Full Day: Furnas, Tea Plantations & More With Lunch

A Complete Day on São Miguel: Furnas, Thermal Pools, Tea Plantations & More

When you think of the Azores, images of volcanic landscapes, steaming fumaroles, lush green tea fields, and tranquil lakes often come to mind. For a taste of this natural beauty, the “Full Day: Furnas, Tea Plantations & More With Lunch” tour offers an immersive experience that hits all these highlights in one well-organized day. At $85 per person and just about a full day’s worth of exploring, it’s a great way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What really stands out about this tour is how it combines nature, culture, and culinary delights in a way that feels both authentic and thoughtfully curated. We loved the chance to walk around the serene Furnas Lake, relax in thermal pools, and sample Europe’s only tea plantations—each offering unique insights into the island’s volcanic heritage and local traditions. The “Cozido” lunch, slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat, is a memorable highlight that brings you directly into Azorean life.

One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees to the thermal pools are not included, so you’ll want to budget a bit extra if you plan to soak in the waters in Terra Nostra or other spots. Also, since the tour covers quite a bit of ground—coastal villages, volcanic craters, tea fields—it might be less ideal if you prefer a more leisurely, less packed schedule. Still, if you’re after a rich, varied experience of São Miguel in one day, this tour fits the bill nicely.

This experience suits travelers who value guided insights, appreciate natural beauty, and want a taste of local cuisine. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a cruise stop, it offers an efficient way to see a lot without feeling rushed.

This experience made our article of Ribeira Grande’s 3 Top Full-Day Tours.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Includes Furnas, thermal pools, tea plantations, and scenic coastal villages.
• Authentic local experiences: Enjoy the traditional “Cozido” cooked using volcanic heat and visit Europe’s only tea plantations.
• Small group setting: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and interaction.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides share interesting facts and make the experience more engaging.
• Beautiful scenery: From volcanic lakes to rugged coastlines, the visuals are stunning.
• Flexibility: Hotel pick-up and drop-off included, making logistics easier and more convenient.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring São Miguel with a Focus on Natural Wonders and Cultural Experiences

The Azores are a patchwork of volcanic landscapes, lush valleys, and Atlantic coastlines. This tour is designed to take you through some of the most photogenic and culturally significant spots on São Miguel, giving you a well-rounded impression of the island’s natural treasures and local customs.

Starting with the Coastal Charm: Caloura and Vila Franca do Campo

Your day begins along the south coast, with a stop in Caloura, a small village where jagged cliffs plunge into turquoise waters. It’s a photogenic spot that captures the raw beauty of the Atlantic. This is a peaceful place to start, where you can appreciate the rugged coastline and maybe snap some photos of the clear waters.

Next, you’ll visit Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s first capital. The town boasts a charming historic center and a volcanic islet just offshore that makes for a captivating view. Here, you’ll get a sense of how the island’s history and volcanic activity have shaped local life.

Venturing into the Heart of Volcanic Activity: Furnas

The core of this tour is Furnas, a volcanic crater area famous for its steaming fumaroles and geothermal activity. Our guide, often someone like Eric based on reviews, will lead you through the landscape, pointing out bubbling mud pots and the ever-present steam vents that make this place so unique.

The highlight here is Furnas Lake, a tranquil, emerald-green body of water surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot to pause, breathe in the volcanic air, and soak in the scenery. Many travelers note how photogenic this setting is, with steaming fumaroles adding drama to the landscape.

What makes Furnas truly special is the chance to relax in natural thermal pools. While entrance fees are not included, you might find the thermal baths in Terra Nostra Park or similar spots a magical way to unwind. The warm waters are said to have therapeutic benefits, and the experience of soaking in volcanic mineral-rich pools is both soothing and memorable.

The Unique Culinary Experience: Cozido das Furnas

One of the most talked-about parts of this tour is the “Cozido”, a traditional dish slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat. You’ll see the underground steam vents and even help or observe as the local cooks prepare this hearty meal. When served, the Cozido offers a taste of Azorean life—slow, hearty, and infused with the geothermal energy that permeates the island.

Multiple reviews emphasize how delicious and authentic this experience is, with one guest describing it as a “delicious plate of Cozido, which is slowly cooked in the volcanic soil.” It’s a literal culinary connection to the land and its volcanic roots.

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Visiting Europe’s Only Tea Plantations

Next, you’ll head north to Europe’s only tea plantations, a lush, scenic stretch of fields where the island’s volcanic soil nurtures tea plants. Here, you’ll get to walk through the tea fields, often with stunning views over the landscape, and enjoy a complimentary tea tasting.

The tea plantations are a surprising find for many travelers—they add a touch of the exotic and demonstrate how volcanic soil supports a variety of crops. Many visitors have enjoyed learning about the local tea production process, making it a delightful, educational stop.

Scenic Drive Back Along the Coast

The return journey along the northern coast passes through coastal villages and scenic landscapes. This part of the tour offers a chance to reflect on what you’ve seen and enjoy more of the island’s diverse scenery. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the well-paced itinerary, which balances adventure and relaxation.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour is priced at $85 per person, which for a full day covering so many highlights is quite reasonable. The cost includes transportation in a climate-controlled van, a small group of up to 8 people for personalized attention, and an expert guide fluent in English, Portuguese, or Spanish.

You’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel, streamlining logistics and allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience. The tour lasts about 1 day, with starting times available—be sure to check your specific schedule.

Note: Entrance fees for thermal pools are not included, so budget extra if you want to soak in the thermal waters, which many guests recommend.

Reviews Speak Volumes

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One reviewer called the tour “very well organized from beginning to end,” and appreciated how the guide, Eric, shared interesting facts and personal stories. Another highlighted the magical experience of the thermal pools and the authenticity of the Cozido, describing the tour as “relaxed, well organized, and fun.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want an immersive, well-rounded day exploring São Miguel’s natural beauty and local culture. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided tours with small groups that allow for interaction and personalized attention.

If you’re a foodie or interested in traditional local dishes, the Cozido is a highlight. For those seeking stunning scenery and relaxing thermal baths, the thermal pools will satisfy. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day of sightseeing, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or just enjoy the landscape.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced combination of nature, culture, and cuisine, making it a fantastic value for anyone wanting to see and experience some of São Miguel’s best features in one go. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and authentic local treats, it captures the true essence of the island’s volcanic spirit.

While it’s not the most leisurely pace—there’s a lot packed into the day—the payoff is a comprehensive, memorable snapshot of what makes São Miguel special. If you’re eager to explore, learn, and relax, this tour could be just the thing.

Ideal for curious travelers who want an authentic taste of the Azores’ volcanic landscape, local traditions, and natural beauty—all in a manageable, engaging day.

FAQs

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included within designated areas, making logistics simple.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately one full day, with starting times available depending on your schedule.

Is the thermal pool entry fee included?
No, entrance fees to thermal pools are not included, so plan for additional costs if you wish to soak.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, offering flexibility for international travelers.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit and towel if you plan to use thermal pools, sunscreen, and a camera.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a guided tour with a set itinerary, but small groups mean room for some flexibility or questions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, especially if your kids enjoy scenic landscapes and outdoor activities.

How much does the Cozido lunch cost?
The lunch is included in the tour price, providing an authentic, locally cooked meal.

Are entrance fees for the pools included?
No, they are extra, so check prices beforehand if you plan to use the thermal baths.

This tour is a fantastic way to see São Miguel’s volcanic heart, sample local flavors, and experience the island’s natural beauty firsthand. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply curious about volcanic landscapes, it offers a well-rounded and authentic taste of the Azores.

You can check availability for your dates here: