Kayaking and Mountain Biking in Furnas

Explore the Volcanic Landscape of Furnas with Kayaking and Mountain Biking

This full-day tour in Sao Miguel offers an exciting combination of kayaking across Lagoa das Furnas and a scenic mountain biking adventure through the caldera. Priced at $91.71 per person, it provides a well-rounded introduction to the island’s dramatic volcanic scenery. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and includes lunch at a local restaurant, with a vegetarian option available.

This experience is ideal for those eager to see the natural wonders of Furnas in a single day, combining water-based exploration with active land excursions. It suits families, active travelers, and anyone interested in learning about the Azores’ volcanic origins. The tour departs from Ponta Delgada with convenient pickup and drop-off services, making the day seamless and enjoyable.

Key Points

• Full-day kayaking and biking experience in Furnas, Sao Miguel
• Includes kayak paddle on Lagoa das Furnas with scenic views
• Lunch at a local restaurant, vegetarian options available
• 6.5-mile mountain bike loop around the caldera, reaching Pico dos Milhos
• Family-friendly activity with all equipment provided
• Pickup and drop-off included from Ponta Delgada

Starting at Ponta Delgada and Reaching Vale Encantado das Furnas

The tour begins at 9:00 am in Ponta Delgada, where a guide greets the group and facilitates transportation to the Vale Encantado das Furnas. This scenic valley is notable for its volcanic features, including a fumarole that showcases the island’s volcanic activity. The journey to Furnas is straightforward, with pickup offered from accommodations.

Once in the valley, the focus shifts to exploring the volcanic lake, Lagoa das Furnas, which is renowned for its hill-fringed shoreline and tranquil waters perfect for kayaking. The entire activity spans approximately three hours, giving ample time to enjoy the peaceful paddle and take in views of the surrounding landscape.

Paddling Across Lagoa das Furnas: A Scenic Water Adventure

The highlight of the morning is paddling across Lagoa das Furnas. The calm waters of this volcanic lake provide a gentle environment for all skill levels. The scenery features lush hills and a secluded shoreline, creating a tranquil setting to appreciate the Azores’ natural beauty.

Participants can expect a peaceful kayak session that offers a different perspective of the landscape. The experience is well-supported with all necessary equipment provided, including helmets for the biking part of the tour. This activity also provides an opportunity to observe the geothermal activity that makes Furnas special, although the emphasis here remains on the scenic paddle.

Enjoying a Local Lunch in Furnas Village

Following the morning on the water, the group heads to Furnas village for a delicious lunch. The restaurant setting allows guests to unwind and sample regional dishes, with options to enjoy fish or meat. Vegetarians are also catered for with a special menu option.

Lunchtime typically lasts around three hours, providing a relaxed break to reflect on the morning’s adventure. Guests appreciate the chance to taste authentic Azorean cuisine and experience local hospitality, making this a well-rounded cultural and culinary stop in the tour.

The Mountain Bike Loop to Pico dos Milhos

In the afternoon, the experience shifts to mountain biking through the Furnas caldera. Guests are fitted with bikes and helmets, then begin a 6.5-mile (10.5 km) dirt-road loop that traces the caldera’s edge. The route follows secondary paths, beginning at Furnas village and eventually reaching the high point at Pico dos Milhos.

The climb offers sweeping views of the valley and volcanic landscape, making it a rewarding challenge for active participants. The descent back to the starting point takes you through scenic paths, showcasing the lush greenery and geothermal features unique to this volcanic region.

Scenic Highlights of Pico dos Milhos and Surroundings

The viewpoint at Pico dos Milhos provides remarkable vistas over the Lagoa das Furnas and the surrounding caldera. The ride traces a diverse terrain, combining dirt roads and secondary paths that suit various cycling skill levels. The route’s highlight remains the panoramic outlook and the opportunity to learn about the volcanic origins of the landscape from the guide.

The biking segment lasts about three hours, ensuring a comfortable pace for families and active guests alike. The trails are accessible and designed to maximize the scenic experience without demanding extreme technical skills.

Returning to Ponta Delgada and Tour Summary

After completing the bike loop, guests return to the original departure point in Furnas. The transfer back to Ponta Delgada concludes around 4:30 pm, making the full-day experience manageable even for those with evening plans. The tour is designed to balance active exploration with relaxation, including sufficient time for rest and reflection.

The entire experience is led by a multi-lingual guide who shares insights about the volcanic history, local traditions, and the natural environment of Sao Miguel. The small group size (maximum 8 travelers) ensures a personalized experience and attentive guidance.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Furnas

This kayaking and mountain biking tour offers a comprehensive look at the geothermal and volcanic features of Furnas in a single day. The combination of a peaceful kayak paddle with an energetic bike ride makes it suitable for guests seeking both relaxation and activity. The lunch at a local restaurant adds a cultural touch that enriches the day.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views throughout the trip. The scenic stops at Pico dos Milhos and Lagoa das Furnas** provide picture-perfect moments. The family-friendly approach and inclusion of all equipment make it accessible even for those new to kayaking or mountain biking.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas Kayaking and Biking Experience

The $91.71 cost covers all activities, lunch, equipment, and transportation, offering good value for a full-day adventure in Sao Miguel. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate active outdoor experiences amid breathtaking volcanic scenery.

While the tour offers a balanced itinerary, it does require a moderate level of physical activity, especially during the bike segment. Travelers should be comfortable with dirt-road riding and moderate elevation gains. The inclusion of vegetarian meal options and pickup services enhances accessibility and convenience.

In essence, this tour delivers a well-organized, scenic, and engaging introduction to Furnas, showcasing the island’s volcanic marvels from water and land with expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending around 4:30 pm.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at accommodations in Ponta Delgada are included, making logistics simple and comfortable.

Are vegetarian meal options available?
Yes, guests can request vegetarian options when booking, ensuring dietary preferences are accommodated.

What equipment is provided?
All bicycles, helmets, and kayaking gear are included, so participants only need to bring appropriate clothing and a sense of adventure.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Absolutely, the tour is described as family friendly, and the moderate biking route is suitable for children with basic biking skills.

How physically demanding is the activity?
The tour involves kayaking and a 6.5-mile mountain bike loop, suitable for most active individuals, but some prior comfort with biking is recommended.

What are the highlights of the stops?
Guests enjoy scenic views at Pico dos Milhos, the peaceful paddle across Lagoa das Furnas, and lunch in a local village renowned for geothermal dishes.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility in planning.

Who is the tour operator?
The experience is operated by Picos de Aventura – Animação e Lazer, S.A., with contact at +351296283288 or [email protected].

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
The activity requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.