São Miguel: Full-Day 4WD Jeep Tour to Furnas with Lunch

This experience made our article of Top 15 Full-Day Tours In Sao Miguel Island.

Discover the True Flavor of São Miguel with a Full-Day 4WD Jeep Tour to Furnas

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and experience São Miguel’s volcanic charm, this full-day 4WD Jeep Tour to Furnas is a fantastic choice. For around $97, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring the island’s thermal springs, fumaroles, and scenic vistas, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. The tour is especially appealing because it combines adventure, culture, and nature in one memorable day.

What we love most about this experience is how it offers a personalized journey through scenic backroads—away from tourist crowds—plus the chance to bathe in thermal waters and taste authentic local dishes cooked in volcanic heat. The inclusion of a tea plantation visit adds a relaxing, cultural touch.

One potential consideration is the price of entrance fees, which are not included in the tour cost. That means if you want to visit certain hot springs or attractions, you’ll need to budget for additional expenses. Still, for the value and depth of experience, this tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors, natural beauty, and engaging guides. It’s perfect for those who want a full, immersive day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Comprehensive Half-Adventure: Combines scenic drives, hot springs, and cultural stops in one day.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Romeo and Ricardo enrich the experience with insights and friendliness.
Authentic Local Flavors: Enjoy a traditional cozido, stew cooked in volcanic heat, along with tea tastings.
Access to Thermal Waters: Swim in the mineral-rich waters of Poça da Dona Beija, perfect for relaxation.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty.
Ideal for Active Travelers: The 4WD vehicle navigates secondary roads, bringing travelers closer to the island’s less-accessible spots.

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Exploring São Miguel’s Thermal Wonders and Scenic Beauty

This full-day 4WD Jeep Tour offers a taste of São Miguel’s volcanic heart. From the start, you’ll notice the emphasis on small roads and hidden spots that larger buses often can’t access, making for a more intimate experience. Your guide—such as Romeo or Ricardo—serves as a friendly storyteller, sharing insights about the island’s geology and history that make every stop feel more meaningful.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do

Vila Franca do Campo and Nossa Senhora da Paz Chapel
The journey begins with a scenic drive along the southern coast, passing through charming small villages. Your first notable stop is the Nossa Senhora da Paz chapel, perched on a hilltop offering sweeping views over Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s first capital. Here, you get a chance to admire the panoramic vistas and maybe snap a few photos of the volcanic-island scenery.

Poça da Dona Beija
Next, you’ll visit Poça da Dona Beija, a series of iron-rich thermal springs. Travelers rave about this stop, with one reviewer noting, “We enjoyed swimming in the thermal waters.” Remember to bring your swimsuit, as these springs are heated by underground volcanic activity to around 102°F. The springs, part of the Furnas Valley’s geothermal system, offer a relaxing break and a chance to soak in mineral-rich waters that have been used for centuries for their supposed health benefits.

Furnas Hot Springs and Fumeroles
The heart of the tour is exploring Furnas, famous for its hot springs and fumaroles. Walking among the bubbling vents and steaming fumaroles, you’ll see volcanic activity firsthand. This area is a geological showcase, with steam rising from underground, and the aroma of sulfur in the air.

Cozido Lunch
One of the tour’s highlights is the lunch featuring cozido, a local stew slow-cooked 6 to 8 hours in volcanic heat. It’s a hearty, authentic dish that reflects the ingenuity of island life—cooking in natural thermal vents. It’s a real treat for anyone wanting to taste traditional Azorean cuisine.

Pico do Ferro Viewpoint
After lunch, you’ll ascend to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, where you’ll get a breathtaking view of the Furnas Crater. It’s a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the geological forces that shaped this landscape.

Northern Shore and Tea Plantation
The return journey takes you along the northern coast, where you’ll visit a tea plantation. A short tour of the factory reveals the island’s tea-making process, and you can sample some freshly brewed tea—an unusual but delightful experience. The lush greenery and cool climate make the tea plantation a calming end to the day.

The Value of This Tour

At $97, this tour provides a comprehensive day with transportation, guiding, and a substantial lunch included. While entrance fees to certain springs or attractions aren’t covered, travelers typically find that the guided commentary and convenience more than justify the expense. The small group size and personalized approach ensure you’re not just a number but genuinely engaged with the landscape and culture.

The reviews underscore the quality of guides, with comments like “Ricardo was very kind and knowledgeable” and “Romeo was a great guide.” These guides help turn a sightseeing trip into a learning experience, making the history and geology of São Miguel come alive.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see São Miguel’s geothermal and scenic highlights without the stress of planning. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers eager for a full, active day with plenty of opportunities to relax, learn, and taste local flavors. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences and guided insights, this trip will be a highlight of your visit.

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The Sum Up

The São Miguel Full-Day 4WD Jeep Tour to Furnas offers an engaging mix of natural wonders, local cuisine, and cultural insights. Its focus on geothermal sites and scenic viewpoints makes it a standout for travelers interested in the island’s volcanic personality. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor enhance the experience, making it feel personalized rather than just another tour.

While you should budget for additional entrance fees if you wish to visit certain springs, the overall value in terms of accessibility, storytelling, and variety remains high. The tour strikes a great balance between adventure and relaxation, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation of São Miguel’s unique landscape and culture.

For those eager to discover São Miguel’s volcanic heart, this tour offers a well-rounded, insightful, and enjoyable day that captures the essence of the island—a must for lovers of natural beauty and authentic local life.

FAQ

Are the entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you might want to budget extra if you plan to visit additional sites like hot springs.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a swimsuit for the thermal springs, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with starting times depending on availability. Check your booking details for the exact departure time.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, reviews mention guides being great with families of all ages, making it a flexible option for travelers with children.

What language are the guides speaking?
Guides speak both English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication and engaging storytelling.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.