Furnas: Mystic Tour (w/Dinner) – Hot Springs

If you’re considering a visit to São Miguel, the Furnas Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs promises an engaging blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Though I haven’t done this exact tour myself, plenty of travelers rave about the experience, and it’s easy to see why. From the hour-long explorations of volcanic landscapes to a dinner cooked underground, this tour offers a chance to truly soak in the island’s geothermal wonder.

What we love about this experience is how it combines spectacular scenery with authentic local traditions. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly attitude, making the journey both informative and fun. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the hot springs entry is not included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for that separately. This tour suits travelers eager to experience the mystical side of Furnas—nature lovers, foodies, and those wanting a relaxing evening all find something to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Incredible geothermal landscapes and volcanic scenery
• Authentic dining with a traditional geo-cooked stew
• Relaxing thermal baths at Poça da Dona Beija (entry extra)
• Expert guides who share insightful stories and cultural context
• Nighttime atmosphere adds a mystical vibe to the experience
• Suitable for those who want a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This 6-hour adventure on São Miguel promises a well-rounded glimpse into the fascinating geothermal world of Furnas. It begins with a scenic drive, giving you a taste of the island’s lush coastlines and charming towns before arriving at the volcanic heart of Furnas. The highlight? The chance to see Lagoa das Furnas, a crater lake famous for its natural beauty and the bubbling geothermal activity that powers local traditions.

The tour’s core is the geothermal walk around the lagoon, where you’ll see the effects of volcanic activity firsthand. The atmosphere here is almost otherworldly, with steaming vents and lush vegetation creating an almost mystical mood—especially at dusk or nightfall. The guide’s commentary helps you understand what you’re looking at and how locals have learned to work with—and benefit from—the geothermal energy.

The Unique Experience of Geo-Cooked “Cozido das Furnas”

One of the main highlights is the dinner of the Furnas geo-cooked stew, the “Cozido das Furnas.” This dish is a treat for anyone interested in authentic culinary experiences. The method involves burying a pot of meats, vegetables, and tubers underground, where natural volcanic heat gently cooks everything over 6-7 hours.

Travelers consistently praise the quality of the meal, which is served at a traditional local restaurant. The menu generally includes starters, main courses, drinks, desserts, and coffee or tea—vegetarian options are available, and they can prepare alternative dishes for children if notified in advance. As one reviewer put it, “the dinner was amazing,” and many mention the authentic, homey feel of the meal as a perfect complement to the day’s adventures.

Exploring Lagoa das Furnas and Its Surroundings

The lake itself is a major draw. During the day, it offers gorgeous views and a chance to enjoy the local flora and fauna. On this tour, you get a short guided walk around the lagoon, which is rich with endemic and invasive plant species, as well as some bird life. The terrain is accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.

The guide’s storytelling is appreciated here—many reviews mention how their guide shared insights into the geology and natural history of the area, adding depth to the scenery. For example, one traveler said, “we loved the way the guide explained the geothermal activity and local history—it made the experience so much richer.”

Relaxing in the Hot Springs at Nightfall

After the day’s sightseeing and dinner, it’s time to unwind in the famous Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths. The outdoor pools are kept at a cozy 37-39ºC (99-102ºF), perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The experience is especially atmospheric at night, with steam rising in the cool air and the gentle sounds of nature creating a tranquil setting.

The baths are celebrated for their therapeutic effects, with the mineral-rich waters said to be good for skin and overall wellbeing. Visitors mention that the atmosphere during the evening is magical, as the environment becomes more contemplative and peaceful. However, note that entry isn’t included in the tour price—you’ll need to book tickets online or pay cash on-site, which adds a small extra cost.

One reviewer shared, “The hot springs visit was beyond my expectations—such a peaceful, beautiful way to end the day.” Just keep in mind that during summer, the night visits are scheduled at specific times, so plan ahead if this is a must-do part of your trip.

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The Nighttime Volcano Show and Final Sights

As the tour winds down, you’ll get a chance to see Furnas village’s boiling water pools at night, a natural spectacle of steam, bubbling waters, and flickering lights. This is a quiet but awe-inspiring moment, and many visitors find it a fitting finale. Sampling the mineral waters and a local sweet treat helps clean your palate and round out the evening.

The guide’s commentary continues here, sharing stories about the volcanic activity and local legends, making the experience both educational and atmospheric.

The Practicalities: Logistics, Group Size, and Pricing

This is a small group tour, generally lasting around 6 hours, with pickups available from three locations: Lagoa, Ponta Delgada, and Ribeira Grande. The transportation is a comfortable, air-conditioned van, making for a smooth ride between stops.

The tour is flexible and designed to offer a seamless experience—your guide coordinates timing and activities, adjusting as needed. The tour costs approximately €17 for the hot springs entry (if you opt for Dona Beija tickets), with the overall value depending on how much you enjoy the included activities and the guided insights.

Most reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with many praising Ivo for his storytelling and attentiveness. This personal touch makes a big difference, especially for those who appreciate local insights and cultural context.

What Travelers Say

Reading through the reviews, it’s clear that this tour is a hit for many. Travelers appreciate the authenticity of the experience, especially the dinner cooked underground and the chance to relax in thermal waters at night. One reviewer said, “the hot springs visit was beyond our expectations,” while another raved, “Ivo was a wonderful guide—thoughtful, knowledgeable, and friendly.”

A few mentioned that the initial stop by the ocean or the scenery on the drive can be less remarkable than the geothermal and culinary highlights, but overall, the consistency of positive feedback makes this a reliable choice.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves geothermal landscapes, local food, and relaxing in thermal baths, this tour ticks all those boxes. The evening setting adds a mystical, peaceful touch that’s perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The guides seem genuinely passionate and knowledgeable, making the entire experience more enriching.

This experience feels particularly suited to travelers who want a combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It’s also a good pick if you enjoy nighttime scenery and want to see Furnas in a different light—literally.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer self-guided exploration, some parts of this tour, like the thermal baths, involve extra costs. If you have specific health conditions like circulatory issues or low blood pressure, check with your doctor before soaking in the hot springs.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Furnas. From the geothermal walk to the delicious stew and soothing baths, it’s a memorable way to experience the island’s volcanic magic.

FAQ

Is the hot springs entry included in the tour price?
No, the entry fee for Poça da Dona Beija is charged separately—about €16 per adult. You can book online or pay cash during the tour. The guide can assist you with reservations.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is around 6 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, dinner, and the hot springs visit.

Are vegetarian options available for dinner?
Yes, the dinner at the local restaurant includes vegetarian options, and alternative dishes can be prepared for children if you notify the guides beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically designed for kids, most parts are family-friendly. However, check with the tour provider if you have very young children or special needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, weather-appropriate clothes, toiletries, and a sense of adventure. High heels or large bags are not allowed on the tour.

What is the guide’s language?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, providing friendly and informative commentary.

Is the tour customizable?
The schedule is generally fixed, but the guides aim to make the experience flexible and tailored to the group’s needs as much as possible.

Can I book the tour close to the date?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you the flexibility to confirm your plans closer to your travel date.

What if I have health concerns?
If you have circulatory issues or low blood pressure, consult your doctor before soaking in hot springs, as the thermal waters might not be suitable for you.

If you’re after a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, the Furnas Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs offers a memorable evening that captures the essence of the Azores’ volcanic beauty. It’s a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring or to experience the island’s mystical side in a truly unique setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: