Furnas – Full Day Tour

Exploring the Furnas – Full Day Tour: A Genuine Look

If you’re thinking about visiting São Miguel in the Azores, you’ll probably notice this Furnas – Full Day Tour popping up as a highly-rated option. While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve researched it extensively, and it seems like a solid way to experience a mix of natural wonders, local cuisine, and scenic views—all packed into one day.

What caught our eye? First, the opportunity to try the famous Furnas Stew, cooked underground using volcanic heat. Second, the chance to relax in thermal baths in Terra Nostra Park, which adds a soothing element to the adventure. One thing to keep in mind: this is a long day of touring, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule.

If you’re someone who loves learning about the landscape, enjoying local food, and doesn’t mind a busy day, this tour could be a great fit. It’s also quite family-friendly and accessible, thanks to small group sizes and some wheelchair accessibility. Still, if you’re after a more relaxed or private experience, you might want to weigh your options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines sightseeing, local cuisine, and thermal baths in one day.
• Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guide shares insights about the island’s volcanic beauty and history.
• Full Meal Included: Enjoy the iconic Azorean Cozido, cooked naturally in geothermal soil.
• Scenic Views: Offers stunning vistas over Furnas valley and other viewpoints.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Small groups (up to 8), WiFi in vehicle, and optional pickups outside Ponta Delgada.
• Cost-Effective: For $85, you get a comprehensive day of activities with quite a few inclusions.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour kicks off around 9:00 am with pickup from Ponta Delgada, which is perfect if you’re already based in this lively town or nearby. If you’re staying in Ribeira Grande or Lagoa, you can get a pickup for an additional €25—worth considering if you want a seamless start. The small-group setup means you’ll be in a cozy van, making the whole day feel intimate rather than rushed.

Morning: Exploring the South and East Sides of São Miguel

Once everyone is on board, your guide kicks into gear, sharing stories and facts about the island’s volcanic past as you head towards the south side. Expect stops at several tourist spots—places that highlight the natural beauty of the island, from lush landscapes to viewpoints over crater lakes.

The real highlight comes when you reach Furnas Parish. Here, you’ll see the geothermal activity firsthand—hot springs bubbling, fumaroles steaming, and the ground warm beneath your feet. These natural phenomena are part of what makes Furnas such a unique spot.

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The Main Event: The Azorean Stew

Lunchtime is where this tour earns many of its rave reviews. You’ll dine at a local restaurant, where the Cozido das Furnas is served. This stew is cooked underground by volcanic heat—meat and vegetables slowly simmering over several hours—giving it a distinctive flavor and a story to tell. Tourists consistently say it’s a “must-try”, and reviews note that the guide enthusiastically explains the process, adding a layer of appreciation.

Afternoon: Baths & Botanical Gardens

Post-lunch, you get about an hour to experience Terra Nostra Park. For €10, you can enter the park and enjoy the thermal pools—some inside the park, some outdoors—where the warm water is perfect for relaxing after a busy morning. The park itself is a visual treat, filled with lush greenery and exotic plants, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful soak.

The guide usually allocates sufficient time here, so you won’t feel rushed. Many reviews mention the beautiful setting, and some highlight how the thermal baths add a calming touch to the day.

Returning via the North Side

As the tour winds down, you’ll pass through more scenic areas along the north coast, with visits to viewpoints and even a quick look inside a tea factory. The return journey offers a different perspective of the island’s varied landscape, rounding out your comprehensive experience.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable guides make all the difference. As one reviewer states, “Thiago explained and showed with all the detail the best of this island,” which elevates the experience well beyond just sightseeing. Their insights add context and make each stop more meaningful.

The stunning views from various viewpoints in the Furnas valley and beyond are truly breathtaking. You get to see the island’s volcanic power in action and enjoy some picture-worthy moments.

The local cuisine experience—specifically the Cozido—is genuinely special. It’s a taste of Azorean culture, and knowing it’s cooked naturally underground makes it all the more memorable.

Potential Drawbacks

While the tour offers a lot, it’s worth mentioning it’s a long day, running around 8 hours. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have trouble with busy schedules, this might feel a bit intense.

Some might find the extra costs (like €10 for Terra Nostra Park entry or €25 for pickups outside Ponta Delgada) an additional expense to consider. Also, the tour doesn’t include towels or bathing suits, so you’ll need to bring your own if you plan to soak.

Lastly, the tour isn’t specifically tailored for those with mobility challenges, as it isn’t marked as fully wheelchair accessible, although it does mention some accessibility features.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a full immersion into São Miguel’s volcanic landscape, local culinary traditions, and natural relaxation spots. It offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural experience, and relaxation, making it ideal for curious, active visitors.

It’s a great choice if you enjoy guided tours with small groups and value learning from local experts. If you’re traveling with family or friends who share a sense of adventure, it’s a fantastic option to get the most out of a single day.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour isn’t specifically marketed as wheelchair accessible, and some stops involve uneven terrain or walking. If mobility is a concern, you might want to inquire directly, but generally, it’s best for those comfortable with moderate walking.

What’s included in the price?
For $85, you get the guided tour, insurance, WiFi in the vehicle, and the full meal featuring the Azorean Stew. Pickup from Ponta Delgada is included, but extra fees apply for pickups outside the main area, and entrance fees like Terra Nostra Park (€10) are separate.

Can I request an pickup outside Ponta Delgada?
Yes, pickups can be arranged in Ribeira Grande or Lagoa for an additional €25. Be sure to share all your pickup details when booking.

How long do I have at Terra Nostra Park?
You’ll have about an hour to enjoy the thermal baths and explore the botanical gardens—enough time to relax and take photos.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the small group size and the nature of the activities make it suitable for families with older children who are comfortable with walking and spending a full day outdoors.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, and a towel are recommended, especially if you plan to enjoy the thermal baths.

Final Thoughts

The Furnas – Full Day Tour offers an honest, accessible, and engaging way to experience some of São Miguel’s most captivating sights and tastes. It balances natural beauty, local culture, and relaxation, all within a well-organized package led by knowledgeable guides.

If you’re someone who appreciates learning about the land you’re visiting, enjoys trying authentic local dishes, and doesn’t mind a full day on the move, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to the Azores. It’s not perfect for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed pace, but for most travelers craving a comprehensive taste of Furnas and beyond, it hits the mark.

In the end, this experience is best suited for curious explorers, eager to see the volcanic heartbeat of São Miguel and indulge in its flavors. With stunning views, expert guides, and a signature culinary treat, it’s a day you’ll likely remember fondly.

You can check availability for your dates here: