São Miguel: Furnas and Nordeste Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Exploring São Miguel in a single day sounds ambitious, but that’s exactly what this Furnas and Nordeste tour promises — a comprehensive experience packed with natural wonders, cultural insights, and authentic flavors. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal what makes it a popular choice for visitors wanting to maximize their time on the island.

What we love about this tour is its mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and convenience — especially with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. The volcanic landscapes and geothermal activity are truly captivating, and the included lunch with traditional Azorean stew offers a taste of local life. Plus, the small group setting (limited to eight participants) ensures a more intimate experience.

One thing to consider is that the entry fees to certain attractions like Terra Nostra or Dona Beija are not included, so you’ll want to budget accordingly. This tour is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy scenery, history, and some hands-on local experiences, all wrapped into an easy, guided day trip.

Good To Know

Natural Wonders: The volcanic sites and hot springs make for unforgettable sights and relaxing moments.
Local Culture: Enjoy a traditional stew cooked on volcanic soil and learn about the island’s eruptive history.
Small Group Experience: Limited to eight participants for personalized attention and better interaction.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Covering everything from viewpoints to waterfalls and tea plantations.
Flexible Options: Optional visits to thermal pools and botanical gardens; lunch included with choices.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Rafael and Vero enhance the experience with local insights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Full-Day Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early with pick-up options at 13 different locations in Ponta Delgada. This flexibility is a big plus, especially if you’re staying in the main town. The vehicle is described as very comfortable, which matters when you’re on an 8-hour journey. Small groups (up to 8 participants) ensure everyone has space to relax and ask questions, making the experience more personable than large coach trips.

Exploring Vila Franca do Campo and Ilhéu de Vila Franca

Your first stop is Vila Franca do Campo, the historical first capital of the island. From here, you’ll get a stunning view of the Ilhéu de Vila Franca, an island formed by a volcanic eruption, and a site known for hosting Red Bull Cliff Diving. The viewpoint offers a dramatic perspective over the crater, and many reviews mention the breathtaking vistas. It’s a quick photo stop but one that sets the tone for the day’s volcanic theme.

Lagoa das Furnas — The Heart of the Tour

Next, the highlight for many will be Lagoa das Furnas, a volcanic caldera filled with bubbling fumaroles and thermal activity. Here, you’ll see the famous Cozido das Furnas being cooked underground in volcanic soil — a process that takes around six hours but is a fascinating spectacle to observe. Many tour stops include watching the pots being removed by local restaurants, which adds to the authentic feel.

The area is also dotted with fumaroles and boiling boilers, making it a geothermal wonderland. The tour doesn’t include entry to the lagoons or parks, but you can choose to visit the Terra Nostra Botanical Park or Poça da Dona Beija — both are highly praised for their thermal pools. Reviewers note that these are not included in the price but are well worth the extra expense for a relaxing dip after sightseeing.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Relaxing in Hot Springs

Relaxation options are plentiful. The thermal pools are a big draw — hot mineral water pools that stay over 30 degrees Celsius. Visitors can choose between Poça da Dona Beija or Parque Terra Nostra, both offering different atmospheres. Many reviews mention how relaxing these pools are, especially after a day full of walking and sightseeing.

Lunch — A Delicious Azorean Tradition

A key highlight is the lunch break featuring the traditional Azorean stew (cozido), cooked on volcanic soil for six hours. The meal is included in the tour price, and guests often praise the quality and flavor of the food. One reviewer noted that they appreciated the variety of options beyond just cozido, including other starters, mains, and desserts. The meal typically takes about an hour-and-a-half, giving you time to savor the flavors and chat with your group.

Visiting Ribeira dos Caldeirões and Watermills

Post-lunch, you’ll head north to Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, famous for its lush greenery and five historic watermills. The waterfalls here are a favorite among visitors for their photogenic quality. The guided commentary helps you appreciate the importance of these mills in local history, which some reviewers found especially interesting.

Scenic Drive to Nordeste and Tea Route

The final part of the tour takes you along the tea route, with visits to Gorreana or Porto Formoso Tea Factories. These two are the only remaining tea plantations in Europe and are a delightful stop — especially for tea lovers. You can expect a guided tour and tasting, with visitors noting the incredible views over the lush plantations and the welcoming atmosphere.

The last stop is the Our Lady of Peace Chapel, a peaceful spot with a lovely view of the bay, perfect for a final photo before heading back to Ponta Delgada. The entire day is designed to showcase the island’s varied landscapes, from volcanic craters to verdant tea plantations.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The expert guides shine in this experience. Several reviews mention guides like Rafael and Vero, who are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience. They help make the day engaging and informative, turning sightseeing into a learning experience.

The balance of activities — with scenic stops, cultural visits, and relaxing thermal pools — offers plenty of variety. The small group size makes it easier to stay together and ask questions, creating a more intimate environment than large coach tours.

Pricing at $107 per person offers solid value for the extensive itinerary, especially considering the inclusion of lunch and the personalized guided experience. However, keep in mind that additional entrance fees for parks or pools are not included, so plan for those if you want to relax in the thermal pools.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Reviewers consistently praise the authenticity of the experience. Watching locals remove the underground pots or tasting the freshly brewed tea feels genuine and adds a layer of culture. Many mention comfortable transportation, well-organized schedules, and the flexibility of choosing optional activities.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace and want to see the island’s highlights with expert commentary, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly great for first-time visitors or those short on time who want a rundown in one day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, local culture, and good food. It’s also ideal for those who prefer small groups to avoid the impersonality of large bus tours. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find value here.

If you’re eager to experience hot springs and see volcanoes up close, this trip hits these marks. It’s less suitable for those with limited mobility since there’s some walking and uneven terrain at viewpoints and parks, but the overall pace is manageable.

Final Thoughts

This full-day São Miguel tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s volcanic landscape, cultural traditions, and lush scenery. The mix of sightseeing, local foods, and optional thermal pools provides a satisfying balance for most travelers.

The expert guides and small group size create a friendly, informative atmosphere, helping you feel connected to the places you visit. The lunch and scenic stops are highlights, making this a great value for an all-in-one experience.

While the additional costs for parks and pools might add up, the overall experience and the chance to see so much in one day make it worth considering. If you’re after an authentic, comprehensive, and scenic day on São Miguel, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

FAQ

Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup at your accommodation in Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, or Ribeira Grande, with a comfortable vehicle for the entire day.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

Are meals and entrance fees included?
Lunch is included, featuring a traditional stew, but entrance fees for parks like Terra Nostra or Dona Beija are not. You can choose to visit these pools at your own expense.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around viewpoints, parks, and waterfalls. An umbrella and water bottle are also provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Child seats are available upon request, and the tour is generally family-friendly, especially since it’s a small group. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, with plenty of stops for sightseeing, photos, and breaks.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

In essence, this São Miguel tour offers a thoughtfully curated adventure through some of the island’s most iconic spots, balanced with cultural authenticity and natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, it’s a solid choice for filling your day with memorable sights and flavors.

You can check if your dates are available here: