Furnas: Mystic Tour (w/Dinner & Thermal Springs)

Discover Furnas with an Expert Guide and Authentic Local Cuisine

The Furnas: Mystic Tour (with Dinner & Thermal Springs) offers a comprehensive experience of this vibrant corner of Sao Miguel. For $112.23 per person, the tour lasts approximately 6 hours and combines scenic sightseeing, authentic gastronomic delights, and relaxing thermal baths. Guided by knowledgeable locals, travelers get to enjoy the Lagoa das Furnas, a site renowned for its geothermal activity and volcanic beauty, along with a traditional Cozido das Furnas cooked underground using natural heat.

This tour is ideal for those who love nature, local culture, and thermal relaxation, all wrapped into one immersive experience. The tour includes pickup from a central meeting point in Ponta Delgada and offers mobile ticketing for easy access. Keep in mind that entry to the thermal springs at Dona Beija is an additional cost, but the tour provides the option to book that in advance or separately.

Key Points

• Six-hour guided tour exploring Furnas, with scenic coastal drives and volcanic landscapes.
• Includes traditional “Cozido” dinner cooked underground using geothermal heat.
• Hot springs experience at Dona Beija, with thermal pools at around 39°C, available for an extra fee.
• Visits to Lagoa das Furnas and the Caldeira das Furnas offer spectacular volcanic views and bubbling hot springs.
• Short walk through Alameda Garden provides a peaceful setting with water features and local flora.
• Optional thermal spring entry tickets can be booked for a small additional fee.

Scenic Drive to the Heart of Furnas and Vila Franca do Campo

This tour begins with a roughly 45-minute drive from Ponta Delgada along the Azores coast, offering glimpses of the rugged shoreline and lush green landscapes. The guide takes you past Vila Franca do Campo, a picturesque islet town, setting the scene for the volcanic wonders ahead. This scenic journey provides a gentle introduction to Sao Miguel’s natural beauty without feeling rushed.

Passengers appreciate how the guide narrates local stories and points out notable landmarks during this drive, making the trip as informative as it is visually pleasing. The combination of coast and volcano views makes this first leg both relaxing and engaging.

Visiting Lagoa das Furnas: The Volcano’s Crater Lake

The Lagoa das Furnas is the tour’s main highlight. This large, volcanic crater lake is famous for its geothermal activity and biological diversity. Visitors find it fascinating how the local community uses the heat from beneath the volcano to cook “Cozido das Furnas”, a stew made of meats and vegetables that slowly cooks underground for 6-7 hours.

The lake area is a magnet for nature lovers, biologists, and bird watchers, featuring endemic and invasive species roaming freely. While admission to the lagoon costs €3 (payable only if the ticket office is open), the real draw is the impressive volcanic landscape, with bubbling fumaroles and steaming vents creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

Traditional “Cozido das Furnas” Dinner at a Local Restaurant

The tour includes a delicious 1.5-hour stop at a traditional restaurant, where local chefs serve the famous “Cozido das Furnas.” This authentic meal features a starter, main dish, drinks, dessert, and coffee—covering a full culinary experience. Vegetarian options and dishes suitable for children are available with prior notice.

The “Cozido” is a sensory highlight, demonstrating how locals harness geothermal heat for cooking, resulting in tender meats and flavorful vegetables. Guests value the opportunity to taste genuine Azorean cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting, making this stop both tasty and culturally enriching.

Relaxing in Dona Beija Thermal Pools

One of the most relaxing moments of the tour occurs at Poca da Dona Beija, where visitors can soak in thermal pools heated to around 39°C. Surrounded by lush vegetation and immersed in bird sounds, this experience offers a peaceful break to unwind and enjoy the volcanic waters.

Access to the pools is not included in the tour price but can be booked separately or through the tour’s additional arrangements, which include extra fees. The ferrous waters are known for skin benefits, although those with certain medical conditions should consult their doctor before bathing. The tranquil setting makes it an ideal place for contemplation, especially during the golden hour of dusk.

Strolling Through Alameda Garden and Water Features

A brief 30-minute walk takes visitors through the Alameda Garden, located next to the Furnas town center. This peaceful spot features gentle water streams, a human-made waterfall, and an aquarium, providing a quiet break amid nature.

The garden is a picturesque space that highlights the local flora and offers a chance to observe the environment’s delicate beauty. This stop is perfect for those wanting a relaxed walk without extensive hiking or for family groups seeking a gentle outdoor activity.

Witnessing the Night-time Geothermal Caldeira das Furnas

The tour culminates with an awe-inspiring night visit to the Caldeira das Furnas, where natural geothermal activity creates a spectacle of steam, bubbling water pools, and glowing mineral springs. As darkness falls, the vibrant steam and natural light show transform the landscape into a magical scene.

Guests can sample more of the mineral waters, taste a local homemade sweet delicacy, and experience the natural wonder of Furnas after sunset. This unique, almost surreal display of nature’s power is a key highlight, making the tour well worth the evening hours.

Return Journey Through the Northern Side of Sao Miguel

After experiencing Furnas at night, the group drives back along the island’s northern coast, a ride of about 40 minutes. This relaxed drive allows travelers to rest, chat, or receive suggestions for additional activities around Sao Miguel. The route offers scenic views, giving a final glimpse of the island’s varied landscape.

Practical Details and Booking Options

The tour starts at 5:30 pm from Emigrant Statue, Campo de São Francisco 11, in Ponta Delgada. It includes guided commentary, snack tasting, bottled water, and tour insurance. The group size is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

Participants should bring swimwear and towels for the thermal baths. Extra fees apply for lockers or hot shower use. The optional thermal springs entry costs €17 if booked in advance—recommended for those who want to fully enjoy the pools at Dona Beija.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with health concerns should verify thermal bath suitability beforehand. The experience is designed to be accessible, with near public transportation options available.

Final Thoughts on the Furnas Mystic Tour

This guided tour combines scenic drives, cultural culinary experiences, and relaxing thermal baths in a single, well-organized package. The expert guide brings local insights, making the journey both informative and enjoyable. The inclusion of authentic Azorean cuisine and the spectacular night-time geothermal display set this experience apart.

While the additional cost for Dona Beija entry is optional, many find it a worthwhile complement to the thermal experience. The tour’s five-star reviews reflect its quality, with visitors praising the guide’s knowledge, the stunning views, and the delicious food.

If you seek a balance of nature, culture, and relaxation, this tour offers a comprehensive and memorable way to explore Furnas, especially for those who appreciate guided experiences and authentic local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup at a central meeting point in Ponta Delgada and transportation throughout the day.

Can I visit the Dona Beija thermal springs?
Yes, the tour offers the option to book entry tickets for an additional €17, with specific time slots available in the evening.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket for the evening. Extra fees apply for lockers and hot showers.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 5:30 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, there are alternative dishes for children, and the tour is generally family-friendly, but always check any specific health considerations.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic volcanic landscapes, authentic gastronomy, and the magical night-time geothermal activity makes this tour uniquely captivating.

Is the tour accessible for all?
The tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, but those with specific health conditions should verify thermal bath activities beforehand.

Can I select a different time for the thermal baths?
Yes, the Dona Beija thermal springs can be booked for 19:00 or 20:30, but availability depends on online booking slots.

What is the cost of admission to Lagoa das Furnas?
The entry fee is €3, payable only if the ticket office is open at the time of your visit.

Is this tour recommended for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size and guided nature make it an ideal experience for solo adventurers seeking an immersive day in Furnas.