AMAZING AZORES 10 DAY PHOTO TOUR
Immerse yourself in the beauty of São Miguel, Terceira, Flores, and Corvo Islands, capturing stunning moments along the way. Join this unforgettable journey to discover the unique charm of each island through your lens.
8-17 AUGUST 2025
Created by local photographer Bruno Ázera
Embark on a unique 10-Day Amazing Azores Photo Tour, designed for photographers of all levels. My goal is to guide you to the most photogenic locations in the Azores, away from tourist crowds, while ensuring the best accommodations for your experience.
The Azores, a cluster of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic, boast green, remote landscapes and one of the largest whale sanctuaries. This tour provides exceptional photography conditions year-round. Travel effortlessly between São Miguel, Terceira, Flores, and Corvo Islands via private shuttles, commercial flights, and boat rides—all included in the stress-free tour package. Note that the trip to Corvo Island depends on favorable weather conditions.
Immerse yourself in the unique culture, warm-hearted people, and photographic treasures of the Azores. From volcanic villages to whale watching, this tour caters to adventurers of all kinds.
Noteworthy is the proximity of each photography spot, with most just a 25-minute drive or less. Throughout the tour, I’ll share my expertise both in-field and during discussions to ensure a comprehensive learning experience.
While a specific itinerary is planned, flexibility is maintained to seize unexpected photographic opportunities. Join me for an enriching journey to capture the unbelievable scenery of the Azores.
These photo tours are always for small groups, a maximum of 5 participants, it’s a one-on-one experience.
TOUR PRICE
5100€
single occupancy in private room with a bathroom
DATES
8-17 AUGUST 2025
GROUP SIZE
3-5
TOUR GUIDE
Bruno Ázera
EXPERIENCE
amateur / advanced
PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY
Mostly Easy
only small hikes are involved
DESTINATION
Azores
São Miguel / Terceira / Flores / Corvo
ACCOMMODATIONS
The Lince Azores / Hotel Cruzeiro / Villas do Mar
- Discover 4 island paradises: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of São Miguel, Terceira, Flores, and Corvo, each boasting its own distinct charm and natural wonders
- Guided by a professional photographer: Benefit from the guidance of a local and seasoned photographer intimately familiar with the islands’ most picturesque locations, ensuring you capture the perfect shot.
- Diverse landscapes: From the rugged volcanic landscapes of São Miguel to Flores emerald-green mountains and waterfalls, every day offers a new and captivating backdrop for your photographs.
- Cultural immersion: Engage with local traditions, interact with the warm island communities, and capture the authenticity of daily life through your camera lens.
- Small group experience: To facilitate personalized attention, our tour is limited to a small group of passionate photographers, fostering an environment for shared learning and inspiration.
- Skill enhancement: Refine your technical skills and artistic vision, taking your photography to the next level.
- Unforgettable Memories: Create a collection of photographs that not only tell a story but also serve as timeless memories of your incredible journey through these Atlantic gems.
- Professional photo guide (fluent in Portuguese and English)
- Photographic field instructions
- Tips and tricks along the day
- Image reviews
- Transportation in a comfortable vehicle
- 9 nights accommodation in hotels and guest houses, single occupancy in a private room with a bathroom
- All Breakfasts
- Park fees
- Local flights to transfer between islands
- Boat ride to Corvo (if the weather permits)
- Whale Watching
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from the airport
- Welcome lunch and farewell dinner
- Personal accident insurance and liability.
- Lots of fun
- Alcoholic beverages and other drinks
- Snacks, lunch, and dinners are not mentioned in the inclusions
- Flight tickets to Ponta Delgada from the original departure point
- Visas (if needed)
- Gratuities for photo guides, local guides, and/or drivers
- I also advise everyone making travel plans for the near future to book a cancellation insurance
Camera (DSLR or Mirrorless) – The criteria for the kind of work we’ll be doing is a camera that can be operated completely manually to ensure we get the best exposure with interchangeable lenses allowing us to cover a range of focal lengths.
Lenses – I understand that Lenses are a kind of personal subject, although I recommend for the type of photography we are going to do, to bring a focal range between 16mm to 300mm to cover the majority of situations. I typically have with me a Tamron 17-28mm, a Sony 24-105mm and a Sigma 100-400mm, and it covers everything.
Filters – Graduated filters aren’t mandatory, but if you have a set, feel free to bring them along. Particularly, ND filters can be useful for experimenting with long exposures.
Tripod – For landscape photography I always recommend the use of a tripod. However, today’s new camera stabilization is so good that the need for it is becoming less necessary. I even know pro photographers that do focus stacking hand held.
Backpack – We won’t be doing long hikes, but a good camera backpack is essential. Think comfort, lite and versatile.
Drone – I really recommend bringing a drone. The perspectives you can capture from above are spectacular, especially in the coastline. If you are thinking of bringing one, you should have the ability to manually launch and land your drone, as well as navigate basic flight paths to reach a specified destination from the air. I fly with a DJI Mavic 3 Pro, but even the DJI Mini is enough.
Clothing and Footwear
Waterproof and Windproof Jacket: A high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket is a must-have item, especially along the rugged coastline where ocean spray and sudden rain showers are common. Look for a jacket with sealed seams, adjustable cuffs, and a hood for maximum protection against the elements.
Warm Layers for Cooler Evenings: Evenings can be cool, especially at higher elevations, so be sure to pack warm layers such as a fleece jacket or lightweight down vest to keep you warm and cozy during sunset shoots or night photography sessions.
Quick-Drying Pants: Choose quick-drying pants made from synthetic materials or lightweight hiking trousers that offer both comfort and functionality.
Footwear: I never liked big and heavy hiking boots, I know they offer more protection but for the type of terrain we have, light running shoes are better for the grip. I know this is very subjective but It has worked for me.
Swimwear: We are also visiting Terra Nostra Park, renowned as one of the most beautiful gardens, but they also have hot springs and thermal pools that I recommend that you try it. So don’t forget to bring your swimwear and flip flops. Towels are provided by the Hotel.
Keep in mind that the Azores climate can be very unpredictable, so packing the right clothing is essential for an enjoyable experience.
ITINERARY
Welcome to João Paulo II airport in Ponta Delgada. You have the morning to relax or explore by yourself the city and we will pick you up later for a delicious welcome lunch in a local restaurant. This is the perfect opportunity for you to ask any questions that you may have and to get to know your fellow travelers a little better.
In the afternoon, we explore the oldest tea plantation in Europe, Gorreana Tea plantation. Discover the intricacies of the factory and its scenic surroundings. The unique landscape, shaped by the vibrant green tea leaves, offers endless possibilities for captivating photography.
Depending on the weather, for sunset we visit the beaches of Santa Bárbara and Monte Verde, or the jagged cliffs of Miradouro do Cintrão, overlooking the north coast and Sete Cidades volcano in the background.
Our second day starts at Lagoa do Fogo volcanic lake, one of the highest points of the island. It usually tends to be cloudy or foggy during the day and ultimately ruins any potential view to be had. If you have a drone, take full advantage of it. You can create really unique perspectives up here.
Travel west and explore the volcanic crater of Sete Cidades, the two multi-colored lakes of Lagoa Verde and Azul. It’s an incredible sight and the best way to have a sense of the surrounding area.
For sunset, we drive through Sete Cidades down to Mosteiros Beach to capture the last light of the day in a beautiful seascape photography location.
We start our morning at Santa Iria viewpoint for sunrise, with its rugged coastline stretching out to meet the Atlantic. The first light of day casts a warm glow over the dramatic cliffs and the ocean, creating striking contrasts between the deep blue and the green fields that highlight the raw beauty of the landscape.
Terra Nostra Park is our next spot and is considered one of the most beautiful gardens, with the added bonus of having thermal pools. Be sure to bring your swimwear, with temperatures between 35 and 40 degrees Celsius, which provides a sensation of rest and relaxation for the rest of the day.
For lunch we will try the famous local dish known as Cozido das Furnas at a local restaurant, which is unique to this town and is cooked by volcanic steam, as well as the sweet muffins called bolo lêvedo.
We arrive at one of the highlights of the Azores, Grota do Inferno viewpoint. The crater lakes of Sete Cidades can be viewed from several different viewpoints, but it’s hard to beat this spot.
We kick off our morning with a visit to one of my favorite locations in São Miguel, the Vila Franca Islet, renowned for its unique geological formation. This islet features a volcanic crater that has partially collapsed, allowing seawater to enter and form a natural circular pool inside the crater. To capture truly distinctive perspectives, a bird’s eye view from a drone is essential.
Following the sunrise experience, we head back to the hotel to pack and fly to Terceira Island, home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Angra do Heroísmo. After lunch, we explore the Black Forest, a unique location with dense vegetation where light struggles to penetrate, ensuring every photograph is a one-of-a-kind capture.
A short drive away, we reach one of the island’s highlights, Algar do Carvão, the only volcano in the world that you can walk inside. While tripods are not allowed, be sure to bring your fastest and widest lens for this extraordinary experience.
As we continue our journey, we explore beautiful forest roads, discovering some of the best-hidden gems along the way.
For sunset, we visit Biscoitos, a charming town celebrated for its wine-growing region and, even more so, for its beautiful natural pools. The rugged black lava fields, sculpted by relentless ocean waves, offer dramatic and unique compositions for landscape photography.
tart your day with a sunrise shoot at Serretinha natural swimming pools. The shifting morning light offers unique photographic opportunities, with Ilhéu das Cabras serving as a striking focal point in the background. The volcanic coastline adds rich textures and contrasts, while the unpredictable ocean conditions introduce dynamic elements to your compositions. This location provides a versatile setting for capturing the raw beauty of the Atlantic seascape.
Next, we head to the most picturesque volcanic cone in the Azores, Pico Dona Joana. With Ilhéu das Cabras in the background, this location offers one of the most unique perspectives in the archipelago. To fully capture its grandeur, a bird’s-eye view with a drone is highly recommended.
After lunch, you’ll have time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Angra do Heroísmo. The city’s vibrant Portuguese architecture, with its colorful facades and intricate patterns, makes for excellent photo opportunities.
We head to the northern part of the island, to Ponta do Mistério, one of Terceira’s most striking coastal areas. Here, a mysterious green-glazed lunar landscape meets the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean, creating a breathtaking scene perfect for photography.
To close the day, we visit one of the most iconic viewpoints in Portugal — Serra do Cume. This extraordinary vantage point offers a panoramic view of the island’s interior, often referred to as a “patchwork” of volcanic stone walls dividing farmland into geometric patterns. This is the perfect spot to capture the last light of the day, ensuring a memorable conclusion to the day’s photographic journey
Welcome to the best-kept secret of Europe, the wild and beautiful Island of Flores. After settling into our accommodations and enjoying a quick lunch, our focus turns to the western part of the island.
A short hike takes us to the stunning waterfalls of Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro. Nestled at the base of the waterfalls is an astonishing lagoon, offering a variety of exciting compositions for your photography.
As the afternoon unfolds, we venture to the Fajã Grande environmental protection area for a sunset session at the Poço do Bacalhau waterfall. This location presents an excellent opportunity for aerial photography, so if you have a drone, be sure to bring it along to capture the beauty of this enchanting landscape.
The weather in the Azores, especially in Flores, is notoriously unpredictable, with rapid changes that may require revisiting the same locations. Our second day commences at the natural reserve area of Morro Alto. Here, you can explore the panoramic views of Lagoa Negra (the deepest lagoon in the Azores) and Lagoa Comprida. Additionally, take in the breathtaking perspective of a beautiful straight road that looks remarkable from above.
Our journey continues to Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa Funda, offering a fascinating rugged landscape characterized by differences in altitude and color between the two lagoons.
Heading north, we reach Ponta Delgada town, where we explore the rugged coastline, stopping at viewpoints along the way. The day concludes at the impressive Albarnaz lighthouse, perched on the edge of the cliffs, offering striking seascapes in its surroundings. Be prepared for the unexpected and embrace the dynamic beauty of Flores.
Our day kicks off with a sunrise at the scenic Baía da Alagoa, a rocky bay offering a mesmerizing view of rugged basalt sea stacks as our main subject, with Corvo Island in the background.
Our next stop is the picturesque town of Santa Cruz. Take your time to explore and relish its surroundings before our lunch break. Additionally, there’s a captivating cave that provides an excellent photographic opportunity, with the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean as a striking backdrop. Don’t forget your wide-angle lens; it’s a must for this location.
Heading back, we set out to explore the waterfalls of the western part of the island. A hike is necessary to reach this spot, but the effort is entirely worth it. Once there, you’ll feel on top of the world, overlooking the majestic Ribeira Grande waterfall. Get ready for an adventure-filled day capturing the diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes of Flores.
Depending on the conditions of the Atlantic, our day is dedicated to discovering the Island of Corvo with Carlos Mendes of Extreme Ocidente. The boat ride takes us through the impressive coastline of Flores, showcasing jaw-dropping waterfalls and caves. There’s also a high likelihood of encountering dolphins and other whales during our journey.
Returning to Flores, we wrap up the day with a sunset at the impressive basalt columns of Rocha dos Bordões. The variety of compositions you can create at this location is truly remarkable.
After our final dinner together, it’s time to bid farewell. As the journey concludes, we cherish the memories created and the stunning landscapes explored. Until next time, as you fly home the following day, carry with you the beauty and essence of the Azores.
Transfers to the airport are arranged based on the hour of your flight with no additional costs. We trust that you will hold dear all the amazing memories and fantastic photographs captured during your unforgettable journey through the Azores.
Safe travels, and until we meet again!
ACCOMMODATIONS
8-17 AUGUST 2025
AMAZING AZORES 10 DAY PHOTO TOUR
If you like what you see here, please book this tour in the form below.
An email will be sent to you with all the information to complete the registration.
A deposit of 1000€ is required to register for this tour.
Participants joining should generally feel well and be physically capable of outdoor activities. It’s also important that they’re comfortable using a camera.
Check out testimonials from other participants and please read our Terms and Conditions before registering any of my services. Don’t forget to visit the Photo Tours sections to learn more about other adventures.
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