Madeira 2025

Yes! Another incredible adventure has just wrapped up, and this one took me back to the breathtaking island of Madeira.

It’s been about a year and a half since my first exploratory trip there. Back then, I managed to tick off the major highlights, but destiny, it seemed, had other plans. My camera decided to give up the ghost on the second day, and the weather was… well, let’s just say it was decidedly uncooperative. So, I left with a sense of accomplishment after three weeks, but also with a quiet promise to myself: I had to return.

The Return and a New Vision

This time, things felt different from the start. Some wonderful clients, who had joined me on a Patagonia trip earlier this year, were incredibly excited about exploring Madeira. They weren’t necessarily photographers, but they craved the kind of immersive experiences we’d shared in Patagonia – the extended hikes, the breakfasts enjoyed right on the trail, and those magical sunset aperitifs. Their enthusiasm sparked an idea.

I decided to tweak the original photo tour itinerary. What was planned as an 8-day trip transformed into a more leisurely 15-day exploration. This extension would give us ample time to travel at a relaxed pace and truly soak in the essence of the island. It involved a good deal of research, as some of the hikes were new territory for me, but honestly, that’s always an exciting part of the mission.

Embracing the Journey

To maximize our freedom and flexibility, we rented a car. Those drives, with good music playing and the windows down, became an integral part of the adventure. It allowed us to arrive at our destinations before the crowds, to chase the best light, and to truly follow the sun. And speaking of light – in September, the light in Madeira was absolutely phenomenal!

The hikes themselves were nothing short of incredible. The diversity was astounding, from coastal walks to trails high up at 2000 meters, and through lush, verdant jungles. Madeira truly offers endless opportunities for exploration. Despite the weather not being perfect every single day, we managed to capture all the key spots in their most beautiful moments. The light, oh, the light!

Overall, this trip was an unforgettable experience, a testament to the magic of Madeira and the joy of sharing its wonders with others.