Half Day Furnas And Hot Springs

Discover the beauty and geothermal wonders of São Miguel Island with this Half Day Furnas and Hot Springs tour. Priced at just $47.47 per person, the tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes and includes several notable stops along the south coast. It is perfect for those seeking a compact yet enriching experience, with a small group size ensuring personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide. The tour features pickup service and a mobile ticket for convenience, making it an accessible choice for most travelers.

One of the standout features of this excursion is the opportunity to explore the Furnas crater, where you can relax in warm thermal waters at a peaceful lagoon. The tour also demonstrates the volcanic heat’s role in local cuisine, with a visit to see how the cozido stew is cooked underground. Adding a cultural touch, the tour visits the only fully operational tea plantation in Europe, where tasting freshly brewed tea is included. With stunning viewpoints and a variety of stops, visitors enjoy a well-rounded half-day experience that highlights the natural beauty and geothermal activity of São Miguel.

Key Points

• Small group size allows for more personalized guidance and interaction
• Visit to Furnas crater with thermal hot springs for a relaxing experience
• Watch the cozido being cooked using volcanic heat on the caldera floor
• Tour includes visits to scenic viewpoints like Miradouro de Santa Iria and Pico Do Ferro
• Explore the Gorreana Tea Plantation, the only fully working tea factory in Europe, with a tasting opportunity
• Includes several free-view lookout stops offering panoramic views of the island

Discovering São Miguel’s Furnas Crater and Thermal Pools

The tour begins with a pickup service that ensures a smooth start to the day. It departs from Fenais da Luz, with the guide leading the small group along the south coast of São Miguel Island. The first stop, Miradouro de Santa Iria, provides impressive views of the northern coast, offering a scenic overview to set the tone for the day.

The journey then takes visitors to Caldeira das Furnas, where volcanic activity shapes the landscape. Here, you’ll see the cozido stew cooking underground, a process that uses geothermal heat—an authentic glimpse of how locals make use of the volcanic environment. Although the admission ticket to the caldera is not included, observing this culinary technique remains a highlight of the experience.

Panoramic Views from Miradouro Pico Do Ferro

Following the geothermal site, the tour stops at Miradouro Pico Do Ferro, providing a 15-minute viewing experience over the Furnas Lagoon and the surrounding crater. This lookout offers spectacular panoramic views and is a favorite for capturing memorable photos of the volcanic landscape.

Visiting the Only Fully Operational Tea Plantation in Europe

Next on the itinerary is the visit to Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana. This 30-minute stop allows travelers to see the only fully working tea plantation in Europe. Visitors can walk through the lush fields and taste freshly brewed tea, adding a cultural and gastronomic element to the trip. This stop is free of charge and offers a peek into the island’s traditional tea production.

Relaxing in the Hot Springs at Parque Terra Nostra

The highlight for many is the extended visit to Parque Terra Nostra, where guests spend about 2 hours and 10 minutes. The botanical gardens feature hot springs, providing ample opportunity to soak in warm thermal waters. While the admission ticket to the park is not included, the hot springs themselves offer a soothing break amid lush greenery and exotic plants.

Scenic Views of Vila Franca do Campo

The final stop, Nossa Senhora da Paz, affords a 20-minute look at the village and Vila Franca do Campo’s islet. This viewpoint showcases the picturesque coast and provides a peaceful ending to the tour. It’s an excellent spot for photos and to reflect on the day’s sights.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This tour is designed for easy participation, with confirmation received at booking, and is accessible to most travelers, including those with service animals. The group size is limited to 8 people, ensuring a more intimate experience. Tours depart in the morning or afternoon, providing flexibility to fit different schedules.

The cancellation policy is generous, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Weather can impact the experience, especially the hot springs and outdoor viewpoints, but alternative dates or full refunds are offered if cancellations occur due to poor weather.

Why Choose This Tour?

What makes this tour stand out is the mix of natural, culinary, and cultural highlights packed into a compact 4.5-hour window. The knowledgeable guide, as praised in reviews, makes the experience more engaging and personalized. Visitors appreciate the stunning landscape views, the chance to see geothermal cooking in action, and the opportunity to taste local Gorreana tea.

The small group format ensures more interaction and attention from the guide, which enhances the overall experience. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a balanced, relaxed exploration of São Miguel’s geothermal and scenic sites without the need for a full-day commitment.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas and Hot Springs Tour

This small-group half-day tour offers a well-rounded look at the volcanic wonders of São Miguel Island. It combines spectacular viewpoints, a unique geothermal cooking demonstration, and a visit to Europe’s only working tea plantation. While the hot springs at Parque Terra Nostra are a key highlight, it’s worth noting that park entrance fees are not included.

The $47.47 price point represents good value, especially given the personalized experience and diverse stops. The tour is ideal for those who value local culture, scenic views, and geothermal activity in a manageable, half-day format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start the day without logistical worries.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Are tickets included for the hot springs at Parque Terra Nostra?
No, admission to the botanical gardens and hot springs is not included.

Can I choose between morning or afternoon departures?
Yes, you can select a morning or afternoon tour when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is accessible to most, but visitors should consider the walking involved at viewpoints and the thermal springs.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance; cancellations due to weather may result in a different date or a full refund.