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

Exploring São Miguel in just one day sounds ambitious, but this guided tour covers a stunning array of the island’s top sights, from eruptive volcanoes to lush tea plantations. It’s a busy itinerary, but it packs in plenty for curious travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

Two things I particularly like about this experience: first, the knowledgeable guides—several reviews highlight guides like Rafael and Henrique for their friendly, insightful commentary that really brings the island to life. Second, the authentic culinary experience of the Cozido cooked in volcanic soil, which offers a delicious taste of local culture. On the flip side, be aware that some attractions like Terra Nostra Park and Furnas Lake are optional and not included in the price, which could add to your overall costs if you choose to visit.

One potential consideration is the pace—with an 8-hour schedule and many stops, you’ll want to be prepared for a full day of walking and sightseeing. Also, some travelers noted that certain visits, such as the tea plantations, don’t include the full plantation tour or walking through the actual fields, so managing expectations is key if you’re a tea enthusiast. Despite this, the value packed into the price, especially with lunch included, makes it an appealing option for many.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides Make the Difference: Guides like Rafael and Vero receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, humor, and wealth of knowledge, making the day both educational and enjoyable.
• Authentic Local Cuisine: The lunch featuring Cozido das Furnas, a stew slow-cooked in volcanic soil, offers a genuine taste of Azorean culinary tradition.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Expect stunning views at Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, Ribeira dos Caldeirões Waterfalls, and the Pico do Ferro Lookout—perfect for photography and appreciating the island’s volcanic landscapes.
• Flexible Optional Visits: Entrance to places like Terra Nostra Park or Dona Beija hot springs is not included but highly recommended if you want to enjoy thermal baths or lush botanical gardens.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, the tour feels intimate, allowing for more personalized attention and easy group conversations.
• Full-Day Commitment: With 8 hours of activity, it’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown without having to organize their own transport or schedule.

Discover São Miguel’s Top Sights in a Single Day

This tour promises a whirlwind adventure through some of the island’s most iconic sights, all within an easy-to-manage schedule. Starting from Ponta Delgada, the journey begins with a scenic drive along Avenida do Mar, skimming past beaches like Água D’Alto. Your first notable stop is the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, an islet born from an underwater eruption, now hosting Red Bull Cliff Diving competitions.

From there, the route leads to Lagoa das Furnas, a highlight for many. This area is famous for the Cozido das Furnas, a stew slow-cooked underground in volcanic soil for six hours. Watching local restaurants dig up the steaming pots is a fun, authentic moment that captures the volcanic vibrancy of the island. Plus, you’ll see fumaroles and boiling boilers, each telling the story of this energetic volcanic zone. Keep in mind, admission to Furnas Lake or Terra Nostra Park isn’t included, but if you choose to visit, it’s well worth it for the thermal baths and lush gardens.

After lunch—an included meal in a local restaurant—you’ll have the chance to walk through the town of Furnas itself, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. Then, the tour heads north to Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, a favorite among visitors for its cascading waterfalls and historic watermills that still turn today—an excellent spot for photos and a sense of old Azores life.

The last couple of stops are equally scenic. At Pico do Ferro Lookout, you’ll take in sweeping views of the crater and surrounding landscape. The final visit is at the Tea Route, where you can sample local Gorreana or Porto Formoso teas, and see the plantations from the factory, though the actual walk through the fields isn’t part of this tour.

Transportation, Group Size, and Value

Transport is comfortable and climate-controlled, with a small group setup that makes conversation easy and the experience more personal. For $107 per person, the tour offers an impressive lineup of sights and activities, plus lunch and guides, making it a fair deal for such a comprehensive day. The price also includes a water bottle, chargers, and an umbrella—small touches that show thoughtfulness.

While some attractions are optional or require extra fees, the overall value remains strong. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness are frequently praised, making the effort of a full day worth it. If you’re eager to see the island’s volcanic marvels, hot springs, and lush landscapes without the hassle of organizing transport, this tour delivers a lot for the price.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal if you want a well-rounded introduction to São Miguel. It suits travelers with a moderate fitness level who enjoy a full day of sightseeing, walking, and learning from local guides. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic experiences—like seeing the cozido stew cooked in volcanic ground and sampling traditional tea.

If you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed pace, this tour might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re happy to spend a long day exploring and don’t mind the schedule, you’ll come away with a comprehensive sense of the island’s highlights. Families with children, especially those with older kids, will find the stops engaging and the journey comfortable.

The Sum Up

For those looking to make the most of a single day on São Miguel, this tour offers an engaging, well-organized way to experience the island’s volcanic wonders, lush landscapes, and unique culture. The guides’ expertise makes a difference, turning sightseeing into storytelling, and the inclusion of a traditional lunch adds a genuine local touch.

While some attractions are optional and can add to the cost, the overall package offers excellent value—especially given the small group size and the variety of highlights. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and gastronomy without the hassle of self-driving or planning every stop.

If you’re happy to be on the move and eager to see São Miguel’s signature sights, this tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting in the morning and ending in the early evening, with plenty of stops along the way.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional lunch with a stew cooked in volcanic soil is included, along with other meal options.

Are entrance fees to attractions included?
No, entrance fees for places like Terra Nostra Park or Furnas Lake are not included, so you’ll need to decide if you want to visit those sites separately.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, creating a more intimate and flexible experience.

How comfortable is the transportation?
Transportation is in a small, climate-controlled vehicle, which reviewers say is comfortable and suitable for the scenic drives.

Can I visit the hot springs?
The tour offers the option to relax in pools of over 30°C, either at Poça da Dona Beija or Parque Terra Nostra, but these are not included in the price.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a full day of sightseeing, learning about local culture, and don’t mind a busy schedule. Families with children over 12 are also a good fit.