Azores: Shore Excursion Furnas – Crater volcano and hot springs

Explore Furnas: A Shore Excursion into the Heart of the Azores

This Furnas volcano and hot springs tour costs $79.10 per person and lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours. Starting from Ponta Delgada port, it offers an engaging look into the island’s volcanic landscape with small group sizes capped at 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention. The tour includes convenient port pickup and drop-off, making it a stress-free way to experience Furnas in a limited timeframe.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on specific highlights such as the last natural tea plantation, the interior views of Furnas volcano, and the thermal springs. The tour’s high rating of 4.5/5 from 42 reviews and a 90% recommendation rate reflect its popularity among visitors. While most stops are free or inexpensive, the tour offers options for visits to thermal pools and local cooking demonstrations. It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking a small-group experience, local insights, and a timed itinerary that maximizes seeing Furnas’ key sights.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-rated shore excursion at $79.10 per person
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience
• Tour duration of 4 to 5 hours fits comfortably into port schedules
• Includes port pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Highlights include a tea plantation, Furnas volcano interior, and hot springs
• Optional stops for thermal pools and cooking demonstrations enrich the experience

The Tour Begins at Ponta Delgada Port in the Morning

The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am from Ponta Delgada port, with pickup included. This setup minimizes hassle, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic drive. The tour is designed for most travelers, with most participants able to participate comfortably, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the drives.

Since the tour is operated by Azores Dream Tours, it benefits from professional guidance, often provided by multilingual guides. The group size is limited to 8 travelers, promoting a personalized experience, though some reviews mention occasional larger groups, so early booking is recommended.

Visiting the Last Natural Tea Plantation at Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana

The first stop at the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana offers a unique chance to visit the last natural tea plantation on the planet. This free 20-minute visit allows exploration of how green and black teas are produced, along with the opportunity to taste fresh tea. It’s a peaceful start, showcasing the island’s agricultural side and setting the tone for the day.

Travelers appreciate the gorgeous scenery of the plantation and the chance to learn about tea processing from knowledgeable staff. The visit is casual but informative, ideal for those wanting a taste of local craftsmanship and beautiful landscapes.

Miradouro Pico Do Ferro: Panoramic Views of Furnas Lake and Volcano

Next, the tour proceeds to the Miradouro Pico Do Ferro, offering a 10-minute stop to admire the interior of Furnas volcano and its lake. The viewpoint provides stunning panoramic vistas of the volcano crater and lush surroundings, making it a perfect spot for photos.

This free stop highlights the volcanic nature of Furnas, with the landscape’s greenery contrasting with the volcanic crater. It’s a brief but impactful look into the geological features that shape the island.

Walking Through Caldeira das Furnas Hot Springs and Geysers

The Caldeira das Furnas is a key highlight with a 20-minute walk through the boilers and hot springs. Visitors can see and feel the volcanic energy firsthand, as geothermal waters bubble and steam. Tasting the local liquors and mineral waters adds an extra layer of local flavor.

This stop emphasizes the raw power of the volcano, giving a tactile experience of the geothermal activity. It’s a favorite for its visual impressiveness and sensory engagement.

Learning How Locals Cook Using the Volcano’s Heat

Another 20-minute stop at the famous ground oven in Caldeira das Furnas illustrates how locals cook traditional dishes using volcanic heat. Visitors observe holes in the ground where stews and other foods are slow-cooked by the geothermal energy.

While the admission fee for this cooking demonstration is not included, it offers an authentic look at local culinary practices. It’s a fascinating glimpse into how the volcanic environment directly influences local life.

Relaxing in Paradise at Parque Terra Nostra Hot Springs

An optional 30-minute stop at Parque Terra Nostra allows visitors to relax in naturally heated thermal pools. The thermal water comes directly from the volcano, providing soothing warmth amid beautiful garden surroundings.

Entry fees are not included, but the thermal pools are highly praised for their relaxing atmosphere and therapeutic waters. Many visitors enjoy swimming in the yellow-tinted waters, making this a highlight for relaxation.

Practical Details and Tour Features

This tour includes a driver/guide, who provides live commentary, sharing insights about Furnas’ geology, history, and local culture. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort on the drive between stops. The small group size enhances the intimacy and allows the guide to focus on individual questions.

While entrance fees for Terra Nostra and Dona Beija are not included, the tour’s flexible design allows stops at hot springs or botanical gardens to be customized. The meeting point is conveniently located at Ponta Delgada port, with timely departure at 9:00 am.

The Unique Appeal of This Furnas Shore Excursion

This tour’s focus on volcanic highlights and geothermal activity makes it ideal for travelers interested in geology, nature, and local traditions. The small group setting and personalized attention are key benefits, especially for those wanting a more intimate experience.

The tour’s cost-effectiveness and comprehensive itinerary, including stops like the tea plantation and hot springs, provide excellent value. The positive reviews emphasize knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and local insights that make the day memorable.

Limitations and Considerations

Some travelers note that group sizes can vary, with a few experiences mentioning larger groups than expected. The admission fees for some attractions, such as thermal pools and cooking demonstrations, are not included and should be budgeted separately.

The pacing is generally well-managed, but the thermal bath visit can feel somewhat rushed for some visitors. Weather conditions, such as cloudiness or rain, may affect views at Miradouro Pico Do Ferro or the thermal pools, so flexible planning is advisable.

Why This Tour Fits the Right Traveler

This Furnas volcano and hot springs tour suits those who value guided experiences with local expertise, enjoy learning about volcanic geology, and want a relaxing visit to geothermal hot springs. It’s perfect for small groups seeking personalized attention and flexibility in their schedule. The mid-range price point combined with high ratings and positive reviews makes it a compelling choice for a well-rounded day in Furnas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Furnas shore excursion?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, allowing enough time to explore multiple highlights without feeling rushed.

Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, port pickup and drop-off are included, and the vehicle is air-conditioned for comfort throughout the day.

What stops are included in the tour?
Highlights include the Plantacoes de Cha Gorreana, Miradouro Pico Do Ferro, Caldeira das Furnas, and optional visits to thermal pools at Parque Terra Nostra.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Entrance fees for Terra Nostra and Dona Beija thermal pools are not included; they are optional add-ons.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, stops such as botanical gardens and thermal springs can be customized depending on preferences and time.

How does the guide enhance the experience?
Guides are knowledgeable, often multilingual, and provide live commentary that enriches understanding of Furnas’ geology, culture, and local practices.

What do reviews say about this tour?
Reviewers highlight beautiful landscapes, friendly guides, interesting stops, and great value, with most rating it 5 stars and recommending it highly.

Is this tour available year-round?
While specific seasonality isn’t mentioned, the most travelers book 61 days in advance, indicating steady availability.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and curiosity are recommended; optional entrance fees for pools should be budgeted separately.

This Furnas volcano and hot springs tour offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, geothermal activity, and local culture, making it a strong choice for those eager to explore the volcanic heart of the Azores.