Furnas: Mystic Tour (w/Dinner & Thermal Springs)

If you’re considering a guided experience that combines natural beauty, local gastronomy, and wellness, the Furnas: Mystic Tour offers quite a compelling package. We’ve come across this well-reviewed, highly-rated tour from Wildscape Azores Tours that promises an immersive snapshot of Sao Miguel’s enchanting landscape after sunset. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the consistent glowing reviews suggest it’s a genuine highlight for visitors wanting to soak in the island’s mystical charm without fuss.

What immediately catches the eye is how this tour balances sightseeing with a cultural tasting experience. You get to see some of the most iconic sights, indulge in the island’s signature dish — the “Cozido das Furnas” — and relax in thermal springs—all in one evening. That’s a lot packed into around six hours, making it both a comprehensive and relaxing way to spend an evening.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that admittance to the thermal springs isn’t included in the base price, so if you’re eager to take a dip, you’ll need to book those separately. Also, the tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, which keeps things personal but might feel a bit crowded for some. Overall, if you love discovering local culture with a touch of luxury and aren’t fussed about extra expenses for thermal baths, this tour could be just right.

This experience would appeal most to travelers who enjoy guided tours that mix scenic views, local cuisine, and relaxation — especially if you’re visiting Sao Miguel for the first time. It’s good for those who want a relaxed, well-organized evening without the hassle of planning all the stops themselves.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines sightseeing, local food, and hot springs in a single evening.
• Highly rated: 5-star reviews from 43 satisfied travelers, with 100% recommending it.
• Expert guide: Knowledgeable tour leaders enhance the experience with insights and friendliness.
• Flexible options: The tour includes dinner, and you can opt to book the thermal baths in advance.
• Comfortable size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personal experience.
• Value for money: At $112.23, it offers a balanced mix of sights, tastes, and relaxation.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Journey: From Ponta Delgada to Furnas

The tour kicks off in the early evening from a convenient meeting point in Ponta Delgada. The drive lasts about 45 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get a first glimpse of the island’s rugged coastline and the charming islet of Vila Franca do Campo. The scenery during this drive is part of what makes the trip worthwhile—waves crashing against cliffs, lush greenery, and distant volcanic formations set the perfect tone.

Lagoa das Furnas: The Heart of the Tour

The first stop is the famous Lagoa das Furnas, a breathtaking caldera-lake that’s part of a dormant volcano’s crater. This spot is especially memorable due to its volcanic activity, visible in the bubbling earth and steaming vents nearby. It’s a spot that appeals to nature lovers and those curious about geothermal phenomena—plus, it’s stunning enough to get your camera ready.

From what travelers have shared, this isn’t just a pretty view. It’s also an educational stop where you can observe the geological activity that makes Furnas so unique. You might find the landscape dotted with hot springs and bubbling pools, creating a sense of being on another planet.

While the entrance to Lagoa das Furnas costs a small fee (around 3 euros if you’re a non-resident), it’s a minor expense considering the visual reward. Keep in mind that the tour itself doesn’t include this fee, so plan accordingly.

Savoring the “Cozido das Furnas”

The culinary highlight of the trip is the “Cozido das Furnas”, a stew cooked underground thanks to the island’s geothermal heat. The process involves burying a mix of meats and vegetables into the earth, where they cook slowly for 6-7 hours. It’s a fascinating, tasty tradition, and the fact that this method is still alive today makes it especially appealing.

You’ll enjoy a traditional local restaurant, with a generous meal that includes starters, the stew itself, drinks, dessert, and coffee. Vegetarian options are available, and there are alternatives suitable for children, making the experience accessible for different dietary needs.

Multiple reviews praise the quality and flavor of the food, with one reviewer calling it “delicious” and noting how the local chefs have perfected this geothermal cooking technique. The meal not only satisfies your palate but also offers insight into local customs and ingenuity.

Relaxing in the Dona Beija Thermal Springs

After dinner, the tour offers the chance to unwind at the Poça da Dona Beija, a thermal spring complex renowned for its warm, iron-rich waters at around 39ºC (102ºF). As you soak in these mineral-rich pools, the lush vegetation and bird sounds create a peaceful, almost meditative environment.

Travelers have described this as a true highlight—many mention the “beautiful scenery” and the “calming sensation” of soaking while watching the sunset fade into night. The experience is especially soothing after a day of exploring; it’s a perfect way to wind down.

Remember, admittance to the thermal springs costs around 17 euros if booked separately, but the tour can also book this for you if you prefer. It’s worth noting that some medical conditions may make thermal baths unsuitable, so check with your doctor if you have concerns.

Strolling through Alameda Garden and Watching Nature’s Show

Next, a short walk takes you through Alameda Garden, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll along a water stream and admire the natural surroundings. This quiet moment offers a different kind of scenic beauty, with the gentle sounds of flowing water and the sight of waterfalls and hidden aquariums.

Finally, the night culminates with a visit to Caldeira das Furnas, where the earth’s steaming pools light up in the dark. The bubbling waters, combined with natural smoke and occasional bursts of steam, create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. It’s a display of nature’s power, and many find it both beautiful and awe-inspiring.

The Return Journey and Final Thoughts

The drive back along the northern coast provides a relaxed environment for reflection, or even a quick nap, before arriving back at the meeting point. The entire trip, including travel, sightseeing, dinner, and relaxation, makes for a well-rounded experience that leaves many travelers feeling satisfied and enriched.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially noting how guides like Ivo bring the experience to life with their insights and warmth. The scenic views of Furnas, combined with the delicious local cuisine, make this a culinary and visual treat. The inclusion of thermal baths adds a luxurious touch, perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.

The size of the group keeps things intimate, allowing for a more personal experience, and the flexibility to book the thermal baths separately gives you control over your budget and comfort.

The Slight Downsides

The main consideration is that admission to hot springs costs extra if you want to soak, which isn’t included in the base price. Booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. Also, since the tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, some may find it a bit crowded, but this small group size enhances the personal touch.

In terms of timing, the tour aligns well with sunset and night activities, but if you’re particularly eager to spend more time at each stop, you might find the schedule a little tight.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Sao Miguel who want a comprehensive taste of Furnas in one evening. It suits travelers who appreciate guided excursions that combine nature, culture, and comfort without the need to plan each detail themselves. It’s also perfect for those who love local food and thermal relaxation, especially if they’re keen to see some of the most iconic sights after dark.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s overall gentle pace and inclusive meal options make it accessible for travelers with children, provided they are comfortable with the walking involved.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes a pickup from the designated meeting point at Emigrant Statue in Ponta Delgada, and the journey throughout the evening is by private or group transport arranged by the operator.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, with the start at 5:30 pm and returning to the meeting point afterwards.

Can I book the thermal springs separately?
Yes, you can book the Dona Beija thermal springs on your own for 16 euros or opt to have the tour book it for you for an extra 17 euros.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to enjoy the hot springs. If you want lockers or hot showers, those are available for small additional fees.

Is this tour suitable during bad weather?
The tour requires good weather to fully enjoy outdoor sights and the thermal baths. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options and alternatives for children are available, but it’s best to inform the operator beforehand.

Final Thoughts

The Furnas: Mystic Tour offers a well-rounded evening that balances spectacular scenery, authentic local food, and relaxing thermal baths. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting an engaging, intimate experience that covers some of the best that Sao Miguel has to offer after sunset. The combination of knowledgeable guides, delicious cuisine, and the chance to unwind in mineral-rich waters makes it a memorable way to discover Furnas.

If you’re after a seamless, enriching night out and don’t mind paying a little extra for the thermal baths, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to enjoy the island’s natural wonders and local hospitality in a relaxed setting, making it suitable for those who value comfort, authenticity, and a touch of adventure.