Exploring the dramatic volcanic landscapes and lush tea plantations of the Azores promises an unforgettable experience. The Volcanic Tour & Tea Plantage offers visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s rich history and natural wonders. From captivating viewpoints to charming villages, this 5.5-hour excursion takes travelers on a journey that delves into the Azores’ unique cultural and geological heritage. With guided commentary in multiple languages, this tour provides an in-depth look at the island’s volcanic past and its thriving tea industry. For those seeking to uncover the hidden gems of this stunning archipelago, this tour may just be the perfect starting point.
Key Points
- This 5.5-hour tour for 3 people is priced at €500 and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance to tea factory, liqueur factory, and bakery.
- The tour highlights include discovering the only tea plantation in Europe, exploring Furnas village, and admiring the breathtaking views at Pico do Ferro viewpoint.
- Scenic viewpoints along the north coast and the Furnas valley offer stunning natural landscapes and insights into the region’s volcanic history and ecosystem.
- The tour includes visiting the tea plantation factory and enjoying unlimited tea samples, as well as exploring the charming Furnas village and its volcanic features.
- The tour is led by a live guide available in English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish, and the group size is limited to 4 participants.
Tour Details
The tour is priced from €500.00 per group up to 3 people and lasts 5.5 hours.
A live tour guide is available in English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish, and the small group is limited to 4 participants. This ensures a more personalized experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande, or Lagoa, as well as entrance to the tea factory, liqueur factory, and bakery in Vila Franca do Campo.
Visitors can enjoy unlimited tea at the tea plantation factory and view the geysers and fumaroles in Furnas.
However, the tour excludes food, snacks, gratuities, and souvenirs, allowing guests to explore these on their own.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sao Miguel Island.
Tour Highlights
The tour offers a chance to discover the only tea plantation in Europe, explore the charming village of Furnas, visit the picturesque Pineapple plantation and taste its fruits, and admire the breathtaking views at Pico do Ferro viewpoint. You’ll marvel at the natural wonders of the Azores, from the steaming fumaroles in Furnas to the panoramic vistas from Pico do Ferro. Prepare to be enchanted by the island’s unique blend of volcanic landscapes and lush greenery.
Tour Highlights | Description |
---|---|
Tea Plantation | Discover the only tea plantation in Europe |
Furnas Village | Explore the charming village and see the fumaroles |
Pineapple Plantation | Visit the picturesque plantation and taste the fruits |
Pico do Ferro Viewpoint | Admire the breathtaking views over the Furnas valley |
Tour Itinerary
The tour begins with a visit to scenic viewpoints along the north coast, including the picturesque Santa Iria.
Next, participants stop at the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, which offers breathtaking vistas over the Furnas valley. From there, the group explores the charming village of Furnas, where they can see the fumaroles, or steam vents.
The itinerary then takes them to the tea plantation factory, where they can learn about the production process and enjoy unlimited samples of the local Azorean tea.
Scenic Viewpoints
The tour begins with a visit to scenic viewpoints along the north coast, including the picturesque Santa Iria. From this vantage point, participants can admire the stunning natural landscapes that characterize the region. The next stop is the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the Furnas valley. As the group takes in the sweeping views, the guide shares insights into the region’s volcanic history and the important role it plays in the local ecosystem.
Emotion | Reaction |
---|---|
Awe | "Wow, I can’t believe the scale of this landscape!" |
Wonder | "I wonder what it’s like to live in such a dynamic, geologically active place." |
Appreciation | "I feel so grateful to be able to witness the beauty of nature firsthand." |
Curiosity | "I’m eager to learn more about the unique features and history of this region." |
Contentment | "I feel so peaceful and connected to the natural world in this moment." |
Furnas Village
Next, the tour explores the charming village of Furnas, where participants can witness the region’s volcanic activity firsthand.
Furnas is home to a number of fumaroles, or steam vents, that emit sulfurous gases and boiling water, creating a unique and otherworldly atmosphere. Visitors can observe:
- Steaming lakes and pools, formed by the natural release of geothermal energy
- Bubbling mud pots, where the earth’s heat drives a constant ebullition
- Thermal springs, where mineral-rich waters emerge from the volcanic soil
Traditional cooking methods, with local dishes prepared by burying pots in the ground to harness the geothermal heat.
Lush, verdant landscapes, a result of the nutrient-rich volcanic soil that supports abundant vegetation.
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Tea Plantation
After exploring the volcanic wonders of Furnas, the tour moves on to discover the only tea plantation in Europe.
Nestled in the verdant hills of the Azores, this unique tea farm offers visitors an exclusive glimpse into the intricate process of tea production.
Guests can stroll through the lush gardens and learn about the various stages of tea-making, from plucking the delicate leaves to withering, rolling, and firing them to perfection.
The tour culminates with a tasting session, where participants can savor the rich, aromatic flavors of the estate’s signature Azorean teas.
This exceptional experience provides a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication required to cultivate these refined beverages.
Inclusions
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations, as well as a knowledgeable local guide to lead the group.
Participants will also gain entry to the tea factory and liqueur factory, and enjoy unlimited tea sampling at the tea plantation.
Plus, the tour provides viewing access to the geysers and fumaroles in Furnas, and free entrance to a bakery in Vila Franca do Campo.
The tour’s inclusions provide a comprehensive experience:
- Hotel transportation to and from the tour
- Knowledgeable local guide
- Entry to tea and liqueur factories
- Unlimited tea tasting at the plantation
- Viewing of geysers and fumaroles in Furnas
- Free bakery visit in Vila Franca do Campo
Exclusions
While the tour package includes several amenities, the exclusions cover items not provided. Food and snacks aren’t included in the tour price, nor are gratuities for the guide.
Visitors must also cover the cost of any souvenirs they wish to purchase during the experience. This allows travelers the flexibility to enjoy the tour at their own pace and indulge in local delicacies or mementos as desired.
The focus remains on the highlights of the Azores, such as the tea plantation, Furnas village, and breathtaking viewpoints. By understanding what’s not included, guests can better plan their budget and ensure they’ve a memorable and tailored volcanic tour and tea tasting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Customers can inquire with the tour provider about the cost and availability of extending the tour beyond the standard 5.5 hours.
Is Photography Allowed at the Tea Plantation Factory?
Photography is generally allowed at the tea plantation factory. Visitors can take photos of the production process and the surrounding plantation, though some restrictions may apply in certain areas. It’s best to check with the staff on arrival.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate in the Tour?
The tour details do not specify a minimum age requirement. As long as all participants are within the group size limit, there is no age restriction to join this tour.
Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Tour?
No special equipment or gear is required for this tour. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to fully enjoy the scenic vistas and outdoor activities during the 5.5-hour experience.
Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit guests’ preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the schedule within the given duration and highlights to accommodate individual interests and needs.
Recap
The Volcanic Tour & Tea Plantage offers a captivating 5.5-hour exploration of the Azores’ natural wonders.
Visitors can enjoy the region’s volcanic history, marvel at scenic viewpoints, and uncover the secrets of the only tea plantation in Europe.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, live guides, and various attractions included, this tour provides a well-rounded and enriching experience for up to 3 people at a cost of €500.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Sao Miguel Island
- São Miguel:Rabo de Peixe From the Market to the Harbour Tour
- São Miguel Island: Full-Day Furnas and Vila Franca Tour
- Terceira Island: Ilhéu das Cabras Boat Tour + Snorkeling
- São Miguel: Azores Whaling Heritage Tour
- São Miguel: 2-Day Island Tour, Tea & Pineapple Plantation
- Vila Franca Islet: Inside Guided Natural Reserve Geo Tour
More Tour Reviews in Sao Miguel Island
- São Miguel:Rabo de Peixe From the Market to the Harbour Tour
- São Miguel Azores: Hike and Snorkeling with a local
- São Miguel Azores: Professional Photoshoot with Local Guide
- São Miguel Island: Full-Day Furnas and Vila Franca Tour
- Terceira Island: Ilhéu das Cabras Boat Tour + Snorkeling
- São Miguel: Swim with Wild Dolphins in the Open Ocean
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Sao Miguel Island we have reviewed
- São Miguel:Rabo de Peixe From the Market to the Harbour Tour
- São Miguel Azores: Hike and Snorkeling with a local
- São Miguel Azores: Professional Photoshoot with Local Guide
- São Miguel Island: Full-Day Furnas and Vila Franca Tour
- Terceira Island: Ilhéu das Cabras Boat Tour + Snorkeling
- São Miguel: Swim with Wild Dolphins in the Open Ocean
- São Miguel Azores: Furnas Thermal Baths & Massage
- São Miguel: Azores Whaling Heritage Tour
- São Miguel: Whale-Watching Cruise with Marine Biologist
- São Miguel: 2-Day Island Tour, Tea & Pineapple Plantation
- Vila Franca Islet: Inside Guided Natural Reserve Geo Tour
- Van Tour Furnas (Full Day)