Full Day Guided Tour to Furnas with Lunch Included

A Complete Day Exploring São Miguel’s Natural Wonders and Cultural Gems

If you’re visiting the Azores and want to see the best of São Miguel in a single day, this guided tour to Furnas offers a compelling mix of volcanic landscapes, charming villages, and delicious local food—plus the benefit of a knowledgeable guide to navigate it all. At just under $100, with eight hours of exploration, it’s a well-priced way to access spots that might be tough to reach on your own, especially if you don’t have a rental car.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its small-group format—limited to just eight travelers—which ensures you get personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The local guide’s insights make a big difference in understanding the places you visit, from the bubbling fumaroles to the lush botanical gardens. Plus, the included lunch featuring local flavors and the chance to sample São Miguel’s renowned tea are delightful perks.

One thing to keep in mind is that some attractions, like Terra Nostra’s thermal baths, require an extra entrance fee, so that’s an additional expense to consider. Also, because it’s a full-day tour, you’ll want to dress comfortably and be prepared for some walking and variable weather.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of the east side of São Miguel without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those interested in volcanic activity, scenic vistas, local culture, and good food—all packed into a well-organized day.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Local guide offers authentic insights into the island’s geology, culture, and history.
• Diverse stops include volcanic hotspots, scenic viewpoints, and charming villages.
• All-inclusive features like lunch and tea tastings boost value and enjoyment.
• Flexible logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off simplify the day.
• Additional costs apply for certain thermal baths, so budget accordingly.

In-Depth Review of the Full Day Guided Tour to Furnas

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is designed to cover a wide swath of São Miguel’s stunning east side, providing a good balance of nature, culture, and local flavor. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, the day begins with a sense of anticipation—your guide, whose knowledge and friendly demeanor are repeatedly praised, sets the tone for an engaging experience.

Lagoa das Furnas is your first stop, where you’ll see the famous stew cooking in volcanic boilers and learn about the geothermal activity that powers it. The sight of the bubbling pots and the lake’s peaceful surface is a memorable introduction to the island’s fiery geology. One reviewer called it a “wonderful tour from beginning to end,” and the chance to see how local people cook traditional dishes underground is a genuine highlight.

Next, you’ll visit the Porto Formoso tea plantations, a lush, green area where you can stroll through the plantations and sample freshly brewed local tea at the factory. The reviews rave about the well-selected sites and the fantastic lunch, with one traveler mentioning the “mosaic cow landscape,” which hints at how scenic and pastoral the island’s countryside is.

The Caldeira das Furnas area introduces you to the geothermal activity with fumaroles, hot springs, and mineral waters you can taste—another highlight for nature lovers and those curious about volcanic phenomena. The eruptive activity here is clearly visible, and the medicinal sludge is used for health treatments, adding an interesting cultural and scientific angle.

A visit to Parque Terra Nostra offers a chance to walk among ancient botanical gardens, surrounded by the lush, volcanic landscape. While admission isn’t included, many find it worth the extra cost to dip into the thermal pool—that’s a detail to keep in mind if you’re into relaxing in hot springs. One guest mentioned that the scenery is stunning, and the garden’s history adds depth to your walk.

Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers sweeping views into the volcanic crater of Vale das Furnas. The panoramic landscape, with the lake on one side and mountains on the other, makes for stunning photos and a moment of quiet reflection.

The charming town of Vila Franca do Campo provides a glimpse of the island’s history, as the first capital before a devastating earthquake in 1522. The town’s streets, with their quaint charm, contrast with the raw power of the volcanoes you’ve seen earlier. It’s a place that invites wandering and enjoying local cafés.

Next, the tour returns to the Lagoa das Furnas, where the famous Cozido das Furnas—a stew cooked underground—is prepared. Tasting this traditional dish is a treat, and it reflects how deeply local culture and volcanic activity are intertwined.

The highlight of the volcanic area, the Caldeira das Furnas, is awe-inspiring. The abundance of sulfuric sludge and active fumaroles showcase Mother Nature’s vigor. Many reviews note the power of the active volcanism on display here, along with the therapeutic qualities attributed to the mineral waters.

Finally, you’ll visit Miradouro de Santa Iria, a scenic viewpoint above Porto Formoso, and the historic village of Ribeira Grande, which offers a peaceful end to an active day.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The guide’s expertise and personable approach are often praised. Travelers note guides like Rui and Ana for their friendly tone and deep knowledge, making even scientific phenomena like fumaroles engaging and easy to understand. Their stories about local history, culture, and geology elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The variety of sites visited ensures you experience both the raw volcanic power and the peaceful beauty of São Miguel’s landscapes. From steaming geysers and bubbling mud to lush gardens and panoramic viewpoints, you’ll get a well-rounded picture of the island’s diverse scenery.

Culinary experiences are a key part of the tour’s appeal. Not only is the lunch included, but you also sample local tea and see traditional cooking methods—adding an authentic flavor to your visit. Several reviews highlight the delicious food as a standout element, with one calling the meal “super delicious.”

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll avoid the stress of driving on unfamiliar roads. The small group size enhances the experience—fewer crowds, more personalized attention, and ample opportunities to ask questions or linger at your favorite spots. With pickup and drop-off at your hotel, logistics are simplified, freeing you to focus on enjoying the sights.

Price and Value

At approximately $97 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the all-day itinerary, multiple sites, and included meals. The price includes several entrance fees, like Lagoa das Furnas and the geothermal boilers, but not the thermal baths, which are extra. For travelers interested in volcanoes, local culture, and scenic views, this tour delivers a lot of bang for your buck.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Based on reviews, this tour consistently earns praise for its knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One traveler appreciated learning about the history and culture of São Miguel along the way, while another noted the beautiful scenery and delicious food made for a “wonderful experience.” The chance to see hot springs, fumaroles, and botanical gardens in one day is hard to beat.

Some reviewers suggest bringing an old swimsuit to enjoy Terra Nostra’s thermal baths, and many mention that the stops are well spaced out, giving plenty of time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day adventure suits curious travelers who want an authentic, hands-on experience of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape and local culture. It’s ideal for those who prefer a small-group setting for a more intimate connection and personalized insights. If you love scenic viewpoints, tasty local food, and learning about volcanic activity, you’ll find this tour engaging and rewarding.

Travelers looking for a relaxing day with minimal planning will appreciate the hotel pickup and drop-off, while those interested in nature, history, and gastronomy will find plenty to love. Be prepared for some walking and variable weather—comfortable shoes and layers are recommended.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, water, and entrance fees for sites like Lagoa das Furnas and the geothermal boilers. Tea tastings and a guided commentary are also part of the experience.

Are there extra costs?
Yes, the thermal baths at Terra Nostra and Poça da Dona Beija are not included and cost extra if you choose to visit. The entrance fees for these baths are separate from the tour price.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, from mid-morning to late afternoon. You’ll spend time at multiple sites, with some stops lasting about 30-45 minutes.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and plenty of interaction with your guide.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers find it accessible, but due to walking and some uneven surfaces, it’s best for older adults or children comfortable with moderate activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, and perhaps a swimsuit if you plan to enjoy Terra Nostra’s thermal baths.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in nature and local culture, but keep in mind the walking involved.

What makes this tour different from self-guided trips?
The guided aspect means you’ll gain insider knowledge about the geology, history, and culture, making what you see more meaningful and memorable.

Overall, this guided tour to Furnas offers a well-rounded, authentic look at São Miguel’s volcanic beauty, cultural richness, and delicious cuisine—all in a comfortable, intimate setting. If you’re after a day of discovery that balances nature, history, and local flavors, this experience delivers on all fronts.