Furnas & Terra Nostra Gardens Biologist-guided Tour +lunch

Explore the lush landscapes of São Miguel in the Azores with the Furnas & Terra Nostra Gardens Biologist-guided Tour + lunch. Priced at $89 per person and lasting 6.5 hours, this tour offers a detailed look at the volcanic beauty and unique flora of the region, led by an expert Biologist or Naturalist guide. The tour is ideal for nature lovers, families, and anyone interested in learning about the Azorean environment through engaging storytelling and hands-on experiences.

A key strength of this tour is its combination of scenic sightseeing, cultural food tasting, and botanical exploration. The small group size — limited to 7 participants — ensures a personalized experience. While the tour involves walking and some moderate outdoor activity, it is suitable for most levels of physical fitness, except wheelchair use. For travelers eager to see Furnas’ geysers, sample authentic island cuisine, and relax in thermal baths all in one day, this guided experience balances adventure with comfort.

Key Points

• Expert guidance: Led by a knowledgeable Biologist or Naturalist guide who explains the region’s geology and flora in detail.
• Volcanic sights: Visit Furnas crater lake and witness volcanic activity, geysers, and mineral fountains.
• Authentic local cuisine: Enjoy island dishes, including the famous cozido, a slow-cooked meat stew prepared with volcanic heat.
• Botanical wonder: Explore Terra Nostra Gardens, a historic botanical park with exotic, rare, and colorful plants.
• Thermal relaxation: End the day with soothing hot springs in mineral-rich thermal baths.
• Convenient logistics: The tour departs from Vila Franca do Campo with air-conditioned van transport and all tickets included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at Vila Franca do Campo Marina for Convenience and Scenic Drive

The tour begins at the Marina of Vila Franca do Campo, where check-in takes place. From there, a 20-minute van ride transports guests up the Furnas volcano crater. This scenic drive provides excellent views of the landscape and prepares guests for a full day of natural beauty.

The van tour features photo stops and sightseeing along the way, giving participants a chance to capture moments of the Furnas Lake and surrounding volcanic scenery. This introduction sets the tone for a relaxed yet informative exploration of the region’s volcanic features.

Discovering Furnas Lake and the Village’s Volcanic Features

Once in Furnas, the guide leads a guided tour of the village and lake, both of which are located within a volcanic crater. The Furnas crater lake is a striking sight, with its calm waters and the clouds of steam rising from the geothermal activity nearby.

During the visit, there are opportunities for photos and sightseeing, with explanations about the volcanic origins of the area. The guide discusses how the geothermal activity influences the landscape and local life, making this stop both educational and visually captivating.

Authentic Geyser-Cooked Cozido with a Local Lunch

A highlight of the tour is lunch at a local village restaurant, where the authentic cozido is served. This traditional island dish is prepared using geothermal heat—meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in volcanic steam, resulting in a hearty, flavorful stew.

Guests enjoy a generous portion of island cuisine, along with complimentary drinks and dessert. The 80-minute lunch break provides a chance to relax and experience local culinary traditions firsthand, making it a memorable part of the day.

Exploring the Botanical Treasure of Terra Nostra Gardens

At Terra Nostra Gardens, the guide takes visitors on a three-hour walking tour through this historic botanical park. The gardens, established in the 18th century, showcase a diverse collection of exotic, rare, and colorful plants from around the world.

The gardens feature impressive century-old trees, sculptures, fountains, and specialty gardens that bloom year-round. The guide shares insights about the cultural and historic significance of the plants, enriching the botanical experience with stories and scientific facts.

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Relaxing in the Mineral-Rich Thermal Pools

The final activity involves soaking in the thermal baths at Terra Nostra. These mineral-infused hot springs are set amid lush greenery and provide a soothing conclusion to the day.

Guests have about an hour for free time to swim, relax, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. It’s important to note that hot spring water is extremely hot and untreated, so bathing is not recommended for pregnant women, those with recent surgeries, or wounds. Swimwear and towels are advised to be brought, but hot springs may damage clothing, so use a spare.

Practical Details: Logistics and What to Bring

The tour departs from the Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL spot at Ponta Delgada, with free parking available. The air-conditioned van provides comfortable transport, stopping at scenic points along the way.

Participants are advised to bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. The tour includes all tickets and insurance, making it a hassle-free experience. The small group size enhances personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Experience of the Guide and Seasonality

The tour is led by guides speaking multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, German, French, Dutch, Spanish, and Italian. This diversity ensures clear communication and engaging storytelling.

The botanical and volcanic highlights vary slightly with the seasons, with the gardens remaining spectacular year-round thanks to their diverse plant collection. The guide tailors the experience based on seasonal highlights and events, keeping each tour fresh and interesting.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This experience appeals to nature and botanical enthusiasts, families, or anyone curious about volcanic landscapes and local culture. The expert guidance and small group size ensure a personalized and educational visit.

While the tour involves walking and some outdoor exposure, it is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain considerations. The focus on geothermal activity, plants, and local food makes this tour particularly enriching for those interested in geology and horticulture.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas & Terra Nostra Gardens Experience

The $89 price offers good value, considering the inclusion of guided tours, lunch, entrance fees, and transportation. The combination of scenic volcanic sights, botanical exploration, and thermal baths makes this a comprehensive day trip.

The knowledgeable guides and careful itinerary create a smooth, engaging experience that balances education and relaxation. The tour is well-suited for visitors who want to see the highlights of Furnas without rushing, and who appreciate expert insights into the region’s natural wonders.

While it’s a full day, the pace is comfortable, and the variety of activities keeps the experience lively and varied. For anyone visiting São Miguel, this tour provides a fascinating look at the island’s volcanic heart with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery, taste local flavors, and unwind in thermal waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most children, provided they are comfortable with walking and outdoor activities. The tour involves some moderate walking at Terra Nostra Gardens.

What should I bring for the thermal baths?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes. Remember that volcanic mineral water can damage clothing, so use a spare if possible.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, but special dietary restrictions must be notified upon reservation so the tour provider can make necessary adjustments.

How long is the guided tour at Terra Nostra Gardens?
The guided tour at Terra Nostra Gardens lasts about 3 hours, covering a wide variety of plants and scenic spots.

What is included in the price?
The price includes guidance by a biologist or naturalist, van transportation, lunch with drinks and dessert, all entrance tickets, and insurance.

What is the departure point?
The tour departs from Vila Franca do Campo Marina, with free parking available nearby.

Is it possible to cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any physical limitations?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and walking requirements.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, German, French, Dutch, Spanish, and Italian.

How do I know if the tour is available during my travel dates?
Check current availability through the booking platform, as the tour operates seasonally with tailored highlights.

This Furnas & Terra Nostra Gardens Biologist-guided Tour provides an immersive look at São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes and botanical richness, balanced with cultural and culinary experiences. Designed for curious travelers seeking a comprehensive, expert-led day in the Azores, it offers memorable sights and insights in a comfortable setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby