Van Tour Furnas (Full Day)

Thinking about visiting São Miguel in the Azores? If so, you’ll want a tour that shows you the island’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The Van Tour Furnas (Full Day) offers a practical way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights, especially if you’re traveling with mobility considerations in mind. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and here’s the honest scoop to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What really caught our eye about this tour? First, the wheelchair accessibility is a big plus, making the experience inclusive for more travelers. Second, the focus on authentic local food and natural beauty — like the famous cozido stew and geothermal gardens — makes it feel genuine and immersive.

Of course, no tour is perfect for everyone. Keep in mind that the day runs rain or shine — so you’ll want to be prepared for unpredictable weather. Plus, it’s a full day (about 7.5 hours), so it’s best suited for those comfortable with longer excursions and a busy schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth exploration of Furnas and its surroundings, this could be a great option.

This tour seems ideal for those who appreciate a mix of nature, culture, and good food, especially if accessibility is a priority. It’s suitable for travelers who want a guided experience that covers several key sights comfortably.

Key Points

• Wheelchair accessible vehicle makes this tour inclusive for diverse needs.
• Highlights include Terra Nostra Garden, the oldest tea plantation in Europe, and views from Pico do Ferro.
• Tour includes lunch and entrances to all visited sites, simplifying planning.
• You’ll learn about local customs, especially the famous cozido stew cooked underground in Furnas.
• The tour departs from Ponta Delgada, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included.
• It’s a full-day experience that balances sightseeing, local culture, and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest, In-Depth Look at the São Miguel Van Tour Furnas

When you think about exploring São Miguel Island, what comes to mind? Perhaps lush landscapes, volcanic lakes, and steaming hot springs? This tour aims to hit several of these high points in one day, making it convenient if you’re limited on time or prefer guided visits.

Starting Point: Ponta Delgada

The experience kicks off with a hotel pick-up, which is great if you’re staying centrally. The driver, easily identifiable in a blue t-shirt with an ‘Azores for All’ logo, sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly day. The entire journey lasts about 7.5 hours, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for a full day of sightseeing but also to expect some time on the road.

Stops and Highlights

Lagoa das Furnas and the Cozido Stew

The first major stop is at Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic crater lake famous for its underground cooking holes. Watching the locals prepare the cozido stew by burying pots in volcanic earth is pretty fascinating — a real peek into traditional Azorean cuisine. You’ll get to see these natural cooking pits and learn why this method has been used for generations.

While the tour doesn’t specify a dedicated tasting, it mentions the opportunity to taste the cozido, which is a must-try for food lovers. Keep in mind, the sulfur-rich environment gives off a strong smell — some might find it a bit overpowering, but it’s part of the authentic experience.

Terra Nostra Garden

Next up is Terra Nostra Garden, a romantic, historic botanical space built over two centuries ago. It’s renowned for its geothermal swimming pool, which feels like a luxury after a day on the go. The garden’s exotic vegetation is a treat for nature lovers, and we loved the way it combines beauty with a sense of tranquility.

According to reviews, the garden is beautiful and well-maintained, though it can get crowded during peak hours. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, take photos, and enjoy the lush surroundings.

Caldeiras das Furnas

Another highlight is Caldeiras das Furnas, also known as Fumarolas das Furnas. This area emits vapors and gases with a noticeable sulfur smell, and features hot springs and mineral springs that are both fascinating and a little stinky (in a good way). The gases and bubbling springs give you a true sense of the island’s volcanic activity, which is the essence of Furnas.

Pico do Ferro Lookout

For panoramic views, the Pico do Ferro viewpoint is a clear winner. From here, you get an expansive vista of the volcanic landscape, crater lakes, and distant coastlines. It’s an ideal spot for photos, and many say it’s one of the most memorable parts of the tour.

Gorreana Tea Factory and Santa Iria Viewpoint

The tour wraps up with visits to the Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest tea plantation in Europe, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy some local brews. The Santa Iria viewpoint offers a final spectacular view of the island’s terrain before returning to Ponta Delgada.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour includes all entrances, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs en route. Plus, lunch is provided, giving you a taste of local cuisine without any hassle. The guide/driver speaks multiple languages—English, Portuguese, and Spanish—making communication smooth.

Accessibility is a key feature here, with a wheelchair-friendly van ensuring everyone can participate comfortably. Keep in mind that, since the tour is rain or shine, bringing appropriate clothing is essential, especially if you’re sensitive to sulfur odors or cooler weather.

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What Travelers Say

Some reviews highlight the friendly guide and the well-organized itinerary, making for a relaxed, informative day. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the tour combined natural beauty with local culture, especially the cozido experience.” Others appreciated the convenience of hotel pick-up, especially if you’re not keen on navigating public transport.

A couple of comments noted that the sulfur smell can be strong at certain stops, which might be off-putting for some. Also, since the tour is quite packed, it may feel rushed for those who prefer more time at each site.

Price and Value

Considering that the tour covers transportation, all entrances, lunch, and professional guiding, it offers solid value for a full-day trip. It’s a convenient way to see key sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, especially if mobility is a concern.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This full-day adventure is perfect for those who want a rundown of Furnas and its surroundings in a single, comfortable package. It’s especially suited for travelers who value accessibility, as the vehicle is wheelchair friendly, and for those who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and cuisine.

If you’re traveling with limited time, prefer guided tours, or simply want to experience the island’s volcanic essence without strenuous hikes, this tour hits many of the right notes. Just remember to bring weather-appropriate gear and be prepared for a day filled with sights, smells, and stunning views.

FAQs

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the vehicle used is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, all entrances to the visited sites, a guide/driver, and insurance coverage.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Do I need to pay extra for entries?
No, all entrance fees are included in the tour price.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine, so you should be prepared for different weather conditions.

Can I expect to taste local food?
Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the cozido stew and enjoy local brews at the Gorreana Tea Factory.

What kind of views can I expect?
From Pico do Ferro, you’ll get panoramic views of the island’s volcanic landscape and crater lakes, perfect for photos.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, it’s suitable for most travelers, especially those who prefer guided, accessible excursions.

How should I prepare for the sulfur smell?
It’s strong at some stops like Furnas, so bringing a mask or nose plug might be helpful if you’re sensitive to odors.

Final Thoughts

The Van Tour Furnas (Full Day) offers a practical, well-rounded way to explore some of São Miguel’s most iconic spots. Its focus on accessibility, combined with visits to geothermal gardens, volcanic lakes, and local culinary experiences, makes it a solid choice for travelers who want an easy, guided day.

Whether you’re into natural beauty or cultural traditions, this tour balances both, giving you a taste of what makes the Azores special. While the full schedule might feel a bit packed for some, the convenience and inclusivity make it appealing, especially if you’re traveling with mobility considerations or simply prefer a stress-free way to see the highlights.

If you’re after a genuine, comfortable introduction to Furnas and the island’s volcanic marvels, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just pack your raincoat and a sense of adventure — you’ll leave with plenty of memories and great stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: