Mystic Furnas – Canoeing + Terra Nostra

Discover the unique blend of volcanic landscapes and lush gardens on the Mystic Furnas – Canoeing + Terra Nostra tour in Sao Miguel, Portugal. Priced at $112.65 per person, this 7-hour guided experience offers a memorable combination of outdoor adventure and relaxing thermal baths. The tour departs from Ponta Delgada with hotel pickup, making it convenient and comfortable, especially for those looking to explore without the hassle of planning logistics.

This tour is particularly suited for visitors who enjoy water activities, botanical scenery, and local cuisine. It attracts consistent demand, often booked 86 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. With a maximum group size of 8 people, the experience remains intimate and personalized. While weather can influence the canoeing portion, the tour guarantees a full refund or rescheduling if conditions are poor, ensuring peace of mind.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off starting at 9am, ensuring easy access to Furnas and Terra Nostra Park
• Combines canoeing on Furnas Lake with a visit to the thermal baths of Terra Nostra
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts, with small group size (max 8) for a personalized experience
• Highlights volcanic activity, including boiling water and fumaroles near Furnas Lake
• Enjoy traditional cuisine, specifically the famous Cozido das Furnas stew for lunch
• Flexible cancellation policy offers full refund up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting Point and Logistics at Picos de Aventura

The tour begins at Picos de Aventura in Marina Pêro De Teive, Ponta Delgada. The pickup is included and scheduled to start at 9:00am, with transportation provided directly from your accommodation. The meeting point is close to public transportation routes, simplifying your logistics. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, after a full day of activities.

Canoeing on Furnas Lake and Its Volcanic Features

The first highlight of this experience is canoeing in Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic lake renowned for its geothermal activity. The guide leads a small group to paddle across the calm waters, where fumaroles and boiling water are visible due to underground volcanic activity.

Travelers typically paddle for about an hour, enjoying the spectacular scenery of the crater lake and its natural surroundings. The guides also share insights into the volcanic processes, notably how the underground heat influences local life, including the famous Furnas stew that is traditionally cooked in the ground using geothermal heat.

Experiencing the Steam and Fumaroles at Furnas

While canoeing, visitors observe steam vents and bubbling fumaroles near the lake’s edge. These features are integral to the area’s geothermal landscape and make Furnas unique. The presence of volcanic activity here is a constant reminder of the island’s volcanic origins.

The guide explains how the volcanic heat shapes the landscape and influences local traditions, like the cooking of Cozido das Furnas. This stew is prepared underground, slowly cooking in the geothermal heat, and is served during the lunch stop.

Tasting the Famous Cozido das Furnas for Lunch

After the water activity, the tour moves to a local restaurant in Furnas to sample Cozido das Furnas, a traditional dish made by underground steaming. This hearty local stew includes various meats and vegetables, slow-cooked using the volcanic heat from the geothermal vents.

The meal provides an authentic taste of local cuisine and offers a break before exploring the lush surroundings further. The experience of dining on a dish cooked in such a natural, geothermal way adds a memorable flavor to the day.

Exploring Terra Nostra Park and Its Thermal Baths

Post-lunch, the tour heads to Terra Nostra Park, famous for its thermal baths and extensive botanical gardens. The park is known for its thermal waters, which guests can dip into for a warm and relaxing experience.

The guided visit includes a tour of the gardens, which are filled with native and exotic plant species, offering a lush, vibrant setting. The thermal bath is a highlight, allowing guests to unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters, perfect after a day of outdoor activity.

The Guide’s Expertise and Personal Touch

The tour is led by knowledgeable guides like Pedro, Phil, or Diago, who share interesting details about the island’s volcanic activity, local culture, and plant life. Reviews highlight the guides’ friendly attitude and informative conversations, enhancing the overall experience.

Guests appreciate the personalized attention due to the small group size, which makes questions easy and adds a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The guides’ insights make it easier to understand the significance of each stop, especially the volcanic phenomena.

Pacing, Weather, and Physical Considerations

The 7-hour schedule balances active outdoor time with relaxing moments, such as lunch and thermal baths. Canoeing typically lasts about an hour and can be affected by weather; rain or wind may make the activity less comfortable, but the tour offers full refunds or rescheduling if weather cancels the activity.

The physical demands are moderate, suitable for most travelers, but some mobility may be necessary for the thermal baths and walking through the gardens. The tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for most, with clear instructions from guides.

Price and Value for Money

At $112.65 per person, the tour delivers a well-rounded experience combining water adventure, delicious local cuisine, and relaxing thermal baths. The inclusion of hotel pickup and the intimate group setting adds convenience and quality to the experience.

Given the comprehensive itinerary and guided service, this tour offers good value for those interested in volcanic landscapes, cultural food experiences, and botanical gardens.

Cancellation Policy and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of weather concerns or personal plans. If canceled within 24 hours, a full refund is not possible.

In case of poor weather, the activity may be canceled, but travelers are offered alternative dates or full refunds, ensuring confidence in booking.

Final Thoughts on the Mystic Furnas Tour

This 7-hour tour in Sao Miguel stands out for its combination of canoeing, geothermal insights, and botanical beauty. The small group size and expert guides create an engaging and personal experience that highlights the island’s volcanic character and lush landscapes.

It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits paired with culinary and relaxation experiences. While weather can influence the canoeing, the overall experience remains rewarding, especially with its authentic touch of local traditions.

Travelers looking for a well-balanced day that showcases Furnas’s geothermal activity, natural beauty, and unique cuisine will find this tour to be a worthwhile addition to their Sao Miguel itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off starting at 9:00am.

How long does the canoeing last?
The canoeing activity lasts about one hour, during which you can enjoy views of fumaroles and volcanic activity.

What should I wear for canoeing?
It’s advisable to wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring waterproof gear if rain is forecast, as the weather can affect the canoeing experience.

Can I participate in the thermal baths?
Yes, after lunch, you have the opportunity to enjoy the thermal baths in Terra Nostra Park.

What is the traditional dish served for lunch?
The lunch features Cozido das Furnas, a hearty stew cooked using volcanic geothermal heat.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
The tour is generally suitable for most, with moderate physical activity involved. Some walking and standing are required at the gardens and thermal baths.

What is the maximum group size?
The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather cancels the canoeing, the tour can be rescheduled or refunded. The thermal baths are indoors, so they are not affected.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Who is the experience provider?
The tour is operated by Picos de Aventura – Animação e Lazer, S.A.

For more information or to book, visit the official page or contact the provider directly.