Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour

Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour — An Authentic Azores Experience

Imagine soaking in warm, bubbling mineral waters beneath the night sky, surrounded by the mystical steam of fumaroles, all in a setting that feels more like a dream than reality. For those seeking a genuine taste of Azores’ natural wonders, the Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour offers an intimate, immersive journey. Priced at $136 per person, this four-hour adventure takes you across both the north and south coasts of São Miguel, culminating in a rare dinner experience cooked underground.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the opportunity to bathe in natural thermal waters—a soothing, almost otherworldly experience—and the chance to enjoy a traditional thermal dinner that’s cooked with geothermal heat. Both moments highlight the Azores’ unique volcanic character. A possible consideration: the Poça da Dona Beja is a favorite spot, but it’s an extra €8 admission if you want to dip into this outdoor thermal bath. That’s a small price to pay for a memorable soak, but worth noting if budget-conscious.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate natural settings and authentic local experiences. It’s perfect for those looking to combine relaxing thermal baths with cultural elements like local cuisine and volcanic landscapes. If you prefer structured, fast-paced tours, this might be a quieter, more reflective option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic thermal experience in natural hot springs, especially at night, offering a peaceful and surreal atmosphere.
• Unique underground thermal dinner with fish or vegetarian options, cooked with geothermal heat.
• Fumaroles at night provide a captivating view of the island’s volcanic activity.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a personal, intimate experience.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Additional cost if you want to visit Poça da Dona Beja, a highly recommended outdoor thermal bath.

A Closer Look at the Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour

This tour is designed to give you a taste of Furnas’ volcanic soul, combined with a touch of romance and adventure. We loved how the itinerary balances natural beauty with cultural authenticity, all wrapped into a four-hour window that feels neither rushed nor overlong. The tour departs from Ponta Delgada, the island’s main hub, and includes hotel pickup, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

The Journey Begins: From Ponta Delgada to Furnas

The pickup process is straightforward; just plan to be ready in your hotel lobby about five minutes before your scheduled time. The small group size means you’ll likely be traveling with just a handful of fellow travelers, which enhances the feeling of a personalized trip. The drive through the island’s lush landscape is a scenic introduction, but the real magic begins once you arrive at the thermal springs.

Bathing in Poça da Dona Beja and Other Thermal Waters

The core of this tour is the chance to bathe in natural thermal waters—a highlight appreciated by many visitors. The waters range from 26 to 34°C, providing a comfortably warm soak that’s ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The outdoor thermal bath at Poça da Dona Beja is a favorite, described as “romantic and paradisiacal”, with a setting that feels almost untouched by time.

A quote from one traveler captures this well: “It’s like stepping into a secret corner of paradise, soaking in warm water as steam rises around you under the night sky.” The outdoor baths are naturally formed, emphasizing their authenticity, and provide a peaceful environment, especially at night when the surroundings quiet down and the steam thickens.

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Fumaroles and Nighttime Volcanic Views

One of the tour’s most striking features is seeing fumaroles at night. These steaming vents release volcanic gases, creating an eerie yet beautiful landscape. The night setting adds an extra layer of mystique, making it more than just a sightseeing stop—it’s an experience. You might find yourself captivated by the sight of glowing steam against the dark sky, a reminder of the island’s volcanic heartbeat.

The Undergound Thermal Dinner

After soaking, the tour transitions into the highlight: a thermal cooked dinner. This is no ordinary meal—you’re literally eating food prepared with geothermal heat. The process involves cooking underground, a traditional method that’s rare in the modern world. The menu typically features fish or vegetarian options, catering to different dietary preferences.

Guests have mentioned that this dinner feels almost “like a culinary adventure”, and the flavors are distinctively infused with the geothermal essence. Drinks, coffee, and tea are included, turning the meal into a convivial, cozy affair.

Returning to Ponta Delgada

After dinner, the journey winds down with a relaxed drive back to your hotel. The experience leaves a lasting impression of the volcanic power and natural beauty that define São Miguel.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the $136 price might seem steep, it covers a lot: hotel pickup and drop-off, the thermal bath experience, the geothermal dinner, and entrance to see the boilers. Keep in mind, the additional €8 for Poça da Dona Beja is optional but highly recommended. For travelers seeking a combination of relaxation, cultural authenticity, and spectacular scenery, this tour delivers.

The small group setting means more personalized attention, and the multilingual guides ensure everyone understands the significance of each site. The inclusion of an audio guide in multiple languages makes the experience more accessible, especially for those who enjoy learning as they go.

Practical Tips

• Bring a swimsuit and towel if you plan to bathe at Poça da Dona Beja, or inquire whether towels are provided.
• The water temperatures, ranging from 26-34°C, can be quite soothing but may be too warm for some. It’s a good idea to stay hydrated.
• The tour’s timing is flexible; check the availability to find a start time that suits your schedule.
• The limited group size means booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love natural landscapes and want to see a less touristy side of São Miguel. It suits those interested in geothermal phenomena and local culinary traditions. If you’re a night owl or enjoy relaxing baths under the stars, this tour will resonate with you. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups seeking an intimate, memorable encounter with the island’s volcanic heart.

If you prefer guided tours with a deeper cultural or historical focus, this might be more about the natural surroundings than local history. However, the authentic experience of bathing in natural hot springs and dining underground makes it well worth considering.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about four hours, with specific start times available based on the day.

What is the cost of additional entrance fees?
Visiting Poça da Dona Beja costs €8 per adult, which is not included in the tour price.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the thermal cooked dinner offers a vegetarian alternative.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults, but families with older children who enjoy thermal baths may find it enjoyable.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, with an included audio guide for added convenience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket for after bathing. Sunscreen and water are also advisable.

Is the water temperature always the same?
Water temperatures range from 26°C to 34°C, offering a comfortable soak but some variation depending on the day.

How does this experience compare to other tours?
It’s unique in combining natural thermal baths with a geothermal dinner and fumarole viewing, offering more authenticity and fewer crowds than larger, busier tours.

Final Thoughts

The Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour stands out as a truly memorable way to experience São Miguel’s volcanic power in a relaxed, intimate setting. It combines the soothing appeal of natural thermal waters with the cultural novelty of underground cooking and volcanic vistas. Perfect for those who love nature, local traditions, and a bit of adventure under the stars.

While the price might be a consideration for budget travelers, the small group size and authentic experiences justify the expense. It’s especially valuable for travelers seeking a quiet, personal encounter with the island’s geothermal magic. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this tour offers a unique, enchanting look at the Azores’ volcanic soul.

Note: Always check availability and weather conditions in advance, as outdoor activities and natural baths are best enjoyed in pleasant weather.

You can check availability for your dates here: