Your Azores Elopement: The Ultimate Guide
How to Elope in the Azores Islands in 2025-2026
We are Jane & Tony – an award-winning wedding and elopement photographer duo here to help you plan your epic Azores elopement experience.
We’ve been to the Azores numerous times, that’s why we know exactly what you need to elope in the Azores Islands, including the best places to elope, elopement packages, the best time to plan your wedding, and other pro tips to make your destination wedding as unique as you two!
If you’re dreaming of an Azores elopement that feels wild, cinematic, and deeply personal, this is your sign! The Azores are Portugal’s best-kept secret and true hidden gem: volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, lush tropical cliffs, and azalea flowers in bloom everywhere. What a stunning backdrop for your epic wedding photographs, right?!
Whether you’re imagining a barefoot elopement ceremony at sunrise or a dinner under the stars with your closest people, an Azores destination wedding can be anything but traditional—and everything you’ve ever wanted.
Contact us, and we’ll help make your dreams come true!
What Makes the Azores Such a Unique Place to Elope?
The Azores Islands are made up of nine remote islands in the Atlantic Ocean. São Miguel—the largest—is the easiest to access and the most versatile for your intimate wedding. Fewer tourists, raw nature, and so much soul.
*Pro Tip – Actually, it’s our favourite island to get married or elope in the Azores archipelago, just because it literally has all for a really unique elopement experience.
You can hike to a crater lake, exchange vows during the epic sunrise above the clouds, and have a nice and relaxing break in the midday, soaking in hot springs, and continue your special day somewhere epic in the most epic golden hour light! Your destination wedding in the Azores may be both an adventure and a celebration.
We always say the best wedding destinations are the ones that don’t need anything added (sorry, dear florists and decorators!)—and getting married in the Azores, this is exactly what you get!
Can You Legally Get Married in the Azores?
Yes, foreign couples can legally marry in the Azores. However, the process involves specific documentation and may require translations and notarizations. It’s advisable to start the legal process well in advance to have enough time for everything.
How to Get Legally Married in The Azores Islands
The cost of the marriage process and registry is 120€. Besides that, there are important legal requirements to get married in the Azores as a US citizen:
- Photocopies of Passports:
You’ll need copies of both your and your partner’s passports. The originals must be shown to the Registrar on your wedding day. - Birth Certificates:
Both partners must provide International Birth Certificates, issued within the last six months. These can be obtained from your local registry office. - Divorce or Death Certificates (if applicable): If either of you has been previously married, you’ll need to provide proof of divorce or a death certificate.
- Certificate of No Impediment: This document confirms that there are no legal obstacles to your marriage. It must be translated into Portuguese.
- Power of Attorney (Procuração): If necessary, you may need to grant someone legal authority to handle paperwork on your behalf.
- All documents must be certified with an Apostille Stamp to verify their authenticity.
- Documents must be translated into Portuguese, either in your home country or once you arrive in the Azores.
After your legal wedding ceremony, your marriage certificate (in electronic or paper form) will typically be issued within 2-3 business days. The price of a marriage certificate is 10€.
Symbolic VS Wedding Ceremonies in the Azores
Many couples opt for symbolic ceremonies in the Azores, allowing them to bypass legal formalities and focus on just their epic elopement. Symbolic ceremonies can be tailored to your preferences, whether it’s a traditional exchange of vows, an intimate hiking ceremony, or a personalized ritual that reflects your journey together.
Fun fact – more than 85% of our couples during the last 5 years decided to go this way, and they never regretted that!
LGBTQ+ Weddings & Elopements in the Azores
Portugal has been progressive in recognizing LGBTQ+ rights ever since 2010, and the Azores, being part of Portugal, are no exception. Same-sex marriage is legal in the Azores, and the islands offer a welcoming environment for couples of any gender or skin color.
The Best Azores Elopement Locations
from the most iconic spots to hidden gems
Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo is a high-altitude crater lake that is one of the wildest and most untouched places on São Miguel. Its moody atmosphere and panoramic views make it an absolutely epic location to have your wedding photos at!
Best for: Sunrise elopements, scenic portraits, adventurous couples
Privacy/Seclusion: High – requires a hike or drive up a quiet mountain road
The best months to elope here: May–October
Pro Tip – Go for sunrise to have the whole place to yourselves with the best light possible.
Sete Cidades
Sete Cidades is one of the most iconic landscapes in the Azores. Twin lakes inside a volcanic caldera create a jaw-dropping setting that feels straight out of a fantasy. It is one of our favorite and beloved locations for wedding and elopement ceremonies in the Azores.
Best for: Golden hour ceremonies, panoramic views, vow renewals
Privacy/Seclusion: Medium – popular area, but secluded spots can be found nearby
The best months to elope here: April–October
Pro Tip – Hike along the caldera rim for private viewpoints with epic lake backdrops.
Salto do Prego Waterfall
Falling down deep in the forest, Salto do Prego waterfall really feels like a scene from a fairytale. The trail there is quiet, green, and incredibly peaceful. Taking a hike to the waterfall sounds just amazing as your Azores elopement activity!
Best for: Forest elopements, hiking lovers, fairy-tale vibes
Privacy/Seclusion: High – remote and only accessible by a trail
The best months to elope here: April–October
Pro Tip – Wear hiking boots and pack your vow books in a dry bag so they don’t get soaked in the mist coming from the waterfall.
Flores Island
Known as the most remote and wild of the Azorean islands, Flores is covered in waterfalls, emerald valleys, and steep cliffs plunging into the sea. It’s the kind of intimate wedding location where you feel like you’re on the edge of the world. Just imagine eloping here with such a view!
Best for: Wild landscapes, couples who want to disconnect and be surrounded by nature
Privacy/Seclusion: Very high – few tourists and incredibly untouched terrain
The best months to elope here: May–September
Pro Tip – Plan a sunrise ceremony followed by a hike to one of Flores’ many hidden waterfalls for wedding portraits out of this world!
Pico Island
Raw, volcanic, and wildly beautiful—Pico is a dream elopement destination for couples who want to feel completely off the grid. Just imagine getting married above the clouds with onyl mountains being your witnesses!
Best for: Couples who want a dramatic, off-the-beaten-path feel, stargazing
Privacy/Seclusion: Very high – remote and uncrowded
The best months to elope here: June–September
Pro Tip – Hire a local guide if you want to hike Mount Pico for your vows—it’s one of the most unique backdrops in Europe.
São Miguel
The heart of the Azores and the most diverse in landscapes, from black sand beaches to geothermal valleys to lush forests. The total banger for those couples who want to have it all on their elopement day!
Best for: All-in-one elopements (beaches, lakes, cliffs, forests), weekend wedding adventures
Privacy/Seclusion: High in many areas, with tons of hidden gems
The best months to elope here: May–October
Pro Tip – Base yourself in the middle of the island so you can reach every kind of scenery within an hour.
Hidden Gem Locations to Elope in Azores
Poço Azul
This turquoise spring of Poço Azul lies hidden in the woods and feels like your own secret paradise. It’s still relatively unknown—even to locals. If you want a really private and secluded elopement, this should be your top choice!
Best for: Secluded ceremonies surrounded by nature, adventurous elopements
Privacy/Seclusion: Very high – remote and often empty
The best months to elope here: May–October
Pro Tip – Visit early in the morning for the clearest blue water and quietest surroundings.
Ribeira dos Caldeirões
Located in the Nordeste region, this park blends waterfalls, ancient water mills, and dense forest.
Eloping here is like stepping into another world – very fairytale-like and atmospheric, just like the very soul of the Azores.
Best for: Waterfall backdrops, lush greenery, nature lovers
Privacy/Seclusion: Medium – more visitors in peak season, but many quiet corners
The best months to elope here: April–October
Pro Tip – Combine your ceremony with a short photo walk through the park’s mossy trails and old water mills.
Lagoa das Furnas
Known for its geothermal activity and mystical fog, this crater lake feels almost otherworldly. Steam rises off the ground as you explore nearby trails.
Best for: Elopements with geothermal magic, moody and misty vibes
Privacy/Seclusion: Medium – accessible but quiet in off-hours
The best months to elope here: May–October
Pro Tip – Schedule your ceremony right before dinner and follow it up with a romantic thermal bath or a meal cooked underground (yes, really!).
Best Azores Wedding Venues
If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding that combines natural beauty with unique venues, the Azores offer a huge variety of stunning options. From historic estates to luxurious resorts, here are some of the best wedding venues in the Azores.
Here is Our Top of Airbnbs and Hotels in the Azores:
Sensi Nature & Spa (São Miguel)
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel (São Miguel)
Quinta das Rosas (São Miguel)
Pousada de Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira)
White Exclusive Suites & Villas (São Miguel)
Dreaming About the Adventure of a Lifetime?!
Let us Help you Elope to the Azores!
When to Elope in the Azores?
ALL YEAR ROUND is the right answer!
The Azores enjoy a mild maritime climate, making the islands suitable for elopements throughout the year. Our personal favorite times of the year are Spring (April to June) and early Fall (September to October) are particularly pleasant, offering lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
Travel and Logistics Tips for Your Wedding Day in Azores
Getting to and Around the AzOres During your Elopement
The main international gateway is João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel. Direct flights are available from major European cities and some North American locations (only in high season).
Direct flights to Madeira are available from:
Lisbon (1h 45m)
Porto
Madrid
Paris
Frankfurt
London
Amsterdam
*Pro Tip – We recommend using flight comparison tools and setting up alerts to monitor price changes. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo allow you to set alerts for specific routes so you can book when prices drop.
Getting Around:
Renting a car is recommended to explore the islands at your own pace. Be prepared for winding roads and varying terrain.
*Pro Tip – We highly recommend renting a car with an automatic gearbox, for a more relaxed and safe driving experience.
Azores Wedding & Elopement Photographers
Hey, we’re Tony & Jane Iskra, and we’re happy to have a chance to be your elopement photographer and videographer in the Azores!
We were among the first photographers to specialize in intimate weddings and destination elopements long before they became the trend.
Since 2016, we’ve documented over 300 couples in wild and beautiful places around the world. But the Azores? They hold something special. We believe the most meaningful moments happen outdoors—in places that feel raw, soulful, and real. That’s why we’ve spent years helping couples create unforgettable elopement experiences in this incredible corner of the Atlantic.
It’s our joy and honor to help bring your Azores wedding or elopement dream to life.
How to Elope in Madeira in 9 Simple Steps
Step 1: Imagine Your Day Together
If you’re dreaming of something intimate, remote, and naturally stunning, the Azores might be just perfect!
Step 2: Choose your island
Each island offers something different: lush São Miguel, wild Flores, or dramatic Pico. Pick the one that feels like you.
Step 3: Pick the best time to go
May to October gives you the best chance of warm, clear weather for your elopement. There’s no bad time to get married in the Azores!
Step 4: Decide on a symbolic or legal ceremony
May to October gives you the best chance of warm, clear weather for your elopement.
Step 5: Book Your Photographer & Videographer
Book your Azores Wedding & Elopement Photographer that you connect with. If all the info above was useful and you feel like we could be the right fit for you, we’d be happy to be your elopement photographer, videographer, and elopement planners. Don’t hesitate to contact us to say hi and tell us about your dreams and wishes!
Step 6: Plan travel and Elopement Venue
Flights, ferries, and cute guesthouses—sort these early, especially if you’re inviting guests for your wedding day!
Pro Tip* – Since Madeira is a Portuguese territory, you’ll be able to come to Madeira following EU visa requirements. If you’re from the USA or EU, you’re able to arrive having just your passport with you!
Step 7: Select Your Dream Location
Beach, cliff, waterfall, or crater lake—there are endless spots to say your vows. Go with what feels most meaningful.
Step 8: Choose your outfits + pack smart
Select attire that’s suitable for the terrain and weather. Don’t forget essentials like comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal items that will make your day special.
Step 9: Embrace Your Day
Your elopement is a celebration of your unique love story. Embrace the spontaneity, the scenery, and the intimacy of the moment. Let the natural spirit of the Azores Islands make your day unforgettable.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope and Get Married in the Azores?
You can plan an Azores elopement on a surprisingly flexible budget. If you’re dreaming of an intimate vow exchange somewhere wild and beautiful, you can technically elope for €0—just the two of you, a scenic spot, and a whole lot of love. That said, most couples who elope in the Azores spend between €7,500–€10,000 (around USD 8,000–10,500), depending on the experience they’re envisioning. This doesn’t include flights or extended travel plans. Want to splurge a little? You can absolutely elevate the day with private chefs, luxurious villas, a floral-styled dinner, and an adventure or two (like whale watching or helicopter rides). With more guests, the cost can go up to €15,000–20,000+.
Azores Elopement Packages
Prices for our Azores Elopement and Wedding Packages start at 6500 Euros and depend on the amount of working time & add-ons you will choose. All of the packages include:
Prices START at €6.500
Get In Touch
If you’re looking for a elopement photographer and you connect with our work, we would love to hear from you! Please allow 48 hours for a response.
Together with Tony Iskra, they are ISKRA Photography - a husband & wife duo shooting in Iceland and beyond.
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