Canyoning & Furnas Tour (Azores – São Miguel)

Exploring the Canyoning & Furnas Tour in São Miguel

If you’re looking for a way to combine adrenaline and relaxation during your trip to São Miguel, the Canyoning & Furnas Tour offers a compelling package. Though I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it seems like a well-rounded experience that balances outdoor adventure with cultural and natural exploration.

What really catches the eye are the exciting canyoning adventure—including jumps, slides, and rappels—and the chance to savor a famous local dish, Cozido das Furnas, cooked traditionally in volcanic earth. Plus, the opportunity to unwind in thermal hot springs adds a soothing end to an active day.

One thing to consider is that this tour runs about 8 hours, so it’s a full day of activity. If you’re not comfortable with water-based adventures or have mobility concerns, it’s worth noting that the hike to the canyon and some scrambling is involved. But overall, this experience tends to suit those who enjoy a mix of adventure, nature, and local culture, making it ideal for travelers seeking a memorable and diverse day.

Key Points

• Adventurous canyoning involving jumps, slides, and abseils in stunning natural surroundings
• Expert guides ensure safety and enrich the experience with local insight
• Cozido lunch offers a unique taste of Azorean cuisine, cooked in volcanic heat
• Relaxing thermal baths provide a peaceful finish, with options at Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija
• All-inclusive equipment and photos mean you can focus on the experience without worries
• Small group size (up to 8 travelers) makes for a more personalized adventure

The Adventure Begins: Canyoning in São Miguel

The highlight of this tour is without question the canyoning experience, which is designed to bring out your adventurous side. You start with a short walk of around 15 minutes from your pickup point in Ponta Delgada, where you’ll receive your gear—wetsuits, helmets, harnesses, and boots—so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own. Having good equipment means you can focus on the fun and trust in your guide’s safety instructions.

The safety briefings seem thorough and crucial, especially given the nature of canyoning. You’ll learn how to rappel—an essential skill for this activity—and then head uphill to the canyon’s entrance. Once you’re at the top, the real fun begins. Expect a series of jumps, some optional, that range from around 2 to 7 meters. If you’re a bit nervous about jumping, know that these are all optional—you can choose to slide or abseil instead. The natural water slides and abseil points, between 5 and 15 meters, promise a mix of thrill and stunning scenery.

According to reviews, the water can be quite cold—one reviewer noted the “freezing” water—but the adrenaline definitely helps to keep you warm. This element of challenge is part of what makes canyoning memorable and satisfying. The guide’s experience and encouragement are often highlighted as making the activity safe and enjoyable, especially for those new to canyoning.

A Taste of Local Culture in Furnas

After the high-energy canyoning, the tour shifts gears. You’ll enjoy a hearty lunch of Cozido das Furnas—a traditional Azorean dish cooked underground using volcanic heat. This meal is a real highlight for food lovers, offering a taste of local culinary culture that’s both filling and flavorful. Many reviews mention the deliciousness of the dish and the relaxed atmosphere of eating it in a local restaurant.

Post-lunch, the tour takes you on a short walk to Caldeiras Vulcânicas, where you can see the fumarolic fields and hot springs. This volcanic landscape is a vivid reminder of São Miguel’s geologic activity and adds a natural spectacle to your day.

Relaxation in Thermal Waters

The final part of the tour offers a welcome chance to unwind. You can choose between visiting Terra Nostra Botanical Garden or Poça da Dona Beija, both famed for their thermal waters. While entrance tickets aren’t included in the tour price, many find these baths to be therapeutic and a perfect way to relax after an active morning.

Reviewer comments reflect the calming nature of these springs: one person described it as a “well-deserved” way to unwind after the canyoning. Whether you prefer the lush botanical surroundings of Terra Nostra or the more intimate Poça da Dona Beija, both spots are considered icons of São Miguel’s geothermal culture.

About the Tour Logistics

Starting early at 8:30 am from Ponta Delgada, the tour runs around 8 hours, making it a full but well-structured day. The small group size, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensures a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides. All equipment, insurance, and photos are included, which adds value and peace of mind.

The price, at around $148 per person, might seem steep at first glance, but considering the variety of activities—adventure, culture, and relaxation—it’s quite reasonable. Plus, the tour is often booked 16 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. Keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase tickets for the thermal baths separately if you want to take full advantage of the thermal water experiences.

What Real Travelers Are Saying

One reviewer summed it up with a glowing 5-star review: “Wonderful trip and guide. The water was freezing but the adrenaline kept me warm : ) thank you for a great time!” This highlights how much the guides help make the experience enjoyable, even in challenging conditions like cold water.

Other feedback emphasizes the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides, which seem to make all the difference. The combination of adventure and local flavor is what makes this tour stand out.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who want a full day of adventure combined with cultural insights and relaxation. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy being in nature, aren’t afraid of water, and are comfortable with some physical activity. The small group size means you get more personalized attention, making it a good choice for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience.

It might not be ideal for anyone with mobility issues or those who dislike cold water or heights. If you’re traveling with children, check with the provider—this activity is generally suited for older kids or teens comfortable with adventure sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to cater to a range of skill levels. The guides will show you how to rappel and use the equipment safely, and all jumps are optional, so you can skip any part you’re uncomfortable with.

What should I wear during canyoning?
You’ll be provided with a wetsuit, helmet, harness, and water shoes, so just wear comfortable clothing underneath, like a swimsuit or quick-drying shorts and a T-shirt.

How cold will the water be?
Many find the water quite cold—one review mentioned it was freezing—but the adrenaline and activity usually help keep you warm. Dress accordingly and be prepared for chilly water.

Can I relax in the thermal baths after the activity?
Absolutely. You can choose between Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija, both renowned for their thermal waters. Keep in mind that entrance tickets are not included, so plan for that if you want to soak.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 16 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, as spots are limited and popular.

What is included in the tour price?
Your booking covers guides, equipment, insurance, photos/videos, and a traditional lunch with drinks. Entrance to thermal baths is extra.

Final Thoughts

This Canyoning & Furnas Tour offers a lively mix of outdoor adventure, authentic local cuisine, and relaxing geothermal therapy. It’s an opportunity to see São Miguel from multiple angles—thrilling rivers and waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and lush botanical gardens. The guides’ expertise and the small group size seem to be key ingredients for a safe, personalized, and memorable experience.

If you’re someone craving a day filled with action but also longing to unwind in natural thermal waters, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for the cold water and a full day on your feet. It’s a fantastic way to get outside, get your heart pumping, and then relax with great food and soothing hot springs.

Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with friends, this tour balances adventure with a touch of local flavor—making it a well-rounded day you’ll likely remember long after you leave São Miguel.