Sao Miguel: Iconic Furnas Volcano & Nordeste Full-Day Tour

Sao Miguel, the largest of the Azores Islands, offers a captivating natural experience for adventurous travelers. The Iconic Furnas Volcano & Nordeste Full-Day Tour promises to immerse visitors in the island’s breathtaking landscapes, from the steaming volcanic calderas to the lush, verdant forests. With expert guidance, guests will uncover the unique geological and cultural heritage of this remote Portuguese territory, making stops at renowned sites like the Gorreana Tea Factory and the enchanting Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park. Whether seeking relaxation in mineral-rich thermal waters or awe-inspiring vistas, this comprehensive tour provides an unparalleled glimpse into Sao Miguel‘s remarkable wonders.

Key Points

• This full-day excursion provides a comprehensive exploration of the natural wonders of Sao Miguel Island, including the Furnas Volcano and Nordeste region.
• The tour includes visits to the Santa Iria Lookout, Gorreana Tea Factory, Ribeira dos Caldeiroes Natural Park, Pico do Ferro Lookout, Furnas, Terra Nostra Park, and Vila Franca do Campo.
• Guided commentary in Portuguese and English, as well as optional thermal bath experiences at Terra Nostra Park, enhance the overall tour experience.
• Travelers can explore the last 100% natural tea plantation in Europe, the Veu da Noiva waterfall, and the stunning volcanic landscapes of the Furnas region.
• The tour is priced at €1,478 per person, with a duration of 8 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Sao Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Nordeste Tour is a full-day excursion that takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Sao Miguel’s natural wonders.

Priced from €1,478 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can opt for a reserve now and pay later option.

The tour includes pickup from Ponta Delgada, stops at the Santa Iria Lookout, Gorreana Tea Factory, Ribeira dos Caldeiroes Natural Park, Pico do Ferro Lookout, Furnas, Terra Nostra Park, Furnas Lake, and Vila Franca do Campo.

Travelers can enjoy guided commentary, a visit to a natural tea plantation, and optional thermal bath experiences, all while taking in scenic views of waterfalls, lakes, and volcanoes.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s key stops include the Santa Iria Lookout, where visitors can enjoy 15 minutes of breathtaking views.

Next, the group visits the Gorreana Tea Factory for a 20-minute exploration of Portugal’s last 100% natural tea plantation.

Travelers then spend 25 minutes immersed in the serene Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, home to the picturesque Véu da Noiva waterfall.

The Pico do Ferro Lookout provides 10 minutes of panoramic vistas before the tour heads to Furnas for a 20-minute stop.

Guests can choose to spend 1.5 hours at the optional Terra Nostra Park and explore the Furnas Lake for 20 minutes.

The final stop is the charming Vila Franca do Campo for a 15-minute visit.

Guided Tour Experience

The guided tour offers travelers a comprehensive and immersive experience, with a 100% local storyteller providing live commentary in both Portuguese and English.

During the tour, visitors will:

• Explore the last 100% natural tea plantation in the region and learn about the fascinating history and production process of this unique local commodity.

• Discover the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, home to the stunning Véu da Noiva waterfall, and enjoy the breathtaking natural landscapes.

• Have the opportunity to indulge in the optional thermal bath experience at the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, rejuvenating both body and mind.

Throughout the tour, there will also be ample opportunities for visitors to purchase local food and snacks, further enhancing their culture.

Key Stops Along the Way

Along the tour, visitors will stop at several captivating locations, each offering a unique glimpse into São Miguel’s natural wonders.

The first stop is the Santa Iria Lookout, providing panoramic views of the island’s striking landscapes.

Next, they’ll visit the Gorreana Tea Factory, the last 100% natural tea plantation in Europe.

Exploring the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, they’ll witness the enchanting Veu da Noiva waterfall.

The tour then takes them to the Pico do Ferro Lookout and the stunning Furnas volcanic crater, before an optional visit to the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Ribeira Dos Caldeirões

One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, where travelers can witness the enchanting Veu da Noiva waterfall.

This lush, green oasis showcases the island’s natural beauty, with cascading streams and tranquil pools.

The park offers:

• Opportunities to explore the diverse flora and fauna, including unique Azorean plant species.
• Scenic hiking trails that wind through the verdant landscape, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• A chance to learn about the park’s rich geological history and the formation of the Caldeirões, a series of volcanic craters.

Immersing oneself in the serene beauty of Ribeira dos Caldeirões is a truly memorable experience on this Sao Miguel adventure.

Optional Thermal Bath Experience

An optional highlight of the tour is the thermal bath experience at the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden.

For an additional fee of €16, visitors can enjoy the park’s famous thermal pools. The mineral-rich waters, heated by the Furnas volcano, offer a unique opportunity to relax and rejuvenate.

The pools maintain a comfortable temperature of around 30-40°C (86-104°F), providing a soothing soak amidst the lush, tropical gardens.

This optional activity allows guests to fully embrace the volcanic wonders of Furnas and enjoy the restorative benefits of the natural thermal waters before continuing their exploration of the region.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a 100% local storyteller who provides live commentary in both Portuguese and English.

Visitors will also enjoy a tea plantation visit with tasting, allowing them to experience the last 100% natural tea plantation in the area.

Plus, the tour offers a small group experience for personalized attention, and an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable transportation.

However, the tour doesn’t include food and drinks, which must be purchased separately.

Entrance fees for the Terra Nostra Park are also an optional additional cost.

Important Tour Details

Pickup for the tour typically starts at 9:00 AM, though it may be extended to 9:30 AM depending on the location of participants.

Travelers based in hard-to-reach areas should make their way to the nearest designated pickup point.

It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, or those over 254 lbs (115 kg).

The tour has an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.

Guests can expect a small group experience with personalized attention from the 100% local storyteller guide throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. While the standard route covers key highlights, the tour provider is flexible and willing to accommodate special requests within the allotted timeframe and tour parameters.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children and Elderly Travelers?

The tour may not be suitable for children and elderly travelers with mobility issues. It involves moderate walking and activities that could be challenging for those with limited mobility. The operator advises against participation for individuals over 115 kg or with back problems.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges Not Mentioned in the Overview?

The tour overview does not mention any additional fees or charges beyond the stated price and optional entrance fee for the Terra Nostra Park. Travelers should expect to pay for their own food and drinks during the tour.

Can I Book the Tour in Other Languages Besides Portuguese and English?

The tour is offered with live commentary in Portuguese and English. While other languages may be available upon request, the tour provider does not explicitly state that they offer the tour in additional languages.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Plans?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexibility in changing plans. Customers can easily cancel or modify their booking prior to the tour date.

Recap

The Sao Miguel Iconic Furnas Volcano & Nordeste Full-Day Tour offers an immersive experience exploring the island’s natural wonders. Travelers can marvel at the breathtaking scenery, learn about the local culture, and indulge in the rejuvenating thermal baths. With a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to discover the beauty and charm of Sao Miguel, making it a must-do activity for those visiting the Azores.

You can check if your dates are available here: