Ponta Delgada isn’t just a gateway to the Azores; it’s a perfect spot for relaxation and wellness thanks to its volcanic terrain and natural hot springs. From bubbling geothermal pools to scenic lakeside baths, the island offers a variety of ways to unwind. Personally, I love the immersion into local traditions at Terra Nostra Park, where soaking in mineral-rich waters feels like a natural therapy. For those seeking a personalized escape, the private tours provide exclusive access to hot springs and scenic highlights without the crowds. If you’re pressed for time, the short shore excursions pack a punch with highlights like Lagoa do Fogo and Caldeira Velha.
The tours below cover a broad spectrum—from full-day adventures exploring volcanic craters and thermal baths to private, tailored experiences with expert guides. Whether you want to soak in thermal waters, learn about Azorean brewing at a tea plantation, or enjoy a cozy, private trip, there’s an option for you. For a comprehensive experience, check out Full-Day Furnas Tour or for a more intimate outing, the Couples PRIVATE Hybrid 4X4 Tour.
1. Full-Day Furnas Tour: Hot Springs, Traditional Lunch & Tea
At number 1, this full-day small group tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Furnas Valley, one of the most iconic spots on São Miguel. The journey includes stops at Vila Franca do Campo, where you can taste a traditional Queijada da Vila pastry—an Azorean sweet staple. The tour then takes you to Lagoa das Furnas, where volcanic activity creates bubbling vents and mineral waters perfect for soaking. You’ll also visit the Caldeira das Furnas, famous for its sulfur steam and boiling springs, and enjoy a delicious, included local lunch cooked in volcanic soil. The highlight is Terra Nostra Park, where you can soak in a thermal bath surrounded by lush gardens.
What makes this tour special is its focus on both natural wonders and Azorean culture, with knowledgeable guides providing rich commentary. Rated 5.0/5 from 35 reviews, travelers praise the intimate group size and comprehensive itinerary. Many mention how the bubbling geothermal pools and aromatic sulfur vents create a memorable experience. The price of around $118 per person offers excellent value considering the full day of sights, food, and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a complete day immersed in the volcanic character of São Miguel, combining nature, culture, and comfort.
2. Couples PRIVATE Hybrid 4X4 Tour – Furnas (Inc Hot Springs and 3 Course Lunch)
For around $355, this private experience provides a personalized way to explore São Miguel’s eastern half, focusing on Furnas. Starting from Ponta Delgada, your guide takes you in a hybrid 4×4 vehicle, perfect for navigating rougher terrain and reaching spots large tours can’t access easily. The trip includes Lagoa das Furnas, where you can stroll along the lakeside and see the unique chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, built in the 1800s. You’ll visit the bubbling Caldeira das Furnas, watching the steam vents and volcanic activity that cook the famous cozido stew underground. The highlight is the soak in Terra Nostra Park’s thermal waters, where mineral-rich hot springs provide a relaxing break.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide Andy, who shares local history and anecdotes, making the day warm and engaging. The tour’s exclusivity means you can customize stops, making it ideal for couples seeking a flexible, intimate experience. The full-day format, including a three-course volcanic stew lunch, offers fantastic value for those wanting privacy and comfort.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups who want a tailored, off-the-beaten-path adventure with a touch of luxury and culture.
3. Half Day Furnas And Hot Springs
For travelers short on time, this half-day tour offers a focused look at Furnas’ geothermal marvels and local scenery. Starting from Fenais da Luz, you’ll visit scenic lookouts like Miradouro de Santa Iria and Miradouro Pico Do Ferro for panoramic views of the crater lake. The tour then heads into the caldera to see how the famous cozido is cooked underground, plus a visit to the fully operational tea plantation — Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, where you can sample fresh tea.
The highlight remains Terra Nostra’s hot springs, where a soak in the thermal waters offers instant relaxation. Travelers appreciate the small group size, allowing a more personal experience, and the flexible schedule with morning or afternoon options. The price is attractive at under $50 per person, making it an excellent choice for a quick yet comprehensive visit.
Bottom Line: Designed for those with limited time but wanting a taste of Furnas’ geothermal power, culture, and natural beauty.
4. Private Tour Furnas Lake & Hot Springs
This private tour is perfect if you’re seeking a deeper, more relaxed exploration of Furnas with your own guide. Starting from your accommodation, you’ll visit Lagoa das Furnas, where you can enjoy a lakeside walk and see the chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias. Next, you’ll explore the volcanic area, including the bubbling caldera and fumaroles, observing how locals cook the traditional cozido. The tour also takes you to Parque Terra Nostra, where you can relax in the famous thermal baths amid lush gardens.
What sets this experience apart is the private format, allowing you to customize the itinerary and enjoy greater flexibility and comfort. The guide, with extensive local knowledge, ensures you see the highlights at your own pace. The price of around $260 for up to four people makes it an excellent value for intimate groups.
Guests mention the “diverse vegetation” and “rich thermal waters” as highlights, making this tour suitable for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups or couples who want a tailored day with a focus on natural thermal waters and scenic beauty.
5. Azores: Shore Excursion Furnas – Crater volcano and hot springs
If you’re in Ponta Delgada on a cruise, this shore excursion offers a hassle-free way to experience Furnas’ volcanic landscape in 4-5 hours. It’s perfect for tight schedules but still offers an authentic taste of geothermal activity. The tour includes stops at Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, where you can sample European-grown tea, and a visit to the Furnas crater, with its steaming vents and bubbling springs. You’ll also see how the local cozido stew is cooked underground and visit Terra Nostra’s thermal pool if you choose.
This tour’s strength is its convenience, with hotel pickup and drop-off, plus a small group setting for personalized attention. The moderate price point at around $79 per person makes it accessible for many travelers. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the variety of scenic stops crammed into a few hours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for cruise passengers or short-term visitors who want a quick, well-organized visit to Furnas.
6. PRIVATE Hybrid 4X4 Tour – Full Day Furnas (Inc Hot Springs and 3 Course Lunch)
This full-day private eco-tour focuses on personalized comfort and off-road exploration with a hybrid 4×4 vehicle. Starting from Ponta Delgada, your guide takes you to Lagoa das Furnas and the volcanic caldera, explaining the geothermal activity while enjoying the lush scenery. You’ll have time to soak in Terra Nostra’s thermal waters and enjoy an authentic three-course lunch cooked underground, with the added benefit of flexible stops and tailored routing.
The small group setting ensures a relaxed pace, and the sustainable vehicle appeals to eco-conscious travelers. Many reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guide and the ability to customize the day to suit your interests. The cost of approximately $486 covers up to four people, making it a good deal for those seeking a private, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prioritize eco-friendly solutions, privacy, and a bespoke itinerary full of volcanic sights and thermal baths.
7. Lagoa do Fogo Volcano and Caldeira Velha Hot Springs
Rounding out the list is this group day trip exploring Lagoa do Fogo and Caldeira Velha. Starting with visits to a ceramics factory, the tour then takes you to viewpoints over Lagoa do Fogo, one of the most stunning crater lakes on the island. You’ll then explore the hot springs of Caldeira Velha, where mineral waters cascade into natural pools—perfect for a dip. It concludes with a visit to the only tea plantation in Europe, Gorreana, where you can sample fresh tea.
While rated 4.0/5, travelers note the beautiful landscapes and diverse stops as key selling points. The tour is suitable for those wanting a variety of experiences, including cultural and natural sights, all in a manageable 7-8 hour day. The cost is reasonable at around $68 per person.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a mix of cultural, natural, and thermal experiences in one well-rounded day.
How to Choose Your Perfect Azores Spa & Hot Springs Experience
When selecting among these options, think about your budget, schedule, and interests. If you want a full immersion, the Full-Day Furnas Tour or the Private Full-Day are excellent choices for natural beauty and cultural depth. For intimacy and tailored attention, the Couples PRIVATE Hybrid 4X4 or the Private Lake & Hot Springs tour suit couples and small groups. Travelers on cruise ships should consider the Shore Excursion for convenience.
If your time is limited, the Half-Day Furnas and Hot Springs offers a quick yet rewarding visit. For eco-minded travelers, the Private Hybrid 4×4 with sustainable transport might be more appealing. Remember, booking early guarantees your spot, especially in peak season.
Final Thoughts
Ponta Delgada and São Miguel Island offer a remarkable range of spa and hot springs experiences. From all-day tours that blend volcanic geology with local cuisine to private trips tailored for couples, there’s an option to fit every preference. For a mix of culture, natural beauty, and relaxation, the Full-Day Furnas Tour stands out for its comprehensive itinerary. Want a private getaway? The Couples PRIVATE Hybrid 4X4 Tour offers exclusivity and flexibility.
Whatever your choice, booking early is wise, especially in high season. These tours promise not just hot springs but a chance to experience the island’s volcanic soul and genuine hospitality—definitely worth making time for during your trip to the Azores.
