São Miguel: Furnas and Nordeste Full-Day Tour with Lunch

If you’re planning a day on São Miguel Island, this guided tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of some of the most iconic sights. It packs in volcanic landscapes, charming towns, lush gardens, and the unique experience of a stew cooked underground in volcanic soil. While it’s a long day—roughly eight hours—you’ll get a satisfying taste of what makes the Azores so special without feeling rushed.

What we particularly like about this tour is the variety. You’ll see Lagoa das Furnas, with its bubbling fumaroles and geothermal activity, and then relax in natural hot springs. Plus, the visit to the Ribeira dos Caldeirões park, with its traditional watermills and waterfalls, adds a peaceful, scenic touch. A highlight for many travelers is the included lunch, featuring the famous Cozido das Furnas, which is cooked on volcanic heat—a true Azorean culinary experience.

A possible consideration is the cost of entrance fees to some sites, like Terra Nostra or Dona Beija, which aren’t included in the tour price. Travelers who want to soak in the thermal pools or explore the botanical gardens will need to budget extra. Also, this is a small-group tour—limiting to 8 participants—which ensures a more personal experience but may not be ideal if you prefer larger, more social tours.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, authentic local experiences, and scenic views—perfect if you want to see the highlights of São Miguel without renting a car or planning a complex itinerary.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip covering volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and lush gardens.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and help you navigate the island’s highlights.
• Includes a traditional Azorean lunch, featuring the famous stew cooked in volcanic earth.
• Visiting both Furnas and Nordeste, offering diverse scenery from geothermal activity to waterfalls.
• Small group size enhances comfort and personalized attention.
• Entrance fees not included, so budget for optional site visits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and First Stops

The tour kicks off with a pickup from one of 13 convenient locations in Ponta Delgada, including major hotels and the post office. This makes it easy to join the trip without extra transport stress. After leaving the city, you’ll travel along Avenida do Mar, passing by beaches of Água D´Alto, which already sets a relaxed seaside tone.

Your first significant stop is Vila Franca do Campo, where a quick visit to the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo provides a stunning view of the islet formed by an ancient underwater eruption. Many reviews mention how this viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama that makes for great photos and a moment of awe. It’s also known as a site for Red Bull Cliff Diving, adding a splash of adventure to the scenery.

Exploring Lagoa das Furnas

Next, the focus shifts to Lagoa das Furnas, a geothermal wonderland. Here, the famous Cozido das Furnas is cooked underground for six hours, and you’ll see local restaurants removing steaming pots from volcanic soil—an incredible culinary process that’s integral to Azorean culture. The tour doesn’t include the entry fee—you can choose to visit the cooking site or simply observe from afar.

You’ll also see fumaroles and boilers, with steam rising from the earth—an otherworldly display of volcanic activity. Many recent reviews highlight how this area offers authentic insight into the island’s geothermal energy. For those wishing to relax, the optional hot spring pools are a highlight: Poça da Dona Beija and Parque Terra Nostra, both with water around 30°C. These thermal pools are praised for their thermal charisma and relaxing qualities, although entrance fees are extra.

Lunch and Cultural Walk

After soaking in the geothermal sights, you’ll enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant. The included meal features the traditional Cozido, but there are also other options, ensuring everyone finds something they enjoy. Many travelers mention how hearty and flavorful the Azorean stew is, offering a true taste of local cuisine.

Post-lunch, there’s a short walk through the center of Furnas, giving a flavor of local life and small-town charm. It’s an opportunity to stretch your legs and soak in the authentic ambiance.

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Heading North: Ribeira dos Caldeirões

Driving north into the Nordeste region, the next major stop is the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park. This area, one of the most visited in the region, is famed for its stone watermills and waterfalls. The park is a favorite among visitors, and many reviews praise the scenic beauty and the peaceful atmosphere. Expect plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to admire the traditional water-powered machinery.

The Teas and Final Views

The day concludes with a visit to the tea route, where you’ll explore tea plantations and factories. The Azores produce their own tea, and the Gorreana and Porto Formoso factories are both open for tastings. We loved the way these visits highlight local craftsmanship and give a charming end to the day. As one reviewer said, the view of the bay and gardens at the tea factories is simply splendid—a fitting finale to a day full of varied sights.

Transportation and Group Experience

The tour uses comfortable vans that are well-suited for the island’s winding roads. With a small group size (up to 8 people), you’ll benefit from a more personalized experience and the chance to ask questions easily. Many reviewers have pointed out how knowledgeable and friendly guides like Rafael, Vera, and Gonzalo make the experience memorable, sharing stories and insights in both Portuguese and English.

Price and Value

At $107 per person, the price includes a local guide, pick-up, water, chargers, and lunch. Considering the variety of stops—geological wonders, scenic viewpoints, cultural sites—and the expert guidance, this represents good value. Keep in mind, additional costs for entrance fees are not included but are optional, allowing flexibility for budget-conscious travelers.

While some might wish for the inclusion of site entry fees or extra activities, the tour’s focus on authentic experiences, scenic beauty, and local cuisine makes it well worth the price for many.

Authenticity and Real Experiences

Reviews consistently mention how guides like Rafael or Vera go out of their way to make visitors feel welcomed and informed. Many travelers appreciate the local insights and the chance to experience famous Azorean dishes cooked underground. The natural settings—fumaroles, waterfalls, lush gardens—are exactly what makes São Miguel so captivating.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is an ideal choice for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of São Miguel in one day without the stress of planning individual visits. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy nature, scenic views, and cultural experiences. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it perfect for curious travelers wanting a personalized experience.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included in the tour?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees for Terra Nostra or Dona Beija pools, nor for the Furnas Lake stew area. You can choose to visit these sites at your own expense.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting from your accommodation in Ponta Delgada or nearby locations.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, child seats are available by request, and the tour is accessible for wheelchairs. It’s a great family option if your kids enjoy scenic landscapes and gentle walks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as there will be walking, and a camera for the stunning views. An umbrella might also be handy, depending on the weather.

Does the tour operate in English and Portuguese?
Yes, the guide speaks both languages, ensuring clear communication and engagement for all guests.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, giving some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This São Miguel full-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and authentic local flavors. The guide’s knowledge shines through, and the variety of stops ensures no two moments feel too similar. It’s perfect for those who want a rundown of the island, especially if time is limited.

While some additional entrance fees are extra, the value for money is solid, considering the inclusions and experience quality. The small group setting makes the day feel intimate and personalized, which many recent reviews highlight as a major plus.

If you’re eager to experience São Miguel’s volcanic wonders, geothermal pools, and lush landscapes, this tour will serve as a memorable, enriching day. It’s a fun, scenic, and flavorful way to discover the Azores, especially for first-timers or those wanting to avoid the hassle of self-guided exploration.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply curious about volcanic islands, this tour offers a genuine taste of São Miguel’s extraordinary charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: