Glide across Furnas Lake past fumaroles and rivers of steam, taste the island’s geothermal Cozido, then unwind in Terra Nostra’s warm botanical pool. This full‑day combo pairs easy canoeing with cultural immersion and restorative thermal baths.
Glide across Furnas Lake past fumaroles and rivers of steam, taste the island’s geothermal Cozido, then unwind in Terra Nostra’s warm botanical pool. This full‑day combo pairs easy canoeing with cultural immersion and restorative thermal baths.
Paddles dip into glassy water as steam threads up from the far shore—Furnas announces itself with the soft hiss of volcanic vents and the high, green edges of the lagoon. Canoeing here starts on calm water, skirting grassy banks where fumaroles punctuate the ground and local cooks bury pots of Cozido, the island’s geothermal stew, in the warm soil.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Picos de Aventura - Animação e Lazer, S.A. · Furnas, Azores
Paddles dip into glassy water as steam threads up from the far shore—Furnas announces itself with the soft hiss of volcanic vents and the high, green edges of the lagoon. Canoeing here starts on calm water, skirting grassy banks where fumaroles punctuate the ground and local cooks bury pots of Cozido, the island’s geothermal stew, in the warm soil.
The landscape is recent in geological terms: São Miguel’s volcanic activity carved the Furnas caldera and left a network of hot springs and bubbling mud pools. The village grew around these features, a place where agricultural traditions and thermal culture overlap—farmers still use ground-heat cooking and the Terra Nostra botanical park reflects 18th–19th century garden design enriched by subtropical plantings brought by early horticultural collectors.
After a lakeside loop, the tour drops into Furnas village for lunch—expect the hearty, slow-cooked Cozido served from underground pits—then moves to Parque Terra Nostra. Garden paths lead past specimen trees and an iron-lined thermal pool whose warm, mineral-rich water invites a restorative soak.
Practical guidance: arrive with waterproof layers and footwear you can get wet; sunscreen and a hat matter even on cloudy days as reflected light off the lagoon increases exposure. The canoe section is easy but requires basic balance and willingness to get a little wet; the garden walk is low-effort but includes steps. Timing matters—mornings are quieter on the lake and cooler for paddling; reserve afternoon for the thermal pool. Respect fenced geothermal areas and follow guide instructions near vents—those are active, not ornamental.
No; the lake is sheltered and guides give basic instruction—participants should be comfortable with light paddling and maintaining balance.
Lunch featuring Cozido is included; notify the operator of dietary restrictions in advance so they can accommodate alternatives where possible.
Yes—there is a popular iron‑lined thermal pool open to visitors; bring swimwear and follow park rules about hygiene and time limits.
Activity is rated easy but not recommended for those with serious heart or spinal problems; disclose medical issues when booking.
Picos de Aventura - Animação e Lazer, S.A. operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Paddles dip into glassy water as steam threads up from the far shore—Furnas announces itself with the soft hiss of volcanic vents and the high, green edges of the lagoon. Canoeing here starts on calm water, skirting grassy banks where fumaroles punctuate the ground and local cooks bury pots of Cozido, the island’s geothermal stew, in the warm soil.
Paddles dip into glassy water as steam threads up from the far shore—Furnas announces itself with the soft hiss of volcanic vents and the high, green edges of the lagoon. Canoeing here starts on calm water, skirting grassy banks where fumaroles punctuate the ground and local cooks bury pots of Cozido, the island’s geothermal stew, in the warm soil.
The landscape is recent in geological terms: São Miguel’s volcanic activity carved the Furnas caldera and left a network of hot springs and bubbling mud pools. The village grew around these features, a place where agricultural traditions and thermal culture overlap—farmers still use ground-heat cooking and the Terra Nostra botanical park reflects 18th–19th century garden design enriched by subtropical plantings brought by early horticultural collectors.
After a lakeside loop, the tour drops into Furnas village for lunch—expect the hearty, slow-cooked Cozido served from underground pits—then moves to Parque Terra Nostra. Garden paths lead past specimen trees and an iron-lined thermal pool whose warm, mineral-rich water invites a restorative soak.
Practical guidance: arrive with waterproof layers and footwear you can get wet; sunscreen and a hat matter even on cloudy days as reflected light off the lagoon increases exposure. The canoe section is easy but requires basic balance and willingness to get a little wet; the garden walk is low-effort but includes steps. Timing matters—mornings are quieter on the lake and cooler for paddling; reserve afternoon for the thermal pool. Respect fenced geothermal areas and follow guide instructions near vents—those are active, not ornamental.