Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

A full-day adventure through São Miguel’s lush landscapes, bubbling geothermal wonders, and charming villages — all for $75. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 7-hour tour covers highlights like Furnas Lake, Gorreana Tea Plantation, and panoramic viewpoints. With pickup included and a small group size, it’s a great way to see the island’s diverse scenery without the hassle of planning.

What we love about this tour is how it combines breath-taking vistas, like the Miradouro de Santa Iria, with hands-on cultural experiences, such as visiting the traditional Gorreana Tea Factory. Plus, the opportunity to relax in natural thermal waters at Terra Nostra Park adds real value for those seeking a mix of sightseeing and leisure.

A possible consideration is the pace — some reviews mention the drive is quite swift, which might feel a bit rushed, especially if you prefer to linger longer at each stop. However, the balanced itinerary means you can see many highlights without feeling too overwhelmed.

This tour suits travelers eager to appreciate São Miguel’s natural beauty and authentic local culture in a manageable day. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy panoramic views, geothermal activity, and tasting local delicacies, like the famed cheese tarts from Vila Franca do Campo.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From lush tea plantations to volcanic craters, the tour showcases São Miguel’s natural beauty.
• Authentic experiences: Visits to Gorreana Tea Factory and thermal springs provide genuine insight into local traditions.
• Spectacular viewpoints: Miradouro de Santa Iria and Pico do Ferro offer stunning vistas over the island’s landscapes.
• Flexible leisure time: You can explore Terra Nostra Park or relax in thermal waters, adding a rejuvenating touch.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal and attentive experience.
• Cost-effective: At $75, the price includes transportation, most entry fees, and expert local commentary.

Exploring the Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded look at São Miguel’s signature landscapes and cultural touchpoints. For just over seven hours, you’ll visit key sites that highlight the island’s volcanic activity, lush agriculture, and charming towns. Led by a local guide (whose insights you’ll appreciate), it’s a chance to absorb the island’s best without the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple tickets.

The price of around $75 per person might seem modest, but it covers nearly everything — from transportation to entry fees at most sites. This makes it a good value for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without surprises or hidden costs.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

First, the itinerary strikes a nice balance between scenic viewpoints and cultural stops. Miradouro de Santa Iria, just a 20-minute drive from Ponta Delgada, treats you to sweeping views over the island’s northern coastline. It’s a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate São Miguel’s rugged beauty.

Second, the visit to Gorreana Tea Factory, one of the world’s oldest tea plantations still in operation, offers a tangible taste of local industry. You get to learn how tea is made and sample a few varieties — a simple yet meaningful experience that adds flavor to your day.

Third, the panoramic Pico do Ferro viewpoint near Furnas provides a striking view of Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic crater lake known for its steaming fumaroles. The ascent is manageable, and the view of the surrounding landscape is worth the slight climb.

Fourth, the stop at Lagoa das Furnas allows you to see the geothermal activity up close — bubbling hot springs and fumaroles make this a truly unique sight. Plus, you can explore the nearby botanical gardens or take a dip in Terra Nostra Park’s thermal waters if you wish.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start in Ponta Delgada: The tour begins at 9:00 am, giving you the whole day to explore. It’s a convenient starting point, especially if you’re staying in the town.

Miradouro de Santa Iria: Your first stop is just a 20-minute drive away. This viewpoint offers an expansive vista of São Miguel’s north coast, with rugged cliffs and the Atlantic stretching to the horizon. It’s a great way to orient yourself and get a sense of the island’s geography.

Gorreana Tea Factory: A 15-minute drive from the viewpoint, this plantation has been producing tea since the 19th century. You’ll walk through the lush fields, learn about traditional production methods, and sample local teas. Travelers have appreciated this stop for its authenticity and the chance to enjoy a quiet moment amid the greenery.

Pico do Ferro Viewpoint: Next, about 20 minutes away, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Lagoa das Furnas and the surrounding volcanic landscape. The vantage point is often described as breathtaking, especially when the weather is clear. It’s the perfect spot for photographs and to appreciate the island’s volcanic origins.

Lagoa das Furnas: Spending approximately 40 minutes here, you’ll see bubbling fumaroles and hot springs that make Furnas famous. It’s a dynamic environment where geothermal activity is visible at every turn. You might find it fascinating to see how natural heat powers the local hot springs and gardens.

Furnas Village: You’ll have over an hour to explore at your leisure. This charming village is known for its thermal springs, botanical gardens, and Terra Nostra Park. Many visitors enjoy dipping into the naturally warm waters, which are said to have therapeutic benefits. The area also offers local eateries where you can try the famous “Cozido,” a stew cooked using volcanic heat — though that’s not included in the tour.

Vila Franca do Campo: The first capital of São Miguel, this seaside town features picturesque streets, historical architecture, and stunning views of the islet just offshore. Travelers often mention the delicious local cheese tarts, a sweet treat you shouldn’t miss.

Nossa Senhora da Paz Sanctuary: Sitting atop a hill overlooking Vila Franca do Campo, this sanctuary offers serene views of the town and the islet. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect and soak in the scenery.

Return to Ponta Delgada: The tour wraps up after a 30-minute drive back, arriving by late afternoon, giving you time to relax or explore more of the town.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

While the tour covers many highlights, it’s worth noting that the drive can be quick, as some reviewers mentioned. One traveler noted, “the journey was at full speed for the schedule, and the guide liked the accelerator a bit too much.” If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider how that might impact your experience at each stop.

The small group size — limited to 8 travelers — ensures personalized attention and a chance to ask questions. This intimacy can be especially valuable when exploring sites like the botanical gardens or thermal springs, where local insights enrich your understanding.

Transportation is included, making it easy and stress-free. The tour operates in good weather, but if rain or fog roll in, some viewpoints might be less impressive. The tour offers full refunds if canceled due to bad weather, which is reassuring.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a rundown of São Miguel in one day. It’s perfect if you’re keen on spectacular vistas, geothermal wonders, and authentic local products. The smaller group size makes it suitable for those who value a more personal experience, rather than large bus tours.

If you’re interested in nature, photography, and local culture, this tour offers enough variety to keep you engaged. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure, such as relaxing in thermal waters or sampling teas.

Final Thoughts

This Furnas and Furnas Lake tour is a solid choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded glimpse of São Miguel’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. It’s a good value at $75, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, most entry fees, and the chance to see the island with an experienced guide.

You’ll love the spectacular viewpoints that allow for memorable photos, and the chance to taste local delicacies like tea and cheese tarts. The opportunity to relax in natural thermal waters or walk through botanical gardens adds a memorable leisure component.

While the drive can be brisk, the carefully curated stops mean you’ll leave with a genuine appreciation for the island’s volcanic beauty and agricultural heritage.

This tour suits travelers who want a full, authentic day in São Miguel without the hassle of logistics or self-driving, especially if they value intimate group sizes and local insights. It’s a journey that balances scenery, culture, and relaxation — perfect for a first or second visit to this stunning island.

FAQ

Does this tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is included in the price, with pickup offered in Ponta Delgada and a small group setting.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are all site entrance fees included?
Most fees are included; however, there is a charge for entry to Furnas Lake, which is not part of the tour price.

Can I relax in thermal waters during the tour?
Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the thermal waters at Terra Nostra Park during your free time in Furnas.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind that some walking and climbing at viewpoints might be required.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a camera are recommended, especially for viewpoints and scenic stops.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 19 days in advance, so plan ahead if you’re visiting during peak season.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This full-day Furnas and Furnas Lake tour promises a deep dive into São Miguel’s stunning scenery and authentic culture, all without the stress of planning it yourself. Perfect for those eager to see the highlights while enjoying a relaxed, small-group experience.