Van Tour Furnas (Full Day)

Exploring São Miguel with a Full-Day Tour to Furnas: An Insightful Guide

Travelers often look for experiences that combine natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and accessible travel options. This Van Tour Furnas (Full Day) from Azores For All checks all those boxes in a way that aims to appeal to a wide audience, including those needing wheelchair accessibility. The tour promises a full day of exploring the lush landscapes, geothermal wonders, and local flavors that make São Miguel a standout destination.

What excites us most about this experience are the opportunity to visit the oldest tea plantation in Europe, the chance to relax in the geothermal Terra Nostra Garden, and the chance to taste the famous cozido stew cooked underground—a true local specialty. The convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off, combined with a well-paced itinerary, makes it appealing for those who want a rundown without the hassle of planning every detail.

One possible consideration is the weather, since the tour takes place rain or shine. While the Azores are known for their lush landscapes, unpredictable weather could influence some outdoor activities. This tour suits travelers who enjoy guided excursions, wish to see a variety of sights in one day, and prefer a comfortable, accessible way to experience São Miguel’s highlights.

Good To Know

• Accessible Exploration: Designed to be wheelchair friendly, ensuring all travelers can enjoy the sights.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to lakes, gardens, hot springs, a tea factory, and scenic viewpoints.
• Cultural & Natural Balance: Combines geological wonders with authentic local food experiences.
• Convenience & Value: Includes hotel transportation, lunches, and entrance fees, offering excellent value.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a guide/driver fluent in multiple languages for smooth communication.
• Weather-Ready: Tour proceeds rain or shine, so pack accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

The experience begins with hotel pick-up and drop-off, which is a huge plus for travelers unfamiliar with São Miguel’s roads or those who prefer not to navigate rental cars. The van is wheelchair accessible, making the journey inclusive for all guests. The guide/driver, identifiable by the blue t-shirt with the ‘Azores for All’ logo, is often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, ensuring the group feels well cared for.

The duration is approximately 7.5 hours, which provides a deep dive into the island’s highlights without feeling rushed. The timing varies depending on availability, so checking in advance is recommended to match your preferred schedule.

Exploring Lagoa das Furnas

The first major stop is Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic crater lake famous for its steaming geothermal activity. Here, you’ll see the underground cooking holes, where locals prepare the traditional cozido stew—slow-cooked by volcanic heat underground. Travelers have found it fascinating to watch this age-old method in action, with one reviewer noting, “It’s like a culinary science experiment, only more delicious.”

This stop isn’t just about food. Lagoa das Furnas itself offers stunning views, with the volcanic landscape and lush greenery creating a striking scene. You may also observe the fumarolas and springs emitting sulfurous vapors, known as Caldeiras das Furnas—a sensory experience with the smell of sulfur, which reminds visitors of the island’s volcanic nature.

Terra Nostra Garden: A Botanical Treasure

Next, the tour takes you to Terra Nostra Garden, a beautifully maintained botanical garden that dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Known worldwide for its geothermal swimming pool, the garden is a lush oasis filled with exotic plants, trees, and vibrant flowers.

Visitors often comment on the romantic atmosphere of Terra Nostra, with some noting that “the garden feels like stepping into a fairy tale,” and appreciating how the geothermal pool offers a relaxing way to enjoy the warm mineral-rich waters even if the weather is cooler outside. The entrance fee is included, making this a value-packed stop.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Geothermal Springs and Fumarolas

Following the garden, you’ll visit Caldeiras das Furnas, where the hot springs and fumaroles continue to bubble and emit gases rich in sulfur. The strong smell is part of the experience—be prepared for an aromatic reminder of the volcanic activity that powers these natural wonders. Guests find watching the steam rise from the springs both educational and awe-inspiring.

Scenic Views from Pico do Ferro

A highlight for many is the trip to Pico do Ferro viewpoint, which affords sweeping views over Lagoa das Furnas and the surrounding volcanic landscape. The lookout is accessible and offers a perfect photo opportunity—think lush lakes framed by volcanic craters, with the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.

The Tea Factory at Gorreana

The tour concludes with a visit to the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s oldest tea plantation. Here, you’ll learn about tea production and have a chance to sample some of the local brews. Reviewers have appreciated the insight into the island’s agricultural traditions, noting that “the tea tasting was a lovely way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing.” The factory visit is included in the tour price.

Final Stops and Views

Before heading back to Ponta Delgada, you’ll stop at the Santa Iria viewpoint, providing one last panoramic perspective of São Miguel’s diverse landscapes.

The Practicalities and Value

This tour’s price includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, all entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide, which collectively offer excellent value for a full-day, all-inclusive experience. The lunch typically features local dishes, including the cozido, giving you a tasty glimpse of Azorean cuisine.

Guests have praised the smooth organization and the guide’s fluency in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, which helps make the experience accessible and engaging. The small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and photograph the stunning scenery.

While the 7.5-hour duration makes for a full day of activity, some travelers mention that the pace is relaxed, and they appreciated the ample time at each stop to explore and absorb the scenery. The tour operates rain or shine, so packing a raincoat or umbrella is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for an all-encompassing day trip that covers both natural beauty and cultural highlights, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those with limited time on São Miguel but wanting a rundown. Accessibility is a big plus for travelers with mobility challenges, and the included transportation reduces stress. Food lovers, nature enthusiasts, and curious travelers will find plenty to enjoy here.

FAQs

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the van used for this tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, all entrance fees, and the guide/driver service.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and possibly a raincoat since the tour proceeds rain or shine. Don’t forget your camera!

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages does the guide speak?
The tour is conducted in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Can I sample local food during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a tasting of the cozido stew and visits to the Gorreana tea factory.

Are there scenic viewpoints included?
Yes, Pico do Ferro offers stunning panoramic views, and Santa Iria viewpoint provides another memorable outlook.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While available year-round, the weather can influence outdoor activities. The tour operates rain or shine, so pack accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Furnas Tour offers a well-rounded look at São Miguel’s geothermal landscapes, botanical beauty, and local culinary traditions. Its thoughtful inclusions and accessible design make it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking comfort and variety in one day. It balances sightseeing with relaxation, allowing you to enjoy the island’s natural treasures without feeling overwhelmed.

For those who want an authentic, hassle-free experience that combines scenic views, geothermal wonders, and delicious food, this tour is an excellent value—and an opportunity to uncover some of São Miguel’s best-kept natural secrets.

To sum it up, if you’re after a practical, enriching day that combines nature, culture, and comfort—especially if accessibility matters—this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for curious explorers, families, or anyone wanting a smooth, memorable way to see the highlights of Furnas and its surroundings.

You can check if your dates are available here: