Furnas, nestled in the heart of São Miguel Island, is a geothermal wonderland waiting to be explored. The Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour offers a chance to take in this captivating landscape, from the steaming hot springs of Terra Nostra Park to the centuries-old Gorreana Tea Factory. With an attractive price point and rave reviews, this tour promises a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the island’s natural and cultural wonders.
Key Points
- This day tour offers an immersive experience exploring the natural thermal springs and traditional tea plantation in Furnas, Azores.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a professional guide, and a local lunch, providing a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
- Highlights include visiting the botanical-rich Terra Nostra Park, enjoying a geothermal-cooked "cozido" lunch, and touring the Gorreana Tea Factory.
- The tour is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, with multiple pickup locations and a flexible cancellation policy.
- Customer reviews highly praise the tour’s value, transportation, and the opportunity to learn about the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour is priced from $81.78 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours.
An 8-hour tour priced at $81.78 per person, exploring the Furnas thermal springs and a tea plantation.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a professional guide, lunch, entrance to Terra Nostra Garden, and tea tasting at the Gorreana Tea Factory.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve now and pay later.
The tour is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, with pickup locations in Lagoa, Vila Franca do Campo, Ribeira Grande, and Ponta Delgada.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Sao Miguel Island
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with pickup from the hotel lobby, followed by a 15-minute photo stop in Vila Franca do Campo.
Travelers then visit Furnas, where they’ll have 1.5 hours to explore the Terra Nostra Park and its thermal springs.
Lunch, cheese tasting, and food tasting follow, before a 30-minute visit to the Caldeiras Vulcânicas.
The tour continues with a 15-minute photo stop at the Pico do Ferro Lookout and a 1-hour visit to the Gorreana Tea Factory for a tea tasting.
The final stops are the Santa Iria Lookout and a 20-minute photo stop in Ribeira Grande before drop-off at the starting locations.
Tour Features
This tour offers a chance to experience distinguished thermal springs and natural pools.
Visitors can indulge in the local delicacy "cozido" cooked using geothermal heat.
The tour also includes a visit to Terra Nostra Park, a botanical garden with over 200 years of history.
Plus, the tour explores the Gorreana Tea Factory, the only traditional tea manufacturing facility in Europe.
These features provide a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing participants to discover the natural wonders, culinary delights, and cultural heritage of the Furnas region.
Inclusions
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless transportation experience throughout the day. Plus, the tour includes a professional guide who will provide valuable insights into the history and culture of the Azores. Visitors will also enjoy a delicious local lunch, as well as the opportunity to explore the renowned Terra Nostra Garden and participate in a tea tasting at the Gorreana Tea Factory.
| Inclusions |
|————|
| Hotel pickup and drop-off |
| Transportation during the tour |
| Professional guide |
| Lunch |
| Entrance to Terra Nostra Garden |
| Tea tasting at Gorreana Tea Factory |
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews
Numerous travelers have shared their positive experiences with the Furnas Day Tour.
The tour boasts an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 40 reviews, with standout ratings for transportation (4.9/5) and value for money (4.7/5).
Highlights from travelers include:
-
"Exceptional personal tour" – Sandra from Canada
-
"Fun and informative experience"– Cathy from the United States
-
"Enjoyed learning and sightseeing, highly recommended"– Diana from the United States
The tour’s inclusions, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, professional guide, and the chance to indulge in local delicacies, have resonated well with customers.
Discover the Unique Thermal Springs of Furnas
Although the Azores archipelago is known for its stunning natural landscapes, the Furnas region on the island of São Miguel stands out for its unique thermal springs. These geothermal pools, heated by the volcanic activity beneath the surface, offer a rejuvenating experience for visitors. The waters range in temperature from mild to scorching, each with its own distinct mineral composition and therapeutic properties. Exploring the Furnas thermal springs is a must-do activity that allows travelers to enjoy the island’s geological wonders and relax in the soothing, natural pools.
| Temperature | Mineral Composition | Therapeutic Benefits |
| — | — | — |
| Mild (30-40°C) | Silica, Sulfur, Iron | Skin Rejuvenation |
| Warm (40-50°C) | Magnesium, Calcium | Muscle Relaxation |
| Hot (50-60°C) | Sodium, Potassium | Circulation Improvement |
Immerse Yourself in the Centuries-Old Terra Nostra Park
Located within the Furnas region, Terra Nostra Park is a centuries-old botanical garden that transports visitors into a lush, verdant oasis.
As part of the day tour, guests can enjoy this enchanting landscape and discover its unique features:
-
Over 2,000 plant species from around the world, creating a diverse and colorful tapestry.
-
Natural hot springs and swimming pools, allowing visitors to relax and unwind in the soothing thermal waters.
-
Historic structures and paths, reflecting the park’s rich heritage and design.
-
Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Furnas valley, offering panoramic views of the stunning volcanic landscape.
Explore the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s Last Traditional Tea Producer
The Gorreana Tea Factory stands as Europe’s last remaining traditional tea manufacturing facility, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the history and process of tea production.
During the tour, guests explore the factory’s century-old machinery and learn about the intricate steps involved in processing tea leaves. From withering and rolling to oxidation and drying, the guided experience provides an in-depth understanding of the craftsmanship behind Gorreana’s premium teas.
Visitors also enjoy a tasting, sampling the factory’s diverse offerings. This captivating stop on the Furnas tour celebrates Azores’ rich tea heritage and the preservation of time-honored techniques.
Since You Asked
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a minimum group size. It’s likely an open-enrollment tour that can accommodate individual travelers. Customers can book the tour independently without the need to meet a minimum group requirement.
Are There Any Additional Fees for the Optional Activities?
The tour includes entrance to Terra Nostra Garden and tea tasting at Gorreana Tea Factory. There don’t appear to be any additional fees for the optional activities described in the itinerary highlights.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?
No, you don’t need any special equipment for the tour. The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and all necessary equipment like entrance tickets. Just bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera to capture the scenic views.
Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?
The tour is available on all days of the week. Customers can book the tour at their convenience, as the operator offers daily departures with flexible pick-up times from various locations across the island.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, the tour can be arranged as a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours offer a more personalized experience and allow for greater flexibility in the itinerary. Customers can inquire about pricing and availability for the private tour option.
The Sum Up
The Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour offers a captivating experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of the Azores. From the soothing thermal springs to the historic tea plantation, this tour promises a well-rounded exploration of the region’s unique cultural and geological heritage. With its excellent value and positive customer feedback, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking an enriching day in the stunning Furnas landscape.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Guided Tours in Sao Miguel Island
- São Miguel Azores: Professional Photoshoot with Local Guide
- Vila Franca Islet: Inside Guided Natural Reserve Geo Tour
- Vila Franca Do Campo: Settlers Town Guided Tour
- Guided Tour to the Green & Blue Lake of Sete Cidades
- Azores Guided Tour to Volcano and Crater of Sete Cidades
- Ribeira Grande: Guided E-Bike Tour
More Tours in Sao Miguel Island
- Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo: Crater Lakes Adventure Tour
- Ponta Delgada: Luxury Private Sunset Tour with Snacks&Drinks
- São Miguel: Azores Whaling Heritage Tour
- Ponta Delgada: The Blue & Green Lake Shore Excursion
- Sete Cidades: Day Tour – Blue & Green Lake and Fire Volcano
- São Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch
More Tour Reviews in Sao Miguel Island
- Terceira Island:Try Scuba in a Shipwreck-Archeological park
- Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo: Crater Lakes Adventure Tour
- Ponta Delgada: Luxury Private Sunset Tour with Snacks&Drinks
- São Miguel: Azores Whaling Heritage Tour
- Ponta Delgada: The Blue & Green Lake Shore Excursion
- Sete Cidades: Day Tour – Blue & Green Lake and Fire Volcano
Still browsing? Here are more Sao Miguel Island experiences we've covered recently
- Terceira Island:Try Scuba in a Shipwreck-Archeological park
- Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo: Crater Lakes Adventure Tour
- Ponta Delgada: Luxury Private Sunset Tour with Snacks&Drinks
- São Miguel: Azores Whaling Heritage Tour
- Ponta Delgada: The Blue & Green Lake Shore Excursion
- Sete Cidades: Day Tour – Blue & Green Lake and Fire Volcano
- São Miguel: Félix Waterfalls Hike & North Coast w/lunch
- São Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch
- São Miguel: 2-Day Island Tour, Tea & Pineapple Plantation
- São Miguel Azores: Professional Photoshoot with Local Guide
- Vila Franca Islet: Inside Guided Natural Reserve Geo Tour
- São Miguel: 2-Day Tour, A Perfect Blend of Nature & Culture