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About Our Company
We connect passionate people to exceptional experiences.
TRIP DETAILS
All-Inclusive Lodge-Based Photo Workshop
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Start/End
Start: Kailua-Kona, HI at 5 pm
End: Kailua-Kona, HI at Any Time Last Day
End: Kailua-Kona, HI at Any Time Last Day
Group Size
Limited to 7 Guests
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TRIP OVERVIEW
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HIGHLIGHTS
- Capture images of humpback whales, turtles, and rays on a private boat charter.
- Witness the power of nature as you photograph Kilauea Volcano in Volcanoes National Park.
- Walk through lush rainforests and discover hidden gems like Akaka and Rainbow Falls.
- Traverse the rugged and tropical coastlines of Hamakua and Waipio Valley, capturing the untamed beauty of the island's shores.
- Mesmerizing sunsets at Hawaii's most stunning coastal stretches, providing the perfect backdrop for your photography.
- Exquisite cuisine and lodging - a true Hawaiian experience.
Experience the wonders of Hawaii's Big Island like never before on our captivating photo workshop. This island paradise, situated in the remote Pacific archipelago, offers a myriad of photographic opportunities that will leave you in awe. From its majestic volcanic landscapes to its vibrant marine life, the Big Island is a photographer's dream come true.
Join us as we venture out to the sparkling waters surrounding the island on a private boat charter. Witness the breathtaking beauty of humpback whales as they make their annual migration to the warm Hawaiian waters for breeding. Capture these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will undoubtedly result in extraordinary photographs.
But that's not all. Our journey will also take us to the fiery slopes of Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, and the renowned Volcanoes National Park, where the mighty Kilauea Volcano continues to shape the island's landscape. Feel the power of nature as you photograph the dramatic eruptions and witness the creation of new land.
Immerse yourself in the lush rainforests, where vibrant flora and fauna abound. Explore hidden gems such as Akaka and Rainbow Falls, where cascading waters create a magical atmosphere. Traverse the rugged and tropical coastlines of Hamakua and Waipio Valley, capturing the untamed beauty of the island's shores.
Our carefully designed itinerary ensures that you won't miss the mesmerizing sunsets at Hawaii's most stunning coastal stretches. From pristine sandy beaches to dramatic lava flows, each sunset paints a unique masterpiece across the horizon, providing an ideal backdrop for your photography.
Join us on our annual photo tour of Hawaii's Big Island and embark on a journey of discovery. Enhance your portfolio with a stunning collection of images that showcase the island's natural wonders. And after the trip, take the opportunity to extend your stay and unwind on the island's world-class beaches, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
What's Included
- All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
- All transportation during the workshop
- All lodging during the workshop
- Private boat charter
- All permits and park fees
- Professional photography guiding and instruction
- Gratuity for service staff
What's Not Included
- Transportation to and from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii (KOA)
- Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
- Lodging outside workshop dates
- Alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs and personal items
- Gratuity for photography guide(s)
- Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
ITINERARY
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Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1 (Travel Day)(D)
Arrive in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii and check into our Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. We’ll have orientation and group dinner
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Our morning shoot will take us out on a private charter to look for and photograph humpback whales along the Northern Kohala Coast. Humpbacks winter in Hawaii and our experienced captain will take us right to them! We’ll spend the morning photographing the whales and other marine wildlife. If we're lucky, we'll see whales breach, fin slap, and play in the warm Hawaiian waters. This evening we will photograph the fabled Kona Sunset along a golden beach as it dips into the aquamarine waters of the warm Pacific Ocean.
Day 3 (B,L,D)
This morning we will photograph a stunning sunrise along the Kohalo Coast. After a locally-inspired breakfast we’ll head around the island with our goal being to reach a black sand beach for sunset. We'll drive the Saddle Road, which cuts between two 13,000' volcanoes (Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea). We'll make plenty of photo stops and eventually head to the black sand beach for sunset.
Day 4 (B,L,D)
We'll shoot sunrise at a nearby jagged beach, famous for big waves. Afterwards, we'll visit some waterfalls and spend time in the tropical forests near Hilo. If time permits, we'll visit a botanical garden nestled right on the coast. We'll spend the rest of day exploring Volcanoes National Park. We'll shoot sunset near the park and if conditions permit, we'll photograph glowing lava once it gets dark.
Day 5 (B,L,D)
Today, we'll shoot sunrise near Volcanoes National Park or another beach on the east coast, depending on conditions and weather. We'll spend some time shooting more waterfalls and some forest scenes. Mid-day, we'll take a break to explore historic Hilo and get some great local food. Tonight, there are many options. We can shoot sunset at Rainbow Falls right outside Hilo or head back to Volcanoes National Park.
Day 6 (B,L,D)
This morning we will photograph the towering sea cliffs at sunrise from the Waipi'o Valley Overlook. After sunrise, we'll eat at a great local restaurant and make our way back to Kona. We'll make stops along the Kohala Coast, at some of the most beautiful beaches across all of the islands. We often find sea turtles basking in the sun as well. On our final evening, we'll photography the setting sun from a beach near Kona that features idyllic palm trees and gorgeous sand. A fitting end to a great trip. After sunset, we'll eat dinner as a group and conclude the trip.
Day 7
Flights home can be arranged for any time today from Kailua-Kona.
Day 1 (Travel Day)(D)
Arrive in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii and check into our Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. We’ll have orientation and group dinner
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Our morning shoot will take us out on a private charter to look for and photograph humpback whales along the Northern Kohala Coast. Humpbacks winter in Hawaii and our experienced captain will take us right to them! We’ll spend the morning photographing the whales and other marine wildlife. If we're lucky, we'll see whales breach, fin slap, and play in the warm Hawaiian waters. This evening we will photograph the fabled Kona Sunset along a golden beach as it dips into the aquamarine waters of the warm Pacific Ocean.
Day 3 (B,L,D)
This morning we will photograph a stunning sunrise along the Kohalo Coast. After a locally-inspired breakfast we’ll head around the island with our goal being to reach a black sand beach for sunset. We'll drive the Saddle Road, which cuts between two 13,000' volcanoes (Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea). We'll make plenty of photo stops and eventually head to the black sand beach for sunset.
Day 4 (B,L,D)
We'll shoot sunrise at a nearby jagged beach, famous for big waves. Afterwards, we'll visit some waterfalls and spend time in the tropical forests near Hilo. If time permits, we'll visit a botanical garden nestled right on the coast. We'll spend the rest of day exploring Volcanoes National Park. We'll shoot sunset near the park and if conditions permit, we'll photograph glowing lava once it gets dark.
Day 5 (B,L,D)
Today, we'll shoot sunrise near Volcanoes National Park or another beach on the east coast, depending on conditions and weather. We'll spend some time shooting more waterfalls and some forest scenes. Mid-day, we'll take a break to explore historic Hilo and get some great local food. Tonight, there are many options. We can shoot sunset at Rainbow Falls right outside Hilo or head back to Volcanoes National Park.
Day 6 (B,L,D)
This morning we will photograph the towering sea cliffs at sunrise from the Waipi'o Valley Overlook. After sunrise, we'll eat at a great local restaurant and make our way back to Kona. We'll make stops along the Kohala Coast, at some of the most beautiful beaches across all of the islands. We often find sea turtles basking in the sun as well. On our final evening, we'll photography the setting sun from a beach near Kona that features idyllic palm trees and gorgeous sand. A fitting end to a great trip. After sunset, we'll eat dinner as a group and conclude the trip.
Day 7
Flights home can be arranged for any time today from Kailua-Kona.
Please note that the exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures, and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and landscape photography, we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions.
Your 3 Unique Advantages
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PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
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WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY
Backcountry Journeys
Our proven process for world-class photography workshops, tours, and safaris
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TRIP ENROLLMENT
Our team of Photo Adventure Specialists will guide you through onboarding and enrollment when you book a trip. Expect excellent customer service.
ALL-INCLUSIVE
Enjoy a hassle-free experience with an all-inclusive package that takes care of all your needs, from transportation to meals and lodging.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Improve your photography skills with personalized guidance from professional photographers who are passionate about helping you succeed and getting you to the best locations.
BCJ COMMUNITY
Become part of our family - interact with BCJ guides and new friends. Share images, ask questions, talk about everything photography!
WE RECOMMEND TRIP INSURANCE
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations include Yosemite, Alaska, Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, Hawaii, Utah as well as Botswana & Costa Rica."
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2024
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations include Yosemite, Alaska, Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, Hawaii, Utah as well as Botswana & Costa Rica."
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.