MADEIRA
8 DAY PHOTO TOUR
11-18 APRIL 2026
Embark on a photographic journey with me as your guide to discover the unparalleled beauty of Madeira, an island brimming with distinctive charm.
Join me for a captivating 8-day photo tour as we explore the breathtaking beauty of Madeira. From lush laurel forests and dramatic cliffs to cascading waterfalls and charming villages, Madeira Island is a paradise for photographers.
Whether you're a passionate amateur looking to refine your skills or a seasoned pro seeking fresh inspiration, this tour offers a unique opportunity to capture Madeira’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Designed for both comfort and creativity, our journey ensures a seamless experience with carefully selected accommodations, effortless transportation, and a well-planned itinerary that showcases the island’s most photogenic locations.
While we have a structured plan to make the most of Madeira’s stunning scenery, we also embrace spontaneity, allowing us to chase fleeting moments of magic, from unexpected golden light breaking through the clouds to hidden gems we discover along the way.
While we have a specific itinerary that highlights the best of Madeira, there's also room for spontaneity. The tour allows for flexibility, enabling us to capitalize on unexpected photographic opportunities we may encounter along our daily adventures. This flexibility ensures that you not only experience the planned highlights but also have the chance to capture the unexpected, adding an extra layer of creativity to your photographic journey.
Join me on this immersive photographic adventure, where each day brings new opportunities, new perspectives, and memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s capture the soul of Madeira, one frame at a time.
These photo tours are always for small groups, a maximum of 5 participants, it’s a one-on-one experience.
TOUR PRICE
4200€
(single occupancy in private room with bathroom)
DATES
11-18 APRIL 2026
GROUP SIZE
3-5
TOUR GUIDE
Bruno Ázera
EXPERIENCE
beginner / amateur / advanced
PHYSICAL DICCICULTY
medium, some hiking is involved
ISLANDS
Madeira
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Professional local photo guide (fluent in Portuguese and English)
Photographic field instructions
Tips and tricks along the day
Image reviews
Transportation in a comfortable vehicle
7 nights accommodation in hotels, single occupancy in a private room with a bathroom
All Breakfasts
Park fees
Welcome lunch and farewell dinner
Personal accident insurance and liability.
Lots of fun
HIGHLIGHTS
Expert Guidance
Learn from a professional photographer with deep local knowledge of Madeira’s most photogenic spots. You'll be guided to the right place at the right time—ensuring you capture extraordinary images in the best light.Spectacular Variety of Landscapes
From rugged volcanic cliffs and emerald-green peaks to mystical forests and terraced vineyards, Madeira offers a diverse range of landscapes. Each day reveals a fresh and inspiring scene to photograph.Night Photography Opportunities
Weather permitting, we’ll venture into the highlands for night photography sessions at two specially selected locations—Pico Ruivo and the enchanting Fanal Forest—offering chances to capture star-filled skies and otherworldly atmospheres.Cultural Immersion
Beyond the landscapes, experience the heart of Madeira through its people. Engage with local traditions, explore charming villages, and photograph authentic moments of island life.Small Group Experience
This tour is designed for a limited number of participants, ensuring personalized attention, a relaxed pace, and a supportive environment for shared creativity and learning.Photography Skill Development
Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, you'll receive tailored guidance to refine your technical skills, sharpen your artistic eye, and elevate your photographic storytelling.Meaningful Memories
Leave with more than just beautiful photos—walk away with a unique body of work that captures the spirit of Madeira and memories that will last a lifetime.
EXCLUDED
Alcoholic beverages and other drinks
Snacks, lunch, and dinners not mentioned in the inclusions
Flight tickets to Ponta Delgada from the original departure point
Visas (if needed)
Gratuities for photo guides, local guides, and/or drivers
I also advise everyone making travel plans for the near future to book a cancellation insurance
THE ISLANDS WE EXPLORE
MADEIRA
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Day 1: Welcome to Madeira & Coastal Long Exposures
Welcome to Cristiano Ronaldo Airport. Take some time to relax or explore the town of Machico, our hotel is in a great location with everything close by.
In the afternoon, I’ll pick you up for a welcome lunch at a local restaurant, a great opportunity to ask any questions and meet your fellow travelers.
Later, we’ll head to Ponta do Sol, where we’ll focus on long-exposure photography along the coastline and in the bay area. The mix of rocky shoreline and golden light makes it an excellent location to start capturing Madeira’s coastal beauty.
Day 2: Dramatic Seascapes & Mountain Peaks
We begin the day at Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost point. This dramatic coastline, with its rugged cliffs and striking geological formations, offers the perfect setting for a stunning sunrise.
After lunch, we ascend to Pico do Arieiro, where breathtaking panoramic views, rocky ridges, and shifting light create endless photographic opportunities. Often, we’ll find ourselves above the clouds—an unforgettable experience.
Day 3: Cliffs, Culture & a Sky-High Sunset
Our day starts with a sunrise at Miradouro do Guindaste, where we’ll capture the first light over the Atlantic and the striking Rocha do Guindaste sea stack.
After breakfast, we immerse ourselves in Madeira’s cultural heritage with a visit to the traditional houses of Santana. Then, we explore Queimadas Forest park, a prime spot for photographing the lush Laurissilva Forest.
As the sun sets, we journey to Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak. The ancient trees, shifting light, and panoramic views provide the perfect setting for both sunset and astrophotography, weather permitting.
Day 4: Coastal Wonders & City Life
We return to Ponta de São Lourenço, this time to the Furna do Bode viewpoint, a fresh perspective of this dramatic coastline.
After breakfast, we explore Funchal, wandering through the old town’s charming streets, colorful murals, and a fascinating blend of old and modern architecture.
In the afternoon, we revisit my favorite locations, Pico do Arieiro, focusing on different locations. Capture intricate details of the jagged peaks as the light transforms at sunset.
Day 5: Seascapes & Mystical Forests
For sunrise, we head to Ilhéu de Santa Catarina, a coastal gem just minutes from our hotel. This is a fantastic location to experiment with long-exposure photography, capturing the motion of the Atlantic waves.
After breakfast, we pack up and journey to Porto Moniz, nestled on Madeira’s dramatic northwest coast. This charming village will be our base for the remainder of the tour, offering easy access to some of the island’s most iconic natural locations.
The highlight of the day is Fanal Forest, a dreamlike landscape where ancient laurel trees stand shrouded in mist. The eerie atmosphere and soft, diffused light make it a paradise for photographers.
Day 6: Wild Coastlines & Iconic Landmarks
We begin with a sunrise shoot at Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela, where jagged sea stacks rise from the ocean, providing a dramatic foreground against the Atlantic waves.
Breakfast comes with a view of the Porto Moniz natural pools, a perfect place to capture long-exposure seascapes.
We then visit the Nossa Senhora de Fátima Chapel, perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of lush valleys and the vast ocean.
The day ends at Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse, standing on the island’s westernmost cliffs. This secluded location provides a stunning, tranquil setting for sunset photography.
Day 7: Hidden Gems & Farewell Dinner
We start with a peaceful sunrise at Seixal Beach, famous for its black sand and sweeping views of Madeira’s north coast.
After breakfast, we return to Nossa Senhora de Fátima Chapel, capturing its beauty from different angles in the changing morning light.
In the afternoon, we revisit Fanal Forest, but this time exploring its lesser-known areas, hidden spots that, in my opinion, rival or even surpass the more touristy locations.
As our journey comes to a close, we gather for a farewell dinner in Porto Moniz, sharing laughs and memories from our unforgettable adventure.
Day 8: Departure
Sadly, it’s time to say goodbye. I hope you leave with incredible memories and a collection of stunning photographs that capture the essence of Madeira. Safe travels, and I hope to see you again on another photo adventure!
ACCOMMODATIONS
DON PEDRO MADEIRA / AQUA NATURA BAY
WHAT TO BRING
CAMERA GEAR
Camera (DSLR or Mirrorless)
For our photography sessions, a camera with full manual control is essential to achieve precise exposures. It should also have interchangeable lenses to cover a variety of focal lengths.
Lenses
Lenses are a personal preference, but I recommend bringing a focal range between 16mm and 300mm to handle most situations. My personal setup includes a Nikon 14-24mm, a 24-120mm and a 70-200mm telephoto lens, which covers a wide range of compositions.
Filters
Graduated filters aren’t mandatory, but if you have them, feel free to bring them. ND filters can be particularly useful for experimenting with long exposures.
Tripod
While modern camera stabilization is impressive, a tripod is still recommended for long exposures and precise compositions. Some professional photographers even do focus stacking handheld, but a tripod can make certain shots easier and more consistent.
Backpack
We won’t be taking long hikes, but a comfortable, lightweight, and versatile camera backpack is essential for carrying and protecting your gear.
Drone
I highly recommend bringing a drone to capture breathtaking aerial perspectives, especially along the coastline. If you bring one, ensure you can manually launch and land it and navigate basic flight paths. I personally fly with a DJI Mavic 3 Pro, but even a DJI Mini is capable of capturing stunning footage.
CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR
Waterproof and Windproof Jacket
The Azores’ weather is unpredictable, especially along the coastline, where ocean spray and sudden rain showers are common. A high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket with sealed seams, adjustable cuffs, and a hood is highly recommended.
Warm Layers for Cooler Evenings
Evenings can be cool, particularly at higher elevations. Warm layers, such as a fleece jacket or a lightweight down vest, will keep you comfortable during sunset shoots and night photography sessions.
Quick-Drying Pants
Opt for quick-drying pants made from synthetic materials or lightweight hiking trousers that offer both comfort and functionality.
Footwear
I personally prefer lightweight running shoes over heavy hiking boots. While boots provide more protection, the terrain in the Azores doesn’t necessarily require them, and running shoes offer better grip and flexibility. Choose what works best for you.
Swimwear
We’ll be staying right next to natural swimming pools, I recommend taking a dip, so don’t forget your swimwear and flip-flops. Towels are provided by the hotel.
Madeira’s climate is warm but in the mountains it can be highly unpredictable, so packing the right clothing and gear is key to an enjoyable experience. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, and bring what makes you feel comfortable while photographing in various conditions.
GETTING TO MADEIRA ISLAND
This photo tour takes place entirely on the beautiful island of Madeira, known for its dramatic peaks, ancient forests, rugged coastlines, and ever-changing light. Since we’ll be staying on one island for the entire trip, you won’t need to worry about any inter-island flights—everything is focused, simple, and photography-friendly.
Your arrival point is Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) near Funchal. Madeira is well connected, with direct flights from mainland Portugal, the U.S., and many major European cities.
Recommended Flight Routes
From Mainland Portugal:
Frequent direct flights from Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO) are available with TAP Air Portugal, SATA/Azores Airlines, easyJet, and Ryanair.
From the U.S.:
United Airlines offers seasonal direct flights from Newark (EWR) to Funchal, three times per week (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), typically from late May through September.
Azores Airlines also operates direct flights from Boston (BOS) during the summer months.
TAP Air Portugal connects several U.S. cities (including New York and Washington, D.C.) to Funchal with a quick layover in Lisbon.
From Europe:
There are direct flights from cities like London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Madrid, and more, operated by airlines such as TAP, easyJet, Ryanair, Lufthansa, and others—especially during the high season.
If you're traveling from elsewhere, I recommend flying into Lisbon or Porto and taking a short direct flight to Madeira from there.
Packing Tips for Photographers
With no inter-island flights to worry about, your baggage allowance will depend entirely on your international airline. Still, here are a few helpful tips to make your trip easier:
Carry-on essentials: Always keep your camera bodies, lenses, batteries, memory cards, and drone (if bringing one) in your carry-on.
Checked baggage: Tripods, chargers, filters, and less fragile items are best stored here.
Be weather-prepared: Madeira’s weather can shift quickly, especially in the mountains. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket, microfiber cloths, and protection for your gear.
Dress smart: Layering is key. Conditions vary from coastal cliffs to mountain ridges, so light, flexible clothing is your best friend.
THE GUIDE
I’m Bruno Ázera, a landscape photographer and photo tour leader born in the Azores, Portugal. I specialize in capturing the region’s stunning landscapes, and my work has been featured in National Geographic and TV commercials. Through my photo tours and detailed photo guides, I help travelers explore the Azores and Madeira while sharing my passion for photography, nature, and sustainability.
BRUNO ÁZERA
BEHIND THE SCENES
MADEIRA 8 DAY PHOTO TOUR
11-18 APRIL 2026
If you like what you see here, please book this tour in the form below.
An email will be sent to you with all the information to complete the registration.
A deposit of 1000€ is required to register for this tour.
Participants joining should generally feel well and be physically capable of outdoor activities. It’s also important that you are comfortable using a camera.
CHECK OUT TESTIMONIALS FROM OTHER PARTICIPANTS AND PLEASE READ OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE REGISTERING