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

Exploring the volcanic wonders of São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, has never been more captivating. Set out on a full-day 4WD Jeep tour and uncover the island’s natural beauty, from the scenic overlook of the Nossa Senhora da Paz chapel to the therapeutic thermal waters of Poça da Dona Beija. Discover steaming fumaroles, indulge in the traditional ‘cozido’ stew, and savor local tea – all while enjoying the region’s rich cultural heritage. With convenient hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada, this immersive experience promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the volcanic wonders of São Miguel.

Key Points

• Comprehensive sightseeing tour of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, including the Furnas Crater, hot springs, and fumaroles.
• Opportunity to swim in the therapeutic thermal waters of Poça da Dona Beija.
• Sampling the traditional ‘cozido’ stew, cooked in the natural hot springs of the Furnas Valley.
• Convenient hotel pickup from Ponta Delgada and comfortable 4WD Jeep transportation.
• Immersive experience exploring São Miguel’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Views Over Vila Franca Do Campo

The tour begins with a stop at the Nossa Senhora da Paz chapel, where visitors can enjoy scenic views overlooking the picturesque town of Vila Franca do Campo.

This hilltop chapel provides a panoramic outlook over the surrounding lush, rolling hills and the quaint village below. From this vantage point, guests can take in the charming red-roofed houses, the calm harbor, and the dramatic coastline in the distance.

It’s a peaceful setting that offers a glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and traditional architecture. This scenic viewpoint sets the stage for the rest of the day’s adventures exploring the volcanic landscapes and hot springs of the Furnas region.

Panorama of the Furnas Crater

From the chapel’s scenic overlook, the tour then heads to Pico do Ferro, where participants can take in a panoramic view of the Furnas Crater.

This vantage point offers an impressive vista of the lush, forested caldera – the result of a massive volcanic eruption centuries ago. Visitors can marvel at the scale of the crater and its surrounding rolling hills, which are dotted with steaming fumaroles and hot springs.

The panorama reveals the breathtaking natural landscape that defines this geothermal wonderland. Perched atop Pico do Ferro, travelers gain a newfound appreciation for the immense power and beauty of the Furnas Crater, a highlight of the day’s excursion.

Thermal Waters of Poça Da Dona Beija

Swimming in the thermal waters of Poça Da Dona Beija offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind after exploring the Furnas Crater.

These rejuvenating hot springs, which maintain a constant temperature of around 28-32°C (82-90°F), are a popular stop on the tour.

Situated in a picturesque natural setting, the pools at Poça Da Dona Beija provide a soothing reprieve from the day’s activities, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s volcanic wonders.

The mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic properties, making this a must-visit destination for those seeking a true taste of the Azores’ geothermal treasures.

After a dip in the warm, restorative waters, visitors will feel refreshed and rejuvenated, ready to continue their exploration of the stunning Furnas Valley.

Hot Springs and Fumaroles in Furnas Valley

Along With the soothing thermal waters of Poça Da Dona Beija, the Furnas Valley boasts a remarkable array of hot springs and fumaroles that offer visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s geothermal wonders.

These natural phenomena, formed by the area’s volcanic activity, provide a captivating opportunity for travelers to explore the raw power and diversity of the Azores’ geological landscape.

Visitors can witness steaming vents and bubbling pools, as well as observe the impressive Furnas Crater, all while surrounded by the lush, verdant scenery that characterizes this remarkable destination.

The Furnas Valley’s hot springs and fumaroles are a must-see for anyone seeking to enjoy the island’s natural splendor.

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Tasting the Famous ‘Cozido’ Stew

One of the must-try culinary experiences on the tour is the famous ‘cozido’, a hearty stew slowly cooked in the hot springs of the Furnas Valley.

This traditional dish, a point of immense local pride, is prepared by lowering large pots filled with various meats, vegetables, and seasonings into the steaming geothermal vents, where they simmer to perfection over several hours.

Visitors have the opportunity to savor this unique and flavorful delicacy firsthand, gaining a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Azorean people.

The ‘cozido’ stew is a true reflection of the island’s volcanic heritage and the way its inhabitants have learned to harness the power of the earth to create delicious, one-of-a-kind dishes.

Sampling Local Tea at the Plantation

After savoring the hearty ‘cozido’ stew, the tour moves on to a local tea plantation, where visitors can sample the island’s distinctive teas.

At the plantation, guests are invited to learn about the unique growing conditions that give São Miguel’s tea its rich, complex flavor. They’ll wander through the verdant tea fields, inhaling the fragrant aromas, then enjoy a tasting of the plantation’s finest offerings.

From delicate green teas to robust black varieties, each sip offers a taste of the island’s volcanic terroir. It’s a chance to savor the fruits of São Miguel’s agricultural heritage and appreciate the care and craft that goes into every cup.

Full-Day 4WD Jeep Tour Itinerary

The tour’s itinerary takes visitors on a thrilling journey through the diverse landscapes of São Miguel, showcasing the island’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

The full-day 4WD Jeep tour includes:

• A stop at the Nossa Senhora da Paz chapel, where visitors can enjoy scenic views over the picturesque town of Vila Franca do Campo.
• A visit to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, offering an impressive overview of the Furnas Crater.

The tour also provides opportunities to:

• Swim in the therapeutic thermal waters of Poça da Dona Beija.
• Explore the hot springs and fumaroles in the Furnas Valley.
• Sample the famous ‘cozido’, a traditional stew cooked in the region’s natural hot springs.

The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of São Miguel’s highlights, immersing participants in the island’s rich natural and culinary experiences.

Hotel Pickup in Ponta Delgada

The tour includes hotel pickup from any location in Ponta Delgada, making it convenient for travelers to join the excursion.

This pickup service ensures a seamless start to the day, as you don’t have to worry about finding your own way to the meeting point.

The tour operator’s team will come to your hotel and whisk you away in the comfortable 4WD Jeep, ready to embark on the day’s adventure.

This hassle-free transportation arrangement allows you to simply relax and look forward to the incredible sights and experiences that await you on the full-day tour of Furnas.

With this convenient pickup service, the tour caters to the needs of travelers, providing a stress-free start to an unforgettable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Book This Tour in Advance?

To book the tour in advance, visitors can check the tour operator’s website or contact them directly. Advance booking ensures availability and allows travelers to secure their spot on the tour.

What Is the Tour’s Cancellation Policy?

The tour’s cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure. Guests can usually cancel or reschedule their booking without penalty within this timeframe.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Customers can typically customize the tour itinerary to an extent, though the core highlights are generally fixed. They can discuss preferences with the tour operator to potentially adjust the schedule or activities within reason.

Are There Any Age or Physical Limitations for the Tour?

The tour has no age or physical limitations, but participants should be able to get in and out of the 4WD Jeep and walk short distances. The hot springs and fumaroles do not pose any risks for most visitors.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

While the tour includes lunch, participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator about any restrictions or requirements for outside items.

Recap

This captivating 4WD Jeep tour of São Miguel showcases the island’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Travelers will marvel at the panoramic views, soak in therapeutic thermal waters, and savor the traditional ‘cozido’ stew cooked in the natural hot springs.

With convenient hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada, this immersive experience offers an unforgettable exploration of the Azores’ volcanic wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: