8 DAY PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR
CAPTURE THE WILD AZORES
in collaboration with travel-to-nature
May 29 - June 05, 2027
Join us on an unforgettable Photography Adventure through the wild volcanic landscapes of São Miguel!
Explore the best photo spots on São Miguel, the largest island on the Azores
Photograph spectacular crater lakes, rugged lava landscapes, misty forests, roaring waterfalls and wild coastlines
Capture breathtaking sunsets along the coast of São Miguel
Numerous photo opportunities with expert guidance by a professional landscape photographer
This tour is conducted bilingually in German and English
Exclusive photography tour in a small group
Skill Level
Group Size
The Azoriani Boutique
Hotel do Mar
Medium (moderate hikes)
Min. 5 / Max. 7
Beginner to expert
Meeting point
Duration
Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL)
8 days / 7 nights
Activity level
Lodging
Discover the wild beauty of São Miguel!
The Azores are among Europe’s most impressive natural regions, and São Miguel offers photographers an extraordinary variety of subjects within a compact area. On this photography tour, we will explore the "Green Island" in depth — and at the best times of day — alongside nature and landscape photographer Julien Pröpper. Our focus will be on spectacular crater lakes, rugged lava landscapes, roaring waterfalls, quiet coastal villages, and lush vegetation. We will shoot during the golden hours of morning and evening, experiment with long exposures, and capture the shifting light over the Atlantic. We will flexibly adjust the itinerary based on weather conditions and the group's interests, while also making time for image reviews and collaborative editing sessions.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Welcome to the green island paradise
After arriving on São Miguel, we will check into our accommodation in Ponta Delgada and get to know one another over dinner (not included). During the meal, we will discuss the itinerary and the photographic focus for the days ahead. The island's capital itself offers appealing subjects right from the start, with its black lava-stone architecture, white facades, and lively waterfront promenade. We will decide which locations to visit based on the weather conditions. We might begin by capturing images of the Atlantic and end the day with an atmospheric sunset. Together, we will look forward to a diverse week of exploring São Miguel’s varied landscapes in the best possible light.
Transfer from the airport to the hotel | 4.5 km | Duration approx. 10 minutes
Day 2 - Volcanic lakes and magical lighting moods
Today, we focus on the famous crater landscapes in the west of São Miguel. Deeply carved volcanic calderas, green slopes, and the twin lakes of Sete Cidades rank among the Azores' most impressive scenic highlights. Depending on the weather and lighting, we visit various viewpoints to capture different perspectives. To round off the day, we take advantage of the warm evening light over the caldera to photograph the unique atmosphere at sunset — ideal conditions for evocative landscape shots.
Day 3 - The rugged beauty of the Atlantic coast
Black lava fields, rugged cliffs, and the untamed power of the Atlantic define today’s photography session. Along the west coast, we discover spectacular coastal landscapes where the sea has been shaping volcanic rock for millennia. Long-exposure techniques allow us to impressively capture the movement of the surf. We conclude the day at one of the island’s most beautiful black sand beaches, where unique colors and lighting conditions — especially during the golden hour — offer the chance to create fascinating compositions.
Day 4 - Waterfalls, cloud forests, and green volcanic landscapes
Today, we explore the diverse heart of the island. Roaring waterfalls, lush forests, and spectacular views of one of the Azores' most beautiful crater lakes offer countless photographic opportunities. The island's long-standing tradition of tea production is also part of this area, adding a fascinating cultural dimension to the nature experience. The soft light filtering through ferns, laurel forests, and vibrant green tea plantations creates ideal conditions for creative landscape and close-up photography.
Day 5 - Between hot springs and tropical gardens
The eastern part of São Miguel combines volcanic activity with extraordinary botanical diversity. Historic gardens, steaming thermal springs, and lush vegetation offer varied subjects for nature and detail photography. The experience is further enriched by impressive waterfalls and historic structures that blend harmoniously into the landscape. The diverse colors, textures, and lighting conditions create a wide range of photographic opportunities — from sweeping landscapes to creative close-ups.
Drive from Ponta Delgada to Povoação | 60km | Duration approx. 1h15 min
Day 6 - Spectacular views along the east coast
Today, we explore the unspoiled east coast of São Miguel. Steep cliffs, blooming gardens, and sweeping views across the Atlantic define this region. A hike reveals ever-changing perspectives of the diverse coastal landscape. Depending on the weather, we take advantage of the soft morning or evening light to best showcase the colors of the lush vegetation and the striking coastal formations. The combination of physical activity and photography makes for a particularly varied day.
Day 7 - Time for special subjects and creative photography
Today offers the opportunity to photograph selected regions of the East Coast again under different lighting conditions or to discover new subjects. We will flexibly adjust the itinerary based on weather conditions and the group's interests. Additionally, there is the option to work on image editing together or review selected shots. This ensures there is enough time to deepen the photographic experiences of the past few days and further expand your personal portfolio.
Day 8 - Departure or onward journey
After a final breakfast together, it is time to say goodbye. Depending on your flight time, there may still be an opportunity for a short walk or some final photos. Afterward, you will be transferred to the airport. With a wealth of photographic impressions, new perspectives, and a diverse portfolio, this photography tour on São Miguel comes to an end — an island that never fails to captivate with its unique natural beauty and ever-changing light.
Drive from Povoação to the airport | 60 km | Duration approx. 1h 15min
What you will learn
During the tour we will work on several important aspects of landscape photography:
Finding strong compositions
Working with natural light during sunrise and sunset
Long exposure techniques for waterfalls, lakes and rivers
Using filters creatively
Understanding visual storytelling in landscape photography
Editing landscape images efficiently in Lightroom
No matter your current level, I will adapt my guidance to help you get the most out of the experience.
Meet your guide!
Hej there! I’m Julien.
I am a professional landscape photographer based in Sweden and I have spent the past years exploring many of Scandinavia’s most beautiful places with my camera. Photography has taken me to incredible locations - but what I enjoy just as much is sharing this passion with others.
During my photo tours and workshops, I love helping photographers improve their skills, discover new perspectives and create images that truly tell a story. Over the past years I have guided hundreds of aspiring photographers on workshops and photo walks across Scandinavia. It is always such a pleasure to see participants grow creatively and return home with images they are proud of.
I would be very happy to guide you to the stunning Azores!
What’s included?
8 days full of fun, inspiration and creativity
7 nights accommodation in private single room
Transport during the tour in comfortable minibus (or car)
Breakfast
Sunrise & sunset photography sessions
Expert photographic guidance
Editing sessions during the tour
Landscape Composition eBook
1:1 online follow-up session after the tour
What’s not included?
Camera equipment
Travel expenses and transportation to/from Ponta Delgada (can be offered separately)
Lunch & dinner (unless specified)
Drinks & alcohol
Travel & equipment insurance
Visa fees (if applicable)
Accommodation
On this tour we will stay in charming hotels that are located close the photo spots:
The Azoriani Boutique: The 3-star city hotel in the historic center of Ponta Delgada welcomes you in a central location in a family-friendly atmosphere. The sights of the old town and the atmospheric harbor can be easily reached on foot.
Hotel do Mar: The Hotel do Mar is located directly on the waterfront of the idyllic coastal town of Povoação, just a few steps from the small beach and fishing port. The rooms have a balcony, some with sea views. After an eventful day, the outdoor pool with whirlpool and the quiet location on the Atlantic invite you to relax. An ideal starting point for hikes and excursions to the east of São Miguel.
In both hotels, you will have your own private room with en-suite bathroom.
Good to know:
Meet up on Saturday, May 29, 2027 in the afternoon. Pick-up at the airport in Ponta Delgada and transfer to the hotel.
Arrival back in Ponta Delgada on Saturday, June 5, 2027 in the afternoon (latest at 13.00)
Small group limited to just 7 people with lots of time for individual photographic guidance
This is a bilingual tour in German and English. All guiding, photography instruction and group briefings are provided in both languages.
Transport in comfortable minibus (or car) during the tour
Accommodation in charming hotels close to the photo spots
More than just a photo tour…
What to bring?
Photography Gear
Your camera including spare batteries and SD memory cards
Camera lens(es):
preferably mid-range zoom lens in the 24-70mm range
optionally telezoom lens for distant subjects
Stable tripod
Lens filters (ND or polarizer) if you have them - but they are not required
Laptop or tablet with editing software if you would like to edit your photos during the trip
Recommended Clothing
A variety of comfortable hiking clothes
Windproof / waterproof jacket
Waterproof hiking boots with good grip
Tour Price
Your 8-Day Photography Adventure includes
✔ Small group (max. 7 photographers)
✔ 7 nights accommodation incl. breakfast
✔ Expert photography guidance
✔ All transports during the tour
✔ Sunrise, sunset & night photography sessions
✔ Editing sessions and personal feedback
✔ Landscape photography composition eBook
✔ 1:1 follow-up session after the tour
Private Single Room: €3,290 per person
Only 7 spots available!
This tour is perfect for you if
• You enjoy landscape & nature photography
• You want to improve your composition and storytelling
• You prefer a small group experience instead of large workshops
• You love exploring wild tropical landscapes
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We welcome all experience levels, going from beginners to experienced photographers. A good mix of experience levels means we can also learn from each other. It is important that you bring your own camera & tripod, so you can get the most out of this trip!
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Please note that we will do some shorter hikes on this trip. The hikes will neither be long nor steep. However, it is important that all participants take care of themselves, especially when we shoot at the coastline. The stones can be very slippery. If any location is out of your comfort zone, you’re more than welcome to shoot another location, stay at the hotel and rest, or wait until we get to another more comfortable location for you.
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Yes, you can bring your drone, but there are important regulations to follow. Before flying your drone, you must have registered it and have a valid Operator ID (an operator ID issued in an EU member state is valid in any EU member state).
Additionally, drones weighing over 250 grams must comply with stricter rules, including maintaining a safe distance from people and avoiding flights over crowds. Ensure you have appropriate insurance and are confident in flying responsibly.
For more detailed information about drone regulations and best practices in Portugal, visit the information issued by the ANAC.
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Our accommodations will be hotels close to the photo spots.
For maximum comfort, you will have your own private room with en-suite bathroom.
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Direct flights to the Azores are rare. Most connections go via Lisbon or Porto.
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Yes, transport in a comfortable minibus (or car) is included during the entire photo tour.
FAQ
Do you have any more questions?
Just book a Free 1:1 Discovery Call with me!
Important Information
Your safety and comfort during the tour are very important. While every effort is made to plan safe and enjoyable photography locations, participants are responsible for their own actions and decisions while travelling and photographing during the tour.
Participants should always assess their own physical abilities and avoid situations that may feel unsafe. Julien Pröpper’s role during the tour is to provide photography guidance and lead the group to carefully selected locations.
In the unlikely event that Julien Pröpper becomes ill or otherwise unable to lead the tour, a qualified replacement guide may be arranged. If this is not possible, the tour will be cancelled and all payments made for the tour will be fully refunded.
Participants are strongly advised to arrange travel insurance and insurance for their photography equipment.
Julien Pröpper reserves the right to cancel the tour in the event of extraordinary circumstances such as extreme weather, government restrictions or other situations beyond reasonable control. In such cases, all tour payments will be refunded.
For full legal details and cancellation policies, please refer to the Terms & Conditions.
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