that even solo travelers or couples find it worthwhile. The tour is also flexible—guides are praised for their accommodation of different interests, whether it’s more time at thermal baths or skipping certain stops.

The reviews frequently praise the guides, especially Nilton and Tiago, for their friendly demeanor, local knowledge, and ability to customize. Guests mention how their guides shared intriguing details about island life, volcanic activity, and the best local eateries, which added depth to the experience.

Weather & Cancellation Policy

The tour operates in good weather, and if canceled due to bad weather, travelers are offered alternative dates or refunds. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if weather plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, curious explorers, and anyone wanting a snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate personalized service and want to avoid crowded group excursions.

Travelers seeking a mix of scenic viewpoints, relaxing hot springs, and cultural touches like the tea plantation will find it perfectly balanced. If you’re after a flexible, well-guided, and authentic tour, this one ticks all those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is part of the package, ensuring comfort and ease of travel.

What are the start and end times?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, with pickup arranged from your accommodation. The total duration is about 5 hours.

Can I customize the stops?
Absolutely. Guides are praised for their flexibility, tailoring the day based on your interests and mobility.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Yes, entrance to Terra Nostra Garden (€17 per person) is not included, but most other stops — viewpoints, village, tea plantation — are free.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, including those with mobility concerns, as guides are attentive and the pace can be adjusted.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to use the thermal pools. Also, comfortable shoes and sun protection are advisable.

Final Thoughts

This private guided tour to Furnas and the thermal baths offers an excellent way to experience São Miguel’s volcanic heart in comfort and style. The combination of scenic viewpoints, geothermal wonders, and cultural highlights like the Gorreana tea plantation makes it a well-rounded adventure.

The guides’ local expertise, coupled with the flexible itinerary and intimate setting, adds real value for those wanting a personal touch. With positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic experiences, it’s clear this tour delivers on its promises.

If you’re after a thoughtfully curated half-day journey that balances sightseeing with relaxation, and you value expert guidance, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially perfect for those who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed and enjoy a bit of the island’s magic at their own pace.

In summary, this tour is a smart pick for travelers who want an authentic, personalized, and scenic taste of São Miguel’s volcanic charm. It’s an excellent way to explore some of the island’s best spots and learn about its natural wonders, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance.