São Miguel East Van Tour with Lunch: Furnas & Nordeste
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover eastern São Miguel on a relaxed small-group van tour, combining volcanic landscapes, scenic coastal roads, and lush nature.
Depart from Ponta Delgada and travel along the south coast, passing beaches and the historic town of Vila Franca do Campo, before continuing to Furnas. Explore one of the island’s most fascinating geothermal areas, with steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, naturally carbonated mineral waters, and hot springs. You may also choose to relax in the iron-rich thermal pools of Terra Nostra Park (entrance fee not included).
Enjoy a traditional Azorean lunch featuring cozido, slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat, with a drink, dessert, and coffee included.
After lunch, enjoy panoramic views from the Furnas volcanic caldera, then explore waterfalls and walking paths in a lush natural park. Continue through the Nordeste region, known for its dramatic cliffs and coastal scenery, before returning to Ponta Delgada along the scenic north coast.
Available options
São Miguel East Van Tour with Lunch: Furnas & Nordeste
Pickup included
What's included
Lunch (cozido stew, drink of choice, dessert, and coffee)
Expert driver/guide
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (Centrally located Ponta Delgada hotels and Lagoa Town))
Detailed itinerary
1
Start the tour at Nossa Senhora da Paz, a hilltop chapel overlooking Vila Franca do Campo. Enjoy panoramic views over the town, the Atlantic Ocean, and the iconic Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, a volcanic islet just offshore.
2
Stop 2
Explore the geothermal fields of Furnas, where volcanic activity is visible through steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and hot springs. Taste naturally carbonated mineral waters and experience the island’s volcanic energy up close.
3
Alternatively to Furnas geothermal fields, visit Terra Nostra Park to bathe in its famous iron-rich thermal pool. Guests choosing this option will have time to relax in the hot springs and enjoy the surroundings (entrance fee not included).
4
Enjoy sweeping views over the Furnas Volcano caldera from Pico do Ferro, one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the area, overlooking the lake, village, and surrounding volcanic landscape.
5
Visit Salto do Cavalo, a dramatic mountain viewpoint offering impressive views over the eastern part of São Miguel and, on clear days, both the north and south coasts.
6
Stop 6
Explore Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, known for its waterfalls, lush vegetation, and well-maintained walking paths set within a peaceful natural environment.
7
Travel through the Nordeste region and stop at an old whale lookout. From here, enjoy views over the rugged coastline, green pastures, and small villages that characterize this part of the island.
8
Finish the tour at Miradouro de Santa Iria, one of São Miguel’s most scenic coastal viewpoints, offering stunning views over the island’s north coast and the Atlantic Ocean.
What's not included
Thermal pools (optional)
Any service not mentioned as being included
To minimize environmental impact, we do not provide water bottles on this tour. We encourage you to bring your own reusable bottle
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
319 reviews
5★
297
4★
20
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
891 reviews
5★
875
4★
12
3★
3
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
