Discover the culinary traditions of Furnas with BigBlue Adventures. Visit local markets, cook with expert chefs, and unwind in thermal waters amidst breathtaking views—an authentic Azorean experience awaits.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; some walking involved.
Wildlife
History
Furnas has been harnessing geothermal activity for centuries, utilizing natural hot springs for cooking and bathing since the 18th century.
Conservation
Efforts are underway to preserve Furnas’ geothermal integrity, ensuring sustainable use of the thermal waters and surrounding ecosystem.
BigBlue Adventures
Discover the culinary traditions of Furnas with BigBlue Adventures. Visit local markets, cook with expert chefs, and unwind in thermal waters amidst breathtaking views—an authentic Azorean experience awaits.
BigBlue Adventures is a Ponta Delgada–based tour operator specializing in guided experiences across São Miguel, Azores. The company offers a diverse program of half‑day and full‑day trips that showcase the island’s volcanic landscapes, thermal springs, crater lakes, tea plantations and coastal viewpoints. Highlights include guided hikes to Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, a hands‑on Furnas culinary experience with a market visit and a supervised preparation of the traditional 'cozido', and walks through the Gorreana tea plantation with tea tastings and insights into local production.
BigBlue runs eight‑hour full‑day hikes that visit Lagoa das Furnas, Pico da Barrosa, Pico do Ferro and viewpoints such as Vista do Rei, as well as shorter four‑hour half‑day options to Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Rocha da Relva and Gorreana. Tours feature opportunities to relax in Caldeira Velha and thermal waters, sample artisanal liqueurs in Ribeira Grande, and enjoy picnic or traditional meals in rural settings. A dedicated whale‑watching (observação de cetáceos) offering and private transfers are also included in the program.
Pick‑up and drop‑off are provided for select experiences, and many itineraries combine scenic drives, guided walks and cultural stops like the Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Vitorias and local pineapple greenhouses. All descriptions remain factual to each itinerary, making it simple for travelers to choose a trip that matches fitness level, duration and interests on São Miguel. Booking information, availability and specific meeting points are provided on each tour listing so guests can plan logistics before arrival, and transportation details when applicable.
Base Location
Ponta Delgada
Operations on São Miguel island
Tours Offered
16
Half‑day and full‑day options
Tea Plantation
Gorreana visit
Tea tastings and production tour
Whale Watching
Available
Whale and dolphin options offered
Select a half‑day or full‑day tour from Ponta Delgada and check availability — bookings, transfers and meeting details are listed per trip.
Book in advance
Secure your spot early as activities can fill quickly, especially in high season.
Dress comfortably
Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities.
Bring a camera
Capture the scenic lagoon, market scenes, and your culinary creations to remember the day.
Stay hydrated
Make sure to drink plenty of water, especially if participating in thermal water soaking afterwards.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for the scenic walk and market visit.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Prepare for variable weather conditions, especially outdoor components.
spring|fall|winter
Swimsuit
Perfect for thermal waters if you choose to soak after the walk.
summer|winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture the vivid landscapes and memorable moments of your day.