Exploring the volcanic wonders of Furnas on São Miguel island is an opportunity not to be missed. This half-day tour offers a comprehensive look at the region’s natural and cultural highlights, from the renowned hot springs to the historic city center. Guided by knowledgeable locals, visitors will uncover the captivating story behind this geologically-active area, while enjoying the convenience of seamless transportation and insurance coverage. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply curious about the island’s unique heritage, this tour promises an enriching experience that’ll leave you eager to…
Key Points
- This half-day tour explores the volcanic wonders of Furnas, including the Furnas volcano lake and its renowned natural hot springs.
- The tour includes visits to the historic city center of Ribeira Grande, the Gorreana Tea Factory, and the scenic Pico do Ferro Lookout.
- Guests can witness the boiling mud pots and fumaroles that dot the Furnas area and soak in the restorative, mineral-rich hot springs.
- The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and includes transportation with pick-up and drop-off at accommodations, as well as comprehensive insurance coverage.
- The tour offers the opportunity to save up to 10% by booking in advance and has a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
This half-day tour allows visitors to explore the volcanic wonders of Furnas, a picturesque village on the island of São Miguel.
Participants will discover the Furnas volcano lake and its renowned natural hot springs, along with other points of interest across the island.
The tour lasts for 4 hours and includes pickup and drop-off at accommodations in Ponta Delgada.
Guests will visit the historic city center of Ribeira Grande, the Gorreana Tea Factory, and the Pico do Ferro Lookout, which offers stunning views of the Furnas lake and village.
The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and includes insurance, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with a visit to the historic city center of Ribeira Grande, where participants can explore the area and visit Santa Barbara beach. From there, the group heads to the Gorreana Tea Factory to tour the facilities and sample the artisanal teas produced on-site. Next, the tour makes its way to the Pico do Ferro Lookout, offering scenic views of the Furnas lake and village below.
| Itinerary | Location | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Ribeira Grande | City center, Santa Barbara beach | 1 hour |
| Gorreana Tea Factory | Tour factory, sample tea | 1 hour |
| Pico do Ferro Lookout | Scenic views of Furnas | 30 minutes |
| Furnas | Guided tour of hot springs and lake | 1.5 hours |
The tour culminates with a guided exploration of the Furnas hot springs and lake, providing an up-close look at the volcanic activity in the region.
Ribeira Grande Exploration
Visitors commence their Furnas tour with a exploration of the historic city center of Ribeira Grande, where they can stroll through the charming streets and admire the area’s architectural gems.
The tour guide leads the group to the picturesque Santa Barbara beach, known for its stunning natural scenery. Guests have the opportunity to soak in the breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and azure waters.
The visit to Ribeira Grande provides insight into the island’s rich history and culture, setting the stage for the rest of the Furnas adventure. With its blend of historic charm and natural beauty, this initial stop whets the appetite for the volcanic wonders that await.
Gorreana Tea Factory
Next, the tour proceeds to the Gorreana Tea Factory, where guests enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the production of this artisanal beverage.
Visitors explore the historic facility, learning about the unique tea-making process that has been passed down through generations. The tour highlights:
- Guided walk through the tea fields and processing plant
- Opportunity to sample the factory’s signature black and green teas
- Insight into the history and significance of Azorean tea production
Guests leave the Gorreana Tea Factory with a newfound appreciation for the care and craftsmanship that goes into each cup of Azorean tea.
Pico Do Ferro Lookout
From the Pico do Ferro Lookout, visitors enjoy sweeping vistas of Furnas’ iconic lake and village nestled within the surrounding volcanic landscape.
This scenic viewpoint offers a panoramic perspective of the dramatic geological features that define the Furnas region.
Guests can gaze out over the shimmering waters of the lake and glimpse the steaming fumaroles and hot springs that dot the valley floor.
The lookout’s elevated position provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the scale and grandeur of the volcanic environment.
It’s an ideal spot for taking in the natural wonders of Furnas and capturing breathtaking photographs to commemorate the experience.
Furnas Hot Springs
After taking in the sweeping vistas from the Pico do Ferro Lookout, guests make their way to the Furnas hot springs, a highlight of the tour.
These geothermal pools, bubbling and steaming, offer a unique opportunity to experience the volcanic activity that shapes the Furnas landscape.
The guided tour of the hot springs includes:
- Witnessing the boiling mud pots and fumaroles that dot the area
- Exploring the extensive network of trails and boardwalks around the springs
- Learning about the history and significance of this geothermal wonder
Visitors can soak in the restorative, mineral-rich waters, a rejuvenating experience amidst the dramatic volcanic scenery of Furnas.
Tour Inclusions
The tour package includes pick-up and drop-off at accommodations in Ponta Delgada, as well as an expert tour guide to lead the exploration. Travelers are also covered by insurance during the trip.
The tour inclusions are:
| Inclusion | Details |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Pick-up and drop-off at accommodation |
| Guide | Knowledgeable tour guide |
| Insurance | Coverage during the tour |
| Experiences | Visits to Ribeira Grande, Gorreana Tea Factory, Pico do Ferro Lookout, and Furnas hot springs and lake |
The only exclusions are food, drinks, and gratuities, allowing visitors to customize their experience as desired. With hassle-free logistics and expert guidance, the half-day Furnas tour promises an immersive exploration of São Miguel’s volcanic wonders.
Booking and Cancellation
Travelers can save up to 10% on the tour price by booking in advance. They can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s departure. This flexible booking policy makes planning a Furnas volcano adventure hassle-free.
The tour’s highlights include:
- Explore the volcanic Furnas Lake and hot springs
- Visit the historic city of Ribeira Grande and sample artisanal tea
- Take in scenic views from the Pico do Ferro Lookout
With convenient pick-up and drop-off services, and comprehensive insurance coverage, travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the natural wonders of São Miguel island.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
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- Private Tour of Furnas Valley, Gorreana Tea – Island Gems
- Shore Excursions to Volcano Crater and Lake of Sete Cidades
- São Miguel: Full-Day Nordeste & Waterfall Tour With Lunch
- Azores: Whale Watching and Islet Boat Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no specific age restrictions for this tour. It is suitable for travelers of all ages, though parental supervision may be required for young children. The tour operator can provide additional details on any age-related policies.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but they are not included in the tour price. The tour provides pick-up, drop-off, a guide, and insurance, but not meals or refreshments.
How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?
The tour group size typically ranges from 6 to 14 people. This allows for a more personalized experience while keeping the group small enough for easy navigation and attentive guidance from the tour leader.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible. The tour van has space to accommodate wheelchairs, and the main sites, like the Furnas hot springs, have accessible pathways. Guests with mobility needs can fully participate in the sightseeing activities.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for Children?
The cancellation policy for children is the same as for adults – free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. No special policies or fees apply for children on this tour.
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Recap
The Half Day Furnas Tour With Volcano Activity offers a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel island’s volcanic wonders.
Visitors can discover the Furnas volcano lake, natural hot springs, and other highlights, led by knowledgeable guides.
With pickup, drop-off, and insurance coverage, this tour provides an enriching and safe experience for those interested in the island’s volcanic landscapes and cultural attractions.
