Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas with lunch (Cozido) and drinks included

Setting out on a tour of São Miguel Island’s eastern side, this full-day Jeep excursion promises a balanced mix of natural beauty, authentic local experiences, and engaging guides. It’s a highly-rated way to explore Furnas, hot springs, and lush landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size ensures a relaxed, intimate vibe. Second, the knowledgeable guides like Ricardo, Mariano, and Eddie bring the island’s stories to life, making every stop more meaningful. Third, the inclusion of a traditional cozido lunch and unlimited drinks adds fantastic value, especially given the gorgeous scenery you’ll admire during the journey.

One point to consider: the park entrance fees are not included**, so budget a bit extra for those. Otherwise, with a price around $98.84 per person, this tour offers an impressive mix of sights, tastes, and fun off-road driving that’s suitable for most travelers wanting an authentic Azorean adventure.

This experience is perfect for those who love outdoor exploration, local cuisine, and cultural insights, particularly if you prefer small groups and flexible itineraries.

Key Points

• Small-group experience allows for a relaxed and personalized day.
• Knowledgeable guides like Sergio, Mariano, and Ricardo make the trip engaging and informative.
• Includes traditional Azorean cozido lunch and unlimited drinks for great value.
• Visiting Furnas Volcano, hot springs, and tea plantations offers diverse scenery.
• Off-road Jeep rides add an element of fun and adventure.
• Optional bathing in thermal pools (extra cost) enhances the relaxation experience.

Exploring São Miguel’s Top Sights

This tour packs a punch, taking you from the volcanic craters of Furnas to the rolling green hills and bubbling hot springs that define São Miguel Island. The fact that it’s a full-day adventure of around 8 hours means you’ll get a thorough taste of the island’s eastern highlights without feeling rushed, yet it remains intimate enough to ask questions and soak up local stories.

Pickup & Small Group Comfort

Starting at Hotel Marina Atlântico in Ponta Delgada, the tour kicks off at 9:00 am with hotel pickup if you’re staying in central Ponta Delgada. The journey is shared with a small group of up to 50 travelers, but most experiences report around 10-15 participants, which keeps the atmosphere friendly and less commercial than large bus tours.

This smaller size means you’ll spend less time waiting and more time soaking in views or snapping photos. It also gives guides the flexibility to tailor parts of the trip, as several reviews mention guides like Eddie, Sergio, Mariano, and Francisco who go out of their way to be personable, humorous, and deeply knowledgeable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Caldeira das Furnas

The day’s star attraction, Furnas, is a volcanic caldera filled with lush greenery, bubbling hot springs, and steaming fumaroles. We loved the way guides gave ample time for exploration, sharing stories about the island’s geothermal activity and local flora. Reviewers like Cheryl and Jeff highlight how the guides’ deep knowledge added to the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Expect to see hot springs like Poça da Dona Beija, where some guests choose to pay extra for a dip. Several reviews mention how relaxing it was to soak in thermal waters after a day of adventure, with one even saying it was the highlight of their trip.

Tea Plantation Visit

Next stop is the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, which has been producing tea since 1883. Here, you’ll sample some of the freshest Azorean tea, which many reviews rave about. It’s a lovely spot to stretch your legs, learn about local agriculture, and enjoy a peaceful break amid verdant plantations. The 45-minute visit offers enough time to enjoy the scenery and sip some tea, as Raul_M and Becky G mention in their reviews.

Off-road Jeep Experience

The tour’s off-road component is a real highlight for many. The rugged terrain, combined with the scenic drives through lush pastures and volcanic landscapes, delivers a dose of adventure. Reviewers mention enthusiastic guides who share stories about the island’s geology and history while keeping the ride fun and safe. One guest recalls that even their 10-year-old son enjoyed the off-road splash, making it family-friendly too.

Lunch & Beverages

The included cozido stew—a hearty, earthy dish cooked underground using volcanic heat—is a true taste of Azorean tradition. Many guests rave about its flavor and the quality of the meal, saying it’s a highlight of the tour. Plus, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks mean you can toast the views or relax after a day of exploring without worrying about extra costs.

Optional Thermal Bathing

While entrance to the Poça da Dona Beija hot springs isn’t included, it’s a popular add-on. Guests say it’s worth the small extra expense to unwind in the thermal waters, especially after a day of sightseeing. The pools are said to be warm, clean, and relaxing—perfect for winding down.

Why This Tour Provides Great Value

At a price of $98.84, including lunch and drinks, the tour offers a comprehensive day of discovery for a reasonable cost. When you factor in the private pickups, guided storytelling, authentic meals, and scenic stops, it’s clear that this is a well-rounded experience. The inclusion of local food and unlimited beverages also enhances the feeling of indulgence and authenticity.

The guides seem to be the secret sauce. Reviews frequently mention how guides like Ricardo, Mariano, and Eddie are not only experts but also genuinely engaging, making each stop more meaningful. Their local knowledge, combined with their personable approach, turns a standard sightseeing day into a memorable adventure.

Transport & Comfort

Traveling in a Jeep makes all the difference on this tour, allowing access to spots larger buses cannot reach. The ride is smooth, with most guests noting the comfortable seating and the fun of off-road driving. Pickups are available from selected hotels, adding to the convenience, and the entire experience is paced to allow enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day Jeep tour is ideal for travelers who want to see a wide variety of São Miguel’s eastern sights with minimal hassle. It suits those who appreciate guided stories, authentic local cuisine, and scenic drives, especially if traveling in a small group makes the experience more personal.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, this tour ticks all those boxes. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable day in the Azores, this trip offers excellent value and genuine insights into the island’s character.

However, if you prefer exploring solo or have specific access requirements, you might want to consider other options or check if the tour can accommodate you. The optional hot springs add a lovely touch, but if thermal bathing is a must, plan for the extra expense.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive hotel pickup and drop-off (from selected accommodations), a guided trip in a Jeep, a traditional cozido stew for lunch with unlimited drinks, and visits to key sites like Furnas, tea plantations, and scenic viewpoints.

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

What is the group size?
Most experiences are in small groups, typically between 10 and 50 travelers, which helps keep the tour intimate and flexible.

Are there any optional paid activities?
Yes, you can choose to pay extra to bathe in the hot springs at Poça da Dona Beija.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available—just advise at the time of booking.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, but only from selected hotels. Confirm your hotel when booking to ensure pickup.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, a camera, sun protection, and a bathing suit if you plan to use the thermal pools.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying the off-road parts and scenic stops. Just ensure the child is comfortable with Jeep rides.

How do I book?
You can reserve this tour in advance, with most bookings made about 49 days ahead, to secure your spot and preferred guide.

In Summary

This jeep-based full-day tour of Furnas and eastern São Miguel offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and rich local flavors. The combination of guided storytelling, off-road fun, and authentic cuisine makes it a well-rounded choice. Perfect for those who enjoy small-group travel, scenic drives, and cultural insights, it’s a memorable way to connect with the Azores’ natural beauty.

If you’re seeking an engaging, comfortable, and value-packed adventure that showcases the best of São Miguel’s east side, this tour will not disappoint.