About Me

I’m João Petersen, an explorer at heart, travel leader, and the creator of The Portuguese Traveler. Adventure tourism has always been my passion, and my goal is to turn my blog into a go-to resource for outdoor enthusiasts. Over the past few years, I’ve dedicated myself to exploring remote destinations, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating cultures, sharing my experiences through a mix of storytelling and photography.

I studied Architecture at the Instituto Superior Técnico, graduating in 2015. During my studies, I spent a year in Austria on an Erasmus program, and later worked in Istanbul and Zurich. It was during this time that I started using my weekends to explore the world. In 2018, I took a six-month sabbatical to travel solo across Southeast Asia and Latin America—an experience that changed everything and led me to create my blog.

During the pandemic, The Portuguese Traveler evolved from a personal travel diary into a detailed travel guide with an SEO focus, helping other travelers find the best experiences. My blog specializes in outdoor adventures, hiking, diving, nature, and wildlife, with a strong focus on Ecuador and Switzerland—where I lived for six years.

Photography has always been a key part of my journey. Through my images, I aim to raise awareness about ecotourism and environmental conservation, encouraging travelers to venture beyond overcrowded tourist hotspots and explore lesser-known destinations in a more responsible and sustainable way.

In 2022, I traveled to Ecuador to document the country extensively, returning in 2023 to continue my project before heading back to Portugal in 2024. That year, in April, I led a group of Portuguese travelers on an expedition to Peru, and I’m now focused on exploring Portugal. In October 2024, I joined my first international blog trip in Sri Lanka, and I’m excited to add that adventure to the blog.

Today, I combine my love for exploration with leading trips, always looking for the next challenge. My passion for discovery is what drives me, and I’m constantly searching for the next big adventure.