explora has launched a series of new four-night, five-day photographic expeditions in Atacama and Patagonia aimed at allowing travelers to view the scenery and wildlife of South America while honing their skills as a photographer. The new packages are sponsored by Nikon Inc.
explora guides lead the expeditions, and New York-based photographer Katsuyoshi Tanaka will be on hand to tutor travelers in their photographic experience. Travelers will go on daily treks that highlight the region’s history, flora, fauna and geography. Every trek starts and ends at one of explora’s eco-friendly lodges: Hotel Salto Chico in Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia or Hotel de Larache in the Atacama Desert.
In Patagonia, travelers will visit the Grey Glacier, one of the world’s largest freshwater reserves at the south end of the Southern Patagonia Ice Field, meet gauchos at an explora Quincho, horseback ride and explore the French Valley with views of the Paine Grande Mountain and the Paine Horns, as well as the French Glacier from a hanging bridge over the French River.
In the Atacama, travelers will bike desert trails to Atacama Salt Lake; capture the sunset and flamingos while learning to frame images on the Atacama Salt Flat; rise before dawn for a trip to the Tatio Geysers, with back-lit vapor and splashing water creating photo-worthy atmospherics; focus on birds and wildlife on the way to Puritana Lake; and engage in a day-long exploration of the volcanic Altiplano Lakes at more than 13,000 feet above sea level.
Mr. Tanaka will provide a daily critique session focused on the day’s instruction and individual photography. The two packages can be combined into a 10-day trip at a five percent discount with an explora Passport.
It is recommended for travelers to bring their own DSLR camera, tripod and personal computer. In addition, explora and sponsor Nikon Inc. will make available a selection of Nikon D7000 digital SLR cameras with NIKKOR lenses (AF-S DX 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II) and Nikon compact cameras, which can be borrowed by attendees. The expeditions are designed for eight people, and the first departures are scheduled for 2013.
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