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Backcountry Journeys
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About Our Company
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The Big Island of Hawaii
Lodge-Based Photo Workshop
Upcoming Departures
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Trip Leader(s)
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Starting From [Block//Current Price]
Single Supplement: +$1,495.00
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Deposit: $3,000.00
Start/End
Kailua-Kona, HI / Kailua-Kona, HI
Length
7 Days/6 Nights
Fitness Level
Level 1 - What's This?
Group Size
Up To 7 Guests
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.
If you have any questions about a trip, itinerary, or gear, our Photo Experience Coordinators are available for a personalized one-on-one consultation to provide all the details you need.
Trip Description:
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). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities
Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
Trip Itinerary
Trip Itinerary
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.
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Why Choose Backcountry Journeys?
UNPARALELLED
PHOTOGRAPHY
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PHOTOGRAPHY
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Explore over 100 worldwide photo tours and workshops tailored to photographers of all skill levels, from iconic U.S. National Parks to Africa's untamed savannahs.
THE BEST TEAM
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We're proud to offer unmatched photography trips led by exceptional instructors who not only excel in photography but also serve as expert guides.
WORLD-CLASS
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PHOTOGRAPHY
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Join the Backcountry Journeys Tribe, where shared adventures in breathtaking locations foster lasting connections with fellow photographers in a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Testimonials From Our Customers
Julie K.
"I have traveled with Backcountry Journeys (BCJ) several times over the last 4 years to Glacier NP, Costa Rica (2x), Smoky Mountains NP, Joshua Tree, Zion and Bryce NPs, and most recently to Alaska.
Every trip with BCJ has been an outstanding experience. The guides are professional photographers who put the experience of the guests first. They are willing to provide as much hands on help as you need/want. The guides are also extremely knowledgeable and well trained in wilderness safety as well as the areas they guide.
BCJ trips are well run from the time of reservation through the entire trip. They will take you to great places and find great photographic opportunities."
Every trip with BCJ has been an outstanding experience. The guides are professional photographers who put the experience of the guests first. They are willing to provide as much hands on help as you need/want. The guides are also extremely knowledgeable and well trained in wilderness safety as well as the areas they guide.
BCJ trips are well run from the time of reservation through the entire trip. They will take you to great places and find great photographic opportunities."
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Scott S.
"BCJ provides an outstanding experience for photographers of all levels of experience/expertise. Each day's excursion is well planned-out and the guides always have a back-up plan if the weather is less than cooperative.
I have now been on 5 trips and each one seems better than the last. I find the guides to be very helpful and personable. The guides provide the level of hands-on assistance each participant wants.
The accommodations are always good, taking into consideration what each particular destination has to offer. I plan to continue doing these trips with BCJ and can't recommend them highly enough."
I have now been on 5 trips and each one seems better than the last. I find the guides to be very helpful and personable. The guides provide the level of hands-on assistance each participant wants.
The accommodations are always good, taking into consideration what each particular destination has to offer. I plan to continue doing these trips with BCJ and can't recommend them highly enough."
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Katherine P.
"I have now been on 8 trips with Backcountry Journeys. I love traveling with this company, as I am a woman traveling alone, and all I have to do is show up and they take care of everything else.
They have wonderful, caring, helpful, FUN, and knowledgeable guides who make the days fly by. They get us to the best photography sites possible and are always willing to help with anything and answer all questions.
We stay in great places and there is always too much wonderful food! I have met other travelers on their trips who will be friends for life, plus the guides are more than guides--they become friends too. I know I will be doing more traveling with them in the future."
They have wonderful, caring, helpful, FUN, and knowledgeable guides who make the days fly by. They get us to the best photography sites possible and are always willing to help with anything and answer all questions.
We stay in great places and there is always too much wonderful food! I have met other travelers on their trips who will be friends for life, plus the guides are more than guides--they become friends too. I know I will be doing more traveling with them in the future."
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Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
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!
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 worldwide.
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.
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 worldwide.
- 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