Furnas & Terra Nostra Park: Biologist-guided Botanic Tour +lunch
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Furnas crater lake and village with a knowledgeable Biologist guide. Taste real local food, see geysers, a beautiful botanic garden, exotic and rare plants, end with soothing hot springs thermal bath!
Available options
With 11AM Hotel Pickup + Lunch
Lunch: Local food, inclusive of entrée, main, complimentary drinks, and dessert<br/>Pickup included
Meet Us at the Marina + Lunch
Lunch: Local food, inclusive of entrée, main, complimentary drinks, and dessert
What's included
All Admissions and Tickets
Guided Botanic Gardens Tour
Guided Van Tour (air-conditioned)
Insurance
Lunch with local food, inclusive of entree, main, complimentary drinks and dessert
Knowledgeable Biologist or Naturalist Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your Biologist Guide at the Marina of Vila Franca do Campo for check-in at the specified time.
2
Stop 2
Start with a short briefing and van tour up the Furnas volcano crater down to the mystic Furnas valley and lake.
3
Stop 3
Stop for sightseeing and photos.
4
Have lunch in a village restaurant, taste the most genuine island meal - an authentic geyser-cooked “cozido”.
Visit the village’s central volcanic activity and fountains of mineral water. Have one hour free to explore the beautiful village’s streets, featuring crossing rivers, watermills, chapels and fountains.
5
At 15:30 meet the guide at Terra Nostra Gardens gate, and start a walking botanical journey showcasing a singular collection of plants and flowers of cultural and historic value from all around the World. End with a relaxing mineral-infused and beautiful thermal pool surrounded by wonderful nature.
No matter what season or level of expertise there’s always something interesting for everyone to enjoy. The gardens are exuberant all year with impressive century-old trees, huge collections of colourful, rare and strange plants, specialty gardens, beautiful avenues with sculptures and fountains, and dazzling year-round blooms of fragrant flower tones for the eye, nose, and camera!
Your tour is tailored according to season’s highlights and special events occurring.
What's not included
Personal Water supply
Personal Swimwear and Towel - Hot Springs’ mineral water will damage these!
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
PT
EN
IT
FR
NL
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
9 reviews
5★
5
4★
2
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
41 reviews
5★
38
4★
1
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
HOT SPRINGS WATER is abnormally hot and untreated, and bathing is unsuitable to anyone pregnant, or with recent surgery or trauma or unhealed wounds, or any chronic condition. Volcanic water will damage swimwear color - use one you can spare!
English is the official language, but our team is multinational and will do their best to accommodate your preferred language (this is not guaranteed)
Special Dietary Restrictions must be notified upon reservation for required adjustments.
Meeting point
From Ponta Delgada city center by auto, head East along the coast and follow directions to Vila Franca do Campo. Once in Vila Franca do Campo, descend towards sea level and the Marina where our Base and Yellow Boats are stationed, and Free Parking can be found.
Important notes
HOT SPRINGS WATER is abnormally hot and untreated, and bathing is unsuitable to anyone pregnant, or with recent surgery or trauma or unhealed wounds, or any chronic condition. Volcanic water will damage swimwear color - use one you can spare!
About Sao Miguel
Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, is renowned for its lush landscapes, hot springs, and dramatic volcanic features. With its mild climate, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
Top Attractions
Setes Cidades
A stunning volcanic crater lake with vibrant blue and green waters, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free
Furnas
A geothermal area known for its hot springs, steaming vents, and the famous Cozido das Furnas, a traditional meal cooked underground.
Nature
Half day to full day
Terra Nostra Park: €10
Ponta Delgada
The capital city of Sao Miguel, featuring historic churches, beautiful gardens, and a vibrant marina.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cozido das Furnas
A traditional stew cooked underground using geothermal heat, featuring various meats and vegetables.
Main Course
Contains meat and vegetables, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Lapas com Banana
A local dish of limpet (a type of sea snail) cooked with bananas, a unique combination of flavors.
Main Course
Contains seafood and bananas, not suitable for those with seafood allergies.
Queijadas da Vila
Small cheesecake-like pastries made with local cheese, sugar, and cinnamon.
Dessert
Contains dairy, suitable for vegetarians.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Whale watching
Scuba diving
Kayaking
Visiting hot springs
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
June to September
The summer months offer the warmest weather and the best conditions for outdoor activities. The island is vibrant with festivals and outdoor events.
18-25°C
64-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Azores Time, AZOT)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sao Miguel is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- João Paulo II Airport • 5 km from Ponta Delgada
By bus
Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary public transport option. They are affordable but can be infrequent and may not reach all destinations.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ponta Delgada
Furnas
Setes Cidades
Day trips
Pico Island
25 km from Ponta Delgada • Full day
Pico Island is known for its dramatic landscapes, including Mount Pico, Portugal's highest peak, and its vineyards, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Faial Island
20 km from Ponta Delgada • Full day
Faial Island is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Horta harbor and the Capelinhos Volcano, as well as its rich maritime history.
Santa Maria Island
30 km from Ponta Delgada • Full day
Santa Maria Island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lush landscapes, making it a great destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres • First weekend of September
Festa de São João • June 23-24
Festival de Música da Ribeira Grande • July
Pro tips
- Rent a car for flexibility and to explore the island's hidden gems
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Azorean products
- Try the local cuisine, including Cozido das Furnas and Lapas com Banana
- Pack layers and a waterproof jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable
- Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
