A Photographer’s March Journey Through Madeira
I took this trip to Madeira in March, just before spring really kicks off in the rest of Europe. It turned out to be the perfect time: lush landscapes, dramatic weather, flowing waterfalls, and fewer crowds than peak season. Madeira is one of those destinations where you can shoot sunrise in the mountains, waterfalls at midday, and sunsets by the ocean — all in the same day.
This post is a complete Madeira photography guide based on my own route, focusing on the best viewpoints, levada hikes, sunrise and sunset locations, and practical tips for photographers. If you’re planning a photography trip to Madeira, this itinerary will help you decide where to go, when to shoot, and what to expect.
Miradouro do Pináculo – Best Funchal Sunset Viewpoint
Miradouro do Pináculo is one of the best viewpoints overlooking Funchal, especially for sunset. From here, you get a wide panoramic view over the city, the harbor, and the Atlantic Ocean.
After arriving at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport and picking up the cheapest rental car on the island, I drove straight here. Traffic around Funchal was intense, and there are no proper parking spots right at the viewpoint. However, there is just enough space to stop for a few minutes, grab your shots, and move on.
For photography:
- Best time: Sunset
- Lens: Wide-angle (16–35mm)
- Tripod: Optional, depending on light
- Drone: Too close to Airport Drones not allowed.0
Google Maps location: Miradouro do Pináculo
Pico do Arieiro – Trail in the Clouds
Pico do Arieiro is the second-highest peak on Madeira (1,818 m) and one of the island’s most iconic photography locations. It’s also a major starting point for several hikes, including the famous PR1 route towards Pico Ruivo.
The drive up is steep with narrow but well-maintained roads. From the parking lot, it’s only a 5-minute walk to the main viewpoint, which makes it incredibly accessible. Location of Pico do Arieriro
I only had one morning here, and despite strong winds, heavy clouds, and rain, I went anyway. Sometimes you get lucky with cloud inversions — sometimes you don’t. My biggest advice: always check the Pico do Arieiro webcam before driving up. Webcam of Pico do Arieriro
Sunrise & Sunset Photography Near Pico do Arieiro
- Sunrise: Pico do Arieiro is famous for sunrise above the clouds (when conditions align).
- Sunset alternative: Miradouro do Juncal, located nearby, is a fantastic sunset location. Location of Miradouro do Juncal on Google Maps
- Another highlight: Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, about 4 km from Pico do Arieiro, offers dramatic cliff views and works beautifully with clouds rolling in. Trail to Miradouro do Ninho da Manta from Pico do Arieiro
If visibility is good, consider a short detour to:
- PR11 Levada dos Balcões – Location of PR11 Levada dos balcones
- Miradouro do Ribeiro Frio
Both offer easy access and rewarding views into the valley.
On the way, make a quick photo stop at the old scenic bridge at Ribeiro Frio, a great foreground element for landscape shots. Location of Scenic Bridge
After several hours of clouds and rain, I decided to head back down to Funchal.
Jardim Monte Palace – Best Garden on Madeira
Descending from the mountains takes about 30 minutes, but the landscape changes completely. Suddenly, you’re surrounded by tropical vegetation, sunshine, and warm air.
Jardim Monte Palace is, in my opinion, the most photogenic garden on Madeira. The moment the sun broke through the clouds, I knew this would be a great photography stop.
Inside the garden you’ll find:
- Ornamental lakes with koi fish and flamingos
- Waterfalls and fountains
- Oriental gardens with statues and bridges
- Panoramic viewpoints over Funchal
- A café where you can enjoy a drink with a view
For photography, this is a perfect place for:
- Detail shots
- Reflections
- Garden landscapes
- Calm, slow-paced shooting
Location of Jardin Monte Palace Madeira
Ponta de São Lourenço – Best Sunrise on Madeira
Ponta de São Lourenço is popular for a reason. The rugged cliffs, layered rock formations, and wild coastline make it one of the most dramatic landscapes on the island.
The hike is 6.6 km round trip, and with photography stops, I wouldn’t recommend doing it in less than 3 hours.
PR8 São Lourenço Hike Details
- Route: Miradouro São Lourenço – Cais do Sardinha – Pico do Furado
- Best time: Sunrise
- Arrive early — after 9:00 AM, the paths become crowded and slow
- Location of Trail: PR8 São Lourenço Viewpoint – Cais do Sardinha – Pico do Furado
Best Viewpoints Along the Trail
- Miradouro do Abismo: Best overall overview of the peninsula, ideal for sunrise Location of Miradouro do Abismo
- Miradouro de São Lourenço: First viewpoint, very accessible and extremely popular Location of Miradouro de São Lourenço
- Miradouro Ponta do Furado: Endpoint viewpoint, short climb up a hill Location of Miradouro Ponta do Furado
Other nearby sunrise options (if you have more time):
Miradouro da Gundaste – Easy Roadside Viewpoint
Miradouro da Gundaste is a very convenient stop on the road west towards Santana. Minimal walking, maximum reward — perfect if you’re short on time or chasing changing light.
Location of Miradouro da Gundaste
Miradouro da Rocha do Navio – Viewpoint & Cable Car
Located close to the main road with easy parking, Miradouro da Rocha do Navio offers views over dramatic cliffs and the cable car descending to the coast. I didn’t have time to explore further, but it’s a great quick stop.
PR10 Levada do Furado & Miradouro da Portela
PR10 Levada do Furado is a great afternoon hike, especially when combined with a visit to viewpoint Miradouro da Portela, which offers wide valley views.
Expect lush forest, steady walking, and softer light later in the day.
PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde – Best Levada Hike on Madeira
This is one of the most famous levada hikes on Madeira, and for good reason.
- Distance: ~13 km return
- Time: ~6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy, but long
- Conditions: Wet, dark tunnels (bring a headlamp)
The hike takes you through dense laurel forest, past waterfalls, and along dramatic cliffs. The reward at the end is a tall waterfall and stream in a deep green amphitheater.
Photography tips:
- Go early morning or late afternoon to reduce congestion
- Be patient in narrow tunnel sections
- Wide-angle lens works best
- Watch for endemic flora and birdlife
Pico Ruivo – Highest Peak & Incredible Sunset Hike
Pico Ruivo (1,862 m) is the highest point on Madeira and one of the best sunset spots on the island.
I accessed it via PR1.2, a 6 km round-trip hike from the east side. I arrived in the afternoon and stayed on top for sunset — something I can highly recommend.
Important tips:
- Bring a good headlamp for the descent
- Save energy for the 1-hour drive back to Funchal
- Expect dramatic light and fast-changing weather
Along the trail, you’ll find countless photo opportunities with ridges, clouds, and layered mountains.
Trail map: PR1.2 hike 6km to Pico Ruivo
Ponta do Sol – Great Sunset Location
Ponta do Sol is a charming coastal town and a great sunset spot. It’s a relaxed place with:
- A pier extending into the ocean
- Restaurants with sea views
- A pebble beach ideal for long exposures
This location is also excellent for drone photography, offering clean compositions of coastline and village life.
Fanal Forest – One of Madeira’s Most Unique Photo Locations
I visited Fanal Forest early in the morning from Funchal. I didn’t get lucky with fog the first time, but it was still a beautiful experience.
It’s slightly surreal that a cow pasture with ancient laurel trees is one of Madeira’s biggest photo attractions — but once you’re there, it makes sense. The twisted trees, open space, and changing weather create endless compositions.
I returned another morning and got light rain and moody conditions, though still no fog. If I had more time, I would have gone back again.
‘Fanal Forest Location on Google Maps
Porto Moniz – Natural Lava Pools & Coastal Photography
About 15 minutes from Fanal Forest, Porto Moniz is a great base for exploring the northwest coast. I stayed here for two nights.
The highlight is the natural lava pools, where you can swim in saltwater protected from the waves. It’s a unique experience and a fantastic subject for photography, especially with long exposures and dramatic seas.
Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz free natural pools is a great option.
Location of Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz
Praia da Ribeira da Janela – Sunrise Photography Gem
One of Madeira’s best photography beaches. Sunrise here is spectacular, especially with wind.
I visited two mornings. Using long exposure, the wind-driven waves created a soft, dreamlike atmosphere as water washed over the rocks.
it is also very convenient with a parking lot just
Locations of Praia da Riberia da Janela
Praia do Porto do Seixal – Black Sand Beach & Surf Vibes
Seixal is a charming village with a beautiful black sand beach. It’s easy to visit and very photogenic. If you have time, this is also a great place to take a surf lesson or shoot surfers at sunset.
Location of Praia do Porto do Seixal
Miradouro do Véu da Noiva – Waterfall Viewpoint
This viewpoint overlooks a tall waterfall near Seixal. The viewpoint itself isn’t ideal for composition, but drone photography really shines here, allowing you to capture the waterfall in context with the cliffs.
Location of Miradouro do Véu da Noiva
Capela de Nossa Senhora de Fátima – Iconic Hilltop Church
A short drive inland and at a scenic location is Capela de Nossa Senhora de Fátima. An iconic church perched dramatically above the landscape. Best photographed with a drone to fully capture its setting.
Parking can be tricky in high season, so be prepared to walk a bit.
Location of Capela de Nossa Senhora de Fátima
Miradouro Farol da Ponta do Pargo – Best Lighthouse for Sunset
This is the best lighthouse for sunset on Madeira. I visited one evening and got incredibly lucky with the weather.
A drone helps create unique perspectives, but even ground shots are excellent. I met a group of photographers on a guided tour all standing in a row taking the exact same photo — a good reminder to explore different angles.
Tips:
- Arrive early for parking
- Bring food and drinks — no facilities
- Perfect picnic sunset spot
Location of Miradouro Farol da Ponta do Pargo
Madeira Botanical Garden in Funchal – Final Stop Before Departure
On my last morning, I returned the car in Funchal and spent a couple of hours at the Jardim Botânico da Madeira.
There’s a great variety of plants, something always in bloom, and several viewpoints overlooking the city. It’s a calm and fitting way to end a photography trip.
Location of Madeira Botanical Garden in Funchal
Conclusions
Madeira is a lush, diverse, and incredibly photogenic island, especially in March before spring reaches mainland Europe. There is an overwhelming amount to see and photograph — from mountains and forests to coastlines and gardens.
Yes, some places are crowded, but with early mornings, patience, and flexibility, you can still capture incredible images. Prioritize popular spots at sunrise, stay flexible with weather, and don’t be afraid to return to the same location multiple times.
Madeira rewards photographers who slow down, adapt, and explore just a little beyond the obvious.