Furnas Volcano, Botanic Gardens Tour & Hotsprings

Since 1775, Terra Nostra Park has expanded to include more than 2000 cataloged species that are exquisitely conserved in their diversity and range. They are meticulously arranged on more than 30 acres and are supported by an outstanding water canal system. 

The library contains numerous different species of trees (123) and shrubs (90), specialty gardens of palm trees (18), bamboos (16), and endemic & native flora (12), infamous jurassic collections of ferns (204), beautiful aquatic plants (6), herbs (18), and moss, and a prized collection of 578 different species of camellias.

Itinerary:

At the appointed hour, meet us at the Vila Franca do Campo Marina to check in. 

The day begins with a quick introduction, followed by a brief van tour up the Furnas volcano crater and down to the ethereal Furnas valley and lake, with stops for sightseeing and photographs. 

Lunch is served at 12:30 in a local restaurant where you can choose the most typical island dish, a real "cozido" that was cooked by a geyser. 

Time to visit a nearby volcanic activity at 14:00 and sample the mineral waters. You will have about an hour to yourself to stroll through the lovely village's streets, which feature overpassing rivers, watermills, chapels, and fountains.

Meet the guide at the Terra Nostra Gardens gate at 15:30 to embark on a walking botanical journey that will feature a unique collection of plants and flowers with historical and cultural significance from all over the world and conclude with a tranquil swim in a stunning thermal pool infused with minerals and surrounded by beautiful scenery. 

There is always something intriguing for everyone to appreciate, regardless of the season or level of expertise. The gardens are ablaze with color throughout the year thanks to towering trees that are over a century old, vast collections of vibrant, unusual, and strange plants, specialty gardens, lovely avenues with sculptures and fountains, and dazzling displays of fragrant flower colors for the camera, nose, and eye!

Your tour is customized based on the season's high points and any ongoing special events. 

Acers and other trees provide a variety of colors in the autumn, and camellias and rhododendrons begin to bloom sporadically in October. The famous Ginkgo biloba avenue becomes golden in the winter, which is one of the most beautiful things to happen in the park all year. The gardens come alive with a variety of bird species, fish, reptiles, and other tiny animals in the spring when Clivias, Magnolias, and other flowers bloom. 

It's time to return to the Marina to check out at 17:30.