Furnas Volcano: Full Day Tour, Hot Springs & Waterfalls

Exploring São Miguel’s Natural Wonders: Furnas Volcano Full-Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Azores, a guided tour of Furnas volcano and its surrounding natural beauty is pretty much a must. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of an experience that’s both scenic and enriching.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it promises the chance to see stunning waterfalls and geothermal hot springs in Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park. Second, the visit to Gorreana’s tea plantation offers a rare peek at the world’s only 100% natural tea estate. Lastly, the trip includes incredible viewpoints like Santa Iria and Pico do Ferro, giving you sweeping vistas that will stay with you long after.

One potential consideration is the pace and time management, as some reviews mention limited time at each stop and the need to pay extra for certain experiences like Terra Nostra Park. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic drives, cultural sights, and natural wonders, and who are comfortable with a day full of sightseeing without too much free time.

Good To Know

• Diverse natural attractions including waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes
• Visit to Gorreana Tea Factory with tasting opportunities
• Scenic viewpoints providing sweeping views of the island’s east side
• Small-group setting for more personalized attention
• Includes local storytelling and insights from guides familiar with the area
• Option for an add-on of the famous Furnas stew, cooked by volcanic heat

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

This 8-hour journey covers a broad swath of São Miguel’s east side, with a carefully curated route designed to showcase the island’s most iconic sights. The tour begins with a pickup from Ponta Delgada, making it accessible for most travelers based in the main town.

Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

Your first stops are for scenic vistas—Santa Iria Lookout offers a quick but breathtaking photo opportunity of the northern coast, setting the tone for the day. Following that, you’ll visit Pico do Ferro Lookout, where panoramic views of the volcanic crater and lush landscape make it clear why this is such a beloved photo spot. These viewpoints aren’t just Instagram backdrops—they’re great for understanding the island’s volcanic origins and topography.

Gorreana Tea Plantation – A Cultural Highlight

A highlight for many visitors is the Gorreana Tea Factory, which is notable as the only tea plantation on earth that remains fully natural. The guided visit here lasts around 20 minutes, providing insights into the history and process of tea production. You’ll also have the chance to taste the freshly brewed tea, which adds a lovely sensory element to the experience. Visitors have appreciated the opportunity to sample something unique and local, with one reviewer noting that the guide made the visit engaging and informative.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park – Waterfalls and Watermills

Next, the tour ventures into Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, a lush and picturesque area packed with waterfalls, watermills, and nature trails. Expect to get close to the Véu da Noiva waterfall, where the spray and roar of falling water create a soothing yet invigorating atmosphere. The park’s charm is amplified by the presence of traditional watermills, which give a sense of how the area’s water power once supported local communities. Some travelers found the 25-minute stop a bit rushed, especially if they wanted to explore further or take more photos, but overall, it’s a highlight for nature lovers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Volcanic Heart of Furnas

The actual Furnas volcano is the centerpiece of the tour. You’ll get to see the crater’s stunning volcanic landscape and visit the geothermal area within the village, where hot springs bubble and steam rises from fumaroles. This area is not only visually impressive but also scientifically fascinating—seeing active geothermal activity up close underscores the power of the Earth beneath your feet.

Here, you may choose to sample the world-famous “Cozido das Furnas”, a stew cooked underground by volcanic heat. This is available as an add-on, and some reviews highlight how unique and flavorful it is, cooked slowly over hours in the ground. Keep in mind, this isn’t included in the base price but can be a delicious addition if you’re keen to try a traditional Azorean dish.

Lakes, Chapels, and Historic Towns

From Furnas, the route takes you to Furnas Lake—a peaceful spot surrounded by lush greenery and volcanic scenery. Nearby, the Neo-Gothic chapel built between 1877 and 1888 adds a touch of romantic charm.

Before heading back to Ponta Delgada, you pass through Vila Franca do Campo, a town heavily affected by the devastating 1522 earthquake. The scenic drive offers a glimpse of Vila Franca Islet, a small volcanic crater island visible from afar—an ideal spot for a future boat trip or further exploration.

Transportation and Group Size

Expect to travel comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan with a small group size, providing a more intimate atmosphere. One review mentioned a small party which enhanced the experience, allowing guides to give more personalized attention. Pickup is included from Ponta Delgada, typically from the hotel lobby or agreed meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Duration and Timing

The tour runs for approximately 8 hours, which means you’ll cover quite a lot in a single day. Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking. Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, walking, and occasional photo stops. Some reviewers have noted that the tour can feel rushed, especially at the stops where limited time is given, but this is balanced by the variety of sights covered.

Price and Value

The base price covers transportation, entry to some sites, a guided experience, and the tea tasting. The Furnas stew is an optional extra, which some find worth the additional cost for a taste of local tradition. One reviewer pointed out that additional expenses, like 84 Euros for extra experiences, can add up—so budgeting for extras is wise.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviews

Many travelers appreciated guides who were knowledgeable and engaging. One noted that their guide was very well-informed, making the journey both fun and educational. However, a less favorable review mentioned a guide who seemed bored and unhelpful at times, emphasizing the importance of choosing a reputable provider like MyAzoresTour.

Another insight from reviews was the limited time at key spots, like the lakes and the traditional cooking site, where some visitors felt they just had a glimpse rather than a thorough exploration. If you’re keen on walking around or exploring in depth, it could be worth considering whether the tour’s schedule suits your pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, those curious about volcanic landscapes and geothermal activity. It’s also great for cultural enthusiasts interested in local food, like the Gorreana tea or the Furnas stew (if you opt for the add-on).

If you enjoy scenic drives with multiple viewpoints, this tour offers plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos and learn about the island’s geology. Keep in mind that if you prefer a more relaxed pace or private guide, this small-group tour might feel a little rushed at times.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who need longer breaks in each location, as some stops are brief and involve walking over uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This Furnas Volcano: Full Day Tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of São Miguel’s volcanic core and lush scenery. The combination of scenic viewpoints, geothermal wonders, and cultural experiences makes it a compelling choice for first-time visitors wanting a taste of the island’s highlights.

The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and small-group setting amplifies the experience, making it more personal and informative. The optional Furnas stew provides a tasty and authentic touch, perfect for those eager to dive into Azorean cuisine.

While some reviews highlight the challenge of tight schedules, the variety of stops and the chance to witness active volcanoes and waterfalls up close compensate well. For travelers looking for a day packed with natural beauty, cultural sights, and local flavor, this tour delivers solid value.

If you’re after a comprehensive, scenic, and immersive day on São Miguel, this tour is hard to beat—just be ready to enjoy a full, sometimes brisk, adventure in the Azores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from Ponta Delgada, typically from your hotel lobby or the location agreed upon with the tour operator.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 8 hours, including travel time, stops, and sightseeing.

Are meals included?
Lunch is available as an add-on, so it’s not included in the base price. The tour does include a tea tasting at Gorreana.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit Santa Iria Lookout, Gorreana Tea Factory, Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, Pico do Ferro Lookout, Furnas village, geothermal calderas, Furnas Lake, and Vila Franca do Campo.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, but some stops have limited time, around 10-25 minutes, which may feel rushed if you want to explore more deeply.

Are entrance fees included?
Entry to Terra Nostra Park is not included and costs 16 Euros per person if you choose to visit.

Can I see the Furnas stew being cooked?
You can opt to try the Cozido das Furnas, cooked underground by volcanic heat, as an extra experience.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or back problems, as some walking and uneven terrain are involved.

This tour offers a balanced and engaging way to experience São Miguel’s volcanic soul—perfect for curious travelers eager to see the island’s natural and cultural highlights in a day.

You can check if your dates are available here: