North Macedonia photography tour focuses on the best the country has to offer, beautiful landscapes, traditional life in the countryside, old historic cities and monasteries. This is a unique mix of travel and landscape photography where we will have opportunities to photograph people working on fields, experience home cooked meals prepared from organic, locally sourced ingredients and sample some of the best Macedonian wines and brandies.
THE LAND OF THE SUN AND FRIENDLY PEOPLE
Late summer is our choice of season, mainly for opportunities to photograph life in the countryside and people working on fields. This is also a season of reliable weather and we can enjoy warm sun in the mountains. Lake Ohrid is wonderful in this season. Most of summer tourists are gone and it is still warm to enjoy sitting outside listening to traditional song while photographing sunset.
North Macedonia photography tour is a small group trip which allows us to be flexible and to allow everyone to get their shots – without hurry and with individual approach of the photo leader and local guide.
WORKSHOP INFO
Dates | Sept 6 – 12, 2025 – Available Sept 12 – 14, 2025 – Extension – see below On Request – choose your dates |
Duration | 7 days / 6 nights |
Group size | 3 – 8 guests |
Price | €2750 |
Single Supplement | €300 |
Pro | Luka Esenko |
Arrival | Skopje Airport |
Departure | Skopje Airport |
DIFFICULTY
This workshop involves easy walking on paved trails and around villages and towns. There may be a limited amount of uphill walking. Comfortable walking shoes are advised.






North Macedonia Photography Tour ITINERARY
Arrival in North Macedonia
Upon landing at Skopje Airport, you’ll meet your fellow travelers and guide before embarking on a scenic drive to Bitola. En route, we’ll stop in the Tikveš wine region, renowned for its lush vineyards and centuries-old winemaking traditions. Here, you’ll savor local wines and capture the picturesque rolling landscapes. Arriving in Bitola, we’ll explore its historic old town, where Ottoman-era architecture and lively streets offer endless photography opportunities. We’ll end the day with a warm welcome dinner, indulging in traditional Macedonian cuisine and setting the tone for the adventure ahead.
The Timeless Mariovo Region
The day begins with a leisurely morning in Bitola, visiting the bustling farmers’ market, a vibrant hub perfect for capturing candid portraits and local life. Strolling along Shirok Sokak, the city’s main pedestrian street, provides ample chances for street photography amidst the historic facades and charming cafes. In the afternoon, we’ll journey to the Mariovo region, where time seems to have stood still. This remote area is dotted with forgotten villages, shepherds tending their flocks, and traditional beekeepers. We’ll enjoy a home-cooked lunch in the heart of Mariovo, and, if conditions permit, take a refreshing swim or photograph the stunning old stone bridge, an architectural gem steeped in history. As the sun sets, the region’s rugged landscapes bathed in golden light create perfect compositions before we return to Bitola.
Bitola to Lake Ohrid via Heraclea
After breakfast, we’ll bid farewell to Bitola and make our way toward the legendary Lake Ohrid. Along the route, we’ll visit the ancient city of Heraclea, where intricate mosaics and ancient ruins invite us to delve into North Macedonia’s storied past through our lenses. Upon arrival in Ohrid, we’ll embark on a walking tour through the old town, with its cobblestone streets, vibrant bazaars, and historical landmarks offering rich photographic subjects. As the day ends, we’ll visit Kaneo, the iconic cliffside church overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Ohrid. The sunset and blue hour here are nothing short of magical, providing a stunning backdrop for your evening photographs before we savor a hearty traditional dinner.
Lake Ohrid and Kuratica Village
The morning is yours to relax and capture the serene beauty of Lake Ohrid. Its reflective waters and charming shoreline make for tranquil compositions. In the afternoon, we’ll take a short drive to Kuratica, a small mountain village where time-honored traditions come alive. Here, we’ll enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a local family, learning about their way of life. If we’re fortunate, we might witness the preparation of rakia, the region’s iconic grape-based spirit, offering an authentic cultural experience to document. The evening is free for personal exploration, with the lake’s ever-changing light providing endless inspiration.
Lake Ohrid and St. Naum Monastery
Today, we venture to the eastern shores of Lake Ohrid to visit the stunning St. Naum Monastery. Nestled on a tranquil promontory, the monastery offers breathtaking views stretching across the lake into Albania. Its ornate interiors and serene surroundings make it a haven for photographers. The afternoon allows for personal time to explore and photograph the lake’s surroundings before we conclude the day with a lively traditional dinner featuring local music and dancing, immersing us further in Macedonian culture.
Jovan Bigorski Monastery and Tetovo’s Painted Mosque
This day is truly special as we experience one of North Macedonia’s most important religious celebrations at the Jovan Bigorski Monastery. Timed to coincide with the Day of the Beheading of St. John, the monastery comes alive with sacred rituals, providing a rare opportunity to photograph monks, church dignitaries, and the vibrant sacred procession. In the afternoon, we’ll travel to Tetovo to visit the Painted Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman artistry with its exquisitely detailed interiors. Arriving in Skopje later that evening, you’ll have time to unwind and reflect on the day’s extraordinary experiences.
Skopje Exploration and Departure
On your final morning, we’ll explore the historic heart of Skopje. The iconic Stone Bridge, the lively old bazaar, and Macedonia Square offer a blend of urban and historical photography opportunities. Afterward, we’ll transfer to the airport for your journey home.
For those extending the adventure, continue to Serbia for an unforgettable add-on experience.






Included
Accommodation (6 nights) double/twin rooms sharing (singles available upon request), all meals and drinks, airport transfers and all transportation during the tour, photography tuition, a local guide, entrance fees and all local taxes.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION
Extend your journey with a two-night photography adventure into Serbia, timed perfectly to capture the vibrant red pepper harvest season. This extension offers a unique opportunity to explore the world capital of red peppers, a small village near Niš, renowned for producing some of the finest paprika in the world.
During this extension, you’ll have unparalleled access to the daily lives of the villagers. Photograph scenes of farmers harvesting peppers in the fields, roasting them in traditional ovens, and hanging them to dry on the façades of their houses, creating a rich tapestry of colors and textures. We’ll enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a local family, where you’ll experience the famed warmth and hospitality of this region, while capturing intimate moments of authentic rural life.
Our base near Niš allows us to explore the area’s cultural and natural highlights, including sunset and blue hour photography opportunities at Niš’s central square and along the Nišava River. This extension is a feast for the senses and an enriching conclusion to your photography journey in the Balkans.





