Private tour Full Day Furnas 1 to 4 people

Exploring Sao Miguel with a Private Full-Day Furnas Tour

If you’re considering a day out in Sao Miguel, this private tour focusing on Furnas offers an intimate way to see some of the island’s best sights. Designed for small groups of 1 to 4 people, it promises a personalized experience, driven by your interests. We love how this kind of tour allows for flexibility and an insider feel, especially when exploring areas that are off the beaten path. Plus, the chance to customize the day adds a layer of genuine discovery.

Two things that stand out are the opportunity to relax in thermal waters at Parque Terra Nostra and the chance to witness the local cozido being cooked in volcanic caldeiras—an authentic and memorable experience. However, a possible consideration is the price, which is around $481 for the whole group. Depending on your budget, that might seem steep compared to larger group tours, but it could be worth it for the personalized touch.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible, in-depth look at Sao Miguel’s natural beauty and local culture, with the comfort of private transportation and a dedicated guide. If you prefer small groups and customized itineraries, it could be a great pick. Those looking for a more structured or budget-friendly option might want to explore other tours. Still, if you’re after quality, exclusivity, and detailed attention, this tour ticks many boxes.

• Private, customizable experience allows you to focus on what interests you most.
• Visit lesser-accessible spots on secondary roads, avoiding the crowds.
• Includes several scenic and cultural highlights like thermal baths, volcanic lake, tea plantations, and viewpoints.
• Price reflects a personalized, all-inclusive day with lunch and multiple entry tickets.
• Ideal for small groups or couples seeking a relaxed, in-depth exploration.
• A flexible schedule with stops that can be tailored to your preferences.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This private tour hits a solid mix of natural beauty, local culture, and scenic viewpoints through Sao Miguel’s south-central region. From start to finish, you’ll get a good feel for what makes the island unique, all with the comfort of a private guide.

Parque Terra Nostra

Your day begins with a visit to Parque Terra Nostra, a lush botanical garden famous for its thermal waters. While entry isn’t included, you’ll have an hour to soak and unwind in the warm, mineral-rich waters—perfect after a morning of travel or a bit of sightseeing. The gardens themselves are a delight, offering a peaceful walk amid exotic plants. Many reviews highlight this as a favorite stop, with one traveler describing it as “a magical day in the Azores,” thanks to the mix of natural beauty and relaxing thermal baths.

Lagoa das Furnas

Next, you’ll head to Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic lake surrounded by lush greenery. Here, you’ll witness the unique tradition of cozido, a hearty stew cooked beneath the ground in volcanic caldeiras. Watching this process adds a fascinating cultural layer to your visit, and the tour includes a stop at a local restaurant where you’ll taste this signature dish. Reviewers mention that seeing the cozido being removed from the volcanic earth is a highlight, adding authenticity to the experience.

Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana

A visit to Gorreana tea plantation takes you back in time, showcasing how tea has been cultivated here since before many modern plantations. You’re given a chance to taste the local tea, which many travelers find surprisingly good, considering the small operation. It’s a pleasant, quiet stop that provides a glimpse into the island’s agricultural traditions. The 45-minute visit is short but sweet, making it a relaxing break in your day.

Nossa Senhora da Paz

The Nossa Senhora da Paz Chapel is a peaceful spot overlooking Vila Franca do Campo, the first capital of the island. It offers one of the best panoramic views of the coast and the boats bobbing in the harbor. The quick stop here gives you a chance to breathe in the scenery and take some memorable photos. Many find this a serene and worthwhile viewpoint, especially if you’re a fan of quiet, scenic spots.

Miradouro Pico Do Ferro

Finally, the Pico do Ferro viewpoint caps the tour with a spectacular vista over Furnas valley. It’s a short stop but well worth it—many reviews mention the breathtaking views as a highlight of their day. The overlook provides a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate the volcanic landscape that makes this island so unique.

What To Expect in Terms of Experience and Value

Transportation: You’ll be traveling in a private jeep, which means more comfort and access to secondary roads that larger buses can’t navigate. This is a huge plus for those wanting to see hidden corners and avoid the crowd. The driver-guide acts as a local expert, adding context and answering your questions along the way.

Timing & Flexibility: With roughly 8 hours, you get enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Since it’s private, the schedule can be tailored to your pace or interests—perhaps spending more time at the thermal baths or exploring a specific viewpoint longer.

Cost & Inclusion: At around $481 for the whole group (up to 4 people), you’re paying for a personalized experience that includes admission tickets to several sites and a local lunch. While more expensive than some group tours, the benefit here is intimacy, flexibility, and a more curated day.

Reviews & Reputation: All seven reviews are perfect 5-star ratings, with a standout comment praising guide Eduardo’s charisma, knowledge, and enthusiasm. Travelers seem to really appreciate the personal touches and the well-rounded nature of the trip. The mention of the guide’s exceptional qualities hints that a good guide makes all the difference in such personalized tours.

Potential Downsides: The main consideration is the price. For some, it might seem high, especially if you’re used to larger group tours with similar stops. Also, some activities like the thermal bath are optional, so if you’re eager to spend more time relaxing there, you might need to extend your visit independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Furnas tour is ideal for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who prioritize a custom, intimate experience. If you appreciate flexibility and want to explore at your own pace, this tour offers a lot of value. It’s perfect for those interested in natural landscapes, volcanic phenomena, and cultural traditions, all served with the comfort of private transport and a guide’s expertise.

It’s also a good fit for travelers who want to avoid the hustle of larger tours and value personal attention. However, if budget is a primary concern or if you prefer very structured itineraries, you might want to compare other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the stops involve natural attractions and scenic views that could appeal to families. However, some activities, like walking around gardens or viewpoints, may require a bit of walking or patience, so consider your kids’ stamina.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a private guide, all admission tickets to locations like Lagoa das Furnas, Gorreana tea plantation, Nossa Senhora da Paz chapel, and Pico do Ferro viewpoint, plus lunch.

Are there any optional visits or extra costs?
Yes, entrance fees for parks are not included for the Parque Terra Nostra, so if you want to swim there, you’ll pay separately. Also, you can choose whether to participate in optional activities like thermal baths.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9 AM and ending back at your meeting point.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, being a private tour, you can discuss with your guide to spend more or less time at specific locations or add other nearby sights.

What is the tour’s main highlight?
Many travelers mention the thermal waters at Parque Terra Nostra and the scenic viewpoints as the standout moments.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely, as a private experience, it suits solo travelers who want a personalized day without waiting for a group.

How far in advance should I book?
Confirmation is usually immediate unless booked less than a day before, in which case it’s subject to availability. It’s best to book early if you have a fixed itinerary.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear if you plan to swim at Terra Nostra, sun protection, and a camera for those spectacular views.

This private Furnas day trip offers a genuine look at some of Sao Miguel’s most beloved sights with the flexibility to make it your own. For those wanting a relaxed, personalized experience that combines natural beauty with local culture, it’s definitely worth considering.