São Miguel Island: Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

Exploring the São Miguel Island: Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

If you’re visiting the Azores and looking to get a well-rounded taste of São Miguel’s natural beauty, this Full Day Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour offers an engaging, scenic, and authentic experience. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll explore volcanic landscapes, soak in thermal springs, learn about tea cultivation, and enjoy sweeping views from classic viewpoints—all in one satisfying day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it balances relaxation and discovery—from soothing hot springs to panoramic vistas—without feeling rushed. Second, it offers a chance to connect with local culture, particularly through the visit to the only natural tea factory in Europe. The only caveat? The itinerary is packed, and some stops require patience, so be prepared for a day that moves quickly.

Ideal for travelers who love nature, scenic drives, and cultural insights, this tour suits those seeking a comprehensive taste of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes in a manageable day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic experiences like hot springs and a visit to the unique Azores tea factory
• Stunning viewpoints including Pico do Ferro and Nossa Senhora da Paz
• Balanced itinerary with time for relaxation, sightseeing, and cultural learning
• Small group setting for personalized attention and richer conversations
• Value for money at $74, especially considering hotel pickup and expert guides
• Weather-proof—tour runs rain or shine, so pack accordingly

An In-Depth Look at the São Miguel Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour

An Introduction to the Day’s Highlights

This tour promises a comprehensive dive into São Miguel’s volcanic heart. We loved the way it combines iconic sights and lesser-known gems, all with the comfort of a small group and expert guidance. We also appreciate the inclusion of local experiences, like visiting a tea plantation and the chance to enjoy thermal baths—perfect for those wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation.

One potential drawback? The tour’s packed schedule means you’ll be on the move quite a bit, which might not suit travelers looking for a slow, leisure-focused day. Still, if you’re eager to maximize your time and see as much as possible, this is a smart choice. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded introduction to São Miguel.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, culture seekers, and those wanting an authentic Azorean experience—especially if you appreciate expert guides who take the time to share local insights.

How the Day Unfolds: An Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup in Ponta Delgada kicks off the day, with a comfortable ride that takes you along the island’s scenic roads. The tour uses jeep/SUV transport, allowing access to some of the more rugged, less crowded spots, and providing a sense of adventure from the start.

The first stop is the Santa Iria Lookout—a brief but rewarding spot where you get sweeping views and a sense of the island’s volcanic terrain. It’s an excellent warm-up for the day, with plenty of opportunities for photos.

Next, you’ll visit the Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest tea plantation in Europe, which has been producing Azores tea since 1883. Here, you’ll explore the tea gardens, learn about the process of tea-making, and sample some fresh brews—an unexpected highlight that offers both cultural insight and sensory delight. One reviewer raved about the guide’s storytelling and the chance to draw tea leaves from the plant, making it an engaging stop for all ages.

From there, the journey continues to the Pico do Ferro Lookout, perched above the Furnas crater. This is one of the most striking viewpoints, offering a panoramic view of the entire volcanic caldera. We loved the way this spot provided a sense of scale, reminding us of the island’s volcanic origins.

The Furnas Lake visit is next—a peaceful, steaming lagoon that’s the heart of the geothermal activity. You’ll see hot springs and bubbling fumaroles, and depending on timing, might even have the chance to relax in the thermal baths at Jardim da Nostra or Dona Beija, though entrance fees are extra. Travelers like us found the thermal baths a perfect way to unwind after a morning of sightseeing.

A visit to the village of Furnas gives insight into local life and the famous Ceara’s boiled dishes, cooked using the volcanic heat—flavorful and a true taste of local cuisine. The thermal boilers are a fascinating reminder of the island’s powerful geothermal activity.

In the afternoon, the tour takes a scenic drive along the south coast, stopping at Vila Franca do Campo. This former capital offers charming streets and historical sites, with a viewpoint called Nossa Senhora da Paz that provides perhaps the best vista of the island’s coastline. Travelers have described this stop as “not to be missed,” especially for its breathtaking views.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a relaxing drive back to Ponta Delgada, rounding out a full day of discovery, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

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What You Can Expect From Each Stop

• Santa Iria Lookout: A quick, yet rewarding glimpse of the island’s volcanic landscape and coast. Perfect for photos and stretching your legs.
• Gorreana Tea Factory: An immersive visit where you’ll learn how Azores tea is made, taste fresh varieties, and enjoy the lush gardens.
• Pico do Ferro Lookout: An iconic viewpoint overlooking the Furnas crater, ideal for panoramic shots and understanding the island’s volcanic origins.
• Furnas Lake: A serene lagoon with steaming fumaroles, rich with geothermal activity. Great for photos and learning about volcanic processes.
• Furnas Village: Known for its thermal boilers and traditional dishes, offering a taste of local gastronomy and the chance to see how volcanic heat is harnessed.
• Vila Franca do Campo and Nossa Senhora da Paz: Charming coastal town and viewpoint offering stunning views of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline.

The Experience of the Hot Springs

The thermal baths are optional but highly recommended if time permits. Many travelers have praised the Dona Beija thermal pools for their soothing waters amid lush surroundings. Keep in mind entrance fees aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you want to indulge.

The Small Group Dynamic and Guides

The tour is limited to 14 participants, fostering a friendly, personalized atmosphere. Guides like Francisco and Nuno have received high praise for their local knowledge and storytelling. One reviewer mentioned how Francisco took them to lesser-known spots, adding a special touch beyond the typical tourist trail.

Transportation and Timing

Using jeeps and SUVs offers a sense of adventure and access to more rugged areas, making the experience more intimate. The tour starts in the morning and lasts approximately one day, with multiple stops designed to balance sightseeing and relaxation. Pickup is included if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada or nearby.

Value for Money: Is It Worth $74?

Considering the full-day itinerary, expert guidance, small group size, and included hotel pickup, this tour offers excellent value. You’re getting a well-balanced mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and relaxation for a reasonable price—especially when you factor in the cost of individual entry fees to places like Terra Nostra Park or thermal baths, which are not included.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those who want a broad overview of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s ideal for first-timers, couples, families, and anyone eager to experience nature, local culture, and stunning vistas in a single day.

If you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable locals, scenic drives, and a mixture of active and relaxing stops, this tour hits all those marks. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer small groups for a more personal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Furnas and Furnas Lake Tour offers a well-rounded, immersive glimpse of São Miguel’s volcanic soul. From bubbling hot springs to lush tea plantations and panoramic views, the experience combines nature’s power and beauty with cultural charm.

While the schedule is full and the day busy, that’s part of the appeal—making sure you see the essentials and leave with a deeper appreciation for the island’s natural wonders. The knowledgeable guides and scenic stops make this tour a practical choice for anyone seeking value, authenticity, and a memorable day on São Miguel.

If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging, and scenic introduction to the Azores, this full-day adventure is hard to beat.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately one day, starting with pickup in Ponta Delgada and returning in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on conditions.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Mostly yes, though it’s not recommended for pregnant women, and participants should be able to handle some walking and standing at viewpoints.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and rain gear, as the tour runs rain or shine.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You can purchase food at stops like Furnas or bring snacks along.

Can I visit the thermal baths?
Yes, if time allows, you can enjoy the hot springs at Jardim da Nostra or Dona Beija, but entrance fees are extra.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak Portuguese, Spanish, and English.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, if you’re staying in Ponta Delgada or within 5 km, pickup from your hotel is included.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is the price?
The tour costs $74 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, and headsets for clear communication.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Participants should be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces at viewpoints and stops—it’s not recommended for those with significant mobility challenges.

This full-day tour offers a dynamic blend of scenic beauty, local culture, and geothermal wonders—perfect for travelers eager to experience São Miguel’s volcanic heart without the hassle of independent planning. Whether you’re drawn to the lush tea plantations, bubbling hot springs, or sweeping coastlines, it’s a memorable way to see the islands at their best.

You can check availability for your dates here: