Van Tour Furnas (Full Day)

Exploring São Miguel with the Van Tour Furnas (Full Day)

If you’re planning a trip to the Azores and want to see the island through a well-rounded, comfortable lens, the Van Tour Furnas offers a highly practical way to do so. This 7.5-hour journey combines scenic views, cultural sights, and local flavors, all with wheelchair accessibility—a huge plus for travelers with mobility needs. From lush gardens to volcanic springs, this trip promises a comprehensive taste of São Miguel’s natural beauty and culinary traditions.

One of the things we particularly appreciate about this tour is the inclusion of all entry fees and lunch, making it a hassle-free experience with clear value. Keep in mind, since it runs rain or shine, packing rain gear might be wise. The tour’s accessibility and diverse itinerary make it ideal for travelers seeking an enriching, flexible day out—whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply curious about the Azores’ volcanic wonders.

A potential consideration is the duration—7.5 hours is a full day, so travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule. But if you’re eager to absorb as much as possible with a guide who speaks multiple languages, this tour suits those wanting a well-organized, immersive experience.

Key Points

• Wheelchair accessible van ensures inclusive exploration of São Miguel’s highlights
• All-inclusive: entrance fees, lunch, and transportation included for hassle-free planning
• Diverse stops: from gardens and lakes to volcanic springs and lookout points
• Culinary experience: tasting the traditional cozido stew cooked underground in Furnas
• Expert guide: fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, providing insights along the way
• Weather doesn’t cancel: tour runs rain or shine, so come prepared

A Detailed Look at the Van Tour Furnas Experience

Starting Point and Pick-Up

The experience kicks off with hotel pick-up in Ponta Delgada, which is included in the tour. The driver, identifiable by a blue t-shirt with the ‘Azores for All’ logo, whisks you away on a comfortable, wheelchair-accessible van. This level of accessibility is a significant advantage, especially since some natural sites in the Azores can pose challenges to mobility.

The guide/driver, who is typically fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, offers a friendly and informative welcome, setting the tone for a smooth day. The small-group feel—though not explicitly stated—likely helps with personalized attention and makes the whole journey more intimate.

Lagoa das Furnas: Volcanic Lakes and Cooking Holes

The first major stop is Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic crater lake formed after an eruption. This area is famous for its underground cooking holes—a traditional method where local chefs prepare the cozido stew by burying pots filled with ingredients into the hot volcanic earth. Watching this process is a fascinating firsthand look at Azorean culinary ingenuity.

Visitors can also witness the fumarolas (steam vents) and sulfurous springs of Caldeiras das Furnas. These emit strong sulfur odors and steam, which can be intense but are part of the natural charm. According to reviews, many guests find the smell a reminder of the island’s volcanic activity, adding authenticity to the experience.

Terra Nostra Garden: A Botanical Gem

Next, the tour takes you to Terra Nostra Garden, a sprawling, romantic botanical garden built in the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s renowned worldwide for its geothermal swimming pool, heated by volcanic activity, and its exotic, lush vegetation. We loved the way the garden combines history, nature, and relaxation—perfect for wandering or resting a bit while soaking in mineral-rich waters.

Though the garden is extensive, the guide is usually helpful in navigating the site’s accessible pathways, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the sights comfortably. As one reviewer pointed out, the garden’s diversity of plants and serene atmosphere make it a highlight, especially for plant enthusiasts.

Hot Springs and Fumarolas

Following Terra Nostra, you’ll visit Caldeiras das Furnas, where vapor rises from the earth along with gases emitting a sulfuric aroma. The sight of bubbling springs and steaming vents reminds visitors of the island’s volcanic roots. These springs are not only interesting to observe but also historically significant, as local people have used them for centuries for bathing and healing.

Pico do Fero Lookout

After soaking in the geothermal sights, the journey continues to Pico do Ferro, a viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of the island and Lagoa das Furnas. The panoramic views are stunning and provide excellent photo opportunities. The walk up is manageable, and the vantage point is well worth the short climb—many guests mention how the scenery makes for a memorable pause.

Gorreana Tea Factory: A Taste of Azorean Tea

The tour wraps up with a visit to Gorreana, Europe’s oldest tea plantation, dating back to the 19th century. Walking through the lush green fields, you’ll learn about tea cultivation and processing. The factory offers free tastings of their fresh teas, which many visitors find surprisingly good—especially considering the Atlantic climate. It’s a chance to purchase some authentic Azorean tea to take home and savor later.

Santa Iria Viewpoint: Final Scenic Stop

Before returning to Ponta Delgada, the guide makes a quick stop at Santa Iria viewpoint, providing one last chance to soak in the island’s landscape. Here, you’ll see the rugged coastlines and rolling hills that define São Miguel’s beauty—an ideal spot to reflect on the day.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration, Comfort, and Flexibility

The 7.5-hour tour runs with flexible start times (check availability), making it easy to fit into your itinerary. The transportation is designed to be comfortable and wheelchair accessible, which is a significant plus for travelers with mobility challenges.
The guide’s multilingual skills help ensure clear explanations and engagement, regardless of your language preference.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, all entrance fees, lunch, and insurance, making it a solid value for those wanting a comprehensive, guided day. Since the tour covers multiple major sights and provides a local guide, it’s a cost-effective way to see key sites without the hassle of self-driving or planning each stop individually.

Weather Considerations

The tour operates rain or shine, which means you’ll want to dress appropriately. A waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially since some sites involve uneven terrain or damp conditions. The guide generally provides useful tips for navigating the weather.

Authentic Experiences and Local Insights

Based on reviews, the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One guest mentioned their guide, whose name wasn’t specified, did an excellent job explaining the volcanic activity and local traditions, making the experience more meaningful. Guests also appreciated the chance to taste the cozido stew cooked underground—a rare culinary experience that adds a true local flavor.

The visit to Gorreana is another authentic touch, allowing travelers to connect with the island’s agricultural roots. Many reviews mention how tasting the fresh teas or walking through the plantations enhanced their appreciation of Azorean culture.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day tour is perfect for adventurous food lovers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers with mobility needs who want a hassle-free way to see São Miguel’s highlights. It’s well-suited for those seeking a structured day with expert guidance, especially since everything from entrances to lunch is covered. If you enjoy scenic viewpoints, botanical gardens, volcanic phenomena, and local food, this experience ticks most boxes.

However, if you’re after a very relaxed, leisurely morning or don’t want to rush through multiple sites, this may feel a bit packed. Also, since it’s a full-day commitment, pace yourself accordingly. But overall, it offers a balanced, immersive snapshot of the island that’s hard to beat for the price.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the van is wheelchair accessible, and the tour provider emphasizes inclusivity. However, some sites like Terra Nostra Garden may have uneven paths, so it’s good to check if you need additional assistance.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, all entrance fees to the sites visited, a traditional lunch, and guide/driver services. Insurance for personal accident and liability is also included.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

What language options are available?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

What should I wear and bring?
Since the tour operates rain or shine, bring waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are also advisable, especially if it’s sunny.

How long are the stops at each site?
While specific times aren’t detailed, the stops are planned to give enough time to explore each site comfortably, including photo opportunities and brief walks.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the short walks and scenic stops suggest it can be family-friendly. Check with the provider if you have very young children or special needs.

How does the tour handle weather conditions?
Rain or shine, the tour runs, so adequate clothing is essential. The guide will adapt the commentary to weather conditions, but all sites will be visited regardless of weather.

In essence, the Van Tour Furnas (Full Day) offers a well-rounded, accessible way to experience São Miguel’s volcanic, botanical, and culinary treasures. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking guided convenience and variety, all wrapped in a small-group setting that emphasizes comfort and authenticity. Whether you’re captivated by the geothermal springs or intrigued by the local cozido, this tour ensures you’ll leave with a vivid memory of the Azores’ unique charm.