Click here to see a detailed itinerary and dates for the Galapagos tour

Overview of the Galapagos:

The Galapagos Archipelago, off the coast of Ecuador, is a collection of seventy islands dubbed a "living laboratory". It is home to several unique species including the golden land and blue-green marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises. The archipelago lies at the confluence of three distinct ocean currents, which forms a unique marine environment where both temperate and tropical marine life thrives. One in four marine species is unique to the Galapagos.

In 1959, Ecuador established the Galapagos Islands as a National Park by the in a major preservation attempt. Settlements were limited to those already existing closing many completely to tourism. Presently, out of the 70 islands, only 13 allow tourism. In an attempt to understand and preserve the delicate ecosystems, the Charles Darwin Research Station formed on Santa Cruz Island in 1964. The Marine Research Reserve established in 1986 to help restoration efforts.

Bartolome Twin Bay

Why Do this Trip with Richard Durnan?

Richard Durnan has been traveling and photographing nature, the outdoors, and outdoor activities around the world since his first trip to Nepal in 1992. As a professional adventure travel photographer his work has appeared extensively through out the world both editorially and in advertising with magazines such as National Geographic Adventure and companies like and Patagonia. Traveling and capturing amazing images in breathtaking places is Richard’s specialty.

Richard’s travel experience and technical knowledge will assist you in becoming a better photographer and traveler. This workshop and trek offers you the opportunity to grow as a photographer, by learning how to capture your personal travel story with beautiful images.

What will my experience be?

Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are places completely different from anything you may experience in North America. The pace of life is slower and priorities may be different from what you are accustom. Your attitude and flexibility will make or break your experience. Experience the cultural environment with an open mind. Embrace the idea of not knowing what to expect, as it is part of this adventure

During this photo tour we will seek a balance between exploration in extraordinary locations and developing excellent photography skills.The goals are to increase your ability as a photographer, no matter what your level of experience may be, and allow you to see a wondrous place, meet amazing people, and capture your travel story in photographs.

Matt Photographing Masked Boobies

Boobie sitting on nest

This workshop allows you to learn technical skills with the guidance of a professional photographer in the field rather than classroom. Photography is best learned when exercised in real situations. You will have time to work on your own, and the opportunity to receive Richard’s full and personalized attention when you need it. You will also have the opportunity to learn by watching Richard’s techniques as he creates his own images.

During the tour, our schedule permits you to place priority on photography as you wish. Each day allows you to explore your surroundings, and discover photographic opportunities with the freedom to move at your own pace. The overall group size will be small to keep the trip intimate and allow you to build rewarding bonds.

Whether your choice of medium is Black and White, Color, or Digital, 35 mm or large format, Richard will help you to become comfortable with what it takes to capture the images and experience you want. If you just want to bring your point and shoot camera and learn how to make better snap shots, that’s OK. Richard will help you find the best way to express your self through your photography

What will I need?

Your own camera equipment. A camera of any kind is fine, but a 35mm SLR with manual settings will be the most flexible.
·Film (unless you will be using a digital camera)
·A tripod is recommended
·Good comfortable walking/hiking shoes
·Participants should be reasonably fit and prepared for walking

There is more information once you sign up for the workshop. The following will be required:

Masked Boobie

1. You must become a member of the American Alpine Club for their worldwide rescue insurance. No other insurance company offers this type of rescue insurance. Membership costs $75 per year to join, ($110 for a couple). There are many other great reasons to be a member of the club! Go to http://www.americanalpineclub.org

2. You must have travel insurance. This will cover your non-refundable deposit to Richard Durnan Photography and your airfare if the trip is cancelled due to political reasons, a family emergency, unexpected illness or injury. We have seen it all, you need to cover yourself.

3. We will require a signed medical/physical from your physician stating you are physically fit to go on this trip.

4. You will need to complete a general application form that covers other important information for us to know about you including your emergency contact information, special needs, insurance information, etc.

Trip expense includes:

Land Expenses: All meals, accommodations, airport transfers, naturalist guides, boat transportation, ground transportation, sea kayaks, snorkel equipment.

Trip DOES NOT include: $100 cash park entry fee paid upon entry to Galapagos, tips and gratuities, personal expenses such as souvenirs, meals out side of group, international airfare to Quito, Ecuador.

What Shall I Do Now?

Click here to see a detailed itineraries of the trips offered with more photos. Then contact Richard Durnan and let him know you are interested in this experience of a lifetime.

Richard Durnan

PO Box 2065
Ridgway CO 81432-2065
970-626-4138
request @ richdurnanphoto.com