Biscoitos is a small but lively spot on São Miguel Island, famed for its volcanic pools and scenic coastal views. What makes it a fantastic base for tours is its proximity to striking landscapes and authentic local experiences. We particularly love the Dinner with a Local Family because it offers a genuine taste of Azorean cuisine cooked over lava stones—something you won’t find in regular restaurants. The Baias da Agualva Hike and Biscoitos Pools stands out for nature lovers, combining stunning coastal trails with a refreshing swim in volcanic pools. And for those wanting a broader look at the island, the Highlights Tour with Traditional Lunch provides a comprehensive day of sightseeing with local flavors. Each of these options offers a different way to experience Biscoitos and the surrounding landscape.
Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of each of these top-rated tours, helping you decide which one best fits your travel style and interests.
1. Azores: Dinner with a Local Family and Lots of Fun
At number 1 on our list, this culinary experience offers a rare chance to see what Azorean home cooking is all about. For $92 per person, you’ll spend about 3 hours cooking traditional recipes in a wood-fired oven made of lava stones—an unmistakable feature of Portuguese island cooking. This tour is perfect if you want a hands-on experience that combines food, culture, and conversation. The hosts share cooking techniques and stories, making it much more than just a meal.
What makes this experience stand out is the authenticity—the food’s flavor is unlike anything prepared in standard restaurants, thanks to the lava stone oven. You’ll learn how local ingredients are prepared and share a meal with your hosts in a warm, family-like setting. This is ideal if you want to connect with local life and enjoy a memorable, home-cooked meal.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a genuine taste of Azorean culinary culture in an intimate setting. It’s especially suited for food lovers eager for an authentic, participatory experience.
2. Terceira Island: Baías da Agualva Hike + Picnic + Biscoitos
Starting with the breathtaking Agualva Bays Trail, this full-day tour combines hiking, local cuisine, and seaside relaxation. At $67 per person, it offers remarkable value for an 8-hour adventure, including pickup from Angra do Heroísmo. The highlight is exploring Terceira Island’s stunning nature trails—the trail lasts about 3 hours and features sweeping ocean views, volcanic landscapes, and lush greenery.
After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a delicious picnic packed with traditional Azorean flavors, offering a taste of local cheeses, bread, and fresh fruit. The tour also includes a visit to the volcanic natural pools of Biscoitos, where you can swim and relax in warm, mineral-rich waters. The natural pools are one of the island’s most popular attractions, and the tour includes a full hour there for swimming or simply soaking in the scenery.
This tour is praised for its expert guide, Antonio, who shares detailed insights about the island’s geology and flora. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a mix of hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing in natural pools.
Bottom Line: For under $70, this tour offers a full nature immersion, excellent guides, and a chance to experience the best of Terceira’s landscapes and local cuisine.
3. Terceira Island: Highlights Tour with Traditional Lunch
At 8 hours long and costing slightly more, this personalized full-day tour takes you around the island’s most iconic sights. It’s perfect for travelers who want a rundown with the flexibility of a local guide and a comfortable van. The itinerary includes scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and stops at picturesque villages, all topped off with a traditional Azorean lunch.
What makes this tour appealing is its customizable nature—your guide tailors the experience based on your interests, whether that’s nature, history, or local culture. The lunch features regional specialties, adding a tasty touch to the day. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach make the experience engaging and informative without feeling rushed.
This trip suits travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace and want to see a broad cross-section of the island. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded introduction. Some reviews mention the “very comfortable van” and “excellent local guide,” making it clear this is a reliable way to get a taste of Terceira in a day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an easy, comprehensive introduction to the island’s highlights with a focus on comfort and local flavor.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests and travel style. If you love authentic culinary experiences, the Dinner with a Local Family offers an intimate look at home cooking. For active travelers who want a full day of scenic hiking and swimming, the Baias da Agualva Hike + Picnic + Biscoitos is a great choice. If your goal is to see the island’s main sights comfortably and learn about its culture, the Highlights Tour with Traditional Lunch suits you best.
Budget, time available, and personal interests will help determine which tour fits your needs. Remember, booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Biscoitos and the surrounding areas offer a rich variety of tours that cater to different tastes—whether you’re after authentic food, scenic hikes, or a comprehensive island overview. For a taste of local cuisine, the dinner experience is hard to beat. For outdoor adventurers, the hike and swim tour delivers both activity and relaxation. And if you prefer a luxury, all-in-one tour, the full-day island highlights provide a balanced look at what São Miguel has to offer.
No matter which tour you choose, you’ll come away with memorable experiences and a deeper appreciation of Azorean life. Be sure to book early, especially if you’re visiting during busy months. With options like these, your time in Biscoitos will be filled with authentic flavors, stunning views, and engaging stories—making your trip truly special.
