São Miguel: Furnas and Nordeste Full-Day Tour with Lunch

If you’re visiting the Azores and want to see the highlights of São Miguel in a single day, this Furnas and Nordeste tour is a solid choice. For around $107, you get a comprehensive itinerary that includes visits to volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and tea plantations, all guided by knowledgeable locals. The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day for travelers eager to experience the island’s natural beauty and local flavors.

What we love about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with cultural insights. First, the chance to see fumaroles and volcanic activity up close offers a tangible sense of the island’s eruptive past. Second, the lunch, featuring the famous Cozido, cooked underground in volcanic soil, is both an authentic and delicious taste of Azorean culinary tradition.

A possible drawback is that some attractions, like the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden or the hot springs pools, are marked as optional and not included, which means additional costs if you want to fully indulge. Also, since it’s a small group experience (limited to just 8 people), it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy more personalized attention but might feel too intimate for those who prefer larger tours.

This tour suits adventurous travelers interested in geology and natural landscapes, as well as those who enjoy local cuisine and picturesque viewpoints. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors wanting a curated overview without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covers volcanic sites, waterfalls, hot springs, and tea plantations in one day.
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with informative commentary and local insights.
Authentic cuisine, including the traditional Cozido, cooked in volcanic soil, is a highlight.
Optional attractions like Terra Nostra Park or hot springs pools require extra entry fees.
Small group size (max 8) allows for a more personal and flexible experience.
The tour’s value lies in combining natural beauty with cultural experiences at a reasonable price.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting Point and First Stops

The adventure begins with pick-up options from major hotels and accommodations in Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, and Ribeira Grande. This is a nice perk because it saves you from navigating to a designated meeting point. After settling into a comfortable vehicle, the first scenic stop is along the Avenida do Mar, where we get glimpses of the beaches of Água D´Alto—a peaceful start to the day.

Soon after, the tour heads to the viewpoint of Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, a small volcanic islet formed from an underwater eruption. This spot offers a picture-perfect view of the islet’s rugged cliffs and the open Atlantic. Visitors have remarked that the view of the Red Bull Cliff Diving, which takes place here, adds an extra thrill to the scenery.

Visiting Lagoa das Furnas

Next, the tour takes you into the heart of the volcanic activity at Lagoa das Furnas. The landscape here is both beautiful and alive—steaming fumaroles, bubbling boilers, and bubbling earth are everywhere. The Cozido das Furnas, a stew slow-cooked underground in volcanic soil for about 6 hours, is a true highlight. Although entry fees are not included, many choose to watch the process of the pots being carefully dug out—a fun, earthy spectacle.

Travelers have appreciated the chance to see local restaurants remove the pots from the ground, which makes the cooking process a living part of the experience. One reviewer noted, “we wished that the visit to Gorreana tea plantations included more time at the actual plantation, but the guide’s commentary was very informative.”

Hot Springs and Thermal Pools

After the volcanic cooking, the tour offers an optional relaxation stop in the hot springs pools, with water consistently above 30°C (86°F). Two popular choices are the Poça da Dona Beija and Parque Terra Nostra. These pools are renowned for their relaxing thermal waters, and many guests enjoy soaking while surrounded by lush gardens or historic architecture.

While entry to these pools is not included, travelers who have visited say it’s worth the extra expense for the soothing experience. One reviewer shared, “Rafael, our guide, made sure we had plenty of time to unwind in the thermal waters, which was a perfect break from the busy morning.”

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Lunch and Cultural Exploration

Midday, everyone gathers for a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, where the cozido is served alongside other options. The meal is generally praised for being generous and authentic, with some reviewers noting that it’s a highlight of the day. The guide facilitates this, ensuring that everyone gets a taste of local flavors.

Post-lunch, a short walk around the village of Furnas provides a glimpse into local life and history. This casual stroll is a nice way to digest and stretch before the next stops.

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Ribeira dos Caldeirões and Nordeste

Heading north, the tour visits the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, famous for its watermills and waterfalls. This area is especially picturesque, with rustic watermills and a stunning cascade. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery—a perfect spot for photos or a quick walk.

The final part of the day takes you along the Tea Route, visiting the Gorreana Tea Factory or Porto Formoso factory. Here, you’ll see tea plantations and the process of tea production. Many travelers enjoy a tea tasting, often remarking on the quality of the local product. One guest said, “the views of the bay and the gardens were stunning and the tea tasting was a lovely end to the day.”

Final Drop-offs and Reflection

The tour concludes with multiple drop-off options, ensuring you’re returned to your accommodation comfortably. Throughout the day, the small group size and live commentary help create a friendly, engaging atmosphere, where questions are encouraged, and local insights come easily.

Why This Tour Offers True Value

The $107 price covers a lot—transportation, a knowledgeable guide, a hearty Azorean lunch, and access to several key sites. While some attractions like the Terra Nostra Park or hot springs pools require extra fees, many reviews emphasize that the overall experience is well worth the cost. The guided format means you don’t have to worry about navigating roads or planning stops; instead, you get to relax and enjoy the scenery and stories.

The small group setting ensures more personalized attention, which many travelers find enhances their experience. It also allows the guide to be flexible—if a particular stop sparks interest, they can spend a little more time there.

What Real Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides like Rafael and Vero, who make the experience both informative and fun. Travelers consistently mention stunning views, interesting geological sights, and a genuine taste of local culture. One even noted that the trip made them feel like they explored parts of the island they couldn’t have discovered on their own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see the natural volcanic features of São Miguel, as well as those wanting to enjoy local cuisine and scenic viewpoints. It’s ideal for first-timers who want a balanced overview of the island without the hassle of planning. If you prefer more independent exploration or are looking for a tour with many included attractions, this might not be the best fit. But for anyone wanting a small, guided, and authentic slice of São Miguel’s beauty, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up at your accommodation and transportation throughout the day, making it easy to relax between stops.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, which is enough time to see key highlights without feeling rushed.

Are there any additional costs?
Some attractions, like Terra Nostra Park or hot springs pools, are not included in the price and require extra payment if you choose to visit.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, as there will be walking at various stops. An umbrella is also handy, especially if the weather is unpredictable.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Child seats are available on request, and the tour can be enjoyable for families, especially those interested in nature and cultural experiences.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English and Portuguese, and reviews indicate they handle both languages proficiently.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for uncertain schedules.

Final Thoughts

This Furnas and Nordeste tour is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an immersive experience into the volcanic soul of São Miguel. From bubbling fumaroles to tranquil waterfalls and lush tea fields, the day offers a diverse and authentic taste of what makes the Azores special.

The knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious local food make it an excellent value for those looking to combine natural wonders with cultural flavor. It’s well-suited for curious travelers who want a small-group experience that balances adventure with comfort and learning.

While a few attractions require extra fees, the core experience is thoughtfully curated to give you a memorable glimpse of the island’s highlights. If you’re eager for a day packed with beautiful views, geological marvels, and a taste of local life, this tour is an excellent choice for your Azores itinerary.