Private Tour Furnas: Furnas Lake Hike & Terra Nostra Park

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 2 people at $317, offering personalized attention
• 8-hour journey exploring Furnas’ volcanic landscapes, gardens, and hot springs
• Visit Pico do Ferro Viewpoint for sweeping views of Furnas crater and lake
• Guided walk around Lagoa das Furnas, featuring fumaroles and lakeside scenery
• Relax in Terra Nostra’s geothermal pool within a lush botanical garden
• Discover hidden waterfalls and a gothic chapel tucked within the landscapes

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Discover the Charm of Furnas Village and Its Botanical Garden

This private tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation, setting the stage for a full day of exploration on São Miguel Island. The first stop is the Furnas village, renowned for its flower-lined streets and calming atmosphere. Here, the guide leads you through the Furnas Botanical Garden, an award-winning site filled with exotic trees, tranquil paths, and a surprising hidden waterfall. The gardens are perfect for a peaceful stroll and offer a chance to see lush greenery and unique plant species.

The village itself is a hub of geothermal activity, with steam vents and hot springs that add an otherworldly touch. The guide explains how the Cozido das Furnas is traditionally cooked underground using geothermal heat, showcasing the area’s volcanic influence. This stop provides a relaxed environment to take photos and soak in the local ambiance.

Breathtaking Views from Pico do Ferro Viewpoint

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, a spot that offers stunning panoramic views over the volcanic crater and the emerald lake of Furnas. The viewpoint is one of the most scenic on the island, providing sweeping vistas that showcase the volcanic landscape in all its glory. It’s an ideal place for photos and to appreciate the scale and beauty of this volcanic region.

This 15-minute photo stop allows visitors to stand in awe of the crater’s expansive views. The guide shares insights about the geology of the area, helping visitors understand how the volcanic activity shaped this landscape. The location is accessible and suitable for most visitors, offering a memorable photo opportunity.

Guided Walk Around Lagoa das Furnas

Next, the tour takes you on a 2-hour guided walk around Lagoa das Furnas, offering an intimate look at the area’s natural features. The bubbling fumaroles and geothermal steam vents are highlights, demonstrating the island’s volcanic power. The lush forest paths and quiet lakeside scenery make this walk both scenic and peaceful.

The guide provides detailed explanations about the geothermal activity and the flora along the trail. The walk covers a moderate terrain, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The combination of volcanic phenomena and tranquil nature makes this a compelling part of the experience.

Exploring Mata-Jardim José do Canto and Its Waterfall

A short drive leads to Mata-Jardim José do Canto, one of São Miguel’s most historic and charming gardens. The exotic trees and tranquil paths create a peaceful environment, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Besides the lush greenery, visitors discover a hidden waterfall tucked away within the garden, adding a touch of mystery and beauty to the visit.

This garden is a great place to relax, take photos, and enjoy the diverse plant life. The guide highlights the history of the garden and its significance, adding depth to the visit. It’s a quieter spot that complements the more active parts of the tour, offering a moment of calm amid nature.

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Witnessing Geothermal Steam at Caldeiras da Lagoa das Furnas

The tour then visits the Caldeiras da Lagoa das Furnas, where the geothermal steam vents are active and impressive. Here, the steam vents form a natural showcase of the island’s volcanic energy, with the possibility to observe the Cozido das Furnas cooking underground—an authentic local tradition.

This stop emphasizes the powerful natural forces shaping this landscape. The guide explains how the geothermal activity influences the area, making it a fascinating site for those interested in geology and local customs. Visitors can see steam rising from the ground and learn about the geothermal infrastructure used for cooking and heating.

Lunch in the Town of Furnas

After a morning full of exploration, the tour includes a lunch break in Furnas. The guide helps guests choose from local options, often featuring dishes prepared with geothermal heat. The atmosphere in the town is laid-back and charming, with flower-lined streets and inviting cafes.

This meal provides a chance to enjoy traditional Azorean flavors, often with locally sourced ingredients. The lunch break is also an opportunity to relax, recharge, and soak in the town’s tranquil vibe. The duration is approximately one hour, giving enough time for a satisfying meal without feeling rushed.

Relaxing in Terra Nostra’s Thermal Pool

The highlight for many visitors is the visit to Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, famous for its geothermal hot spring pool. The thermal waters are rich in minerals and are a perfect way to unwind after a busy morning. The garden surrounding the pool is lush and well-maintained, ideal for a peaceful stroll before or after bathing.

Guests have about 1.5 hours of free time here to relax in the warm waters, swim, or simply admire the beautiful gardens. The pool’s warm temperature, combined with the serene environment, makes it a memorable experience. It’s especially suitable for those seeking relaxation and a unique geothermal bathing experience.

Scenic Photo Stop at Pico do Ferro Lookout

The tour concludes with a 15-minute stop at Pico do Ferro Lookout, offering spectacular views of the volcanic crater and the lake below. This vantage point is perfect for capturing photos of the landscape’s vibrant greens and volcanic features.

The guide provides quick insights about what you’re seeing, making sure visitors leave with stunning images and a better understanding of the area’s volcanic history. This short stop is easy to access and adds a visual finale to the day’s exploration.

Convenient Drop-Off and Tour Summary

The tour ends with drop-offs at three locations: Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, and Ribeira Grande, providing flexibility for travelers. The entire experience is designed for convenience, comfort, and personalized attention, as it is a private tour led by a professional, licensed guide.

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and all entrance fees for Furnas Lake, Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, and Mata-Jardim José do Canto. The 8-hour itinerary is carefully paced to balance sightseeing, walking, and relaxation, making it suitable for most visitors with moderate fitness levels.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private Furnas experience is ideal for those seeking a personalized, in-depth exploration of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes and gardens. It suits travelers who want to see key highlights like Pico do Ferro and Terra Nostra, enjoy scenic walks, and relax in hot geothermal waters.

While the tour emphasizes comfort, it involves a moderate 2-hour nature walk, so some mobility is required. The tour is not suitable for children under 10 or visitors with mobility impairments. The personalized guide ensures detailed explanations and flexibility, making it a popular choice for curious, nature-loving visitors.

Final Thoughts on the Private Furnas Tour

This 8-hour private tour offers a well-rounded experience of Furnas, combining natural beauty, volcanic activity, and relaxing thermal baths. The personal guide enhances the experience with in-depth knowledge, making each stop more meaningful. The scenic viewpoints, botanical gardens, and geothermal sites provide plenty of memorable moments.

The price of $317 per group makes it a premium, personalized option, perfect for couples or small groups. The inclusion of all entrance fees and transportation adds convenience, while the pace and stops ensure a comfortable, engaging day. This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate nature, geology, and tranquil gardens.

For travelers wanting a comprehensive, intimate glimpse of Furnas’ volcanic landscapes and cultural highlights, this tour delivers a balanced and enriching experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, private transportation, a professional guide, a guided nature walk, bottled water, and entrance fees for Furnas Lake, Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, and Mata-Jardim José do Canto.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours from pickup to drop-off, with a well-paced itinerary that combines sightseeing, walking, and relaxation.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 10 years and is best for those comfortable with moderate physical activity, including a 2-hour nature walk.

What should I bring?
Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, snacks, water, a jacket, and a reusable water bottle.

Can I customize this tour?
As a private tour, there is flexibility to adapt the experience to your interests and requests, guided by the knowledgeable local guide.

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