Azores: Shore Excursion Furnas – Crater volcano and hot springs

Experience the Heart of the Azores: A Detailed Look at the Furnas Shore Excursion

If you’re visiting Ponta Delgada and craving a meaningful glimpse of the Azores’ volcanic landscapes and thermal wonders, this Furnas shore excursion offers just that. For $79.10 per person, you’ll spend roughly 4 to 5 hours exploring some of the island’s most iconic sights, from lush tea plantations to steaming crater lakes. Guided by knowledgeable locals, this tour is designed to maximize your time, providing a smooth, personalized experience with port pickup and drop-off included.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it combines stunning natural scenery with authentic cultural insights—like tasting local liquors or watching how the villagers cook with geothermal heat. Plus, the small group size (a maximum of 8 people) ensures you get personalized attention, making the experience feel more like a day with friends than a typical bus tour.

However, a couple of considerations are worth noting. The itinerary offers flexibility but also means that some sites, like the botanical gardens or thermal baths, are optional and require extra tickets. That means you’ll want to budget accordingly if those stops appeal to you.

This tour suits travelers who love learning about local traditions, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and prefer a smaller, intimate group to avoid the hustle of larger tours. If you’re looking for a balance of sightseeing, comfort, and genuine local flavor, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small-group experience enhances personalized attention and flexibility.
• Guided by locals, providing insider knowledge and engaging stories.
• Flexible itinerary allows customization and optional stops like botanical gardens or thermal parks.
• Affordable value considering the sights, transportation, and expert guidance.
• Efficient use of time with port pickup/drop-off and well-paced stops.
• Authentic experience with opportunities to taste local liquors and see traditional cooking methods.

An In-Depth Look at the Furnas Shore Excursion

The Starting Point and Overall Structure

Kicking off at the Ponta Delgada port at 9:00 am, this tour begins with the convenience of port pickup, so you won’t have to worry about finding your guide or transportation. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the sometimes warm Azorean climate more comfortable. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) promises a more relaxed, engaging experience, with plenty of room for questions and interaction.

Tour Highlights: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Plantacoes de Chá Gorreana

The adventure starts with a visit to the last natural tea plantation on the planet—a surprisingly lush and tranquil setting. As you wander through the fields, you’ll get to taste both green and black teas. The review comments note that “the tea fields are gorgeous” and that “the process of making tea was very interesting.” It’s a peaceful way to begin your day, and the free admission makes it a great value.

Stop 2: Miradouro Pico Do Ferro

Next, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Furnas volcano and its crater lake from the Pico do Ferro viewpoint. Just a short 10-minute stop, but one that’s worth every second. Reviewers have mentioned the amazing views and how photography here is a must. It’s one of those moments where you realize just how volcanic and green the Azores truly are.

Stop 3: Caldeira das Furnas – Thermal Hot Springs and More

This is the core of the tour—walking through the boiling boilers and hot springs. You’ll feel the incredible power of the volcano and get a taste of local life, including sampling mineral waters and liquors. The guide will explain how people here use the geothermal heat for cooking and bathing—a fascinating example of sustainable, natural resources.

Stop 4: Cooking with Volcano Heat

This optional stop involves witnessing how locals cook dishes in holes dug into the ground, utilizing the volcano’s heat. Although admission to this site isn’t included, it’s a unique experience that highlights the Azores’ ingenuity and natural bounty. Many reviews mention how cool it is to see the steaming pits used for traditional cooking.

Stop 5: Parque Terra Nostra (Optional)

If you choose to visit, relax in a natural hot pool, heated by the volcanic activity beneath. Its thermal waters are naturally kept warm, offering a soothing end to your day. The admission fee is not included, but it’s often a highlight for visitors wanting a relaxing swim. Reviewers who visited mention how the hot springs are beautiful and a perfect way to unwind.

How the Tour Works in Practice

Throughout the day, the guide provides live commentary filled with insights into local culture, geology, and history. Multiple reviewers have praised guides like Pedro and Vera for being knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share their passion for the island. The pace is generally well-managed—some travelers noted that even on a cloudy or rainy day, the guide kept spirits high, showing them stunning locations that aren’t in every tour brochure.

Logistics and Value

Considering the price point of just over $79, this tour offers solid value. It covers transportation, guide services, and multiple stops that might cost extra if booked independently. The small group size means more flexibility in timing, and you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd. Some reviews mention how it’s more personalized than large bus tours, which can be a real advantage if you love asking questions or want to customize your experience.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers found the group size exceeded expectations—with one noting 19 people instead of 8. This could slightly impact the intimacy and flexibility. Also, some sites like the botanical garden or thermal park are not included in the entrance fee, so budget for those if they’re high on your list.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable local guides, such as Pedro and Vera, get rave reviews. Their enthusiasm and deep understanding of the island’s geology and culture make a difference, especially if you’re eager to learn beyond the surface. The concerted focus on volcanic features and the ability to see the geothermal cooking in action add an authentic, tangible element to your day.

The scenic stops—like Pico do Ferro and the tea plantation—are some of the most photogenic spots on the island. The chance to sample local liquors and see hot springs firsthand offers memorable experiences you can’t get from just reading about the Azores.

Many travelers say the tour exceeded their expectations, particularly praising the friendly, attentive guides who tailored the experience to their interests. Even on days with less-than-ideal weather, the scenery and stories kept everyone engaged.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Furnas shore excursion is ideal for travelers who enjoy small-group tours with a mix of nature, culture, and local flavor. It suits those who value expert guides and want to maximize their limited time in the Azores. If you prefer learning about local traditions and natural phenomena—like geothermal cooking—this tour hits all the right notes.

It’s also great for families or small groups who appreciate flexibility and the chance to customize stops. However, if you’re expecting a very leisurely or spa-focused experience, you’ll want to plan extra time (and money) for the optional thermal baths.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour’s pace and stops are generally family-friendly.

How long is the tour?
Expect about 4 to 5 hours, including port pickup and drop-off, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, a driver/guide, and live commentary are included. Entrance fees to parks like Terra Nostra or Dona Beija are not included, so plan for those separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is designed to be flexible. Stops like botanical gardens or thermal pools are optional and can be added or skipped based on your preferences.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
It may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, helping non-English speakers enjoy the experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and perhaps some cash for optional entrance fees and tastings.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Full refunds are available if canceled in time.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention, though some reviews mention larger groups.

How is the weather?
The tour runs rain or shine. Be prepared for possible rain or cooler temperatures, especially if visiting higher viewpoints.

What makes this tour different from others?
The emphasis on local guides, small group size, and authenticity—like seeing how locals cook with geothermal heat—sets it apart from typical bus excursions.

Final Thoughts

This Furnas shore excursion offers a richly textured taste of the Azores’ volcanic character and local culture. The combination of scenic viewpoints, geothermal wonders, and knowledgeable guides makes it a worthwhile choice for those looking to see the best of eastern São Miguel without feeling rushed.

The small-group format ensures a more intimate, engaging experience, and the flexible stops mean you can tailor the day to your interests. While optional entries like the botanical garden or thermal pools cost extra, they can be worthwhile splurges if time permits and you want additional relaxation or beauty.

If you’re someone who loves learning about natural processes, tasting local liquors, and seeing dramatic landscapes, this tour will likely satisfy your curiosity and sense of adventure. It’s especially suited to travelers who appreciate authentic insights and a more personal touch over large, impersonal bus tours.

In essence, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of nature, culture, and convenience—perfect for making the most of a short stay in the Azores. Expect stunning visuals, inspiring stories, and plenty of opportunities to connect with the island’s volcanic soul. Should you choose it, prepare for a day filled with memorable sights and friendly guides who truly love sharing their home.