Private night Furnas all included (Dinner, Beija, Gorreana)

A Unique Evening in Furnas: Hot Springs, “Cozido,” and Nighttime Geysers

This private night tour in Furnas offers an engaging way to experience some of the Azores’ most beloved sights after dark. It’s a thoughtfully curated itinerary that combines natural wonders and local flavors in a way that feels both relaxed and authentic. What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to explore hot springs at dusk, enjoy a traditional ‘cozido’ dinner cooked underground, and witness the famous geysers under a starry sky — all with the comfort of a private guide and transportation.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour are the carefully paced schedule—allowing plenty of time to relax at the hot springs before dinner—and the inclusion of stops at the Gorreana tea plantation and Pico do Ferro viewpoint. These add cultural and scenic dimension, making the evening feel well-rounded. The guides, specifically someone named Carlos according to reviewers, seem to bring local knowledge and enthusiasm that elevates the experience.

A potential consideration is that this tour starts around late afternoon, around 4-5 PM, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy cooler, rainy evenings—perfect for winter visits but equally atmospheric at any time of year. Also, you’ll want to prepare for variable weather: bring layers, a rain jacket, and darker swimsuits if you plan to get in the thermal pools, since water stains lighter fabrics and hair colors like blonde or platinum might pick up stains.

Key points/Takeaways:
– Authentic local experience: Do as Furnas locals do by enjoying the hot springs and dinner.
– Balanced itinerary: Combines natural thermal baths, scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and an evening geyser show.
– Guided by knowledgeable local: Expect friendly, detailed explanations from guides like Carlos.
– Perfect for cooler seasons: Especially enjoyable when it’s rainy or cold outside.
– All-inclusive value: Tickets, dinner, and hot springs are covered for a seamless experience.
– Flexible pickup: Includes pickup from key areas, with options for other locations upon request.

Exploring Furnas after Sunset: A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Journey: Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your evening begins with a pickup at one of four convenient locations—Ribeira Grande, Ponta Delgada, Maia, or Lagoa—making it easy to join without much hassle. The drive to Furnas feels more like a local’s outing than a touristy bus ride, especially since it’s a private group experience. Expect a scenic journey, with commentary from your guide about the landscape, volcanic history, and local life, setting the tone for the evening ahead.

Gorreana Tea Plantation: A Cultural Interlude

On the way, you’ll stop at the Gorreana tea plantation, the oldest in Europe still in operation. Here, I love the way this stop adds a splash of local culture and flavor. You can stroll through lush green tea fields, learn how the tea is grown and processed, and sample some of the freshest tea you’ll ever taste. For tea enthusiasts, this is a highlight; for others, it’s a peaceful break with beautiful views.

Pico do Ferro Viewpoint: Panoramic Azores

Next, a visit to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers sweeping views of the crater lake and surrounding volcanic landscape. It’s a quick stop, but the scenery is more striking at sunset or dusk, with the changing light revealing the island’s volcanic origins. This is a good photo op and a chance to understand the island’s geology in a more tangible way.

Arriving in Furnas: Walking Among the Caldeiras

Once in Furnas, you’ll immediately notice the smell of sulfur and the sight of steaming caldeiras. Here’s where the magic of cooking underground happens. Your guide will walk you around the bubbling caldeiras, explaining how the famous ‘cozido’ is prepared using volcanic heat. This traditional stew, rich with local meats and vegetables, is slow-cooked beneath the earth for several hours, giving it a distinct flavor.

Relaxing at Poça D. Beija Hot Springs

While your ‘cozido’ is cooking, you’re free to relax at the Poça D. Beija hot springs. The thermal pools are beautifully maintained, with varying temperatures and a lush, tropical setting. Visiting at dusk enhances the experience with the changing light and cooler air, making the warm waters feel especially soothing.

Reviewers have praised the “magical bath at dusk”, noting that the experience is both relaxing and scenic. Be sure to bring a darker swimsuit and bring something to tie your hair up—certain hair colors, like blonde or platinum, might stain from mineral-rich waters, and darker clothes help prevent visible stains.

Dining: The ‘Cozido’ Under the Volcano

After the bath, you’ll enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant, where the ‘cozido’ is served. Having just relaxed in the hot springs, I find that eating right after helps with digestion and ensures a restful sleep—something tour operators often overlook. According to one review, “dinner after bath guarantees good digestion and sleep,” which is a thoughtful touch.

The ‘cozido’ is considered a national delicacy, made with locally sourced meats and vegetables, slow-cooked beneath the volcanic earth, imparting a smoky, savory flavor. It’s a hearty, filling dish, ideal after a day of exploring.

Nighttime Geisers: Nature’s Night Show

As the night falls, the tour concludes with a visit to see the ‘caldeiras’ geysers under a starry sky. Watching these natural eruptions against the night sky feels almost mystical. The geysers, which are active during the day, continue their lively display at night, adding a sense of wonder to the experience.

Returning Home: Comfortable and Private

Finally, your private guide will take you back to your accommodation, with the whole evening designed to be relaxed and unhurried. The flexibility of the private arrangement means you can customize or extend parts of the tour if desired (subject to prior arrangement).

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a combination of natural thermal relaxation, local culinary tradition, and scenic views. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy evening outings, as the sunset and night sky add extra charm. If you’re traveling during cooler months or in rainy weather, this tour becomes even more atmospheric, making the thermal baths and warm dinner feel especially comforting.

It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families who prefer a personalized, immersive experience with knowledgeable guides like Carlos, who reportedly give detailed explanations. If you value authentic local routines—cooking underground, relaxing in mineral pools, and enjoying the island’s geysers—this tour delivers.

Price and Value

At $203 per person, this private, all-inclusive experience offers good value, especially considering the exclusive nature, private transportation, and numerous included activities. Paying for the thermal baths, dinner, and stops separately would far exceed this price. The convenience of skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and flexible pickup options add to the overall value, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy Furnas in one evening.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Furnas after dark. The combination of thermal springs, traditional cuisine, scenic viewpoints, and night geysers makes for a memorable night out that captures the essence of the Azores. It’s particularly suited for those who want to experience local life in a relaxed setting, with the comfort of a private guide leading the way.

If you’re looking for a way to combine relaxation, culture, and natural spectacle, this experience hits the mark. Just be ready for weather variations, bring the right clothing, and prepare for a peaceful, scenic evening that you’ll probably remember long after the island’s daylight adventures are over.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour features private transportation, a guide, entry tickets to Poça D. Beija hot springs, a traditional ‘cozido’ dinner, and visits to Gorreana tea plantation and the Pico do Ferro viewpoint.

When does the tour start?
Pickups are scheduled between 4 and 5 PM, with the exact time depending on your location.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy each stop.

Can I join the tour from locations outside the main areas?
Yes, pickup is available from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, Ribeira Grande, and Vila Franca. Other locations might require a meeting point or an extra fee—please inquire.

What should I bring?
Pack a swimsuit, darker-colored clothing, a towel (rentals are available), layers for warmth, and a rain jacket. Flip-flops are handy for walking between pools.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Given the relaxing nature and thermal pools, it can be suitable for families, but discuss with the provider if you have young children or specific needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

In all, this private Furnas night tour provides a blend of natural beauty, cultural flavor, and relaxing comfort—all in a single evening. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking an authentic, memorable experience in the Azores.