Canyoning & Furnas Tour (Azores – São Miguel)

Spending a day on São Miguel Island with the Canyoning & Furnas Tour offers a perfect blend of adrenaline, local flavor, and relaxation. Priced at $148.12 per person, this 8-hour experience departs from Ponta Delgada and features activities suited for most travelers, with pickup included. Led by accredited guides, this tour combines an exhilarating canyoning adventure with authentic Azorean cuisine and soothing thermal baths, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both excitement and leisure.

While the tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience, participants should be prepared for some physical activity and variable water temperatures. Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the memorable nature of the experience, making it a highly rated option for exploring the island’s best highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Price: $148.12 per person, including lunch, photos, and transport
• Duration: Around 8 hours, with activities and relaxation
• Activities: Canyoning with jumps, slides, and abseils, plus visits to Furnas and thermal baths
• Highlights: Magnificent waterfalls, local Cozido lunch, volcanic calderas, and hot springs
• Group Size: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring personalized guidance
• Comfort & Safety: All equipment and insurances included, with thorough safety briefings

Starting Point and Timing

This tour begins at 8:30 am in Ponta Delgada, with pickup offered for convenience. The tour day is paced to include both adventurous and relaxing moments, providing a balanced experience for the entire group. The short walk from the meeting point leads to the first safety briefing, setting the tone for a well-organized and safe outing.

The Thrilling Canyoning Adventure on São Miguel

The canyoning segment is the main draw of this tour. After a brief 15-minute walk to the canyon, guides will demonstrate safety and rappel techniques. The activity involves navigating rivers and waterfalls using jumps (between 2 and 7 meters, all optional), as well as natural slides and abseils ranging from 5 to 15 meters. The entire experience is designed to be exciting yet accessible, with safety measures in place to ensure everyone can participate comfortably.

The canyoning route showcases stunning waterfalls and river scenery, providing an up-close view of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes. The guides’ expertise shines through in their clear instructions and encouragement, making this a memorable highlight of the day. Water temperatures can be quite cold, but the adrenaline and fun keep spirits high.

Authentic Azorean Cuisine in Furnas

Post-canyoning, the tour moves to Furnas, a charming village famous for its Cozido das Furnas—a traditional dish cooked underground using geothermal heat. Guests enjoy this local lunch at a nearby restaurant, with options that include wine, beer, water, dessert, and coffee. The Cozido adds a hearty taste of local culture and flavors to the day.

After lunch, a walk takes visitors to Caldeiras Vulcânicas. Here, the fumarolic fields and hot springs provide a fascinating look at São Miguel’s volcanic activity, with steaming fumaroles and bubbling hot springs creating a truly unique landscape.

Relaxing in São Miguel’s Thermal Waters

The afternoon offers a choice between two iconic spots: Terra Nostra Botanical Garden or Poça da Dona Beija. Both locations feature thermal pools renowned for their therapeutic properties. The tour provides tickets for these baths, allowing guests to unwind after the morning’s adventure and enjoy the warm, mineral-rich waters. While the entrance fees are not included, the relaxing experience makes a perfect ending to the active day.

Logistical Details and Group Experience

The tour includes all necessary canyoning equipment—harnesses, wetsuits, socks, helmets, and boots—and insurance for safety. The group is kept small, with a maximum of 8 travelers, enabling personalized attention from guides. Photos and videos from the activity are provided free of charge, capturing the excitement for lasting memories.

The pick-up and drop-off service simplifies logistics, making this tour accessible even for those staying outside the immediate city center. The tour’s 8-hour duration balances adventure and relaxation, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Considerations and Practical Tips

Participants should be prepared for some physical activity, including uphill scramble and water-based maneuvers. The water in the canyon can be quite cold, which is a common comment from previous participants, but the thrill of the jumps and slides compensates for the chill. The tour is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, with safety instructions provided throughout.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling. In such cases, a full refund or alternative date is offered. Early booking is recommended, as the tour is booked on average 16 days in advance and has limited availability.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This Canyoning & Furnas Tour appeals most to those looking for a balanced day of adventure and relaxation. It’s ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor sports, scenic landscapes, and trying authentic local dishes. The inclusion of thermal baths makes it suitable for those who prefer a gentle wind-down after the adrenaline rush.

The professionalism of the guides, combined with the variety of activities and the stunning natural scenery, ensures a memorable experience. It’s perfect for groups of friends or families seeking a diverse day exploring São Miguel’s volcanic wonders and warm springs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though some physical activity and water-based movements are involved. The activity includes optional jumps, and safety instructions are provided.

What should I bring for canyoning?
Participants should wear comfortable clothes suitable for water activities and bring a waterproof camera if desired, though the tour provides photos and videos.

Are the thermal baths included in the price?
No, entrance tickets to Terra Nostra Botanical Garden or Poça da Dona Beija are not included in the tour price, but tickets are provided for access.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are not refunded.

How long is the canyoning activity?
The canyoning segment begins after a short walk and lasts long enough to include multiple jumps, slides, and abseils, providing a thorough adventure experience.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring guided attention and safety.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off are included, making logistics straightforward.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 8:30 am from Ponta Delgada.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of thrilling canyoning, authentic local cuisine, and thermal bath relaxation offers a diverse and rewarding day on São Miguel, guided by experienced professionals.

Are the water temperatures in the canyon cold?
Yes, the water can be quite cold, but the adrenaline from canyoning helps keep participants warm. Dress appropriately for water activities.

What is the best way to book this tour?
Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and often booked 16 days ahead. The process is straightforward through Viator or the provider’s contact channels.

This Canyoning & Furnas Tour delivers a true taste of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape, combining adventure, culture, and relaxation. Its carefully curated itinerary and professional guides ensure a day filled with memorable moments, making it a top choice for those wanting to experience the island’s natural beauty in an active, engaging way.