Furnas: Waterfall, Lush Valleys & Steaming Earth Full Day Tour

Venture to the picturesque Nordeste area to visit Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park and its watermills & waterfalls. Next, enjoy a tea tasting at Gorreana Tea Factory, the last 100% natural tea plantations in the world. Head to Furnas Volcano to discover how the Azoreans live inside a volcanic crater where geothermal wonders await and be amazed by the enchanting charm of this place while seeing fumaroles and bubbling springs, a testament to the island's volcanic soul. You will be given the option to visit "Terra Nostra" one of Europe's most beautiful botanical gardens to customize your day tour. (optional, fee not included - 17€ per person) Regarding lunch time, you can choose the option "Tour with lunch included" to savor the unique and delectable "Cozido das Furnas," cooked on the volcanic soil or just take the tour option "Tour without lunch" to enjoying extra free time during the lunch break.

Itinerary

1. The Santa Iria Viewpoint, located on São Miguel north shore, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island’s rugged coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Perched on a cliff, this scenic spot provides a sweeping vista of rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, and the deep blue sea below. (10 min)
2. The plantation's lush, green tea fields stretch across rolling hills, providing stunning views of the island's natural beauty. Visitors can tour the factory to see the traditional tea-making process, from picking to drying and packaging, using vintage machinery. A key attraction is the opportunity to taste Gorreana's distinct black and green teas while learning about the island’s rich tea-growing heritage. (30 min)
3. This lush park is famous for its stunning waterfalls, particularly the majestic Véu da Noiva, which cascades into a peaceful stream. Discover a vibrant vegetation and 5 historic watermills. The spot is particularly popular for adventurers looking for opportunities for canyoning or exploring the island's rich flora. Ribeira dos Caldeirões is a perfect blend of nature and history, showcasing the traditional use of watermills alongside breathtaking landscapes. (30 min)
4. Explore one of São Miguel most iconic features at Furnas volcano, "Caldeiras da Vila", where everything is done differently. Admire the beauty of the volcanic crater and visit the geothermal area in the village located inside the crater. Marvel as the active hot springs on the area spews steam from its boiling waters into the atmosphere. Furnas volcano and its volcanic activity will amaze you. This exotic volcano holds many mysteries and places that you will wish to explore for much longer, from hot springs, fumaroles, to the exotic and lush vegetation, Furnas volcano is a place like no other. We'll take the lunch break here for the "Tour with Lunch Option" travellers. During this stop, you can buy food and drinks, including a full lunch if you wish, or explore deeply this exotic volcano. (3h 0min)
5. If you wish to visit one of Furnas volcano highlights, your tour will be adjusted to allow you 1h30 for the visit. (extra fee. 17€ per person) The Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, is a lush paradise known for its diverse plant life and tranquil ambiance. Spanning over 200 years, this garden boasts exotic trees, colorful flowers, and winding paths around serene ponds and streams. A highlight is the garden's large thermal pool, fed by iron-rich geothermal waters, where visitors can soak in the warm, therapeutic waters surrounded by nature. The combination of botanical beauty and the rejuvenating thermal pool makes Terra Nostra a must-visit for nature lovers and relaxation seekers alike. (1h 30min)
6. Continue to the lake area to discover the result of a romantic promise, a charming Neo-Gothic chapel built between 1877 and 1888. (15 min)
7. Vila Franca do Campo is a charming coastal town rich in history and natural beauty. Once the island's capital, it features picturesque streets and the iconic Nossa Senhora da Paz chapel perched on a hill, offering stunning views of the town and coastline. Just offshore is the famous Islet of Vila Franca, a volcanic crater turned natural swimming pool, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. The town is also known for its local delicacy, "queijadas," traditional sweet pastries. Vila Franca do Campo is a delightful blend of culture, history, and perfect way to finish your fantastic day tour. (20 min)