Furnas is a highlight of São Miguel, thanks to its bubbling hot springs, lush gardens, and volcanic landscapes. Unlike many other destinations, Furnas offers a wide variety of tours that bring these natural wonders to life. Whether you’re into scenic hikes, cultural experiences, or active adventures, you’ll find something that suits your style. We particularly love the Private Tour Furnas: Furnas Lake Hike & Terra Nostra Park, as it combines a personalized touch with a deep dive into the region’s geothermal magic. Walking through Terra Nostra’s thermal pools or discovering waterfalls and gothic chapels makes this tour stand out for its mix of nature and history.
Furnas isn’t just about relaxing in hot springs — it’s a place to explore volcanic activity, taste local flavors, and enjoy the outdoors in a variety of ways. For those who prefer an active, eco-friendly experience, the Furnas: Guided E-bike Tour with Cheese Tasting offers a fun, fast-paced way to see the valley while sampling regional cheeses. If scenic landscapes and culinary treats are your thing, the Furnas: Tea Plantation and Hot Springs Tour combines lush greenery with geothermal marvels. For travelers wanting a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s east side, the S. Miguel East: Top Scenic Highlights 1 Day Private Tour covers everything from Furnas to waterfalls and coastal cliffs.
1. Private Tour Furnas: Furnas Lake Hike & Terra Nostra Park
At number 1, this private tour offers an immersive experience of Furnas’s most iconic sights. It starts with a personalized pickup from locations like Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande, or Lagoa, making it flexible for your schedule. You’ll first explore the charming village of Furnas and its famous Botanical Garden, home to exotic plants and steaming fumaroles. The guided nature walk around the Lagoa das Furnas reveals the area’s volcanic activity up close, with bubbling springs and mineral pools. A highlight is visiting a hidden waterfall and a mysterious gothic chapel, which add a touch of adventure and history.
Later, you’ll relax at Terra Nostra Park, known for its thermal pools—perfect for soaking after your walk—and wander through lush gardens. The tour includes a tasting of local mineral waters at Furnas Hydropolis, where you can sample different mineral compositions. The itinerary’s pacing allows plenty of time for photos and relaxation, capped by a scenic stop at Pico do Ferro Lookout for panoramic views.
Bottom Line: This private experience balances nature, culture, and relaxation, making it ideal for couples or small groups wanting a tailored day. At $317 for two, it’s a premium option but offers exceptional personalization.
2. Furnas: Guided E-bike Tour with Cheese Tasting
At number 2, this e-bike tour is perfect for those who want a lively, hands-on exploration of Furnas. For around $77 per person, you’ll pedal through volcanic fumaroles, lush valleys, and historic buildings, exploring parts of the Furnas Valley that are tough to access on foot. The guided route includes a visit to volcanic fumaroles where the earth hisses and steams, and you’ll see the famous Cozido stew cooking underground—a must-see local culinary process.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of active outdoor fun with regional tasting. You’ll sample delicious local cheeses and regional products, giving your trip a tasty edge. The guide’s insights into Furnas’s volcanic history and architecture make the ride educational as well as enjoyable. The panoramic view from Pico dos Milhos provides a memorable backdrop for photos, with sweeping views over the valley and village below.
Good for: Active travelers who want to cover more ground in less time, and those interested in food. The only potential downside is that biking might be challenging if you’re not comfortable on two wheels, but the e-bike assistance makes it accessible.
Bottom Line: A fun, wholesome way to see Furnas’s geothermal and agricultural highlights with plenty of tasting included. Great for energetic travelers.
3. Furnas: Tea Plantation and Hot Springs Tour
This tour is a favorite for those who enjoy combining scenery with local products. For about 3.5 hours, you’ll visit a rare European tea plantation, where local tea is grown and harvested. It’s one of the only tea plantations in Europe, and tasting the fresh tea brewed on-site is a special treat. Afterwards, you’ll stroll along black sand beaches and enjoy panoramic views from a scenic lookout, soaking in the contrasts of volcanic terrain and Atlantic vistas.
The tour also includes visits to geothermal fumaroles and bubbling hot springs in Furnas. You’ll learn about the geothermal activity that powers these natural wonders and see steaming vents up close. Guests often mention how this tour makes the geothermal landscape more tangible, especially paired with the calming sights of the ocean.
This experience is best suited for travelers interested in geothermal activity, horticulture, and regional cuisine. The combination of ocean views, hot springs, and tea tasting makes it a well-rounded day out.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers who want a mix of nature, culture, and culinary delights without a strenuous schedule.
4. S. Miguel East: Top Scenic Highlights 1 Day Private Tour
Finally, at number 4, this private full-day tour covers the east side of São Miguel, including Furnas, waterfalls, and coastal cliffs. Starting with an easy 30-minute jeep or SUV ride, it’s designed for those who want a thorough overview of the region’s best sights. The visit to Furnas includes a guided tour of geothermal fields and hot springs, with options to swim in Terra Nostra’s famous iron-rich pools.
What sets this tour apart is its comprehensive approach, including waterfalls in Nordeste and stunning cliffs along the Atlantic coast. The itinerary is flexible, and the reviews suggest it’s a good value at $170 per person for a full 8-hour experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without sacrificing depth or personalized attention.
Ideal for visitors with limited time who want a balanced mix of geothermal, scenic, and cultural sites, this tour suits those seeking a broad but intimate exploration of São Miguel’s east side.
Bottom Line: This private tour hits all the top highlights efficiently, ideal for travelers wanting variety and flexibility in a full-day itinerary.
$170 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Furnas
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and fitness level. If you prefer a personalized, relaxed experience with plenty of time at Terra Nostra, the private Furnas Lake Hike & Terra Nostra Park is ideal. For those seeking active adventure and local flavors, the E-bike Tour offers a fun ride with tastings. If geothermal curiosity and culinary culture excite you, the Tea Plantation and Hot Springs provides a scenic, relaxed option. Lastly, if you want a comprehensive day covering multiple highlights, the East Coast Private Tour suits travelers who want an all-in-one overview.
Think about your budget, time constraints, and what you most want to experience. Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and tour. All these options promise a memorable taste of Furnas’s volcanic beauty and local culture.
Furnas offers a variety of ways to experience its volcanic landscapes, natural thermal pools, and rich culture. Whether you prefer a private, tailored experience, an active e-bike ride, or an immersive scenic tour, the options listed above provide something for every traveler. For those wanting a deeper connection with the region’s natural wonders, the Private Tour Furnas: Furnas Lake Hike & Terra Nostra Park remains a top choice. If adventure and flavor are your priorities, the E-bike tour is hard to beat. No matter which you pick, early booking is recommended to ensure you don’t miss out on these incredible experiences in Furnas.