Full-Day Private São Miguel Tour with Furnas and Hot springs

If you’re visiting São Miguel in the Azores and want an experience that combines stunning landscapes, authentic local cuisine, and relaxing hot springs, then the Full-Day Private São Miguel Tour with Furnas and Hot Springs is worth considering. For around $278 per group (up to four people), this eight-hour adventure offers a carefully curated mix of sights that highlight the island’s volcanic beauty and rich traditions. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit some of the most iconic spots, taste the famous Cozido das Furnas, and unwind in natural thermal pools.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the balance between scenic viewpoints and cultural experiences—there’s plenty of time to soak in spectacular views at Miradouro de Santa Iria and Pico do Ferro, and ample opportunity to taste local specialties like the Cozido in a traditional setting. Another highlight is the chance to relax in Terra Nostra Park‘s thermal springs, which makes for a perfect, restorative conclusion.

A potential consideration is that the entrance fee to some sites (about 13 euros per person) isn’t included in the price, so you’ll want to factor that into your budget. Also, some activities like bathing in the thermal springs are optional, so if you’re not keen on hot baths, you might prefer a shorter visit.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic drives, culture, and relaxation—perfect if you want a well-rounded day with a small, private group and a guide who can share local insights. If you appreciate authentic experiences and intimate exploration, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to the Azores.

Key Points

• Private Tour: A small-group, personalized experience with a dedicated guide.
• Variety of Stops: From viewpoints to a tea plantation, volcano calderas, and thermal springs.
• Cultural Experience: Enjoy tasting the traditional Cozido stew, cooked in volcanic soil.
• Relaxing Finish: Unwind in Terra Nostra Park‘s thermal pools with plants from around the world.
• Flexibility: The tour includes optional stops like bathing, with entrance fees not included in the price.
• Ideal for: Travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and relaxation in a private, comfortable setting.

In-Depth Review of the Full-Day São Miguel Tour

Overview and What to Expect

This private tour provides a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s volcanic landscape and cultural traditions, all within an eight-hour window. The experience is designed for small groups—up to four people—making it intimate and flexible. The price of approximately $278 covers transportation, bottled water, beach towels, and the undivided attention of your guide, who shares insights and stories along the way.

What we love most about this tour is how it manages to pack diverse experiences into a single day. You’ll start with breathtaking views over the northern coast at Miradouro de Santa Iria, where the lush greenery gives way to the deep blue Atlantic, setting the tone for the scenic day ahead. Then, the visit to Gorreana Tea Plantation offers not just a stroll through Europe’s only remaining tea plantation but also a chance to taste different types of teas—an authentic, local touch that many travelers enjoy.

Next, the tour moves to Miradouro Pico do Ferro, perched at 570 meters altitude, offering sweeping views of the volcanic crater Vale das Furnas and the Lagoa das Furnas. Here, you’ll learn how the volcanic activity influences everyday life on the island—and why it’s so vital to local cuisine.

The Heart of the Experience: Furnas and the Cozido

The centerpiece is undoubtedly the Lagoa das Furnas, where volcanic heat is harnessed to cook the traditional Cozido das Furnas—a rich stew slow-cooked underground in volcanic soil. The process takes about six to seven hours, and you’ll see the 56 holes in the ground used for cooking. Watching the process and learning about this unique method is fascinating, especially since it’s a local tradition still alive today.

Many visitors find the Cozido tasting experience unforgettable, as it offers a taste of authentic Azorean gastronomy. The tour includes a stop at Restaurante Tonys, conveniently located in the center of Furnas, where you can sample this hearty dish along with other local meals. One review praises the guide’s knowledge and the well-organized nature of the tour, noting that Lena shared “captivating stories and insights about the island.”

Caldeira das Furnas and Terra Nostra Park

The tour continues to Caldeira das Furnas, an active volcanic area bubbling with geysers, mineral waters, and mud pools. The sights of spouting mineral waters and steaming vents are both visually stunning and scientifically intriguing. The area’s geothermal activity isn’t just for show—it’s an active reminder of the island’s volcanic origins.

Finally, we reach Parque Terra Nostra, a lush botanical garden that’s been in existence for over 200 years. Here, you can relax in the thermal pool, which maintains a comfortable 35-40°C. The garden’s variety of native and exotic plants adds a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere—perfect for winding down after a busy morning of sightseeing. One visitor described the thermal spring as a “restorative” highlight, emphasizing how well it caps off the day.

Practical Considerations and Tips

The tour’s inclusion of transportation, water, and towels makes it quite convenient. However, the entrance fee of about 13 euros per person to sites such as Terra Nostra and Lagoa das Furnas isn’t covered, so budget accordingly. If you’re planning to bathe in the thermal pool, bring a swimsuit and towel, although towels are provided.

The tour runs from 9:00 am with pickup included, making it easy to start your day without hassle. Keep in mind that the activity is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might find some viewpoints or sites challenging to access.

Authenticity and Value

What truly stands out from reviews is the guide’s knowledge and friendly manner. Lena, the guide mentioned, received high praise for sharing engaging stories and providing useful recommendations. The small group size enhances the chance for personal interaction and tailored insights.

In terms of value, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—combining scenic views, culture, and relaxation—at a price that reflects its private, personalized nature. Compared with larger group tours, this private option gives you more flexibility and a richer, more intimate encounter with the island’s highlights.

The Sum Up

For travelers who want a thoughtfully designed day that covers São Miguel’s most scenic spots, traditional cuisine, and natural thermal springs, this private tour hits all the right notes. The combination of stunning viewpoints, a chance to learn about local cooking traditions, and a relaxing soak in thermal waters makes it a well-rounded experience.

If you value having a knowledgeable guide who can personalize your day and share local stories, Lena’s Tours 2 provides a trustworthy option. It works particularly well for small groups or couples seeking a private, meaningful exploration of the island.

While it’s not a budget option, the price reflects the private, comprehensive nature of the experience and its inclusion of transport and personalized attention. If you’re after a full immersion into São Miguel’s natural beauty and culinary traditions, this tour offers excellent value—and plenty of memorable moments.

FAQ

What is included in the price of this tour?
The tour price includes private transportation, bottled water, beach towels, and an air-conditioned vehicle.

Are entrance fees to the sites included?
No, the entrance fee of about 13 euros per person isn’t included. You’ll pay it on the day at the various sites.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Miradouro de Santa Iria, Gorreana Tea Plantation, Pico do Ferro viewpoint, Lagoa das Furnas, Restaurante Tonys, Caldeira das Furnas, and Terra Nostra Park.

Can I swim in the thermal springs?
Yes, you have the option to bathe in Terra Nostra’s thermal pool, which is heated to about 35-40°C. Towels are provided, but bring your bathing suit if you plan to swim.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am with pickup included.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility and health conditions, especially around hot springs and viewpoints.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is popular and is often booked around 255 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended.

What makes this tour stand out?
The knowledgeable guides, authentic experience of local cooking, and the chance to enjoy breathtaking views and thermal baths make it a standout choice for a comprehensive São Miguel day.