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Photo Workshop Adventures

Photo Workshop Adventures

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AZORES

São Miguel, Terceira, and Flores Islands

This Magical Oasis is just 5.5 hours from New York and 4 hours from Europe.

Embark on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Azores, where nature’s beauty meets the artistry of photography. Our PWA Magical Azores Photo Tour takes you to the heart of these lush volcanic islands, offering a unique opportunity to capture stunning images of pristine lakes, rugged coastlines, and picturesque villages. Explore São Miguel Island, home to the iconic Lagoa do Fogo and the tranquil twin lakes of Sete Cidades, both surrounded by dramatic volcanic calderas. Wander through the geothermal wonderland of Furnas Valley, where steam rises from natural hot springs, creating an ethereal atmosphere for your lens.

This archipelago of Portughese islands is located in the Atlantic Ocean is just 5.5 hours from New York and 4 hours from Europe.

During the day the sun transforms the Azores into a photographer’s dream, with vibrant colors washing over the landscapes. When night falls, the clear skies offer pristine conditions for astrophotography, where the beauty of the cosmos comes alive, unobstructed by city lights. Whether you’re shooting dramatic volcanic scenery, aerial drone shots, vibrant marine life, or the quaint charm of traditional villages, the Azores provide an endless array of captivating subjects for every photographer. Let this tour be your gateway to an unforgettable photography adventure in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations.

On Terceira Island we invite you to step back in time in the historic streets of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where rich architecture and old-world charm make for perfect street photography. Don’t miss the otherworldly Algar do Carvão, a lava tube that offers a mysterious underground world waiting to be captured.

For lovers of waterfalls and tranquil waters, Flores Island is a paradise. Photograph cascading waterfalls that spill down volcanic cliffs and the serene beauty of remote crater lakes nestled within the island’s verdant landscapes. Beyond land, the Azores offer spectacular whale watching opportunities, with majestic whales and playful dolphins gracing the open Atlantic.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your newfound skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than the unique landscape of the Azores.

This archipelago of Portughese islands is located in the Atlantic Ocean is just 5.5 hours from New York and 4 hours from Europe.

During the day the sun transforms the Azores into a photographer’s dream, with vibrant colors washing over the landscapes. When night falls, the clear skies offer pristine conditions for astrophotography, where the beauty of the cosmos comes alive, unobstructed by city lights. Whether you’re shooting dramatic volcanic scenery, aerial drone shots, vibrant marine life, or the quaint charm of traditional villages, the Azores provide an endless array of captivating subjects for every photographer. Let this tour be your gateway to an unforgettable photography adventure in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations.

On Terceira Island we invite you to step back in time in the historic streets of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where rich architecture and old-world charm make for perfect street photography. Don’t miss the otherworldly Algar do Carvão, a lava tube that offers a mysterious underground world waiting to be captured.

For lovers of waterfalls and tranquil waters, Flores Island is a paradise. Photograph cascading waterfalls that spill down volcanic cliffs and the serene beauty of remote crater lakes nestled within the island’s verdant landscapes. Beyond land, the Azores offer spectacular whale watching opportunities, with majestic whales and playful dolphins gracing the open Atlantic.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your newfound skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than the unique landscape of the Azores.

Group Size

4-8 Guests

 

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • All cameras and camera phones are welcome
  • Busy schedule
  • Travel by van
  • Moderate elevation changes and moderate walking
  • Non-photographers also welcome

 

Weather | Sun

July – Temps 75/64 F 24/18 C Sunrise 6:54 am | Sunset 9:28 pm (21:28)

 

Includes

  • 9 Days
  • Travel, landscape, nature, and people photography
  • Professional photographers | guides
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (6-8 guests)
  • Premium hotels
  • Breakfasts
  • 2 Meals
  • Local transportation

 

Travel Information

Arrival & Departure Airport: Aeroporto João Paulo II (PDL) – Transfer time: 45 minutes.
Our adventure begins at 12 PM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day.

Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. We suggest you use iVisa.com They are excellent at providing quick service for obtaining travel visas.

 

Accommodations

São Miguel – The Lince Azores or similar
Terceira – Azores Angra Garden, Hotel Cruzeiro or similar
Flores – Aldeia da Cuada, Hotel Ocidental, Inatel Flores Hotel or similar

Azores 9 Days Prices & Dates


AdventurePriceREGISTER
From: $9,795
From: $10,495
Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Michael Chinnici

July 11-19, 2026

Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Bruno Azera

July 11-19, 2026
July 10-18, 2027

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

ITINERARY

Magical Azores – 9 DAYS

Day 1 | São Miguel - Tea Plantation - Santa Bárbara - Monte Verde

Welcome to João Paulo II airport in Ponta Delgada. A complimentary airport transfer will take you to your hotel. You’ll have the morning to relax or explore the charming city. Prepare yourself for a day filled with exploration, delicious cuisine, and the perfect moments to capture with your camera.

Later, we’ll pick you up for a Welcome Lunch at a local restaurant. An ideal opportunity to ask questions, bond with other guests, and share in the anticipation of the journey ahead.

In the afternoon, we venture to 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.

For sunset we head to picturesque beaches of Santa Bárbara and Monte Verde. Alternatively, we may head to the jagged cliffs of Miradouro do Cintrão, providing a breathtaking view of the north coast and the majestic Sete Cidades volcano in the background.

Day 2 | Lagoa do Fogo - Sete Cidades - Grota do Inferno

The day starts at Lagoa do Fogo volcanic lake, one of the highest points of the island. Optional: Use a drone to capture unique perspectives from above.

After lunch, our journey heads west to explore the volcanic crater of Sete Cidades, home to the captivating multi-colored lakes of Lagoa Verde and Azul. It’s a truly incredible sight, providing a sense of the surrounding area. If you’re into adventurous activities, kayaking and paddle boarding are delightful options on these scenic lakes.

Our next destination is one of the Azores’ highlights, Grota do Inferno viewpoint. While the crater lakes of Sete Cidades can be admired from various vantage points, this spot stands out as one of the best.

Day 3 | Santa Iria - Terra Nostra Park - Lagoa das Furnas - Mosteiros

Our morning begins at the Santa Iria viewpoint for a captivating sunrise overlooking the north coastline of the Island. After breakfast, our journey continues to Terra Nostra Park, renowned as one of the most beautiful gardens, featuring inviting thermal pools. Remember to pack your swimwear, as temperatures range between 95º – 102º F (35º – 40º C), providing a soothing and relaxing experience for the remainder of the day.

For lunch you can try the famous local dish, Cozido das Furnas, uniquely cooked by volcanic steam. Indulge in the sweet muffins look-alike known as bolo lêvedo, adding a delightful local flavor to our experience.

Next we head out to Lagoa das Furnas, a spectacular crater lake offering opportunities to photograph mud pools and steaming geothermal features.

For sunset, we head to Mosteiros black volcanic beach to capture the last light of the day in a beautiful seascape photography location.

Day 4 | Vila Franca Islet - Terceira Island - Angra do Heroísmo - Algar do Carvão

We kick off our morning with one of our favorite locations in São Miguel, Vila Franca Islet. This islet features a volcanic crater that has partially collapsed, allowing seawater to enter and form a natural circular pool inside the crater. Optional: To capture truly distinctive perspectives, a bird’s eye view from a drone is essential.

Following our sunrise experience and breakfast, we 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. Depending on the weather, we head up to Serra de Santa Bárbara for sunset, the highest point on the island and an incredible spot to conclude our day.

Day 5 | Serra da Ribeirinha - Pico Dona Joana - Praia da Vitória - Biscoitos - Serra do Cume

Get ready for a day filled with expansive views and captivating seascapes. Our early start takes us to Serra da Ribeirinha, perched atop the southern rim of a volcano, providing a panoramic coastal view. With Serra do Morião and Serra Santa Bárbara on the right, and the backdrop of Monte Brasil, São Jorge, and Pico Islands, it’s a breathtaking vista.

Next on our journey is the picturesque Pico Dona Joana, featuring the unique perspective of Ilhéu das Cabras in the background—one of the most distinctive views in the Azores.

At noon, we reach Praia da Vitória for a truly immersive Azores experience. We invite you to enjoy a homemade lunch at a local family’s restaurant, gaining insight into what life is like in these islands. Heading to the northern part of the island, we arrive at Ponta do Mistério, an alluring coastal area with a mysterious green-glazed lunar landscape, set against the backdrop of the blue Atlantic Ocean.

Our next stop is the charming summer spot of Biscoitos, known for its wine-growing region and stunning natural pools. The rugged black lava fields, shaped by the relentless waves, create fascinating landscapes.

Saving the best for last, we make our way to Serra do Cume, considered the most beautiful viewpoint in Portugal. Capture the unique “patchwork” view of the island’s interior, where walls of volcanic stones divide farmer fields into square-shaped figures—an epic spot to photograph the last light of the day.

Day 6 | Ponta das Contendas - Flores - Poço do Bacalhau Waterfall - Rocha dos Bordões

We start our morning at Ponta das Contendas lighthouse and its surrounding seascapes. A beautiful area with a not-so-common brown and black colored rock for the Azores. Depending on the weather, there is also a cave only accessible by sea that provides really interesting photo opportunities.

After lunch, we fly to another Island. Welcome to the best-kept secret of Europe, the wild and beautiful Island of Flores. After settling into our accommodations our focus turns to the western part of the island. As the afternoon unfolds, we venture to the Fajã Grande environmental protection area for a sunset session at the Poço do Bacalhau Waterfall where we’ll focus on capturing the beauty of this enchanting landscape. 

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.

Day 7 | Morro Alto Reserve - Lagoa Rasa - Lagoa Funda - Albarnaz lighthouse

The weather in the Azores, especially in Flores, is unpredictable, with rapid changes that may require revisiting the same locations. Our second day in Flores starts 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. 

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.

Day 8 | Baía da Alagoa - Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro Waterfall - Miradouro do Portal

We kick off day eight 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. Considered one of the most beautiful places in the archipelago, a short hike takes us to the 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.

After a Farewell Dinner, we finish our day at Miradouro do Portal, overlooking the western coastline of the Island and its waterfalls.

Day 9 | Flores

On our final day we enjoy breakfast together, reminiscing about the incredible moments shared during the tour. We’ll provide transfers to the airport based on your flight. We hope you cherish all of the amazing memories and fantastic photographs from the Azores.

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

 

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

 

Portugal Azores Photoworkshopadventures V1 2025 01

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Gift Cards

Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.

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