An eleven-day photography and culinary retreat on Ilha de Boipeba, a car-free tropical island in Bahia, Brazil — part of a UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere Reserve.
Maré is a different kind of photography experience. Through participatory photography and the FotoVoz methodology, you will explore the island, its people, its rhythms and your own way of seeing. Six photographic missions, guided conversations and shared reflection become a journey of images, stories and encounters — with no pressure to create "perfect" photographs.
Alongside photography, you'll discover Bahian cuisine through hands-on cooking workshops, shared meals and the flavours of dendê, coconut, fresh fish and local ingredients.
No previous photography experience is required. Just curiosity, openness and a willingness to look differently.
Small group, max. 10 people, led by Francesco Caiazza (20 years of photography experience, participatory photography facilitator working with NGOs and public institutions) and chef Diogo Dias Toledo.
Each participant will also have a personal portrait session with Francesco. Your portrait, together with a selection of images created during the retreat, will become part of your handmade photobook — a personal visual record of the experience to take home.
15–25 January 2027 · From €1,500
mare-retreat.com
The retreat includes:
• 2 nights in Salvador Bahia at Casa Zelina, a charming historic house with an unforgettable breakfast · ★4.85 Airbnb
• 8 nights in Boipeba at Refúgio Pachamama in Moreré · ★4.95 Airbnb
• Full-day guided experience in Salvador with private van and expert local guide · 8 hours
• Breakfasts and dinners every day, featuring Bahian cuisine · alcoholic drinks not included · dinner on arrival day not included
• Vegetarian option available · please let us know about allergies or dietary restrictions in advance
• Transfer Salvador ↔ Boipeba by car and boat · approximately 3 hours
• 4 Bahian cooking workshops: moqueca, galinha da terra, acarajé and caipirinha
• 6 storytelling evenings · 60–90 minutes each
• Full-day quad excursion through the wild interior of Boipeba, including a visit to a quilombola community
• Professional photography session with Francesco in Moreré
• Final selection of photographs for your personal photobook
• Maximum 10 participants
Flights, alcoholic drinks and travel insurance are not included.
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