Frequently Asked Questions
Q: For whom are these trips best suited?
A: Our clientele ranges from individuals and couples to families and mixed groups.
We've taken novice photographers as well as published photography authors. We've taken nature lovers and people who just like to look at birds. Some are after a specific species for their "life list", while others just want to see what's out there.
We are happy to accommodate you, regardless of your level of interest or if you are just seeking a relaxing vacation in a magnificent natural setting. "Hard-core" wildlife photographers and naturalists are equally at home on our trips. As guides, we live to explore and photograph the species and habitats we encounter.
Q: I'm a beginning photographer. Are these trips right for me?
A: Yes. We are accustomed to working with all skill levels of photographers on these trips. Since the vast majority of our trips run on a private, customized basis, with a personalized photo curriculum prepared for you based on your pre-trip portfolio, it is not a problem if you are a novice, intermediate, or advanced photographer. Regardless of your experience level, we still begin with the very basics in our photography curriculum and work with and up to your comfort/knowledge level.
Q: I'm not a photographer, but my partner is. May I still come on these trips?
A: Yes. While there is a strong emphasis on photography instruction on these trips, we are happy to accommodate non-photographers as well. There is enough interesting wildlife, birds, and natural and cultural history on the trips to be of interest to most any traveler.
Q: What do I need to bring on these trips?
A: A complete list of recommended items to carry with you will be sent to clients at the time of booking along with a complete packet of information to help you prepare for your trip.
Q: Will I be guaranteed of seeing the wildlife I have come for?
A: Not necessarily. We are searching for untamed wildlife in their native habitat, not at a zoo or other captive scenario. Some species are very elusive and rarely seen by anyone. However, we travel in places that offer the best opportunity to find these sometimes elusive organisms and maximize our chances of locating desired species with time spent in the field and with numerous trained eyes searching the landscape. We will definitely see some, if not most, of the sought-after or common species possible, but we can't guarantee you will see all of them.
Q: How do your prices compare to other offerings on the market?
A: We strive to keep trip costs competitive within our market because we know you have a choice. In an ideal world, we'd be able to offer trips one-on-one for you and your group at the same cost as the provider who takes 12 or more clients at once. We are very competitive given what we offer.
Over the years, it has become clear that everyone has a much better time in a smaller group, so that is why we specialize in that type of experience. We are committed to providing you with a terrific trip within your budget. We offer a variety of trip options to make it easier to find one within your budget range.
Q: How do your trips differ from the rest of the travel company offerings on the market?
A: Our trips differ from the majority of outfits because of the personalized attention you will receive, small group sizes, and experience in the field. These tours are both adventurous and educational. We travel with no more than 4-6 clients at one time so the intimacy and wildlife opportunities on these trips are unparalleled by large tour groups of 12-14 or more, which is the industry standard for these types of itineraries. It is virtually impossible to get great wildlife photographs if there is a large (and noisy) group around.
Q: What is required to secure the dates I want on one of your trips?
A: A 50% trip cost deposit is required to hold dates for your excursion. The final 50% is due 180 days prior to your departure date. Please see our reservations page for additional details.