Nestled within the lush terrain of Ponta Delgada, the volcanic landscapes of Furnas offer a captivating glimpse into the island’s natural wonders. Visitors can explore the steaming caldeira, bubbling mud pots, and tranquil lakes that dot the area, while also delving into the unique conditions that enable premium tea cultivation at a nearby plantation. Beyond the volcanic features, the verdant splendor of the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden promises an immersive experience, showcasing the island’s diverse flora and serene Japanese gardens. With so much to discover, the wonders of Furnas await those seeking to uncover the island’s natural treasures.
Key Points
- Explore the volcanic wonders of Furnas Volcano, including a steaming caldeira, bubbling mud pots, and tranquil lakes like the iconic Lagoa das Furnas.
- Discover the lush, diverse flora of the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, featuring vibrant azaleas, towering redwoods, and natural thermal pools.
- Immerse in the unique tea cultivation process at a local plantation, learning about the microclimate and techniques behind premium Azorean tea.
- Enjoy a hassle-free, personalized experience with an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a delicious included lunch.
- Benefit from a small group size of up to 8 participants for a more intimate and in-depth exploration of Furnas’ natural wonders.
Overview of the Tour
This tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Furnas Volcano, the surrounding lakes, and a local tea plantation, offering visitors an immersive experience in the stunning natural landscapes of Ponta Delgada, Portugal.
With a Badge of Excellence and 64 glowing reviews, this full-day tour is perfect for those seeking to discover the natural wonders of the Azores.
Throughout the day, you’ll ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, stay hydrated with complimentary bottled water, and have access to portable power banks.
The tour’s inclusions also cover gratuities, tickets, and a delicious lunch, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.
Inclusions and Highlights
Amazing Furnas, Volcano, Lakes and Tea Plantation
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and portable power banks for travelers’ convenience. It also covers gratuities, tickets, and a lunch, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.
The highlights of the tour include the Furnas Volcano and lakes, a tea plantation, and the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden with its thermal baths. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes and learn about the island’s rich cultural heritage.
With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, the tour provides a personalized and intimate experience, catering to the needs of each guest.
Pickup and Meeting Points
All customers must be ready at the door of the hotel by 8:45 am, as the pickup and meeting points for this tour are available.
The tour operator provides convenient pickup options, so travelers can easily join the excursion. Whether you’re staying at a hotel or other accommodation, the tour will pick you up directly from your location. This ensures a seamless start to the day’s adventure.
The meeting point is also flexible, allowing customers to convene at a central spot if preferred. With these flexible pickup and meeting arrangements, the tour makes it simple for guests to begin their exploration of the Furnas Volcano, lakes, and tea plantation.
Tour Duration and Group Size
The full-day tour runs from 9:00 am to an unspecified end time, providing ample time for travelers to explore the highlights.
The maximum group size is capped at 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. This allows the guide to better attend to each traveler’s needs and questions, creating a more engaging and immersive tour.
With a full day dedicated to the excursion, visitors can delve deep into the volcanic landscape, stroll through the lush tea plantation, and unwind in the thermal baths, all while enjoying the company of a small, select group.
The tour’s duration and group size are designed to optimize the overall experience for those seeking an in-depth exploration of Furnas’ natural wonders.
Furnas Volcano and Lakes
Nestled within the island of São Miguel, the Furnas Volcano and its surrounding lakes captivate visitors with their volcanic splendor. Guests explore the steaming caldeira, where bubbling mud pots and fumaroles showcase the region’s geothermal activity. Tranquil lakes, including the iconic Lagoa das Furnas, dot the landscape, reflecting the dramatic volcanic cliffs and lush vegetation that characterize this remarkable natural wonder.
The Furnas Volcano and lakes offer a truly unique experience:
- Witnessing the bubbling mud pots and steam vents
- Exploring the lush, verdant landscapes
- Hiking around the rim of the volcanic caldera
- Admiring the serene, mirror-like lakes
- Discovering the vibrant, diverse flora and fauna
Tea Plantation Exploration
After exploring the volcanic wonders of Furnas, visitors then journey to a nearby tea plantation, where they discover the intricate process of cultivating and producing this beloved beverage.
Strolling through the lush, emerald-hued fields, they learn about the unique microclimate and soil conditions that enable the flourishing of premium tea leaves on the Azores islands.
The guide explains the delicate hand-picking and withering techniques used to ensure the optimal flavor and aroma. Visitors then observe the rolling, oxidation, and drying stages, gaining an appreciation for the meticulous care required to craft the perfect cup of tea.
This immersive experience allows them to savor the flavors of the Azores while appreciating the dedication of the local tea producers.
Terra Nostra Botanical Garden
Following the tea plantation exploration, visitors make their way to the captivating Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, a verdant oasis nestled within the volcanic landscape.
This lush, 13-hectare garden boasts an impressive collection of rare and exotic plants, showcasing the diverse flora found across the Azores archipelago.
Visitors can stroll along winding paths, admiring:
- Vibrant azaleas and rhododendrons in bloom
- Towering redwood trees and ancient sequoias
- Tranquil thermal pools fed by natural hot springs
- Serene Japanese gardens with pagodas and koi ponds
- A stunning array of endemic Azorean plant species
The Terra Nostra Botanical Garden offers a peaceful respite, allowing travelers to enjoy the natural beauty and verdant splendor of this remarkable island destination.
Additional Tour Details
The tour provides a full-day experience, running from 9:00 am to late afternoon.
Participants are advised to be ready at their hotel door by 8:45 am for pickup and transport to the starting point.
The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate exploration of the Azorean landscapes.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers and service animals are permitted. Infant seats are available upon request.
Most travelers can comfortably participate in the activities, which include visiting the Furnas Volcano, tea plantation, and Terra Nostra Botanical Garden with its thermal baths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?
Customers are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, so visitors have the option to either bring their own items or use the provided refreshments.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no formal dress code for this tour. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking. Swimwear may be useful for the thermal baths, if that activity is included.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are no age restrictions for participants. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, though infant seats are available. Most travelers can participate in the activities and tours throughout the day.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Want?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended, though additional fees may apply. Customers should check with the tour operator about extending the tour length to accommodate their needs or preferences.
Are There Any Nearby ATMS or Currency Exchange Services?
The tour does not mention nearby ATMs or currency exchange services. However, it’s likely that guests can find these amenities in the city of Ponta Delgada, where the tour starts and ends.
Recap
This captivating tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Furnas’ volcanic landscapes, premium tea cultivation, and the lush Terra Nostra Botanical Garden.
Visitors can explore the region’s unique microclimate, witness traditional tea-making techniques, and enjoy the verdant splendor of diverse flora and serene Japanese gardens, for a truly enriching experience of Ponta Delgada’s natural wonders.
