Planning a trip to São Miguel in the Azores? This private tour of Furnas offers travelers a chance to explore some of the island’s most iconic natural sights with comfort and expertise. From panoramic viewpoints to geothermal pools, it promises a well-rounded day immersed in volcanic beauty and lush landscapes.
What makes this experience stand out? We love the personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, the variety of stops—from scenic lakes and secret waterfalls to historic gardens—and the chance to relax in Terra Nostra’s famous thermal waters. Plus, the flexibility to tailor the day to your interests ensures a memorable visit.
The only consideration? The tour involves a moderate 2-hour nature walk that requires a reasonable level of fitness, so it’s best suited for active travelers. If you’re after a relaxed, yet enriching day out in nature with expert insights, this tour is an excellent choice.
This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic hiking, want a mix of cultural and natural highlights, and value personalized, in-depth experiences. Couples, small groups, or solo adventurers who love discovering off-the-beaten-path spots will find this especially appealing.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Private tour with a licensed local guide for tailored insights.
- Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas from Pico do Ferro and lakeside scenery at Lagoa das Furnas.
- Natural Hot Springs & Gardens: Relax in Terra Nostra’s geothermal pool and stroll through exquisite botanical gardens.
- Cultural Insights: Explore Furnas’ charming streets, fumaroles, and the historic Mata-Jardim José do Canto.
- Active Adventure: Moderate 2-hour hike suitable for most fitness levels, leading to both waterfalls and volcanic vents.
- Value for Money: At $270 for two, you gain a full day of diverse experiences with all entrance fees included.
Discovering Furnas: A Volcanic Wonderland
The journey starts with a pickup from your accommodation, setting the tone for a comfortable day of exploration. The first stop is the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint—a must-see on São Miguel—offering sweeping views of the volcanic crater and the bright green Lagoa das Furnas. These vistas alone are worth the trip, and you’ll want your camera ready for the stunning landscape.
From there, your guide will lead you on a guided nature walk around Lagoa das Furnas. This isn’t a strenuous trek but an easy, scenic stroll through lush forests and lakeside patches. You’ll see bubbling fumaroles and steam vents—living proof of the island’s volcanic activity—and learn about the geothermal forces shaping this landscape. As one reviewer noted, the walk is “really easy, even if you’re not very fit,” which makes it accessible to most.
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Exploring Furnas Village and Its Secrets
Next, your guide takes you into the heart of Furnas itself. This charming town is famous for its hot springs, flower-lined streets, and geothermal activity. Walking through, you’ll notice the unique scent of sulfur and the steam rising from underground vents—an unmistakable sign of the volcanic nature beneath.
A highlight here is witnessing the Caldeiras da Lagoa das Furnas, where the famous Cozido das Furnas is traditionally cooked underground using geothermal heat. Although you might not stay for the cooking process, seeing the steam vents and hearing about how locals harness this natural oven adds a fascinating cultural layer to your visit.
Why It’s Special: The town’s relaxed atmosphere combined with its geothermal features offers a glimpse into how nature and local life intertwine in Furnas. It’s a lively, authentic setting that’s both scenic and culturally enriching.
More Great Tours NearbyHidden Waterfalls and Historic Gardens
One of the most praised parts of this tour is the visit to Mata-Jardim José do Canto, a historic garden filled with exotic trees and tranquil pathways. Here, you’ll find a hidden waterfall—a quiet surprise tucked within the lush landscape. This spot is perfect for nature lovers and offers a peaceful break after the more active parts of the tour.
Your guide’s knowledge shines here, sharing stories about the garden’s history and the flora that thrive there. It’s a lovely spot to pause, take photos, and feel immersed in the island’s botanical diversity.
Why It Matters: Being in a beautifully curated garden with a secret waterfall offers a quiet, reflective moment that contrasts with the active geothermal sites. It enriches your understanding of São Miguel’s horticultural richness.
Geothermal Delights and a Relaxing Bath
Post-lunch, the tour takes you to the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden. This award-winning park is famous for its thermal pool, heated by the island’s volcanic activity. As visitors have noted, the hot water here is a highlight, perfect for unwinding after a morning of walking and sightseeing.
Strolling through Terra Nostra’s lush gardens, you’ll enjoy views of exotic trees, flowers, and the tranquil pool. The water is rich in minerals, and many find it soothing and rejuvenating—ideal for relaxing sore muscles or simply enjoying a unique bathing experience.
Why It’s Valuable: The geothermal pool offers more than just relaxation; it’s an authentic volcanic experience. The mineral-rich waters are a soothing end to a day filled with natural exploration.
Practical Details: What’s Included and How It Goes
For $270 per group (up to 2 people), this tour offers excellent value considering the all-inclusive approach—pickup and drop-off, private guide, transportation, entrance fees, bottled water, and a carefully curated itinerary. The private setting means you get personalized attention and flexibility, which many travelers appreciate.
The tour lasts around a full day, combining outdoor activity, cultural insights, and relaxation. The transportation is comfortable and air-conditioned, making the journey between sites smooth and effortless.
It’s important to note that the 2-hour nature walk has a moderate difficulty level, so packing comfortable shoes and a light jacket is advised. Weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains, so being prepared ensures you enjoy every moment.
What Travelers Are Saying
Multiple reviewers praise Deborah, the guide, for her enthusiasm, extensive knowledge, and ability to tailor the tour to their interests. As Ana Perez shared, Deborah “gave us a lot of information not only about this zone but about many other parts of the island,” enhancing the experience.
Els highlighted Deborah’s driving skills and the generous time given at each stop, saying, “You won’t find all these hidden spots on your own,” which underscores the value of a guided tour in discovering lesser-known gems.
A family described Deborah as “attentive and accommodating,” mentioning how the tour balanced sightseeing with personalized touches, making it a “day away from it all” that they thoroughly enjoyed.
Why This Tour Is a Great Choice
This private Furnas tour offers a comprehensive, flexible, and well-curated way to see São Miguel’s volcanic heart. The combination of scenic viewpoints, geothermal activity, lush gardens, and hot springs provides a rounded experience that appeals to nature lovers, cultural explorers, and relaxation seekers alike.
The expert guidance ensures you gain meaningful insights into the island’s geology and history, making the natural beauty come alive with stories and context. The comfortable transport and all-inclusive pricing mean you won’t have to worry about logistics or hidden costs.
If you want to experience the essence of Furnas without the hassle of planning multiple activities or navigating on your own, this tour offers a high-value, authentic day out.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers looking for a personalized and diverse exploration of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes. It suits those who enjoy moderate walking, scenic views, and learning about natural phenomena with a knowledgeable guide.
Couples or small groups seeking an intimate, customizable experience will find this especially appealing. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a mix of active and relaxing moments, from hiking to soaking in geothermal waters.
While this tour is not designed for children under 10, it’s ideal for anyone interested in natural landscapes, botanical gardens, and unique geothermal features. People with mobility concerns or wheelchair users should note the moderate walking involved.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
No, since the tour involves a moderate 2-hour nature walk, it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or mobility challenges.
What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, snacks, water, a jacket, and a reusable water bottle are recommended to stay comfortable and prepared.
Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the day. The tour focuses more on sightseeing and relaxing in thermal baths.
How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts a full day, including transportation, sightseeing, walking, and relaxation in Terra Nostra’s hot springs.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Furnas Lake, Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, and Mata-Jardim José do Canto are covered.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Is this tour available in other languages?
Yes, guides can speak English, French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, accommodating a variety of language preferences.
Can I book and pay later?
Absolutely, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, allowing flexibility in planning your trip.
Final Thoughts
This private Furnas tour offers an engaging, in-depth look at São Miguel’s volcanic landscape and natural beauty. With expert guidance, it balances sightseeing, active exploration, and relaxing moments perfectly suited for travelers who want a personalized experience.
You’ll love the stunning views from Pico do Ferro, the serenity of the gardens, and the chance to soak in mineral-rich waters—all wrapped into one memorable day. The emphasis on storytelling and insider tips from Deborah make this a special way to truly connect with the island’s natural wonders.
Overall, if you’re after a manageable, enriching, and scenic day with flexible pacing and expert insights, this tour hits the mark. It’s a fantastic way to discover the volcanic heart of São Miguel in comfort and style.
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