Furnas Volcano Tour: Hot Springs, Bubbling Fumaroles & Tea

Furnas Volcano Tour: Hot Springs, Bubbling Fumaroles & Tea offers an inviting peek into one of the Azores’ most volcanic and scenic spots. This full-day experience takes you through lush landscapes, steaming fumaroles, tranquil thermal springs, and even a visit to Europe’s only tea plantation. It’s designed to blend natural beauty, local culture, and volcanic wonders into a single, memorable journey.

What I find especially appealing about this tour is how it balances different types of experiences—from breathtaking viewpoints to immersive cultural stops. I particularly love the chance to see Furnas Lake from the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, which provides a jaw-dropping panoramic shot of the caldera rim. The visit to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, the only tea estate in Europe, adds a touch of unique local industry. And, of course, tasting the Cozido—a hearty stew cooked using geothermal heat—offers an authentic taste of Azorean life.

On the flip side, a consideration worth noting is that the tour runs for about 8 hours, so it’s quite full. If you’re not accustomed to a busy day of sightseeing, some stops might feel somewhat rushed. Plus, since it’s a private group and involves quite a bit of walking, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with moderate activity levels. But overall, the journey’s value lies in its mix of spectacular scenery and cultural insight—just what you’d hope for in a volcanic island adventure.

Key Points / Takeaways

Breathtaking Views: The Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers one of the best panoramic scenes of Furnas Lake, perfect for memorable photos.
Unique Cultural Experience: Visiting Europe’s only tea plantation, Gorreana, reveals the rich agricultural side of the Azores.
Volcanic Cuisine: The Cozido cooked in volcanic soil provides a genuine taste of local tradition and culinary ingenuity.
Thermal Springs: Terra Nostra Park’s famous hot springs are a relaxing highlight—ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Volcanic Landmarks: Bubbling fumaroles and mineral springs at Caldeiras Park give a raw, volcanic atmosphere that’s both educational and fascinating.
Comprehensive Itinerary: From viewpoints and waterfalls to lush parks and local dining, this tour covers a lot without feeling overwhelming.

Discovering the Heart of Furnas: A Detailed Exploration

Starting with the Views from Santa Iria

The tour kicks off with a stop at the Santa Iria viewpoint, where I was greeted with sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s northern coast. This spot sets the tone with its dramatic scenery—craggy cliffs, rolling hills, and the shimmering ocean stretching to the horizon. It’s a perfect place to get your bearings and snap some early photos. Guides often point out interesting landmarks or share local stories, making this a welcoming introduction.

The Hidden Waterfall of Porto Formoso

Next, the journey takes you to a secluded waterfall in Porto Formoso, tucked away in a lush park. This stop offers a peaceful walk through greenery, with the soothing sight and sound of falling water. It’s a quieter moment amid the tour’s busier highlights, and a chance to appreciate Azores’ less-traveled natural corners. The walk is manageable, though some steep sections may challenge those with mobility concerns.

The Gorreana Tea Plantation

A personal favorite is the visit to Gorreana, Europe’s only tea plantation. Here, you learn about the entire process—from planting and harvesting to drying and packaging—while sampling fresh teas. The guides are knowledgeable, often sharing insights into how tea production has thrived on the island despite its volcanic soil. The lush green fields and neat rows of tea plants are striking, and the tasting session adds a delightful sensory dimension. It’s fascinating to see such a staple of Azorean agriculture that’s so close to Europe’s mainland.

The Enchanting Furnas Lake and Fumaroles

The core of the tour revolves around Furnas Lake, where volcanic activity is still alive and visible. The fumaroles, or bubbling hot gases, look like the earth’s own breath—constantly steaming and shifting. This area is also where locals cook the famous Cozido, a hearty stew slow-cooked underground using the island’s geothermal heat. You’ll get a chance to taste this traditional dish at a local restaurant, which honestly is a real treat, especially if you enjoy hearty, rustic flavors. Many reviews mention how satisfying and flavorful the Cozido is, reflecting the ingenuity of volcanic cooking.

Relaxing in Terra Nostra Park’s Thermal Springs

After lunch, I loved strolling through Terra Nostra Park, a lush botanical garden filled with exotic plants. The highlight, of course, is its legendary thermal springs. A dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters is pure relaxation—refreshing after a morning of sightseeing. The park’s peaceful environment and beautiful plant collections make it a must-visit, especially for nature lovers and those seeking a soothing break.

The Volcanic Atmosphere at Caldeiras Park

Next, the tour takes you to Caldeiras Park, where fumaroles and mineral springs create a lively, bubbling landscape. Here, you can taste mineral water straight from the springs—a simple, yet memorable experience. Corn boiled in a caldera adds a local culinary touch, giving you a taste of how Azoreans make the most of their volcanic environment. This stop’s raw, earthy atmosphere is both educational and fun.

The View from Pico do Ferro

Finally, the Pico do Ferro viewpoint offers a breathtaking overlook of Furnas Lake and the surrounding volcanic caldera. Standing on the rim of the crater, you’ll realize how powerful and dynamic the Earth’s forces are—an awe-inspiring scene that caps off your day. The views are so vivid that many guests comment it’s the highlight of the tour, providing perfect photo opportunities.

What the Tour Includes and What to Consider

The price of $171 per group might seem steep at first glance, but it covers all the key highlights—plus the convenience of private transportation and an expert guide. The live guides speak both English and Russian, adding a layer of accessibility, and the hotel pickup takes the hassle out of logistics.

However, the tour doesn’t include entrance tickets to Terra Nostra Park or the cost of lunch, so budget accordingly. Also, swimming in the thermal springs at Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija isn’t included, and you’ll need to bring your own swimwear if you want to take a dip. The full 8-hour schedule means a busy day, so packing comfortable shoes and being ready for a mix of walking, viewing, and relaxing is wise.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of natural landscapes, cultural traditions, and volcanic geology. If you’re curious about local culinary techniques like cooking underground, or if you crave stunning views with a side of botanical beauty, this tour hits those marks. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a private, guided experience to maximize comfort and insight.

Who might want to skip?

People with mobility issues or those who prefer a slow-paced, relaxed day might find the full schedule a bit demanding. Since the tour involves some walking and standing, it’s best for active travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In my view, this Furnas Volcano Tour delivers an authentic taste of Azores’ volcanic marvels and local life. The combination of spectacular viewpoints, geothermal cooking, and thermal springs makes for a well-rounded day. The fact that it’s a private group adds a personal touch—guides like Carlos or Maria often share stories and tips that make the experience more meaningful.

The value lies in the diversity of stops, the stunning scenery, and the chance to taste the local Cozido. For those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Furnas’ best bits, this tour offers a lot for its price. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want to experience the volcanic spirit of São Miguel without the stress of planning each stop.

For adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers alike, this tour presents a memorable slice of the Azores—powerful, scenic, and deeply rooted in the island’s volcanic soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a live guide, private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off in Ponta Delgada, a visit to Gorreana Tea Plantation with tasting, mineral water tasting at Caldeiras Park, and guide-taken photos and videos.

Are meals provided?
No, the tour does not include lunch. You’ll enjoy a traditional Azorean Cozido at a local restaurant, but you should budget for this separately.

Can I swim in the thermal springs?
Swimming isn’t included in the tour price. If you want to take a dip in the thermal springs at Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija, you must bring your swimwear and pay entrance fees separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, which allows for a full exploration of Furnas’ main sights. Expect a busy schedule with some time for photos and relaxation.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s a good option for active families comfortable with walking and a full day of sightseeing. It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility impairments or those who prefer a slower pace.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear if you plan to swim, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. Be prepared for variable weather conditions.

In the end, this tour provides a hearty dose of Azores’ volcanic charm. It’s a well-paced, insightful way to see Furnas’ highlights and enjoy the island’s natural and cultural riches. If you’re after a memorable, authentic experience that captures the essence of São Miguel’s volcanic landscape, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.