Nestled in the heart of the Atlantic, Madeira is a paradise for landscape photography. Known as the Flower Island, this Portuguese gem offers breathtaking views for photographers, from misty forests to rugged coastlines and serene beaches. Its compact size makes it ideal for exploration as you can experience multiple landscapes in just one day. In this guide, I’ll share my 5 favorite photos from Madeira and explain how I created them using my Nikon camera and drone.
1. Pico do Arieiro sunset photography
Pico do Arieiro is a must-see landmark in Madeira, especially for landscape photographers. Famous for its panoramic views, it’s also the starting point of one of the world’s most beautiful hikes. While I skipped the hike, I captured two magical sunsets here. Sunrise is another excellent time for photography, but be prepared for crowds.
How to get there
Reaching Pico do Arieiro is simple. Drive to the Pico do Arieiro Viewpoint parking lot, where parking is usually available. If it’s busy, you may need to park 600 meters below. Before you go, check the weather forecast and webcams, as the viewpoint is often shrouded in clouds.
➜ Car park
➜ Madeira‘s Webcams
How I took this photo
Arrive early to secure your spot, as several framing options are available. I chose to incorporate the hiking trail leading to the peak, which adds a dynamic element to the composition. The sunset’s red and purple hues completed the scene perfectly.
➜ Photo spot
My gear and camera settings
Nikon Z8, Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8
ISO 2500, f/16, 3s
2. Fanal forest photography
Fanal forest, a dream destination for many landscape photographers, is a magical place in Madeira. Its ancient trees and ever-changing foggy atmosphere make it a perfect spot for photography. I visited three times to capture different moods, ranging from light mist to dense fog.
How to get there
Fanal forest is in northwestern Madeira and has a parking lot near the entrance. It’s a popular location, so visit early in the morning or late in the day for fewer crowds.
➜ Car park
How I took this photo
Fog was essential for this shot, but it’s unpredictable. Use the webcams or the VIEWFINDR app to check fog conditions. I wandered through the forest until I found this striking tree. Wearing my red dress added contrast and drama to the composition, especially with the wind creating movement.
➜ Madeira’s webcams
➜ VIEWFINDR
My gear and camera settings
Nikon Z8, Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8
ISO 250, f/11, 1/160s
3. Ponta de São Lourenço dramatic light
The eastern tip of Madeira, Ponta de São Lourenço, is a hotspot for sunrise photography. Although I didn’t get the red sky I had hoped for, I was rewarded with dramatic light rays illuminating the cliffs after an hour of waiting.
How to get there
Explore the area early in your trip to choose your ideal spot. I selected the Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto for its stunning views and proximity to parking.
➜ Car park
How I took this photo
I focused on the cracks in the stones to create leading lines in my composition. The rays of light and rugged cliffs added depth and drama to the scene.
➜ Photo spot
My gear and camera settings
Nikon Z8, Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8
ISO 800, f/13, 1/80s
4. Drone photography at Farol da Ponta do Pargo
Drone photography is perfect for capturing the dramatic cliffs and the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse in northwestern Madeira. This aerial perspective highlights the island’s rugged coastline.
How to get there
Enter “Farol da Ponta do Pargo” in your GPS, and you’ll find a parking lot next to the lighthouse.
➜ Car park
How I took this photo
Ensure the wind is manageable before flying your drone. I created a panoramic shot by stitching several vertical images together in Adobe Photoshop. Overlap your shots by at least 30% to ensure seamless merging.
➜ Photo spot
My gear and camera settings
DJI Mini 3 Pro, 7 vertical photos combined into a panorama on Adobe Photoshop.
5. Levada do Caldeirão Verde waterfall
Located in Madeira’s Laurissilva forest, the Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike leads to an iconic emerald-green lake and waterfall. This location is a must-visit for photographers seeking lush, natural scenes.
How to get there
The hike starts at Parque Florestal das Queimadas. Follow the well-marked PR9 trail, but bring a flashlight for the tunnels.
➜ Car park
➜ Hiking information
How I took this photo
I arrived around midday, and the sunlight turned the lake’s water an emerald green. I focused on the lower section of the waterfall to highlight the color contrast.
➜ Photo spot
My gear and camera settings
Nikon Z8, Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8
ISO 800, f/14, 8s
Published on 01.12.2024 by Jennifer Esseiva
