Private – All of Furnas, Tea Plantation, ticket to Beija included

Exploring São Miguel’s Best Thermal Baths and Tea Plantation in a Private Tour

This private tour of São Miguel offers a well-rounded experience, combining thermal baths, a visit to a tea plantation, and a ticket to Beija hot springs. Priced at $170.81 per person, it provides a personalized journey led by knowledgeable guides, ensuring a relaxed and tailored experience. With a duration of approximately 6 hours and the convenience of pickup and group discounts, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking an intimate, hassle-free way to enjoy some of the island’s most iconic sights.

The tour is highly rated, with 9 reviews giving it a perfect 5.0/5 score, reflecting consistent satisfaction among participants. It’s best suited for those who want to explore São Miguel’s geothermal wonders at a comfortable pace, with all entrance fees covered, and the added bonus of seeing a traditional tea plantation. While the tour is comprehensive, including stops at key volcanic viewpoints and local delicacies, it’s worth noting that lunch is not included—though an optional cozido meal can be booked in advance.

Key Points

• Private guided experience with personalized attention.
• All entrance fees included, with visits to Furnas hot springs and Gorreana tea plantation.
• Ticket to Beija hot springs included in the package—great for soaking regardless of weather.
• Tour duration of 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am, with pickup included.
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed day of geothermal bathing, scenic viewpoints, and cultural visits.
• The tour requires booking 63 days in advance on average and offers discounts for groups.

Visiting Furnas and its Thermal Waters

The core of this tour revolves around the thermal baths of Furnas, a highlight of São Miguel. Known for waters heated by volcanic activity, these springs reach temperatures of up to 104°F (40°C), providing a soothing experience. The itinerary includes visits to several of these hot springs, notably the Poça D. Beija hot springs, where soaking is included in the ticket price. This means that even if the weather isn’t perfect, you can still enjoy a warm bath amid lush scenery.

The tour takes you through Furnas Volcano, where active volcanic features are clearly visible. Walks around viewpoints like Pico do Ferro and Miradouro de Santa Iria offer panoramic views of the crater and the surrounding landscape. The area’s geothermal activity also creates natural cooking pods, which are used locally for preparing delicacies like “cozido”, a traditional stew cooked using volcanic heat. Although the tour doesn’t include lunch, there’s a stop for local treats such as “Bolo Lêvedo” and steamed corn, giving a taste of the regional flavors.

The Gorreana Tea Plantation Experience

A key highlight is the visit to the Gorreana tea plantation, one of Europe’s few remaining tea factories. Here, you can explore the factory, walk along the plantation slopes, and purchase locally produced tea. The plantation showcases the entire process, from tea leaves to packaging, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in regional agriculture and traditional production methods.

The Gorreana plantation is set in scenic surroundings, with expansive views over the lush landscape. Visitors appreciate the chance to see how the tea is grown and processed, and to enjoy some shopping at the on-site store. This stop enriches the experience by combining natural beauty with cultural insight, giving a well-rounded picture of São Miguel’s agricultural side.

The Ticket to Beija Hot Springs

The ticket to Beija hot springs is included in this tour, allowing flexible soaking time at this popular geothermal spot. The hot springs feature multiple pools with varying temperatures, all set in serene gardens. The guide encourages visitors to take advantage of this stop, as it is accessible regardless of the weather, making it a reliable highlight even on rainy days.

This inclusion adds considerable value to the tour, since entrance fees are generally paid separately if visited independently. The hot springs provide a relaxing finale to the geothermal segment of the tour, with ample space and facilities to unwind after visiting other viewpoints and attractions.

Scenic Viewpoints: Pico do Ferro and Miradouro de Santa Iria

Along With the hot springs, the tour offers visits to spectacular viewpoints like Pico do Ferro and Miradouro de Santa Iria. These spots provide breathtaking perspectives of the caldera and volcanic landscape of Furnas. The Pico do Ferro viewpoint is particularly noted for its stunning vistas, making it a favorite photo stop.

The Miradouro de Santa Iria offers panoramic views over the lush greenery and volcanic crater, perfect for photo enthusiasts and those who appreciate dramatic scenery. These viewpoints are accessible via short walks, and guides typically share interesting facts about the volcanic activity that shaped the island.

Local Delicacies and Optional Lunch

Throughout the day, there’s a chance to sample local delicacies like “Bolo Lêvedo” and corn cooked on steam pods. These treats offer authentic tastes of the region and provide a cultural flavor that complements the geothermal experience.

Although lunch is not included in the standard tour, there is an option to enjoy a “cozido,” a traditional stew cooked underground using volcanic heat, at a local restaurant. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs approximately €25 per person. Travelers interested in this experience should advise in advance so the tour can be booked accordingly. This adds a hearty, authentic meal to the day’s activities.

Logistics: Meeting Points and Tour Pacing

The tour starts promptly at 9:30 am with pickup included, simplifying the logistics for visitors. The tour is designed to fit into 6 hours, balancing sightseeing with enough time to relax in the hot springs and explore the plantation.

Travelers should be prepared for a relaxed pace that covers multiple scenic and geothermal stops without feeling rushed. The tour is suitable for most people, and the private nature ensures a flexible, personalized experience. Travelers should note that if they opt for lunch, the schedule may be slightly adjusted to accommodate the longer stop.

Guides and Personalization

The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who are praised for their kindness and expertise. Reviews highlight guides like Carlos and Andre for their friendliness, patience, and local knowledge. They make the experience more engaging by sharing insights into volcanic activity, local culture, and regional history.

The private format means the experience can be tailored to the group’s interests, with guides attentive to individual needs. This personal touch enhances the overall enjoyment and makes the tour feel exclusive and comfortable.

Booking, Availability, and Cancellation Policy

This tour is popular, often booked 63 days in advance, and offers group discounts for larger parties. It features free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility for travelers who may need to adjust plans. The mobile ticket option allows for easy access and contactless entry.

The experience is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with confirmation provided immediately after booking, making it straightforward to plan well in advance.

Final Thoughts on the São Miguel Thermal and Cultural Tour

This private tour of Furnas and the Gorreana tea plantation delivers a well-balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural insights, and relaxing thermal baths. The ticket to Beija hot springs and all entrance fees are included, providing excellent value for the $170.81 price point. The personalized attention and knowledgeable guides are often praised, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience.

While the absence of included lunch might be a consideration for some, the option to book a traditional cozido adds a special culinary dimension. The tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, stress-free way to explore São Miguel’s geothermal and agricultural highlights in just half a day.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic viewpoints, authentic local foods, and soaking in geothermal waters—all delivered with attentive service and flexible planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes. The ticket to Beija hot springs is included and can be enjoyed regardless of weather, making this tour a reliable choice even on rainy days.

Can I join this tour if I don’t want to soak in the hot springs?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are happy to accommodate preferences. However, the hot springs are a main feature, so check with the provider if you prefer to skip this part.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there’s an option to book a “cozido” at an additional cost of about €25. It’s recommended to advise in advance if you want this experience.

How long do stops at viewpoints like Pico do Ferro last?
These scenic stops are typically short walks, providing ample time for photos and enjoying the views without feeling rushed.

What makes this tour stand out compared to other São Miguel excursions?
The private format, all entrance fees included, and customizable experience with knowledgeable guides make this tour a convenient and personalized way to discover Furnas’ geothermal and cultural treasures.