Furnas Volcano: Full Day Tour, Hot Springs & Waterfalls

Planning a day on São Miguel Island? Then a tour of the Furnas volcano area offers a fascinating window into the island’s volcanic soul, complemented by lush waterfalls, geothermal marvels, and the rare experience of visiting the last 100% natural tea plantation. This particular tour promises an 8-hour journey filled with scenic views, local flavor, and volcanic landscapes that are as intriguing as they are beautiful.

What we love about this tour is its wide coverage—covering key highlights like Ribeira dos Caldeirões and Furnas Lake—paired with the intimacy of a small group setting that makes for a more personal experience. Plus, the opportunity to sample the Furnas Stew cooked over geothermal heat adds a deliciously authentic touch. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the challenge of tight schedules and optional extras, which might be a consideration if you’re looking for a completely relaxed pace.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to combine natural beauty with cultural insights and don’t mind a full day of exploring. If you’re curious about volcanic activity, love waterfalls, or enjoy tasting local products like tea, then this experience offers a well-rounded slice of São Miguel’s treasures.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering waterfalls, volcanic craters, hot springs, and a tea plantation
• Small group size enhances personal attention and engagement
• Authentic experiences like tasting local tea and, optionally, the famous Furnas Stew
• Stunning viewpoints providing panoramic views of the island’s east coast
• Rich natural scenery with waterfalls, geothermal sites, and volcanic landscapes
• Convenient pickup from Ponta Delgada simplifies logistics

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off in Ponta Delgada, with a pickup from your hotel or a designated location. Traveling in an air-conditioned minivan with a small group ensures you’re not lost in a crowd—something we always appreciate when seeking a more intimate travel experience. The day runs about 8 hours, giving you a good taste of the island’s east side without feeling rushed.

Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

The journey begins with a scenic drive that passes through some of São Miguel’s most picturesque spots. The Santa Iria Lookout offers an introductory panorama of the island’s lush contours, setting the tone for what’s to come. Our favorite part? The Pico do Ferro Lookout, which provides sweeping views of the Furnas valley—an essential photo stop and a perfect place to absorb the volcanic scenery.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park

Next, the tour visits the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, a highlight for any nature lover. Here, we loved the way the waterfalls cascade down the lush valley, creating a cool spray that refreshes after a morning in the van. The park’s watermill, along with its charming bridges and pathways, makes it an excellent spot to stretch your legs and soak in the peaceful environment. Several reviews echo this sentiment, noting the “beautiful waterfalls and watermill area in a charming valley,” which makes for great photos and a tranquil break from travel.

More Great Tours Nearby

Gorreana Tea Factory

A unique stop is the Gorreana Tea Factory, the last 100% natural tea plantation on earth. It’s a fascinating visit where you’ll learn about the traditional methods of tea production that have persisted here since 1883. And yes, you can sample some tea—delivering a genuine taste of local craftsmanship. Travelers have found the guided tour here quite insightful, with the added bonus of a quick shopping opportunity for tea to take home. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way they produce their tea naturally; it’s a rare glimpse into sustainable farming.”

Furnas Volcano and Geothermal Area

The core of this tour is its visit to Furnas volcano itself. You’ll view the volcanic crater, which is lush and green with steaming fumaroles and bubbling hot springs. Standing in this active geothermal zone feels like being on the edge of Earth’s inner workings. The geothermal area, with steam rising from boiling waters, offers a visceral reminder of the island’s volcanic roots.

Optional but highly recommended is the chance to taste Furnas Stew (Cozido das Furnas)—a hearty dish slowly cooked underground by volcanic heat. While this is an add-on, many find it worth the extra cost, savoring a meal cooked in such a natural manner. One review notes, “The flavor is incredible, and it’s a fun experience to see how the stew is cooked underground.” Keep in mind, this allows some free time, so plan to be flexible.

Waterfalls and Crater Lakes

The tour continues with visits to Caldeiras Vulcânicas, where fumaroles and thermal activity create a surreal landscape, and then to Furnas Lake—a tranquil spot perfect for photos or a gentle walk. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, and the calm waters contrast nicely with the energetic geothermal activity nearby.

Vila Franca do Campo and Scenic Drive

On the return journey, the scenic drive passes through Vila Franca do Campo, a town historically destroyed by a massive earthquake in 1522. Today, it’s a peaceful place with a scenic bay and the tiny Vila Franca Islet visible from afar, offering a picturesque end to the day’s exploration.

What Travelers Say

Reviews reveal a mixture of experiences—most praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, but a few highlight some disappointments. One traveler called it “a good day out,” appreciating the small group size and the guide’s local insights, though noting that “a few extras were required,” which added to the cost.

Conversely, a less favorable review mentioned that “the guide was not helpful,” with some stops feeling rushed and lacking enough explanation. It’s worth noting that the tour involves some optional extra costs, especially for activities like the Furnas Stew or park tickets, which in some cases can add up.

Pricing and Value

While the base price covers transportation, guiding, and some tastings, the optional extras like Terra Nostra Park tickets or the full Furnas Stew experience will increase your total cost. The value comes in the comprehensive coverage of major sites with a local guide who brings the scenery to life. However, if your priority is an unhurried, all-inclusive experience, be prepared for additional fees.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and uneven terrain.
• Bring a water bottle—refreshments are included, but you might want extra.
• Consider whether you want to include the Furnas Stew; it’s a delicious experience but comes at an extra cost.
• Be aware that this tour isn’t suited for people with mobility issues or back problems, given some walking and uneven pathways.
• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and local cuisine. It suits those eager to see waterfalls and geothermal activity up close while learning about the island’s unique farming traditions. Ideal for curious, active travelers who appreciate small-group tours and meaningful cultural experiences.

The Furnas Volcano: Full Day Tour, Hot Springs & Waterfalls offers a well-rounded taste of São Miguel Island’s most iconic sights. With scenic viewpoints, lush waterfalls, steaming geothermal sites, and the chance to sample local tea and stew, it’s a comprehensive way to spend a day. The small group setting enhances the experience, fostering personal connections and local insights that larger tours often lack.

While some may find the schedule a bit tight or the additional costs adding up, the overall value of seeing such diverse landscapes and learning about the island’s volcanic heart is considerable. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy active exploration, cultural authenticity, and breathtaking scenery.

If you’re after a full day immersed in nature, with a dash of local flavor, this tour hits the spot. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and comfortable shoes.

Is transportation provided for the entire tour?
Yes, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned minivan from Ponta Delgada, with pickups arranged at your hotel or a designated location.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops vary from about 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the location. They’re designed to give you a good overview without feeling rushed but may be tight in some cases.

Can I see the Furnas Stew without paying extra?
No, the Furnas Stew is an add-on option, so you’ll need to pay extra if you want to taste this traditional dish cooked underground.

Are tickets to Terra Nostra Park included?
No, tickets for Terra Nostra Park cost around 16 euros per person and are not included, so you would need to purchase them separately if you wish to visit.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or back problems, due to walking on uneven terrain and some standing time. Children over a certain age could enjoy it, but always check with the operator.

How much walking is involved?
While most stops involve brief walks, some sites like waterfalls and crater areas may require light walking and standing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, and possibly a hat or sunglasses for sunny stops. An optional camera is a must for panoramic viewpoints.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide if this tour fits your travel style and expectations. Whether you’re after scenic beauty, local flavors, or both, the Furnas volcano day trip offers a memorable slice of São Miguel’s volcanic charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: