From July 5–15, 2018, adventurous photographers can join International Nature & Cultural Adventures on an immersive Galapagos Photo Safari, offered in partnership with Frozen Hiker Photography. This 11-day voyage aboard the luxury yacht Integrity is limited to 14 participants and is led by professional photographers Don Tredinnick and Bruce Norman, together with two experienced Galapagos naturalists from INCA. The small-group format and expert leadership ensure personalized instruction and excellent opportunities to photograph the islands’ iconic wildlife, including Blue-Footed Booby chicks, sea lions, Waved Albatrosses and giant tortoises.
The program is designed as a hands-on learning experience for photographers who want to improve their craft. Instruction covers practical topics such as digital image management, advanced capture techniques and post-processing workflows using Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop and other tools. Alongside guided shoots, participants receive coaching tailored to skill level so they can refine both technical and artistic approaches to wildlife and landscape photography.
Travel begins with arrival in either Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador, followed by a flight to Santa Cruz for boarding the Integrity. Before setting sail, the itinerary includes visits to the Darwin Research Station, explorations of local lava tubes, hikes to observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat and time in the town of Puerto Ayora. These pre-cruise activities provide additional photographic opportunities and context for the islands’ unique ecosystems.
Rates start at $9,195 per person based on double occupancy. This price includes round-trip airfare to the Galapagos (GPS) from Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE), all yacht accommodations, professional guides, meals, non-alcoholic beverages and draft beer while aboard the yacht, planned activities and tours, use of kayaks and snorkeling equipment on board, round-trip airport transfers, the Galapagos transit tax and all arrangements outlined in the itinerary. Not included are international airfare to Ecuador, airport taxes and fees, Galapagos National Park entrance fees, onboard WiFi, tips, wetsuit rentals and other personal expenses.
The Galapagos Photo Safari combines expert photographic instruction with access to some of the planet’s most spectacular wildlife and scenery. With small group sizes, dedicated instructors and a carefully planned itinerary, the trip offers both ambitious amateurs and experienced shooters the chance to elevate their images while experiencing the extraordinary biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands.