Join us on a 2-part wildlife adventure through Ecuador’s capital, across the Andes Mountains, and deep into the Amazon River Basin to explore unique environments few often visit. First, our small group journeys by car, plane, boat, and canoe far into the remote jungle to a luxury wilderness lodge situated on a black water lagoon in the heart of Ecuador’s largest protected area. 

Our forest accommodation offers unique acess to nature while also providing premium amenities in some of the furthest reaches of the country. We spend 5 nights photographing everywhere from the treetops to the riverbanks in one of the most biodiverse regions on earth. This wilderness area is regarded as an “ecological bull’s-eye”; a complex network of tropical forests and converging river ways. Led by a team of professional outdoor photographers and trusted local guides with extensive experience in the region, this workshop takes you on forest walks, canoe rides, up to the forest canopy on observation decks, to water holes, known nesting sites, clay licks, and much more for a fully comprehensive exploration of the terrain.

Just one hectare of the forest boasts more than 650 different tree species, more than all of the tree species found in North America. That incredible habitat offers a lifeline to spectacular species like tayra, jaguar, tamarin, sloth, ocelot, capybara, marmoset, agouti, tapir, giant otter, peccary, tamandua, coati, giant armadillo, caiman, a variety of monkeys, bats, frogs, and many other amphibians and reptiles. In fact, this small region is home to approximately one-third of amphibian and reptile species found in the entire Amazon Basin.

We share the forests and waterways with many indigenous communities that have long called this river basin their home. These are hunter gatherer tribes entirely depend on the longevity of the ecosystem, and for visitors to educate themselves on conservation efforts in the Amazon, thus, we partner with local naturalists and guides to bring us closer to these communities for rare cultural experiences only given to those who journey deep into these ancient forests.

Bird-lovers will also rejoice in the record numbers of unique birds found across the country in regions we’ve arranged to visit. With more than 1,680 different species of birds, Ecuador is one of the most popular destinations in the world for birdwatchers. Our first destination alone is home to at least 596 bird species which comprises one-third of the total native bird species for the Amazon.

On the 7th day of our workshop, our group transitions locations, and the fun is just beginning! After one rest evening in Quito, the group sets out by private vehicle for a 4 day birding excursion in the Andean Rainforest. We arrive at a new forest lodge which caters to wildlife photographers.

The region’s 260 mm monthly rainfall creates an incredible habitat for species big and small. Together, we explore the mountainsides of the Andes from 1640 feet – 11,155 feet to explore the diverse wildlife there. The lush environment offers dynamic opportunities to photograph stunning wildlife subjects, like toucans, macaws, monkeys, tree frogs, and massive amounts of hummingbirds from a variety of vantage points like lodge balconies, walking trails, canopy viewing towers, and designated pollinator gardens with spaces dedicated for photographers to work with the environment and capture the scene. During this portion of the trip, we dedicate time to shoot Andean cock-of-the-rock up-close, as well as multi-flash hummingbird photo shoots to practice high shutter photography techniques. 

Throughout the workshop, you will learn how to compose compelling images, work with the weather and lighting conditions to take full advantage of the environment, learn about the culture you’re visiting, and master the technical aspects of photography. Whether you’re a beginner photographer or a seasoned pro, our experienced instructors will provide personalized instruction and guidance to help you improve your skills and take your wildlife and landscape photography to the next level.

This workshop offers in-the-field instruction to best hone in your images and streamline your creative visions, as well as post-workshop image reviews and editing sessions to continue practicing skills and techniques learned on the workshop once you’ve returned home.

Sign up now to be prepared to create lasting memories and stunning photographs that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.