
DISCOVER AZORES
9 DAY PHOTO TOUR
24 MAY - 1 JUNE 2025
Are you ready for an unforgettable photo journey in the Azores? Join me for a 9 day Photo Tour and explore the amazing islands of São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico. Don’t miss this opportunity to improve your photography skills and discover the beauty of the Azores.
Embark on a captivating 9-day photo adventure in the Azores, the hidden gems of the Atlantic. Join me to explore the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of the volcanic Islands of São Miguel, Terceira and Pico, steering clear of tourist traps and benefiting from expert guidance. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this journey promises new skills and the chance to capture stunning shots in the unique setting of the Azores.
Nestled in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, the Azores comprise a group of nine islands characterized by their lush greenery, volcanic landscapes, and untamed beauty. Renowned for housing one of the largest whale sanctuaries globally, the Azores present a year-round paradise for photographers. Don't miss the opportunity to uncover the secrets of this enchanting archipelago and elevate your photography skills in the process.
Our exploration of São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico Islands will be seamlessly facilitated by a combination of private shuttles and commercial flights. Embracing diverse photographic landscapes, all transportation modes, including inter-island flights and accommodations, are seamlessly integrated into the workshop's cost, ensuring convenience and peace of mind. This approach affords participants the freedom to fully immerse themselves in the islands' wonders.
Dive deep into the rich culture, embrace the warmth of the local people, and capture the photographic treasures scattered across the Azores islands. From volcanic villages and hot springs to thrilling whale watching adventures, this travel photography workshop is tailored for those with a spirit of adventure.
For ocean enthusiasts, the Azores boast one of the world's premier Whale Watching spots. Join the experts at Futurismo, a team as passionate about the Azores as I am, for an unforgettable experience in the vast Atlantic.
While our itinerary is well-defined, we also embrace flexibility, allowing us to seize unexpected photographic opportunities that may arise throughout the day. This ensures a dynamic and tailored experience during our photo tour, where I'll be sharing my expertise both in the field and during our dedicated sessions for a comprehensive and enriching learning journey.

These photo tours are always for small groups, a maximum of 5 participants, it’s a one-on-one experience.
TOUR PRICE
4500€
(single occupancy in private room with bathroom)
DATES
24 MAY - 1 JUNE 2025
GROUP SIZE
3-5
TOUR GUIDE
Bruno Ázera
EXPERIENCE
beginner / amateur / advanced
PHYSICAL DICCICULTY
mostly ease, only small hikes are involved
ISLANDS
Terceira / São Miguel / Pico
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Professional photo guide (fluent in Portuguese and English)
Photographic field instructions
Tips and tricks along the day
Image reviews
Whale Watching
Transportation in a comfortable vehicle
8 nights accommodation in hotels, single occupancy in a private room with a bathroom
All Breakfasts
Park fees
Local flights to transfer between islands
Welcome lunch and farewell dinner
Personal accident insurance and liability.
Lots of fun
HIGHLIGHTS
Discover 3 island paradises: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico, 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 Pico to São Miguel 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 workshop 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.
EXCLUDED
Alcoholic beverages and other drinks
Snacks, lunch, and dinners 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

THE ISLANDS WE EXPLORE
SÃO MIGUEL / TERCEIRA / PICO












ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Day 1: Arrival in São Miguel
Welcome to João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada! Your morning is free to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Later, we’ll gather for a delicious welcome lunch at a local restaurant—an ideal opportunity to ask questions, meet fellow travelers, and set the stage for an incredible journey.
In the afternoon, we visit Gorreana Tea Plantation, the oldest in Europe. Here, we’ll explore the factory and surrounding landscapes, capturing the lush green fields and historic charm through our lenses.
For sunset, we’ll choose between the beaches of Santa Bárbara and Monte Verde or the dramatic cliffs of Miradouro do Cintrão, offering breathtaking views of the north coast and Sete Cidades in the background.
Day 2: Lagoa do Fogo & Sete Cidades
Our day begins at Lagoa do Fogo, one of São Miguel’s highest points. This volcanic lake is often shrouded in mist, making drone photography an excellent tool for unique perspectives.
Next, we head west to the stunning crater of Sete Cidades, home to the twin lakes, Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul. This remarkable landscape is a must-capture location.
For sunset, we venture to Mosteiros Beach, a premier seascape photography location, to capture the day’s last light against rugged coastal formations.
Day 3: Sunrise & Furnas Valley
We start our morning at Santa Iria viewpoint, where the rugged coastline meets the Atlantic under golden sunrise light, creating dramatic contrasts perfect for photography.
Next, we explore the lush Terra Nostra Park, one of the Azores’ most beautiful gardens, featuring thermal pools. Bring your swimwear to enjoy the warm, rejuvenating waters.
Lunch features Cozido das Furnas, a traditional dish slow-cooked by volcanic steam, along with sweet bolo lêvedo muffins.
In the afternoon, we visit the iconic Grota do Inferno viewpoint, offering one of the best panoramic views of Sete Cidades.
Day 4: Vila Franca Islet & Terceira Island
We kick off the morning with a visit to Vila Franca Islet, a volcanic crater forming a natural circular lagoon. A drone is highly recommended for capturing its unique geological features.
After breakfast, we fly to Terceira Island and explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Angra do Heroísmo. Following lunch, we venture into the mystical Black Forest, where dense vegetation and limited light create a dramatic setting for photography.
A highlight of the day is Algar do Carvão, the only volcano in the world you can walk inside. Tripods are not permitted, so bring a fast, wide lens.
Depending on the weather, we end our day at Serra de Santa Bárbara, the island’s highest point, for a stunning sunset.
Day 5: Coastal Wonders of Terceira
Sunrise takes us to Serretinha’s natural pools, where Ilhéu das Cabras serves as a striking backdrop for our seascape photography.
Next, we explore Pico Dona Joana, the most picturesque volcanic cone in the Azores. This is another location where drone photography shines.
After lunch in Praia da Vitória, we journey north to Ponta do Mistério, a surreal coastal landscape where vibrant green vegetation meets deep blue waters.
For sunset, we visit Biscoitos, known for its natural pools and volcanic rock formations, providing dramatic compositions against the Atlantic waves.
Day 6: Terceira’s Scenic Landmarks
Our morning begins at Ponta das Contendas lighthouse, with its unique blend of brown and black rock formations rarely seen in the Azores.
After lunch, you’ll have time to explore Angra do Heroísmo’s colorful streets and Portuguese architecture, perfect for vibrant cityscape photography.
As the day closes, we visit Serra do Cume, one of Portugal’s most breathtaking viewpoints. The “patchwork” of volcanic stone walls creates a mesmerizing landscape for sunset photography.
Day 7: Arrival in Pico Island
Welcome to Pico, home to Portugal’s highest mountain! After check-in, we explore the island’s northeast coast, where rugged cliffs and volcanic landscapes create compelling compositions.
The Laurissilva Forest, a relic of ancient vegetation, offers eerie, twisted trees that are especially striking in foggy conditions.
For sunset, we head to Lajes do Pico, where the red windmill and Pico Mountain create an unforgettable scene.
Day 8: Lagoa do Capitão & Whale Watching
We begin the day at Lagoa do Capitão, where the lake’s still waters reflect the towering Pico Mountain.
For those interested, we embark on a whale-watching adventure. The Azores are one of the best locations in the world for spotting whales and dolphins, and this experience offers a chance to capture marine life in its natural habitat.
In the afternoon, we photograph the stunning UNESCO-listed vineyards of Criação Velha, a landscape of black lava stone walls that contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery.
Day 9: Farewell Sunrise & Departure
We revisit Lagoa do Capitão for a final sunrise session, capturing its serene beauty one last time.
After a farewell breakfast, it’s time to head to the airport. Transfers are arranged based on your departure time at no additional cost.
We hope you leave with incredible photographs, unforgettable memories, and a deep appreciation for the Azores' breathtaking landscapes!

ACCOMMODATIONS
VIP EXECUTIVE AZORES HOTEL / HOTEL CRUZEIRO / PICO TERRAMAR & SPA






WHAT TO BRING
CAMERA GEAR
Camera (DSLR or Mirrorless)
For our photography sessions, a camera with full manual control is essential to achieve precise exposures. It should also have interchangeable lenses to cover a variety of focal lengths.
Lenses
Lenses are a personal preference, but I recommend bringing a focal range between 16mm and 300mm to handle most situations. My personal setup includes a Nikon 14-24mm, a 24-120mm and a 70-200mm telephoto lens, which covers a wide range of compositions.
Filters
Graduated filters aren’t mandatory, but if you have them, feel free to bring them. ND filters can be particularly useful for experimenting with long exposures.
Tripod
While modern camera stabilization is impressive, a tripod is still recommended for long exposures and precise compositions. Some professional photographers even do focus stacking handheld, but a tripod can make certain shots easier and more consistent.
Backpack
We won’t be taking long hikes, but a comfortable, lightweight, and versatile camera backpack is essential for carrying and protecting your gear.
Drone
I highly recommend bringing a drone to capture breathtaking aerial perspectives, especially along the coastline. If you bring one, ensure you can manually launch and land it and navigate basic flight paths. I personally fly with a DJI Mavic 3 Pro, but even a DJI Mini is capable of capturing stunning footage.
CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR
Waterproof and Windproof Jacket
The Azores’ weather is unpredictable, especially along the coastline, where ocean spray and sudden rain showers are common. A high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket with sealed seams, adjustable cuffs, and a hood is highly recommended.
Warm Layers for Cooler Evenings
Evenings can be cool, particularly at higher elevations. Warm layers, such as a fleece jacket or a lightweight down vest, will keep you comfortable during sunset shoots and night photography sessions.
Quick-Drying Pants
Opt for quick-drying pants made from synthetic materials or lightweight hiking trousers that offer both comfort and functionality.
Footwear
I personally prefer lightweight running shoes over heavy hiking boots. While boots provide more protection, the terrain in the Azores doesn’t necessarily require them, and running shoes offer better grip and flexibility. Choose what works best for you.
Swimwear
We’ll be visiting Terra Nostra Park, famous for its beautiful gardens and thermal pools. I highly recommend taking a dip, so don’t forget your swimwear and flip-flops. Towels are provided by the hotel.
The Azores’ climate is highly unpredictable, so packing the right clothing and gear is key to an enjoyable experience. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, and bring what makes you feel comfortable while photographing in various conditions.
THE GUIDE
BRUNO ÁZERA
I’m Bruno Ázera, a landscape photographer and photo tour leader born in the Azores, Portugal. I specialize in capturing the region’s stunning landscapes, and my work has been featured in National Geographic and TV commercials. Through my photo tours and detailed photo guides, I help travelers explore the Azores and Madeira while sharing my passion for photography, nature, and sustainability.

BEHIND THE SCENES





























DISCOVER AZORES 9 DAY PHOTO TOUR
24 MAY - 1JUNE 2025
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 you are comfortable using a camera.
CHECK OUT TESTIMONIALS FROM OTHER PARTICIPANTS AND PLEASE READ OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE REGISTERING