Furnas: The Mystic Tour with Dinner and Hot Springs

Exploring the Azores can be a bit like stepping into an outdoor spa magazine—volcanoes, thermal waters, lush gardens, and a sense of otherworldly calm. The Furnas: The Mystic Tour offers a compelling way to experience this natural oasis in just half a day, with the added thrill of experiencing Furnas after dark.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to walk through Lagoa das Furnas, surrounded by geothermal activity and endemic flora. Second, enjoying a Portuguese cozido—a stew slow-cooked underground—in a way only Furnas can do. Third, winding down in the Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths during the night under the stars.

The main consideration? The entry to the thermal baths is a separate charge and requires pre-booking, so if you’re on a tight schedule or budget, it’s something to plan ahead for.

This experience is best suited for those curious about geothermal wonders, eager to try local cuisine, and craving a relaxed, atmospheric evening in nature. It’s perfect for travelers who love a mix of scenic walks, cultural insights, and genuine relaxation.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience with geothermal cooking and thermal baths
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights and stories
• Beautiful scenery at Furnas Lagoon, Gardens, and volcanic pools
• Flexible options for dinner and thermal bath entry
• Evening atmosphere creates a mystical vibe, especially at night
• Well-paced itinerary with a good balance of sightseeing, food, and relaxation

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Furnas Mystic Tour?

This 6-hour journey offers a blend of nature, culture, and wellness on São Miguel island, often rated at an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from 45 reviews. Operating with a small group in a comfortable van, the tour is led by a local guide who knows the ins and outs of Furnas, ensuring every stop feels meaningful and well-explained.

Starting from three pickup points—Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, or Ponta Delgada—you’re whisked away on a scenic drive towards Furnas, passing notable sights like Vila Franca do Campo and the island’s rugged coastline. It’s a good choice if you want to see a variety of landscapes without long transfers or complicated logistics.

Exploring Furnas: Volcano, Lagoon, and Gardens

The core of this tour is the visit to Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic crater filled with warm mineral waters. Here, the landscape is alive with steam vents, bubbling fumaroles, and endemic plants. You’ll get a guided walk that’s not just about the scenery but about understanding the geothermal activity that shapes this part of São Miguel.

Guests consistently mention the diversity of flora and fauna, with some seeing bird species or invasive plants that add to the area’s ecological interest. It’s also a chance to appreciate the power of nature that sustains the local way of life, especially the traditional underground cooking method.

The scenic drive from Vila Franca do Campo offers spectacular views of the coastline, making every moment a visual treat. Several reviewers praised their guides, like Ivo and Gonçalo, for their friendly and informative approach that made complex geothermal processes easy to understand.

The Culinary Experience: Cozido das Furnas

No trip here would be complete without tasting Furnas’ signature dish, the Cozido das Furnas. This stew is unlike any other, slow-cooked beneath the earth for 6-7 hours using geothermal heat—a process that gives it a unique flavor and tender texture.

The tour includes a visit to a traditional local restaurant where a starter, main course, and dessert are included, along with drinks. Reviewers have appreciated the attention to dietary preferences, noting vegetarian options available and the chance to try local delicacies like the sweet Queijadas de Feijão or fresh pineapple, known for its sweetness.

Many have highlighted the warm, friendly atmosphere of the restaurant, where guides often share stories about the local way of life. For those who love food, this part of the tour offers more than just a meal—it’s a taste of local culture.

Evening in the Thermal Baths

After dinner, you’ll take a short walk around the lush gardens of Furnas, setting the scene for the highlight: a soak in Poça da Dona Beija thermal pools.

The experience of swimming in warm mineral waters at around 39°C (102°F) as dusk turns into night is described as magical—peaceful, rejuvenating, and almost surreal. Surrounded by fragrant vegetation and the sounds of birds, many reviewers say this is where the tour truly stands out.

Booking ahead is essential, as the 20:30 time slot for the thermal baths is in high demand. The extra fee of €17 for entry is worth it for many, who describe it as a perfect way to unwind after a day exploring the volcanic landscape. If you prefer an earlier bath, an alternative time (19:00) is available, but then the thermal experience isn’t at night.

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The Nighttime Volcano Show

The evening concludes with a visit to the geothermal pools at Caldeiras Vulcânicas, where natural smoke and glowing lights from boiling water create an eerie, mesmerizing scene. Many reviewers mention the visual spectacle of nature’s own light and smoke show, which is best appreciated without the daytime crowds.

Tasting the mineral waters at different levels and enjoying a local sweet treat helps cleanse the palate after the thermal soak. Returning to your accommodation relaxed and content, the tour wraps up with safe transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

Practical Details: Transport, Timing, and Cost

The tour runs approximately 6 hours, with starting times visible during booking—usually late morning or early afternoon. It’s operated in a comfortable 9-seater van equipped with A/C and panoramic windows, making the journey smooth and scenic.

Pricing is reasonable considering the inclusions, especially since the dinner, guided walks, and thermal baths are all part of the package. The dinner itself is quite substantial, with vegetarian options accommodated, and the guide’s knowledge adds immense value beyond just sightseeing.

The entry to Dona Beija is a separate charge and must be booked in advance; this ensures you’re not left waiting in line and can enjoy the thermal pools during the designated time.

Reviews: Real Experiences, Real Joys

Looking at the glowing reviews, one common theme emerges: the guides really make the experience. Smit raved about Ivo’s storytelling and personal touches, like calling ahead to ensure vegetarian options. Victoria appreciated the nighttime atmosphere, saying it felt “very special” and different from daytime visits.

Reviewers also praised the scenic beauty of Furnas—the bubbling geysers, lush gardens, and the volcanic pools at night. Many found the thermal baths to be a highlight, describing them as “unbelievable” and “magical.” The food consistently gets high marks, especially for its authenticity and flavor.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet immersive look at the volcanic and geothermal wonders of São Miguel. If you enjoy culinary experiences and want to taste authentic dishes cooked by nature, this tour checks that box.

It’s also suited for those who appreciate nature walks, scenic drives, and evening atmospheres that turn an ordinary day into something memorable. The thermal baths make it especially good for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy some therapeutic waters after a day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded experience combining nature, culture, and relaxation at an affordable price point. You get the chance to see Furnas’ stunning geothermal landscape, taste a traditional dish cooked underground, and soak in therapeutic hot springs—all in one memorable evening. The knowledgeable guides, especially those like Ivo and Gonçalo, truly elevate the experience with their friendly demeanor and local insights.

While the thermal bath entry is separate and should be booked in advance, most travelers find this added step well worth the effort. It’s a fantastic way to finish off a day exploring one of the Azores’ most fascinating volcanic regions.

If you’re after an authentic, atmospheric, and educational outing that also pampers your relaxation needs, this tour is a fantastic choice. Perfect for curious travelers, food lovers, and anyone seeking a genuine connection with nature’s thermal magic.

FAQ

Is the thermal bath entry included in the tour price?
No, the entry to Poça da Dona Beija is charged separately—around €17—and needs to be booked online in advance.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
You can check availability for different start times, typically late morning or early afternoon. If you want the thermal baths experience at night, booking the 20:30 slot is recommended.

Are vegetarian options available for dinner?
Yes, the tour offers vegetarian choices and alternative dishes for children if requested beforehand.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, weather-appropriate clothing, and toiletries are recommended. Don’t forget your camera for the scenic stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and alternative dishes are available for younger guests. However, the thermal baths require some physical mobility.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 6 hours, depending on pickup times and pacing during stops.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at designated locations in a small, well-equipped van.

What’s the highlight of this tour?
Many say it’s the combination of geothermal scenery and the night-time thermal baths, creating a truly special, almost mystical atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

This tour is a chance to experience the best of Furnas’s natural thermal magic and authentic cuisine in one relaxed, scenic evening—an outing you’ll remember long after you leave São Miguel.

You can check availability for your dates here: