Ponta Delgada: Seven Cities & Furnas Volcano Shore Excursion Tour

If you’re visiting São Miguel, Portugal, and looking for a well-rounded taste of the island’s spectacular landscapes, geothermal wonders, and local culture—this tour, priced at around $105, is a solid choice. Lasting approximately 5 to 6 hours, it packs in some of the island’s most iconic sights, from famous viewpoints to hot springs and a visit to the unique Gorreana tea plantation. Guided by local storytellers, you’ll get a richer sense of the Azores’ natural beauty and legends that make this island remarkable.

What we love about this tour is its careful balance: it hits the classic highlights without making you feel rushed. The stops at Vista do Rei and Pico do Ferro offer breathtaking views that really showcase the island’s volcanic terrain, while the tea plantation visit gives you a taste of local craftsmanship. Plus, the opportunity to relax in thermal springs in Furnas is a genuine treat.

One consideration is the timing and group size—with a maximum of 36 travelers and some reviews mentioning late starts or rushed stops, it’s worth planning your day accordingly. Also, remember that some attractions, like thermal pools, have extra fees. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic experience with knowledgeable guides, especially cruise passengers eager to see the highlights without hassle.

Key Points

• Comprehensive tour: Covers viewpoints, geothermal sites, tea plantations, and volcanic lakes.
• Expert guides: Local storytellers enhance the experience with their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops that are carefully chosen for stunning views and local culture.
• Value for money: At just over $100, it offers a well-rounded taste of São Miguel.
• Limited time: The 5.5-hour duration makes it efficient, but some reviews mention rushing.
• Good for cruise travelers: Pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal make it hassle-free.

An In-Depth Look at the São Miguel Shore Excursion

If you’re visiting Ponta Delgada and want to make the most of your limited time, this tour is designed to give you a snapshot of São Miguel’s most iconic sights. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy natural beauty coupled with local stories told by passionate guides.

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll be picked up directly from the cruise terminal, a huge plus for avoiding logistical headaches. The tour begins at 9:00 am, with pickup expected roughly 15 minutes earlier—so arriving on time is key. The group size is capped at 36, which means you’ll experience a more intimate feel than large bus tours, though some reviews suggest that late arrivals or late departures can cause a bit of a rush.

First Stop: Vista do Rei Miradouro

This viewpoint, considered one of Portugal’s seven wonders, is the star for many travelers. From here, you can gaze down into the famous Sete Cidades lagoons—a true highlight. The blue and green lakes are often described as “magical,” and the panoramic views are breathtaking. It’s a place where you’ll want to take your time snapping photos and soaking in the landscape.

One reviewer called it a “very interesting and informative tour” and highlighted the amazing volcanos, especially the one that “blows smoke back at you.” That indicates how powerful and lively the volcanic landscape is—definitely a photo-worthy moment.

Miradouro de Santa Iria

Next, you’ll get another perspective—this time of São Miguel’s coastline and cliffs. Surrounded by lush greenery, this viewpoint offers a vivid contrast to the volcanic interior. It’s perfect for those who love dramatic coastal scenery and wildflowers, making it an ideal spot for photography.

The Gorreana Tea Plantation

A standout for many travelers is the visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, the only tea farm in Europe still producing 100% natural tea. The lush green fields and traditional processing methods give you a real sense of local craftsmanship. Here, guides often share insights into the history and methods of tea production, and you’ll have the chance to taste freshly brewed green and black teas.

One reviewer called it “educational and scenic,” emphasizing the gorgeous coastline views surrounding the plantation. The experience is not just about tasting but also about understanding how this tiny island produces tea without pesticides or artificial processes.

Pico do Fero Viewpoint

From here, you’ll get a sweeping view of the Furnas Valley, one of the most lush and geothermal-rich parts of the island. The panoramic vista encompasses rolling green hills, volcanic landscapes, and the Furnas Lake below. This stop isn’t just pretty; it’s a reminder of São Miguel’s volcanic heartbeat.

Furnas: Geothermal Wonders and Hot Springs

The last major stop is Furnas, a place famous for its geothermal activity, bubbling springs, and lush gardens. The Terra Nostra Park is often featured here, where you can relax in thermal pools—although this is optional and has an extra fee of about 10 euros.

Travelers highlight the unique smell of sulfur and the bubbling hot springs—truly an otherworldly atmosphere. The geothermal activity is a testament to the island’s volcanic core, making it a fascinating stop. Expect steam rising from the ground and the sights and sounds of a lively geothermal landscape.

Optional Pineapple Plantation Visit

If time allows, you might visit a local pineapple plantation, which is quite a novelty. The way pineapples are cultivated here is unique, and many visitors enjoy learning about this rare process. Keep in mind, this is an optional stop, and some reviews note it as a highlight of their trip.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, who often share local legends and stories that bring the scenery to life. One reviewer particularly praised “Diogo,” noting his amazing knowledge and helpful attitude. Guides are experts in the island’s volcanic landscapes and local culture, making the experience more meaningful.

Transport is in comfortable vans that allow access to spots large buses can’t reach, giving you a more intimate and flexible touring experience. The small group size enhances the feeling of a personalized adventure, allowing for questions and spontaneous stops.

Value and Cost

At just over $105, this tour offers a solid value considering its inclusions: pickup and drop-off, visits to key viewpoints, the tea plantation, and the Furnas geothermal area. Additional costs like thermal pools or personal purchases are extra, but the core experience provides a comprehensive snapshot of São Miguel’s highlights.

What Recent Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing, with many calling it a “beautiful” and “well-organized” trip. Notable praise goes to the guide’s knowledge and the stunning scenery. A few folks mentioned the tour being rushed or not matching their expectations exactly, often due to timing issues or late arrivals—so arriving early and managing expectations about time is wise.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value local stories, natural scenery, and authentic cultural insights. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who want a hassle-free way to see the highlights in a short time. Active travelers will appreciate stops at viewpoints and parks, while those interested in local agriculture will enjoy the tea plantation.

If you’re less keen on geothermal baths or prefer longer, more in-depth visits, you might want to explore other options. But for a well-rounded, engaging overview of São Miguel, this tour hits most of the essential spots.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Ponta Delgada: Seven Cities & Furnas Volcano Shore Excursion offers a beautiful, informative, and reasonably priced way to experience some of São Miguel’s most iconic sights. The expert guides and carefully curated stops make it a worthwhile choice for first-time visitors or cruise passengers who want to maximize their day ashore.

The tour’s emphasis on stunning viewpoints, local culture, and geothermal wonders delivers an authentic taste of the Azores. While it’s not without the risk of a slightly rushed schedule, the overall experience often leaves travelers feeling satisfied and enriched.

This tour is best suited for those who want an efficient, scenic, and educational glimpse of the island—a memorable introduction to the natural beauty and legends of São Miguel.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it is designed with cruise travelers in mind, offering pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal for convenience.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5.5 hours, making it a good option for a day ashore without taking up too much of your schedule.

Are lunch or additional meals included?
No, the tour does not include lunch, so plan to bring snacks or plan for a meal on your own.

What attractions are included in the tour?
Key stops include Vista do Rei, Santa Iria viewpoint, Gorreana Tea Plantation, Pico do Ferro, and the Furnas geothermal area.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, you can choose to visit thermal pools at Terra Nostra Park (extra fee) or a pineapple plantation if time permits.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 36 travelers, which helps foster a more personal experience.

How early should I arrive for pickup?
Pickup is generally 15 minutes before the scheduled start at 9:00 am, so plan to be ready early.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket—weather can change quickly in volcanic landscapes.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Most travelers praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling, making the experience more engaging.

Are entrance fees included?
Only for the sights listed, such as viewpoints and the tea plantation; extra fees like thermal pools are not included.

This carefully curated tour offers an excellent introduction to São Miguel, balancing natural beauty, local culture, and expert storytelling—a memorable way to fall in love with the Azores.