Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour

Discover the Furnas Hot Springs Night Tour in the Azores

The Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of São Miguel Island after sunset. Priced at $136 per person, this 4-hour evening journey combines thermal baths, a traditional underground dinner, and mesmerizing fumaroles in a mythic setting. Starting from Ponta Delgada, it’s an intimate experience with a small group of up to 8 participants, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more personal and relaxed outing.

This tour stands out by focusing on the thermal bath experience in Poça da Dona Beja, a favorite outdoor thermal pool known for its romantic and paradisiacal atmosphere. It also includes a thermal cooked dinner with options for both fish or vegetarian preferences, accompanied by drinks, dessert, and coffee or tea. The combination of natural sights, local cuisine, and gentle evening ambiance creates a memorable night on São Miguel Island.

While the tour offers a rich experience, travelers should note that entrance to Poça da Dona Beija costs an additional 8 Euros, which is not included in the base price. This tour suits visitors who appreciate nature, relaxing thermal baths, and authentic local dining in a tranquil, less crowded setting.

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Key Points

• Price: $136 per person for a 4-hour night tour
• Includes: Hotel pickup and drop-off, dinner with drinks, and entrance to the boilers
• Highlights: Outdoor thermal baths, underground thermal dinner, fumaroles at night
• Duration: 4 hours, with flexible start times based on availability
• Small group: Limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience
• Additional costs: Entrance at Poça da Dona Beija is 8 Euros (not included)
• Languages: Tour guides and audio guides are available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish
• Booking flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later option

Starting Point and Return in Ponta Delgada

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada, ensuring a convenient start for visitors staying on the main island. The guide will collect guests from their hotels, with instructions to wait in the lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. After the evening experience, the group is returned directly to their hotels, making this a hassle-free activity for those with busy schedules or tight itineraries.

Exploring the Thermal Baths in Furnas

The core of this tour revolves around bathing in natural thermal spring waters at Poça da Dona Beja. This outdoor thermal pool offers a paradisiacal environment ideal for relaxing under the night sky. The temperature of the waters ranges from 26 to 34 degrees Celsius, providing a soothing experience perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The setting’s romantic ambiance makes it especially popular for couples or travelers seeking serenity.

The tour always includes a visit to the north and south coasts of São Miguel, with opportunities to stop for photos at your request. The natural thermal baths are the highlight, but the guide always ensures that guests have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and soak in the warm waters.

Nighttime Fumaroles in a Mythical Location

One of the most striking features of this tour is the view of fumaroles at night. These steaming vents in the volcanic landscape create a mythical and mystical atmosphere, especially after dark. The fumaroles are located in a famous volcanic area, and seeing them illuminated against the night sky adds an extra layer of wonder to the experience.

This sight is carefully integrated into the tour, giving visitors a chance to appreciate the volcanic activity of São Miguel in a tranquil, darkened setting. The guide’s explanations help visitors understand the significance of these fumaroles within the island’s geothermal system.

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The Underground Thermal Dinner Experience

A highlight of the tour is the thermal cooked dinner, prepared underground using traditional methods. This geothermal cooking technique involves burying food in volcanic soil, a practice that has been part of local culture for generations. The meal is typically accompanied by fish or vegetarian options, catering to different dietary preferences.

Guests enjoy their dinner with drinks, which may include local beverages, and finish with dessert and coffee or tea. The experience offers a taste of authentic Azorean cuisine combined with the geothermal environment, enhancing the overall ambiance of the night.

Additional Visit to Poça da Dona Beja

The Poça da Dona Beja thermal bath is always part of the itinerary and remains a favorite for many visitors. Its outdoor setting and romantic atmosphere make it a perfect spot for relaxation and photos. The thermal waters here are naturally heated and provide a soothing escape, especially when experienced after sunset.

While the entrance fee of 8 Euros is not included, the tour’s price covers the access to the boilers and the general experience of being in this paradisiacal thermal environment in the evening.

Logistics: Pickup, Group Size, and Flexibility

This small group tour ensures a more intimate and personalized experience, limited to 8 participants. The pickup process is straightforward, with hotel collection in Ponta Delgada. Guests are advised to wait in the hotel lobby 5 minutes before pickup to ensure timely departure.

The tour’s flexible start times depend on availability, and guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes it easier for travelers to fit the experience into their schedules or adapt plans if needed.

Timing and Pacing of the Tour

The 4-hour duration allows ample time to enjoy the thermal baths, dinner, and fumaroles without feeling rushed. The itinerary always includes visits to different coastlines, with optional stops for photos, making sure travelers get a well-rounded experience of Furnas and its geothermal activity.

The guide provides commentary in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, along with audio guides, offering clear explanations throughout the tour. The pacing is relaxed enough to savor each activity while keeping the evening engaging and scenic.

Comparing This Tour to Other São Miguel Experiences

While many tours focus on daytime sightseeing or specific sites like Lagoa do Fogo or Sete Cidades, this night tour emphasizes the geothermal environment and evening ambiance of Furnas. Its focus on outdoor thermal baths and underground cooking creates a distinctive experience different from typical day trips.

The inclusion of fumaroles at night and the small group size lends an exclusive feel, suited for those who enjoy relaxation, nature, and authentic local traditions. The cost is competitive considering the local dining experience and exclusive access to thermal waters.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas Night Experience

The Furnas: Hot Springs Night Tour offers a relaxing, immersive evening immersed in the volcanic landscapes of São Miguel. Its combination of natural thermal baths, local cuisine, and volcanic fumaroles makes it a memorable outing for travelers who appreciate nature’s geothermal wonders.

The tour’s small group setting and personalized approach provide a cozy atmosphere, perfect for intimate conversations or peaceful reflection. While the additional fee for Poça da Dona Beja is something to factor in, the overall experience justifies the cost for many.

This activity is best suited for visitors looking to combine relaxation with cultural authenticity in a serene, evening setting. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to enjoy the volcanic beauty of São Miguel away from crowded daytime tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $136 per person fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, dinner with drinks, and entrance to see the boilers.

Is there an additional cost for the thermal baths?
Yes, entrance to Poça da Dona Beja costs 8 Euros per adult and is not included in the tour price.

What are the thermal water temperatures?
The waters in the thermal baths range from 26 to 34 degrees Celsius.

What languages are available for the guide and audio guides?
Guides and audio guides are available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

How flexible is the booking?
Guests can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for thermal baths and outdoor settings is recommended. Bring a towel and swimsuit if you plan to bathe.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours.

Can I request specific stops or photos?
Yes, there is always the possibility to stop for photos during the coast visits.

Is this tour suitable for children or individuals with mobility issues?
The tour involves outdoor thermal baths and walking in volcanic areas, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. Confirm with the provider if needed.

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