Ponta Delgada: Seven Cities & Furnas Volcano Shore Excursion Tour

This Ponta Delgada: Seven Cities & Furnas Volcano Shore Excursion offers a comprehensive taste of São Miguel Island in just over five and a half hours. Priced at $105.46 per person, this tour is ideal for cruise passengers seeking to see the island’s most famous sights without rushing. It departs from the Ponta Delgada cruise terminal at 9:00 am, with pickup included, making logistics straightforward. The group size remains limited to 36 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with plenty of opportunities for personal attention.

The tour combines iconic viewpoints, geothermal wonders, and lush landscapes, all led by a local storyteller guide. While the itinerary covers many highlights, the pace and variety of stops make it suitable for those who enjoy dynamic sightseeing. Travelers should keep in mind that admission to parks and thermal pools is not included, so plan accordingly if interested in those optional activities.

Key Points

• Duration of 5.5 hours makes this a compact but rich island experience
• Price of $105.46 per person offers good value for guided sightseeing
• Includes pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal for convenience
• Visits to viewpoints, geothermal sites, and a tea plantation
• Stops at Sete Cidades, Furnas, and scenic viewpoints showcase São Miguel’s stunning landscapes
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and easier access to viewpoints

Discover the Most Photogenic Viewpoints of São Miguel

This tour begins with a pickup at the Ponta Delgada cruise terminal before heading toward the Sete Cidades volcano, home to the famous twin lakes. The Vista do Rei Miradouro provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the blue and green lagoons, considered one of Portugal’s seven wonders. With 15 minutes dedicated to this stop, visitors get an awe-inspiring photo opportunity of this magical landscape.

Next, the Miradouro de Santa Iria on the north coast offers a vivid contrast, with views of cliffs, lush greenery, and wildflowers framing the ocean below. This 15-minute stop is ideal for capturing the rugged coastline and appreciating São Miguel’s natural beauty.

Exploring São Miguel’s Geothermal Hot Springs and Gardens

The tour continues to Furnas, where geothermal activity is fully on display. The Furnas Valley is alive with steaming springs and bubbling hot springs, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Terra Nostra Park, renowned for its thermal pool, or simply walk among the thermal gardens to appreciate the island’s volcanic power.

The Furnas Lake area is also visited during this stop, allowing views of steam rising from the ground and witnessing geothermal phenomena firsthand. The serene setting makes it a highlight for those interested in natural thermal activity.

Visiting the Gorreana Tea Plantation and Sampling Local Flavors

A visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantation allows travelers to explore lush green tea fields and learn about the traditional cultivation and processing of green and black teas. The 20-minute stop includes tasting freshly brewed teas, providing a sensory experience that highlights one of the last remaining tea plantations in Europe.

Guides share insights into the history and cultivation techniques, giving a deeper understanding of this unique local product. The scenic setting offers great photo opportunities of the rolling tea terraces.

Panoramic Views from Pico do Ferro

The Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers a 10-minute stop with panoramic vistas of the Furnas Valley and Lake. This spot is well known for its spectacular overlook, giving a bird’s-eye view of volcanic hills and lush landscapes. It’s an ideal place for photo enthusiasts seeking to capture São Miguel’s vibrant scenery.

Optional Visit to Pineapple Plantations

If the cruise schedule allows, the tour includes a chance to visit a pineapple plantation, where the cultivation process is showcased. While admission fees are not included, this stop provides insights into the unique agricultural practices used to grow pineapples in the Azores.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The meeting point is the cruise terminal lounge in Ponta Delgada. The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am, with pickup included. The group size is limited to 36 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized insights from the local storyteller guide.

What’s Included and What to Consider

Included in the $105.46 price are the guided tour, a water bottle, and the tea tasting at Gorreana. The pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal add convenience, especially for cruise passengers. However, admission fees for parks and thermal pools are not included, so plan to pay separately if you want to enjoy Terra Nostra’s thermal pools or other attractions.

The tour is designed to suit most travelers, with a moderate pace and short stops that highlight the island’s most iconic sights. Be prepared for some walking at viewpoints and standing during stops, though the stops are brief to maximize sightseeing.

Tour Guide Expertise and Visitor Feedback

The local storyteller guide is frequently praised for being knowledgeable, outgoing, and detailed. Reviews highlight the guide’s ability to share engaging stories and insights about the island’s natural wonders and history. Several reviews mention the guide’s friendliness and ability to adapt to weather conditions, even when the weather is foggy or rainy.

While most feedback is very positive, some reviews note rushed tours or minor organizational issues, especially related to timing and late arrivals. It’s important to arrive on time and be prepared for a full but efficient itinerary.

Overall Experience and Suitability

This seven cities and Furnas volcano tour offers a well-rounded view of São Miguel’s most famous viewpoints, geothermal sites, and lush landscapes. It’s particularly suited for cruise passengers looking for a comprehensive sightseeing experience within a limited timeframe. The small group size enhances the experience, providing more personalized attention.

The price point offers good value considering the number of stops, the inclusion of transportation, and the guided narration. Travelers who enjoy scenic views, natural thermal springs, and cultural insights will find this tour rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $105.46, including pickup, guide, and a tea tasting.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, admission fees for parks and thermal pools are not included and will need to be paid separately if you wish to access those attractions.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal are included, with transportation in a small group vehicle.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Vista do Rei Miradouro, Miradouro de Santa Iria, Gorreana Tea Plantation, Pico do Ferro, and Furnas.

Can I visit a pineapple plantation?
Yes, if time permits, there is an option to visit a pineapple plantation, but admission fees are separate.

What about guide expertise?
The guide is described as knowledgeable, outgoing, and engaging, providing detailed insights throughout the tour.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate; however, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at viewpoints.

How do reviews rate this tour overall?
The tour holds a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on 36 reviews, with many praising the scenery, guide, and value.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

What should I bring?
We recommend bringing comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and weather-appropriate clothing for changing conditions.