Furnas: Night-Time Experience with Thermal baths and Dinner

Experience the Night-Time Magic of Furnas with Thermal Baths and a Traditional Dinner

This evening tour in Furnas, located on the stunning island of São Miguel in the Azores, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, local culture, and relaxation. For around $82 per person, you’ll spend roughly 6 hours exploring one of Portugal’s most active volcanic areas, bathing in geothermal hot springs, and enjoying a hearty regional meal. The tour is guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals and is capped at just 8 participants, making for an intimate experience.

Two things we love about this experience: First, the chance to bathe under the stars in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Poça da Dona Beija — an environment that’s both soothing and photogenic. Second, the local culinary experience of savoring a “cozido”, a stew slow-cooked beneath the volcanic ground, which truly highlights the Azores’ volcanic heritage.

A possible consideration is the ticket fee for the hot springs (around 16 euros), which isn’t included in the tour price, so budget accordingly if you want full access. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy scenic walks, and love relaxing in thermal waters after a day of exploration. It’s especially perfect if you’re keen to combine natural beauty with culture and some well-earned rest.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Guided walk offers insights into the volcanic landscape and photo opportunities.
• Evening thermal baths provide a peaceful, starry backdrop for relaxation.
• Regional cuisine in the form of cozido is a hearty, unique highlight.
• Pickup and drop-off within Ponta Delgada simplifies logistics.
• Optional extras like lockers or showers are available at additional cost.
• Price reflects a comprehensive experience including transportation, guide, and dinner.
• Reviewers praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to enhance the experience.
• Best suited for those who enjoy nature, local food, and a relaxing evening.

The Complete Experience: A Step-by-Step Journey into Furnas at Night

Transportation and Pickup

Your evening begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or residence in Ponta Delgada between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM. The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles that whisk you away to the volcanic zone of Furnas, about a 30-minute drive from the city center. This transfer time is perfect for getting to know your guide and settling into the relaxed pace of the tour.

Exploring the Furnas Volcano Complex

Once at Furnas, the guide takes you on a guided nature walk through the volcanic landscape. Expect to see bubbling calderas, steaming fumaroles, and lush greenery. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Herve, Eduardo, and others add value through their regional insights and friendly banter. One reviewer notes, “Our guide was top notch and very informative. We learned so much about Furnas,” highlighting the educational aspect of this part of the tour.

The walk is designed to showcase the dramatic scenery that makes Furnas so special — a landscape shaped by active volcanic activity. Be prepared for some steep sections; if mobility is an issue, sit back and enjoy the views while others explore.

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Relaxing in the Thermal Baths

After the walk, it’s time for thermal relaxation at Poça da Dona Beija, a well-loved hot springs facility. While the tour includes access, there’s a ticket fee of 16 euros that’s paid at the site. Many reviews reinforce how enjoyable this part is, with guests describing the baths as “magical,” “relaxing,” and “not very busy,” especially at night. The warm mineral waters are said to have healing properties that soothe tired muscles and provide a peaceful, starry backdrop.

The baths are often described as less crowded in the evening, offering a more intimate experience. You’ll love the way the steam rises against the night sky and how the hot waters seem to transport you far away from everyday worries.

Culinary Delights: The Cozido

As the evening progresses, you’ll gather at a local restaurant (like Tony’s) to enjoy the famous cozido, a regional stew cooked underground using the natural heat of the volcanic ground. Several reviews highlight how delicious and hearty this meal is, with one reviewer saying, “The food was beautiful and also the wine,” and noting that the dinner felt like a family feast.

The cozido is served family-style, with bottles of regional wine and beer, making it a convivial and authentic experience. It’s a highlight for many visitors, offering a taste of local tradition that you won’t easily find elsewhere.

Final Moments and Return

After dinner, there may be a short stop at scenic viewpoints, such as Lagoa das Furnas, where you can snap stunning photos of the landscape. The return trip to Ponta Delgada is smooth, with the guide sharing stories and answering questions along the way.

What This Tour Means for You

This experience provides a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation in a compact, well-organized package. The small group setting fosters a cozy atmosphere where you can ask questions and truly connect with your guides. The combination of guided walks, thermal baths, and local cuisine makes it a well-rounded introduction to Furnas.

The value is especially good considering that transportation, a guided experience, and a substantial dinner are included in the price. The fact that reviews frequently mention knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery confirms the quality of this experience.

However, remember that additional costs like the hot springs ticket and optional lockers or showers at the baths aren’t included. Also, dress in layers, especially in cooler months, as temperatures can change quickly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who want more than just sightseeing — those eager for authentic regional experiences like trying cozido, soaking in geothermal waters, and exploring volcanic landscapes with a knowledgeable local. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, memorable evening. If you enjoy nature, local food, and cultural traditions, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and your senses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and drop-off are included within Ponta Delgada, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the entire tour last? About 6 hours, with timings starting between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM, depending on the day.

What should I bring? Swimsuit and towel are recommended for the thermal baths, and dressing in layers is advised since temperatures can vary.

Are the thermal baths crowded? Typically less crowded at night, offering a more peaceful experience, according to reviews.

Does the tour include the cost of the hot springs? Not directly; the entrance fee of about 16 euros is paid at the thermal baths.

Is the dinner traditional? Yes, the cozido cooked underground is a regional specialty and a highlight of the evening.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues? There are some steep walks, so it’s best to be prepared; sitting out parts of the walk is possible.

Are the guides friendly and knowledgeable? Absolutely — numerous reviews praise the guides for their insights and personable manner.

Is this suitable for families? Yes, small groups and families with children of all ages have enjoyed this experience, making it versatile.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a night of relaxation, local flavor, and scenic beauty, this Furnas tour offers a wonderful way to experience the Azores after sunset. The combination of natural thermal baths, a guided exploration of the volcanic landscape, and a hearty underground-cooked dinner makes for an authentic, memorable evening.

Ideal for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, cultural authenticity, and natural wonder, this tour is a strong choice for anyone wanting to see Furnas from a different perspective — under the stars, immersed in warm waters, and savoring regional traditions. It’s rare to find such a well-rounded experience that balances adventure, relaxation, and culture all in one evening.

You can check availability for your dates here: