Excursion to Furnas and Nordeste with Cozido das Furnas

Exploring São Miguel: A Detailed Look at the Furnas and Nordeste Tour

If you’re eyeing a day trip on São Miguel that combines stunning landscapes, cultural highlights, and a taste of local life, this Furnas and Nordeste excursion might just be what you’re looking for. Offered by Artur Azores Tours, this guided journey promises a full immersion into some of the island’s most picturesque spots, all wrapped up in about 8 hours. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, this tour is tailored for those who want a balance of natural beauty and authentic experiences.

What really caught our attention about this tour? First, the local guide aspect means you get more flexibility and insider knowledge—no cookie-cutter experience here. Second, the stunning views you’ll encounter are truly something to remember, especially with the guide pointing out the best photo spots. The only thing to keep in mind? The price of around $150 per person might seem steep for some, but considering the itinerary and inclusions, many will find it offers good value. This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who love nature, photography, and a laid-back but enriching day out.

Key Points

• Expert local guides offer flexibility and personalized insights.
• Stunning scenic stops make this a visual feast, perfect for photography lovers.
• The itinerary includes free visits to natural parks, waterfalls, and viewpoints.
• Includes lunch and transportation, streamlining the day for convenience.
• Limited group size (max 8 travelers) means a more intimate experience.
• Some paid attractions, like thermal baths and entrance to fumaroles, are optional extras.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour stands out because it’s designed to balance nature, culture, and comfort. From the moment you’re picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’re set for a day of exploring São Miguel’s most scenic spots with a knowledgeable local guide. The small group size ensures you don’t feel lost or rushed—allowing for a more personalized experience and plenty of opportunities for questions or quick photo stops.

The cost of $150.34 per person might seem high at first glance, but when you factor in transport, lunch, and exclusive guided access to several attractions, it offers decent value. Plus, most of the stops are free to enter, which keeps additional costs down and lets you focus on the sights rather than ticket lines.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes

We loved starting the day here because it’s a clear introduction to the island’s lush greenery and powerful waterfalls. This natural park is a great way to get those first moments of awe, with its waterfalls, water-powered mills, and nature in full bloom. The best part? Admission is free, so you’re not paying for the privilege of being surrounded by nature’s wonders right away.

Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana

Visiting Europe’s only tea plantation, established since 1883, is a highlight. You get to see how Tea is cultivated on the island and visit the factory with the chance to sample various aromas of tea. It’s fascinating to see such a historic operation and understand the unique climate that helps produce these teas. Plus, it’s a nice break from walking—just a quick stop of around 10 minutes.

Pico do Ferro

Prepare for a breathtaking view over the Furnas lagoon and the surrounding crater. This vantage point offers a sweeping panorama that will make your camera work hard. The guide usually points out interesting details about the volcanic landscape, making this more than just a photo op—it’s an opportunity to connect with the island’s volcanic roots.

Lagoa das Furnas

This spot is a must-see—it’s where the famous Furnas stews are cooked underground in thermal fumaroles. Watching the pans being drawn from the hot springs is both entertaining and delicious. The lake itself is beautiful, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to explore the fumaroles up close. Admission to the fumaroles isn’t included, so plan accordingly if that interests you.

Miradouro da Ponta da Madrugada

Here, you’ll find an amazing view of the sea and mountains, perfect for a moment of quiet reflection or a photo session. Our guide mentioned this as one of the most “surrendering” spots on the island, and it’s easy to see why.

Nordeste Village

A charming stop in the heart of the Nordeste region introduces you to traditional Azorean houses and the iconic Centenary Bridge. It’s a quick look, but enough to give you a taste of local architecture and rural life.

Poca da Dona Beija

After a full day of exploration, relaxing in thermal baths at Poca da Dona Beija is a lovely way to unwind. The waters reach up to 38°C, offering a soothing end to your trip. Admission isn’t included, so budget for that if you want to soak.

The Experience of a Local Guide

A standout feature of this tour is undoubtedly the local guide, Artur, who is praised for his patience and kindness. One review simply states, “Artur is the best tour guide ever,” and many others echo this sentiment. Having a guide who knows the ins and outs means you can adapt the schedule to fit your interests and get insider tips on the best photo spots or hidden gems.

The guide’s flexibility adds an extra layer of enjoyment—there’s no rigid timetable, which allows for spontaneous photo stops or extra time at a particularly stunning view.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You get air-conditioned transport and a lunch included in the price, both of which are significant perks. The convenience of having transportation organized means you won’t need to worry about navigating the island on your own or finding good restaurants for lunch.

However, keep in mind that tickets for paid attractions—such as the thermal baths or entrance to fumaroles—are not included. This means you might want to set aside a small additional budget for those if you plan to indulge.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, those interested in local culture, or anyone wanting a rundown of São Miguel’s highlights in one day. If you’re keen on photography, the many scenic stops will give you plenty of opportunities for stunning shots. It’s particularly good for travelers who prefer guided experiences but with enough flexibility to explore at their own pace.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the stops are mostly outdoors and involve minimal walking, making it accessible for most travelers, including older adults or those with limited mobility.

Final Thoughts

At around $150, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of São Miguel’s natural beauty, cultural highlights, and hot springs. The small group size, combined with a knowledgeable guide, makes it stand out among typical bus tours. If you’re after an authentic experience with plenty of stunning vistas and insightful commentary, this is a solid choice.

It’s especially suited to travelers who want to maximize their day without the hassle of organizing multiple stops themselves. The focus on natural landscapes, combined with local insights, makes this a memorable way to connect with the island’s essence.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, with pickup offered from your accommodation or designated meeting points.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is included in the price, allowing you to relax and refuel during the day.

Are tickets to paid locations included?
No, entrance fees for some attractions like fumaroles or thermal baths are not included, so you should budget extra if you want to visit these.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops involve minimal walking and outdoor activity, making it accessible for most.

What makes the guide special?
Guests praise the guide’s patience, kindness, and local knowledge, which adds a lot of value to the experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. Also, consider extra cash for entrance fees you may wish to pay on-site.

Is this tour flexible?
With a local guide, yes. The itinerary allows for some adjustments based on your interests and the weather.

This tour offers a genuine taste of São Miguel’s wild beauty and local charm. Whether you’re after stunning views, cultural insights, or just a relaxing day exploring one of Portugal’s most beautiful islands, it’s worth considering.