Full Day: Furnas, Tea Plantations & More With Lunch

Discover São Miguel’s Charm in a Full Day of Natural Wonders and Cultural Delights

Our review takes a close look at the “Full Day: Furnas, Tea Plantations & More With Lunch” tour on São Miguel, one of the Azores’ most captivating experiences. While we haven’t personally joined this exact trip, the detailed feedback from travelers and the thoughtfully designed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights.

What we love most about this tour is its balance of nature, culture, and culinary experiences; the chance to relax in thermal pools, stroll through scenic tea plantations, and enjoy a hearty local meal all in one day. The small group size (limited to just 8 participants) promises a more personal and engaging atmosphere. Plus, the knowledgeable guides—like Eric, who’s been praised for his friendly attitude and local insights—really enhance the experience.

The only potential downside? Since entrance fees for thermal pools aren’t included, you might want to budget for those extras. This tour seems perfect for travelers wanting an authentic, diverse taste of São Miguel without feeling rushed, especially those who appreciate guided insights and scenic landscapes.

This experience suits nature lovers, foodies, and those eager to explore with expert guidance. If you’re after a meaningful way to connect with the island’s geothermal activity, lush landscapes, and local traditions, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Good To Know

• Unique combination of geothermal sites, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences
• Small group size enhances personalization and interaction with guides
• Includes a traditional “Cozido” lunch cooked using volcanic heat—an authentic taste of the island
• Visits Europe’s only tea plantations, offering exclusive insights and tastings
• Ideal for travelers seeking a balanced day with relaxation, exploration, and learning
• Entrance fees for thermal pools are not included, so plan accordingly

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What Makes This Tour Special

This full-day journey is carefully curated to showcase the diverse beauty of São Miguel. It kicks off with a drive along the South Coast, stopping at Caloura, where rugged cliffs meet the Atlantic, offering stunning views and perfect photo ops. As one reviewer noted, “You’ll love the views from Caloura, with the waves crashing against the cliffs—it’s both dramatic and calming.” It’s an excellent way to start the day with a dose of coastal scenery.

From there, the tour continues to Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s first capital. Here, travelers can admire the small volcanic islet just offshore, a picturesque reminder of the island’s volcanic roots. The charming streets and local cafes make it a pleasant stop, and many appreciate the chance to soak in the history with fewer crowds.

The Heart of the Tour: Furnas

The standout part of this experience is the visit to Furnas—a volcanic wonderland. Travelers will explore fumaroles and steaming vents that create an otherworldly atmosphere. The highlight is undoubtedly Furnas Lake, a peaceful crater lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for photo ops and relaxing moments. As one reviewer shared, “The lake’s serenity and the steam rising from the ground make it feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.”

Following that, you’ll have the chance to relax in thermal pools, a visitor favorite. The thermal waters are said to have therapeutic benefits, and many mention how rejuvenating it is after a morning of sightseeing. Note, however, that entrance fees to these pools aren’t included, which is worth considering when planning your budget.

Culinary Experience: Cozido Lunch

Next comes the much-anticipated “Cozido das Furnas”. This local dish is cooked underground using volcanic heat, creating a hearty, flavorful stew. Many guests, including those who’ve traveled extensively, find this culinary method fascinating and delicious. One reviewer described it as “a unique experience to taste a slow-cooked stew made with volcanic energy.” It’s a genuine taste of local tradition, served in a cozy restaurant setting.

The Tea Plantations: Europe’s Only

After lunch, the tour heads north to visit Europe’s only tea plantations. These lush fields are a sight to behold—rolling green hills dotted with neatly arranged tea bushes. Visitors can stroll through the plantations, learn about the tea production process, and enjoy tasting freshly harvested teas. Several travelers appreciated this stop, with one noting, “It’s such a rare opportunity to see where European tea is grown, and the tasting was a delightful bonus.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Scenic Coastal Stops on the Return

On the way back to Ponta Delgada, the journey along the North Coast offers more scenic vistas. The small coastal villages of Caloura and Caloura are praised for their natural beauty and tranquility. It’s a fitting end to a full day of exploring, relaxing, and tasting.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation is covered in a comfortable, climate-controlled van, ensuring that you stay cool and relaxed throughout the day. The small group size (up to 8 guests) guarantees personalized attention, more time at each stop, and the chance to ask plenty of questions. The tour starts with hotel pickup and ends with drop-off—convenience that many travelers find invaluable.

Priced at $85 per person, this tour offers significant value considering the variety of experiences—geothermal wonders, scenic landscapes, culture, and a traditional meal—packed into just one day. While the entrance fee to thermal pools isn’t included, the overall experience is priced competitively when you consider the guided expertise, transportation, and included activities.

Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides, especially Eric, who’s praised for his friendliness and knowledge. Travelers appreciated how well the day was organized, with plenty of time at each stop to soak in the sights and take photos. Several mentioned that the guide shared interesting facts and personal stories that made the tour more engaging and authentic.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized way to see some of São Miguel’s most iconic sights. It offers a good balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and local cuisine—ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a sampler of the island’s highlights in a single day. The small group size makes it a more intimate experience, and the knowledgeable guide ensures you won’t miss the details that make each location special.

If you prefer guided tours that combine sightseeing with storytelling, this trip delivers. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy soaking in thermal pools, exploring scenic landscapes, and indulging in local food traditions—all within a manageable itinerary.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day adventure suits travelers who want a diverse experience packed into a single day, without sacrificing depth or authenticity. Nature lovers will appreciate the geothermal sites, crater lakes, and lush tea plantations, while foodies will enjoy the traditional Cozido lunch cooked underground with volcanic heat. The small group setting ensures a personal touch and meaningful interaction with guides like Eric, who’s been praised for his friendliness and local expertise.

It’s a great choice for those with limited time on São Miguel but who still want to see a broad spectrum of its natural and cultural treasures. Active travelers will enjoy the scenic walks and thermal pools, while those seeking a relaxed yet informative day will find this tour delivers on both fronts.

In summary, this tour offers excellent value, blending natural wonders, cultural experiences, and authentic Azorean cuisine into one memorable day—perfect for curious explorers, food lovers, and anyone eager to understand the true spirit of São Miguel.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within designated areas, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

How many people are in each group?
The experience is limited to a small group, with a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Are entrance fees to thermal pools included?
No, the entrance to thermal pools in Furnas and Furnas Lake is not part of the tour price, so plan to budget extra if you want to visit these sites.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, allowing for a broader range of travelers to enjoy the commentary.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one day, but starting times vary—be sure to check availability when booking.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $85 per person, offering good value considering the diverse experiences included.

Is vegetarian or special dietary options available?
The tour features a traditional Cozido lunch. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to inquire with the provider beforehand.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit for thermal pools if you wish to swim, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Can children join this tour?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but check with the provider for any age restrictions or considerations.

Is this tour suitable if I have limited mobility?
Most sites involve walking and some uneven terrain, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. Confirm with the tour operator for specific concerns.

This full-day tour of São Miguel’s highlights offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and authentic cuisine, making it a fantastic choice for those eager to experience the best of the Azores with expert guidance and a relaxed pace.

You can check if your dates are available here: