Furnas in the Azores is a treasure trove for travelers who love nature, geothermal activity, and local flavors. The lush valley with its steaming fumaroles and bubbling hot springs makes it a perfect spot for guided tours. We particularly enjoy experiences that combine scenic walks with the chance to taste local cuisine, like the famous Cozido cooked underground by volcanic heat — a true Azorean specialty. The Terra Nostra Hot Springs are a highlight for many, offering an authentic thermal soak amidst beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re into active adventures like hiking and biking or prefer more relaxed visits to tea plantations and cheese factories, Furnas has something for every type of traveler. These tours give you a taste of the island’s unique volcanic landscape while offering authentic regional experiences.
If you’re trying to decide which tour suits your style, we’ve put together a list based on reviews, unique features, and overall value. From private guided days to quick half-day explorations, there’s a good fit for everyone. All these experiences can deepen your appreciation of Furnas, making your trip more than just sightseeing — it’s about engaging with local culture and nature in meaningful ways.
1. Furnas: Private Tour with Hike & Terra Nostra Hot Springs
This full-day private tour offers a personalized way to explore Furnas Valley and Lake. It’s ideal if you want an intimate experience with a flexible schedule. The guide will take you on a guided nature walk around Lagoa das Furnas, with stops at the Furnas Lake Interpretive Center to learn about the volcanic landscape. For those who enjoy physical activity, a hike to a waterfall is included, offering stunning views and a chance to see the island’s lush greenery up close.
A highlight of this tour is the Cozido lunch, carefully cooked in the volcanic earth, a must-try for food lovers. You’ll also visit the Furnas hot springs area, where you can soak in thermal waters at Terra Nostra Park. The guide will introduce you to local specialties such as cheese at the Furnas Cheese Factory. The tour is rated 4.8/5, with visitors praising the personalized attention and depth of the experience. With pickup options from Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande, or Lagoa, it’s a flexible choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive Furnas experience.
Bottom line: This tour offers an all-in-one package of nature, geothermal wonders, and local flavors, perfect for active travelers or those who want a tailored experience.
2. Furnas: Guided E-bike Tour with Cheese Tasting
For those who want to cover a lot but with less effort, this e-bike tour provides a fun way to explore Furnas Valley. It’s a three-hour ride that takes you past volcanic fumaroles, bubbling hot springs, and through vibrant botanical gardens. The e-bike makes it easy to enjoy the scenery without straining, perfect for casual riders and those with limited mobility.
One of the tour’s standout features is the cheese tasting at a local producer, giving a taste of regional dairy traditions. You’ll also see fumaroles where the Cozido stew is cooked underground, and enjoy a panoramic view from Pico dos Milhos. The small group size and expert guide make this tour intimate and informative. With a perfect 5/5 review rating from two travelers, it’s a popular choice for travelers short on time but eager for a taste of Furnas’ volcanic landscape.
Bottom line: This tour combines light physical activity with cultural and culinary highlights, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed but engaging experience.
3. Furnas: Tea Plantation and Hot springs Tour
If you’re interested in agricultural and geothermal wonders, this half-day tour is a great pick. It features a visit to one of the few tea plantations in Europe, where you can see how tea is cultivated in volcanic soil, and sample freshly brewed local tea. The tour also includes a walk along a black sand beach, where you can feel the power of the Atlantic Ocean.
A scenic viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the north shore, ideal for photos and quiet reflection. The geothermal part of the tour allows you to see bubbling hot springs and fumaroles in action, providing insight into the island’s volcanic activity. Rated 4.8/5, this tour is praised for its balance of nature, culture, and relaxation. It’s suited for travelers looking for a shorter, more leisurely experience that still captures the essence of Furnas.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in local agriculture and geothermal scenery, this tour offers a relaxed pace with plenty of memorable sights.
4. S. Miguel East: Top Scenic Highlights 1 Day Private Tour
This full-day private tour highlights the best of S. Miguel’s eastern side, including Furnas. It starts with a jeep or SUV ride, giving you flexibility and comfort as you explore volcanic crater lakes, hot springs, and waterfalls. The itinerary includes a guided tour of Furnas, where you’ll see fumaroles, hot springs, and enjoy scenic views. You’ll also visit Nordeste, known for its dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, and enjoy stops at iconic sites like Furnas Lagoon.
The tour is designed for travelers who want an in-depth experience, with plenty of time to explore and take photos. From thermal hot springs to stunning coastal cliffs, it covers a wide range of highlights in just one day. The reviews are not yet rated, but the comprehensive itinerary makes it a strong choice for those wanting a thorough exploration of the region.
Bottom line: This private tour is suited for travelers who want a detailed, flexible, and comfortable way to see S. Miguel’s eastern wonders, including Furnas.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Picking a tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. If you want an all-in-one private experience with hiking and local cuisine, the Furnas: Private Tour with Hike & Terra Nostra Hot Springs is hard to beat. For a more active but easygoing approach, the E-bike tour with cheese tasting offers a fun, scenic ride. If your focus is on geothermal sights and local agriculture, the Tea Plantation and Hot Springs Tour is ideal, especially if you prefer a shorter trip. For those craving a rundown of S. Miguel, the East Highlights private tour covers a lot in one day.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred times. Consider your interest in physical activity, desire for personalized attention, and how much of Furnas you want to experience in a single trip. Each experience provides a different lens into this volcanic paradise, so choose what excites you most.
Furnas offers a diverse array of tours that showcase its volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and local flavors. Whether you prefer a private guided day, an active e-bike ride, or a shorter cultural visit, there’s an option to match your interests and travel style. For the most memorable experience, plan ahead and book early — Furnas’s natural wonders will stay with you long after your trip ends.