Furnas: Mystic Tour (w/Dinner & Thermal Springs)

If you’re planning a trip to São Miguel and want to experience a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and relaxing thermal baths in one evening, the Furnas: Mystic Tour offered by Wildscape Azores is worth considering. This six-hour adventure combines scenic drives, authentic Portuguese gastronomy, and unique geothermal attractions, all guided by knowledgeable locals with a knack for storytelling.

What we love most about this tour is the opportunity to see Furnas at night, which brings a new, almost mystical dimension to the volcanic landscape. The second highlight is the chance to taste the famous “Cozido das Furnas”, a hearty stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat—a true culinary marvel. The only potential downside is that admittance to the thermal springs is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to book that separately if you want to enjoy the hot springs, which many reviews recommend highly.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for those who appreciate insightful guides, authentic local cuisine, and scenic settings, plus it’s suitable for most travelers given the moderate physical activity involved.

Key Points

• Authentic experience combining geothermal sights, local cuisine, and thermal baths
• Small group size (max 12 travelers) for a more personal experience
• Evening timing offers a special perspective on Furnas’ volcanic activity
• Cost-effective when considering the included dinner, guide, and multiple stops
• Pre-booking of thermal baths recommended for guaranteed access
• Good for all ages; suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility

Exploring Furnas: What to Expect

The Scenic Drive from Ponta Delgada

The tour kicks off with a scenic 45-minute drive from Ponta Delgada, taking you along the lush coastlines towards Furnas. Along the way, the guide will point out some of the stunning landscapes and the tiny islet of Vila Franca do Campo, providing context about the island’s volcanic and agricultural history. It’s a relaxing start that sets the tone for the wonders ahead.

Lagoa das Furnas – The Heart of the Volcano

Our first stop is Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic caldera lake famous for its geothermal activity and the bubbling earth around its shores. You’ll get to see the steaming vents and the area where locals cook the Cozido das Furnas—a slow-cooked stew made of meats and vegetables, underground for around 6-7 hours using volcanic heat. The scenery here is lively and often dotted with birdlife, making it a favorite for nature lovers and photographers alike. The entrance fee is small (about 3 euros for non-residents), and while not included in the tour, it’s worth the modest expense for the views.

The Gastronomic Highlight: Traditional Cozido

After soaking in the sights, you’ll sit down at a traditional local restaurant to enjoy the Cozido. For many, this is the culinary highlight—an authentic, flavorful meal cooked by the volcano. The menu includes starter, main dish, drinks, dessert, and coffee, with vegetarian and kids’ options available. As one reviewer noted, “We had a great meal of food cooked underground by the volcanos.” The experience of tasting this stew, combined with the warm, earthy atmosphere, makes this a memorable part of the tour.

Relaxing at Poca da Dona Beija Hot Springs

Following lunch, the tour takes you to Poça da Dona Beija, where you can unwind in thermal pools at around 39ºC (102ºF). Surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of birds, this is a serene spot to relax and reflect. Many travelers find the mineral-rich waters a treat for the skin, and reviews frequently highlight the enjoyment of soaking in these warm pools at night, especially after a day of exploring. You have the option to book your thermal bath entry separately, which is recommended to ensure you get your preferred time slot (either 7 pm or 8:30 pm).

A Gentle Stroll in Alameda Garden

To stretch your legs, the tour includes a walk through Alameda Garden, which features a small streamlet, a human-made waterfall, and a hidden aquarium. It’s a peaceful spot that offers a taste of local garden design and tranquility, perfect for a leisurely 30-minute break before the evening’s climax.

Nighttime Spectacle at Caldeira das Furnas

The tour wraps up with a visit to Caldeira das Furnas to witness the dramatic display of volcanic activity at night. The boiling water pools release steam in a smoky, illuminated show—nature’s own fireworks. Here, you can sample mineral waters and enjoy a sweet local delicacy, making for a fitting end to a full evening of natural wonders and local flavors.

The Return Journey

The drive back takes about 40 minutes along the northern coast, providing a relaxed atmosphere to reflect on your evening or catch a quick nap. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, completing a well-rounded 6-hour experience.

The Value of the Tour

Considering the price of $112.23 per person, the tour offers significant value. It includes a guided experience, transportation, dinner, and plenty of authentic sights. The guided commentary is often praised; reviewers like Emma and Kenneth appreciated how Ivo’s knowledge made the adventure more engaging. The small group size ensures more personalized attention, and the inclusion of dinner and snacks makes this a convenient full-evening outing.

However, the thermal bath admission isn’t included in the base price, which could add around €17 per person if booked separately. Still, many find this extra expense worthwhile, given the relaxation and health benefits of the mineral-rich waters.

Why the Price Works

When you consider the combined value of transportation, expert guidance, a hearty local meal, and access to unique geothermal sites, the cost feels quite reasonable. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances scenery, culture, and relaxation—perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of Furnas without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to curious travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions, geology, and cuisine. It’s great for those who prefer a small, intimate group rather than large bus loads. Food lovers will enjoy the chance to taste Cozido, and anyone interested in thermal baths will find the optional hot springs visit a highlight. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors to São Miguel who want a broad, yet manageable, introduction to Furnas’ volcanic character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from and back to the meeting point, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Can I visit the thermal springs on my own?
You can, but the tour offers the convenience of booking your thermal bath entry for an extra fee. It’s recommended to secure your spot before the tour to guarantee access during your preferred time.

What should I bring for the hot springs?
Bring swimwear and a towel. Lockers are available for an extra fee if you want to store your belongings securely.

How long do we stay at each stop?
Expect around 30 minutes at Lagoa das Furnas, 1.5 hours for lunch, 1.5 hours at the hot springs, 30 minutes in Alameda Garden, and 1 hour at Caldeira das Furnas, making the overall experience relaxed but well-paced.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, with pre-warning for alternative dishes and considering the moderate walking involved. Always check with the operator if your children have specific needs.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers, fostering a more personal and engaging atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially for the thermal springs, as spots are limited and must be reserved online. The tour itself is best booked ahead to secure your place.

Final Thoughts

The Furnas: Mystic Tour with Dinner & Thermal Springs offers an engaging, authentic taste of São Miguel’s volcanic heart. It combines scenic beauty, delicious local food, and relaxing thermal baths into one well-rounded package. The knowledgeable guides bring the landscape alive, and the evening timing lends a special, almost magical ambiance to the geothermal sights.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who value a mixture of nature, culture, and leisure, and who appreciate small-group adventures that feel personal. While it does require a modest extra investment for the thermal baths, many guests find it well worth the extra effort.

If you want to experience Furnas in a way that’s both relaxing and educational—without the stress of planning every detail—this tour provides a memorable, authentic slice of Azores life.

Note: Always check availability for the thermal baths before booking, and prepare for a day filled with beautiful views, warm waters, and hearty flavors. Your volcano adventure in Furnas awaits!