Furnas Full Day Tour | Full Day Furnas Tour (Min. 2 Persons)

If you’re visiting the Azores and want a comprehensive taste of everything São Miguel has to offer, this Furnas Full Day Tour might be just what you’re looking for. A well-rounded way to see the highlights without feeling rushed, it promises a blend of scenic landscapes, local cuisine, and geological wonders. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear that it offers a worthwhile experience, especially for those eager to explore the island’s natural and cultural gems.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its diverse itinerary—covering everything from the colorful Vila Franca do Campo viewpoint to the steaming geothermal springs of Furnas—and its friendly guide service, which many reviews highlight as a real plus. The inclusion of lunch featuring the famous “cozidos” cooked in volcanic heat adds a genuine local flavor. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves some walking and standing, especially at viewpoints and thermal springs, so it might be less ideal for travelers with mobility issues. Overall, it suits those who want a full, engaging day that combines natural beauty with tasty local treats.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day: Combines multiple highlights like views, geothermal pools, and local food in one day.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and insight.
• Cultural and Natural Blend: Offers a taste of local sweets, tea, and volcanic landscapes.
• Flexible Experience: Pickup service and small group size make for an intimate, comfortable day.
• Value for Money: At around $87, it’s a good way to see top sights without booking multiple tours.
• Weather Consideration: Tour depends on good weather; poor conditions might cause cancellations or adjustments.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

First Stop: Vila Franca do Campo Viewpoint and Sweet Treats

The day kicks off with a scenic drive south from Ponta Delgada, heading toward Vila Franca do Campo. From the viewpoint, you’ll get a great overhead shot of this historic island town, which was once the island’s first capital. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the views of the coast and the lush landscape.

Next, you’ll visit the factory of Queijadas da Vila, a beloved local sweet with convent roots. While tasting is optional, many travelers find these treats deliciously addictive, with a delicate sweetness that pairs well with the island’s tea. It’s a quick stop but sets a sweet tone for the day.

Second Stop: Caldeira das Furnas and Geothermal Wonders

Arriving in the Furnas Valley, the real adventure begins. You’ll have a chance to relax in thermal baths at Poona da Dona Beija or Parque Terra Nostra—though entrance fees are not included—so if you love soaking in warm waters, this is a highlight. The thermal springs’ mineral-rich waters are reputed for their relaxing qualities, and many find them genuinely soothing.

Then, it’s time for one of the tour’s most iconic features: witnessing the “baking of Furnas”. Here, you’ll see the traditional method of cooking local dishes underground using geothermal heat—this is where the famous cozidos are prepared and served for lunch in a local restaurant. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that offers both a cultural insight and a hearty meal.

After lunch, you’ll visit the fumaroles and springs in the area, where steam rises from the earth, and mineral waters bubble up—an alien landscape that’s both fascinating and a reminder of the island’s volcanic activity. The Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers sweeping views over the crater, letting you appreciate the volcanic origins of the landscape.

Third Stop: Gorreana Tea Plantation and Scenic Views

From Furnas, your journey continues along the north coast to the Gorreana Tea Factory—the only tea plantation in Europe. Here, you can stroll through lush green fields, sip on freshly brewed tea, and enjoy spectacular views of the north coast. Many reviews highlight this stop as a highlight, thanks to the peaceful setting and the chance to learn about tea production.

Your last stop is at the Santa Iria viewpoint, which offers a stunning panorama of the north coast, wrapping up the day with a scenic moment before heading back to Ponta Delgada.

Practical Details & What You Should Know

The tour lasts roughly eight hours, starting at 9:15 am, with a small group size (up to 59 travelers), making it reasonably intimate. The price of around $87 per person includes lunch and all taxes, which is quite reasonable given the number of attractions visited. However, entrance fees to parks like Terra Nostra or Dona Beija are not included, so if thermal baths are a priority, budget accordingly.

Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort even on warm days, and pickup is offered, which saves you the hassle of finding the meeting point. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind that some walking and standing are involved, especially at viewpoints and geothermal sites.

The tour is booked well in advance—about 44 days on average—so planning ahead is wise if you want to secure a spot. It’s also weather-dependent; if rain or poor conditions cancel, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Insights from Reviews and Real Travelers

One common theme among reviewers is the quality of guides. As one reviewer noted, their guide was “super friendly and gave insights on locations,” making the experience more engaging and informative. Others appreciated the mix of experiences, from viewing volcanic landscapes to tasting local sweets and tea.

The scenery gets high praise, with comments like “the views from Pico do Ferro are superb,” and “the guide’s insights made the day memorable.” Travelers also enjoyed the local food, especially the cozidos cooked underground—a true taste of the island’s volcanic geology.

A few reviews mentioned how the weather played a role; a clear, sunny day makes a huge difference in enjoying viewpoints and thermal baths. The feedback is very positive, often highlighting the balance of nature, culture, and comfort.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day tour is ideal for those who want to see a broad slice of São Miguel in one go—from volcanic craters and geothermal springs to tea plantations and local sweets. It suits travelers who enjoy learning about local culture and don’t mind some walking. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a well-organized day without the stress of planning each stop.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy scenic drives, good food, and interesting sights, this tour will likely meet your expectations. However, if you’re looking for a very specialized experience (like deep diving into volcanic geology or extra time at thermal spas), you might prefer to customize your own day.

Final Thoughts

This Furnas Full Day Tour offers a balanced, well-paced way to explore some of the best features of São Miguel. It combines scenic vistas, geothermal wonders, and local flavors into a single memorable day. The positive reviews about guides and the variety of experiences suggest it’s a reliable choice for most travelers.

For around $87, you get a comprehensive look at the island’s highlights, plus the convenience of transport and lunch included. It’s a great option if you want an easy, engaging way to experience the natural beauty and local culture of São Miguel, especially if you’re comfortable with some walking and outdoor exposure.

Ultimately, this tour is best suited for curious travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of arranging multiple activities. It’s a good choice for those interested in geology, stunning viewpoints, and tasting local specialties—an authentic taste of the Azores in one satisfying day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, with pickup offered from your accommodations.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:15 am and returning in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes lunch, all fees and taxes, and the guided experience.

Are entrance fees to parks included?
No, entrance fees to parks like Terra Nostra or Dona Beija are not included, so you may want to bring extra for thermal baths if you plan to visit them.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, most travelers found it enjoyable. Just be prepared for some walking.

How many people typically join the tour?
It’s designed for groups up to 59 travelers, keeping the experience comfortably small.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, bookings are often made around 44 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.

What’s the best time of year to go?
The tour is best enjoyed in good weather; summer and early fall tend to offer the most favorable conditions.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a traditional Azorean meal featuring the famous cozido, cooked using volcanic heat.

This well-rounded tour offers a good way to experience the diverse wonders of São Miguel with ease. Whether you’re into geology, food, or simply soaking up breathtaking views, it’s a solid pick for making the most of your Azores adventure.