Furnas: Volcano Crater, Lake, Tea Plantation, and Waterfall

Exploring Furnas: Volcano Crater, Lake, Tea Plantation, and Waterfall – A Complete Guide

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and authentic Azorean charm, this tour of Furnas on São Miguel Island might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of an experience packed with memorable sights and local flavor. With a 4.7-star rating from over 114 travelers, it’s clearly a popular choice for those eager to see the island’s natural highlights without renting a car or navigating on their own.

What we really love about this tour is its balanced approach: it combines scenic views like the Santa Iria viewpoint, cultural highlights such as the Gorreana tea plantation, and the volcanic drama of Furnas. Plus, the small group setup ensures a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere—ideal if you’re after genuine stories from local guides and personalized attention. The only potential snag? The inclusion of optional lunch and entrance fees means the overall cost might increase slightly if you choose extras, but considering the value packed into the day, it’s still quite a bargain. This tour would suit travelers who want a comprehensive, well-paced introduction to São Miguel’s east side, especially if you prefer guided exploration over DIY adventures.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Experiences: Visit the only remaining 100% natural tea plantation in Europe and enjoy tastings.
• Scenic Highlights: Breathtaking viewpoints and waterfalls showcase the island’s volcanic landscape.
• Cultural Insights: Explore local heritage at Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park & Furnas.
• Geothermal Wonders: Witness bubbling springs, fumaroles, and the famous Caldeiras.
• Food & Drink: Option to indulge in the traditional “Cozido das Furnas,” cooked underground in volcanic soil.
• Small Group Vibe: Personalized storytelling and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, with a carefully curated itinerary.
• Value for Money: For around $78, you get a full day of diverse sights, experienced guides, and tastings.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour is priced at $78 per person, which offers a lot of bang for your buck given the comprehensive itinerary and small-group setting. The package includes hotel or meeting point pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a knowledgeable local storyteller. You’ll also enjoy tea tastings at Gorreana, which is a standout because it’s the last true natural tea plantation left on Earth—and the only one in Europe.

Bottled water is provided throughout, keeping you refreshed as you hop from one incredible site to the next. Optional extras include lunch, featuring the celebrated Cozido stew, and thermal pool access, which some reviews suggest is worth considering if you want to relax after the day’s adventures.

The Full-Day Itinerary Breakdown

Santa Iria Viewpoint: Start with Coastal Marvels

Early in the morning, your day begins with a pickup from your accommodation—aiming for a start time around 09:00. The first stop is Santa Iria viewpoint on the north coast. Imagine gazing out over dramatic volcanic cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic, with rugged waves crashing below. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to get your bearings before the day’s exploration.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gorreana Tea Factory: Europe’s Last Natural Tea Plantation

Next, you head to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, where you’ll witness the only remaining 100% natural tea production in the world. The guided tour here allows you to see tea leaves being processed and sample different types—black, green, and white. Multiple reviews rave about the experience; one traveler mentioned how Andrea, their guide, went “above and beyond,” even on a foggy day when the hot springs were closed for maintenance. The plantation’s lush, rolling hills provide a peaceful backdrop, and the tea tasting is a delightful way to connect with local tradition.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park: Waterfalls and Heritage

Your journey continues inland to the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, a place where the Azorean heritage is alive through old watermills and cascading waterfalls. Reviewers like Jasmin appreciated how the park offers a magical setting to learn about the island’s water-powered industry, with plenty of photo-worthy moments. Expect a walk through lush greenery, with the sound of rushing water accompanying your exploration, and maybe even a chance to learn about the local watermill museum.

Furnas Valley: Geothermal Wonderland

Then, it’s time for the signature highlight—Furnas Valley itself. This area is famous for its geothermal activity, with hot springs, bubbling fumaroles, and steam vents creating a landscape straight out of a sci-fi movie. The tour takes you through the Caldeiras, where you can observe hot springs and mud pools. The ground is warm to the touch, and the smell of sulfur is unmistakable—a reminder of the island’s fiery heart.

Furnas is also home to Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, where thermal waters pool naturally. If you decide to add the thermal bath experience, be sure to bring a dark-colored swimsuit, as advised by past travelers. Many describe this as a relaxing end to the active part of the day.

The Cultural Touch of Furnas Lake and Nossa Senhora das Vitórias Chapel

A scenic drive takes you along Furnas Lake, where a neo-Gothic chapel, Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, sits on its shores. It’s a beautiful spot for a moment of quiet reflection, and the surrounding scenery is perfect for photos. Travelers like Inês loved the way this area combines natural beauty with a touch of local history.

The Famous Cozido Stew (Optional Lunch)

For those who opt for the lunch upgrade, you’ll get to taste the Cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked underground in volcanic soil for 6-7 hours. The experience isn’t just culinary; it’s a chance to see a cooking method unique to the Azores. The meal includes starters, drinks, dessert, and coffee, making it a hearty and authentic way to indulge. Past guests, including Ana, found this dish to be “the most authentic” and enjoyed the generous portions and flavors.

Scenic Drive Back via Vila Franca do Campo

On your return, pass through Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s former capital. Its small islet, known as the Princess Ring, adds a touch of island charm. The drive along the southern coast offers scenic views, with many reviewers noting how the landscape’s volcanic character makes it a photographer’s dream.

Final Stop at the Islet and Return

Your trip wraps up with a scenic drive back to your hotel or meeting point, usually ending around 17:30 to 18:30. The overall experience combines nature, culture, and geology, giving you a well-rounded introduction to São Miguel’s east side.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the tour for its knowledgeable guides—particularly João and Andrea—who bring the island’s stories to life. They appreciate how the guides often go “above and beyond,” adjusting to weather changes or personal requests, like rescheduling after a whale-watching trip was delayed.

Many mention the stunning views at Santa Iria and Furnas Lake, with some describing the landscapes as “breathtaking” and “unparalleled.” The tea tastings at Gorreana are a favorite, especially given their rarity and quality, with one reviewer noting they learned “how black, white, and green tea come from the same plant.”

The value for money is frequently highlighted, especially since the tour covers so many highlights in one day, with an emphasis on authentic experiences rather than just sightseeing. The small group format makes the experience more personal and comfortable, allowing for questions, quick breaks, and easier photo opportunities.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing since you’ll be walking and exposed to varying weather conditions.
• Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to enjoy the thermal baths at Terra Nostra.
• Optional lunch is hearty and well worth the extra cost if you want to try the famous Cozido stew.
• Entrance fees for Furnas Lake Natural Park (€3) and thermal pools (€16) are not included, so budget accordingly.
• The tour is flexible enough to adapt if weather affects certain sites—guides often have alternative options ready.
• Small groups mean you’ll get more personalized attention, but it also emphasizes timely departures and punctual pickups.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and geology without the hassle of organizing many private visits. It’s especially suitable if you prefer guided tours, enjoy learning from local storytellers, or want to see the island’s key highlights in one day.

It also appeals to those curious about traditional Azorean food and drink, with the optional Cozido offering a tasty, cultural insight. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this tour engaging and accessible, thanks to its relaxed pace and friendly guides.

However, if you’re looking for a more adventurous or off-the-beaten-path experience, or wish to explore independently, a private rental or self-guided day might suit you better.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or meeting point, starting around 09:00.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience runs for about 8 hours, typically ending between 17:30 and 18:30.

What is the price, and are there any additional costs? The base price is $78 per person. Extra costs may include optional lunch, thermal pool entry (€16), and Furnas Lake entrance (€3).

Can I choose to do the lunch? Yes, you can select the “Tour with lunch” option, which includes a traditional Cozido stew, drinks, dessert, and coffee.

Is there a small group? Yes, the tour offers a small-group experience, which allows for more personalized interaction and storytelling.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, swimwear, towel, and a jacket are recommended. Bring dark swimwear if you plan to bathe at Terra Nostra.

What if the weather is bad? Guides are flexible and often have alternatives ready. Past travelers mentioned that even in rain, the guide made sure the day was full of interesting sights.

Are the sites suitable for children or seniors? The itinerary involves walking and some uneven terrain, so consider individual mobility. The scenic and cultural nature makes it suitable for most age groups.

How does this tour compare to others? It’s highly praised for its knowledgeable guides, authentic experiences, and well-rounded coverage of São Miguel’s east side. Many reviewers say it’s the best way to get a comprehensive introduction without renting a car.

This tour offers a well-crafted look at São Miguel’s volcanic heart and cultural soul. It balances scenic spots with meaningful storytelling, making it perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and insight. Whether you’re after stunning views, geothermal wonders, or a taste of local cuisine, this experience delivers it all with warmth and professionalism.

Ideal for those with limited time but big curiosity, this tour can turn a one-day visit into a memorable journey through the Azores’ most iconic eastern landscapes. With top-notch guides and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it promises a day full of discovery—minus the stress.

You can check if your dates are available here: