THE AZORES

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!