Furnas Private & Customizable Tour (group price)

A Flexible Day Exploring São Miguel: The Furnas Private & Customizable Tour

If you’re after a way to see the highlights of São Miguel without feeling rushed or locked into a rigid schedule, this Furnas Private & Customizable Tour offers a perfect solution. Starting at $416.45 per group (up to six people), this eight-hour adventure takes you around the island in a luxury Mercedes minivan, with hotel or port pickup included. What makes this experience stand out is the customizable itinerary—you’re in the driver’s seat (metaphorically, with your guide helping) to prioritize what interests you most.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances comfort with authenticity. The private setting means fewer crowds, and the guides’ expertise shines through as they tailor the day to your interests. Plus, visiting iconic sights like Furnas Lake, tasting the traditional cozido stew, and enjoying panoramic views from scenic viewpoints makes for a richly memorable day. The downside? With so many options, you might find yourself trying to decide what to skip. Still, that’s part of the charm of a fully customizable experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want flexibility and a more intimate look at São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a foodie eager to try local specialties, or simply someone who appreciates scenic vistas, this tour can adapt to you. It’s especially well-suited if you prefer a relaxed pace and personalized insights rather than a cookie-cutter group outing.

Key Points

• Fully customizable itinerary allows you to focus on your interests.
• Luxury transportation ensures comfort during a full day of exploring.
• Expert guide provides insightful commentary and local knowledge.
• Multiple scenic viewpoints offer fantastic photo opportunities.
• Hotel or port pickup adds convenience to your day.
• Flexible timetable helps you avoid rushing through the sights.

An In-Depth Look at the São Miguel Private Tour

This private tour offers an impressive eight hours of exploring the highlights of São Miguel, the largest and most diverse island in the Azores. The flexibility to customize your route means you can emphasize nature, history, or culinary experiences—whichever appeals most to you. With a luxury Mercedes minivan, you’ll glide comfortably between sights, avoiding the hassle of public transport or crowded groups.

Starting Point and First Stop: Vila Franca do Campo

Your day begins at roughly 9:00 am at the EuroBic ABANCA in Ponta Delgada, a convenient central location. From there, the guide will pick you up and set the tone for a relaxed, personalized day. Your first stop is at Vila Franca do Campo, a charming old coastal town. Here, you’ll enjoy views of the islet of Vila Franca do Campo, a volcanic crater now serving as a natural swimming spot, and learn about the area’s fishing traditions. This stop typically lasts around 45 minutes and is free of admission costs.

Many visitors comment on how this initial stop offers a mellow introduction to the island’s scenic beauty and local flavor. One traveler described it as a great way to “enjoy the coastal scenery and taste the traditional small pastry,” setting a delightful tone for the day.

The Heart of the Tour: Caldeira das Furnas

The centerpiece of this adventure is the Furnas Volcano, an active volcanic crater filled with a lake, fumaroles, and hot springs. This part of the tour can last up to four hours, giving ample time to soak in the sights and sounds of thermal activity. Here, you’ll see hot springs bubbling, fumaroles steaming, and the volcanic landscape that shapes much of São Miguel’s character.

A highlight is the chance to observe and taste the famous cozido das Furnas, a stew slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat. Though you’ll need to pay for your own lunch, many find the experience of watching the food cook naturally in the geothermal soil worth it. Visitors rave about the unique flavors and the chance to connect with an authentic local tradition.

Plus, some travelers opt to enjoy a hot spring bath—a wonderful way to relax after walking around the geothermal parks. Since this part of the tour is flexible, you can choose to spend more or less time depending on your interests.

Tea Plantation Visit: Plantacoes de Chá Gorreana

After the volcanic landscape, the tour heads to Gorreana Tea Plantation, one of Europe’s oldest working tea plantations. The visit lasts about 45 minutes, with free tastings of local teas. Here, you’ll learn about the long history of tea cultivation on the island—dating back to the 19th century—and see how tea leaves are processed in traditional ways.

Guests often mention how this stop provides a serene break from the more active volcanic sites, and how the free tea samples are a lovely touch. It’s a quiet, educational moment that highlights the island’s agricultural diversity.

Scenic Viewpoints: Miradouro de Santa Iria & Miradouro do Piaso

Later in the day, the tour makes two quick stops at viewpoints to soak in the landscape and snap photos. The Miradouro de Santa Iria overlooks the northern coast and cliffs, offering spectacular views of the ocean and rugged coastline. Meanwhile, Miradouro do Piaso provides sweeping vistas of the southern delta lava fields and the town of Caloura.

Guests frequently share how these viewpoints are the perfect places for patience-testing photo sessions—and how the views live up to expectations. These stops typically last about 25 minutes each and are free of charge.

Flexibility and Customization

The beauty of this private tour is that it isn’t prescriptive. Your guide will ask about your preferences and adjust the route accordingly. Whether you want to spend more time at the volcanic parks or linger at a viewpoint, the day is tailored to you.

What Travelers Say

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that guides like Paulo are a major asset. One traveler wrote, “Paulo did a great job of occupying my time the entire day,” praising his detailed knowledge and engaging personality. Others mention how comfortable and convenient the van was, making the long day easy and stress-free.

The most common compliment is about the guides’ knowledge and flexibility. Guests appreciate how guides can enhance the experience with local insights, suggest hidden gems, or adjust timing based on interests. Many describe the tour as “relaxing, educational, fascinating, and adventurous,” with some calling it the “best way to see the island.”

Practical Considerations

While the itinerary is flexible, keep in mind that lunch is not included. Planning ahead for a meal—either on your own or at one of the stops—can help you make the most of the day. Also, since the tour operates in all weather, bring appropriate clothing, especially if rain or wind is forecasted.

The cost of about $416.45 per group is reasonable when considering the private nature of the experience, the transportation, and the personalized service. It’s particularly suited for small groups or families who want an exclusive, tailored day rather than a large-group tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private and customizable experience is best suited for travelers who want flexibility and a more intimate look at São Miguel. If you’re curious about volcanic landscapes, enjoy scenic viewpoints, and value expert guidance, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. It’s ideal for those who prefer to skip the crowds and enjoy a pace that suits your interests.

For families or groups with specific interests—whether culinary, geological, or scenic—the flexible itinerary allows you to prioritize what excites you most.

The Sum Up: Why Choose This Tour?

This Furnas Private & Customizable Tour offers a smart way to explore São Miguel with the comfort of private transportation and the freedom to tailor your experience. The knowledgeable guides make a real difference, bringing the island’s volcanic wonders and scenic views to life with engaging commentary. The flexibility means you can skip the less interesting parts or spend extra time where your curiosity takes you—ideal for travelers who want a personalized adventure.

While the cost might seem high for some, the value lies in the comfort, flexibility, and authentic insights you gain. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want to see the highlights of São Miguel without feeling rushed and with a guide who can enrich your understanding of this volcanic paradise.

If you’re traveling with a small group or family, and you appreciate the idea of a tailor-made day out, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The flexible pace and engaging guides can make it a fun experience for families.

What is included in the price?
The group price covers transportation in a luxury minivan, hotel or port pickup and drop-off, and a professional guide with live commentary. Lunch and admission to specific attractions are not included.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from about 25 minutes at viewpoints to 4 hours at Furnas Volcano, depending on your interests and how you customize the itinerary.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, with guides ready to adapt based on your preferences, whether you want more scenic views, cultural stops, or relaxation time.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable clothing suitable for weather conditions, water, and a camera. Since lunch is not included, consider bringing snacks or planning to eat at a stop.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions. Dress appropriately, and be prepared for the possibility of rain or wind.

This private tour provides a well-rounded, flexible way to uncover the best of São Miguel—combining stunning scenery, volcanic marvels, and local flavor—all at your own pace. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a personal touch and expert insights into this volcanic island’s many secrets.