Furnas 4x4 Safari Adventure with Azores Trails of Nature

São Miguel, the largest island in Portugal’s Azores archipelago, serves as a rugged natural playground forged by volcanic forces and draped in vibrant greenery. At the heart of this wild landscape lies Furnas, a geothermal valley where boiling fumaroles punctuate the earth and lush gardens unfold around crater lakes. Azores Trails of Nature invites adventurers to dive deep into this unique corner of the Azores on their Tour Safari 4x4 - Furnas, a full-day journey that blends geological marvels with cultural highlights.

Departing from Ponta Delgada, this 7 to 8-hour expedition takes riders off the beaten path via 4x4, traversing uneven trails and distant vistas inaccessible to most visitors. The route centers on Furnas’ geothermal activity, where vents cast steam plumes and mineral-rich bubbling pools offer a window into the island’s volcanic heartbeat. Alongside these raw earth features, the tour visits Europe’s sole tea plantation, where the serene rows contrast with the dynamic, churning grounds nearby.

One of the trip’s standout moments is savoring Cozido das Furnas, a traditional stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat—an extraordinary dish that reflects the relationship between people and place here. Iconic viewpoints punctuate the day, overlooking crater lakes framed by steep volcanic cliffs and dense forest.

Azores Trails of Nature is a vital gateway for outdoor enthusiasts seeking immersive experiences beyond typical tourist stops. Their intimate group sizes, expert local guides, and rugged 4x4 access highlight the island’s raw geography and living culture in equal measure. This is a rare, hands-on encounter with São Miguel’s volatile landscape, perfect for travelers eager to understand the forces that continue shaping the Azores.