I just returned from a fantastic travel photography trip in Madeira and have heaps to share. At the beginning of April 2025, I spent a total of 10 days aiming to visit the best photography locations for nature and travel photography.
Travel photography in Madeira: itinerary
I started the trip in Funchal, where I spent a total of 2 days exploring the city. It is a truly vibrant place and has a lot to offer. Some of the best sites to visit are the two botanical gardens, the local market, the narrow streets with painted doors, and of course, the promenade.
Botanical gardens
There are two botanical gardens: one private and one state-owned. You can reach them both by car or cabin lift, which starts from the promenade. The Monte Palace Botanical Garden has sections that are of interest to photographers.
Mercado dos Lavradores
The local market is another highlight of the city. It has beautifully arranged stalls, which are great for pictures. Do not forget to check the upper and the lower floors. On the lower floor is the fish market, which has a lot of fresh fish, including the local black scabbard fish, which spawns near Madeira Island. When visiting the island, do not forget to try the local dish with scabbardfish and banana.
Sao Lorenzo viewpoint photo ideas
This has to be my favourite site on the whole island. I kept coming back here quite a few times trying the capture different light conditions. I strongly recommend you to walk to the tip of the peninsula to enjoy the magnificent view of the lighthouse. The his is about 3 km and may take you about an hour so really not that difficult regardless of the ups and downs.
From Funchal, we headed to Porto Moniz via Fanal Forest. We spent another 3 nights at Porto Moniz which gave us good access to the Fanal Forest and the nearby sea stacks.
Fanal forest
This is another must visit place on the island. You want this site with thick fog which gives the magical feel to it. If you don’t have the right conditions, i strongly recommend you to revisit the site on several occasions to get them. One of the nearest towns where you can stay is Porto Moniz which is only 40 min away. The island is rather small, so you can even drive from Funchal for about an hour.
Porto Moniz
Porto Moniz is another must visit site not only because of its natural pools but also because of the amazing sea stacks nearby. I revisited these sea stacks several times and you can certainly do a lot of experimenting here. Take your time and revisit in morning and evening. Generally, morning is best, but in good conditions, evenings can also be productive.
Pico Ruivo and Pico Areeiro
The other magical places on the island are the two peaks Pico Ruivo and Pico Areeiro. I personally prefer the later as it offers more opportunities for photography. Somehow the landscape is more dramatic and the access to the sites is easier.
General comments for travel in Madeira
From the beginning of 2025, all routes have paid access. You can buy ticket at the start of each trail or online from the link here.
Driving on Madeira is somewhat challenging for beginners. There are many steep streets and I strongly recommend you to rent a car with automatic gear box and poweful engine.
Here are some images from my travel photography trip in Madeira: Enjoy!
If interested in a guided trip around the island, do not hesitate to contact me using the form here.
Images taken during the trip for travel photography in Madeira
