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Indonesia Photo Tour 2023

DETAILS

Indonesia Photo Tour 2023

March 3rd, 2023 – March 17th, 2023
Indonesia

SOLD OUT! (Maximum 8 Participants)

Indonesia is a fascinating archipelago is comprised of over 17,500 islands and is a destination bulging with distinctly unique landscapes, wildlife and culture. This tour weaves its way through a wonderful blend of endearing wildlife, living landscapes and charming local culture. We search for wild Orangutans in the deep jungles of Kalimantan/Borneo, explore ancient volcanic landscapes, enjoy both the iconic and hidden gems of the region and mingle with the gracious people of East Java in places that tourist rarely visit.

Though sometimes perceived as enigmatic, Indonesia is a land brimming with the fabulous and fantastic. The endemic primate wildlife is entertaining in both behavior and appearance, yet their engaging expressions often convey a thoughtful awareness. The volcanic history here has produced raw, powerful landscapes which offer spectacular photographic opportunities. The genuine, welcoming character of the Javanese people make our photography in the markets and rural areas as much a fascination for them as it is for us.

We begin in Surabaya, East Java, our entry point into Indonesia. Here we prepare for our jungle expedition in Borneo, Indonesia’s second largest island. From our base we take a short domestic flight, and then travel to our destination by road. From that location we spend three days exploring the jungle with our expert local guides, looking for the endemic Orangutan and other wildlife. We then return to Surabaya for some well earned rest before we venture to another area of Borneo: the TANJUNG PUTING National Park. From our lodge base we explore the jungle interior on our exclusive-charter riverboat as we search for Orangutan, Proboscis, Macaques, Red Leaf Monkeys, Hornbills and much more. We will also visit feeding stations at the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centers in this area and be led by our expert local guide along well-formed jungle paths to photograph the deep forest and any fauna we encounter.

Returning to East Java we travel to Blitar, where we photograph the local culture and landscapes. From here we transfer to the nearby city of Malang, our base for four nights. During our stay here we will explore the mesmerizing Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park volcanic plateau, photograph traditional market life and the friendly faces of the Javanese people, visit spectacular waterfalls and enjoy photography of mountain-backed rice fields.

Every detail of this tour has been meticulously planned to offer you a first class experience. Hotel accommodations are comfortable and clean, the delicious meals are an experience in themselves. Our local guide has been exploring Indonesia since the 1990’s, speaks Indonesian (and enough Javanese to chat about the price of fish), and has led tours to all the areas we will be visiting. His in-depth local knowledge, understanding of cultural subtleties and reliable contacts make this adventure the best choice to experience Indonesia from a photographer’s perspective.

We look forward to welcoming you in Indonesia next year.

ITINERARY

Indonesia Photo Tour 2023

March 3rd, 2023 – March 17th, 2023
Indonesia

 SOLD OUT! (Maximum 8 Participants)

* In order to provide participants with the best photographic opportunities the itinerary is subject to change based on weather, lighting and other variables.

DAY 1: March 3rd, 2023 – ARRIVE IN SURABAYA

~ No Meals Provided

Arrive into Surabaya and transfer to hotel. Meet for welcome dinner. Overnight in Surabaya.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

DAY 2: March 4th, 2023 – SURABAYA to KALIMANTAN/BORNEO

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Travel day. Domestic flight to Kalimantan via Surabaya. Transfer by private car to our hotel and prepare for the upcoming jungle walks.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆Hotel

DAY 3 – 5: March 5th – 7th, 2023 – KALIMANTAN/BORNEO

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Full days exploring the jungle with National Park Ranger guides to photograph Orangutan and other wildlife. Depart the hotel approximately at 6:00am each morning and return around 5:00pm (times may vary). Toilet facilities at the Ranger Station. Four porters will be retained for the duration to assist with carrying camera gear, water etc. as needed. Our access to the park will be provided by private river boat. One early-return boat transfer will be on standby each day for anyone that wants an early return to the hotel.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆Hotel

DAY 6: March 8th, 2023 – KALIMANTAN/BORNEO to SURABAYA

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Return to Surabaya.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

DAY 7: March 9th, 2023 – SURABAYA

~ Breakfast Provided

Rest day! A chance to sleep in, do some laundry, swim in the pool, wander in the adjacent mall for trinkets and souvenirs or process a few images from the first half of the tour!

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

DAY 8: March 10th, 2023 – SURABAYA to WEST KALIMANTAN/BORNEO

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Domestic flight to Borneo. Transfer by riverboat to Tanjung Puting National Park, looking for wildlife as we travel. Arrive at the lodge late afternoon.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

DAY 9: March 11th, 2023 – TANJUNG PUTING NATIONAL PARK

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Full day exploring by riverboat. Visit two orangutan rehabilitation centres and photograph at the viewing platforms, which are set in the jungle. Other wildlife sometimes visit the feeding stations also. Other wildlife which we may encounter as we cruise the river includes proboscis monkeys, langurs, hornbills, kingfishers.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

DAY 10: March 12th, 2023 – TANJUNG PUTING NATIONAL PARK to SURABAYA to BLITAR

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Depart the lodge this morning for the return to the airport. Domestic flight to Surabaya, followed by private car transfer to Blitar.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel 

DAY 11: March 13th, 2023 – BLITAR to MALANG

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

An early start this morning to photograph sunrise overlooking a spectacular volcanic crater and the surrounding peaks! We return to the hotel for lunch and then travel by private vehicle to Malang, arriving in the late afternoon.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

DAY 12: March 14th, 2023 – MALANG

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

The historic east Java city of Malang offers fascinating street and portrait photography and we explore traditional local markets found in the central city. Traditional Javanese tea and cakes at the hotel in the late afternoon.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

DAY 13: March 15th, 2023 – BROMO TENGGER SEMERU NATIONAL PARK

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Depart the hotel long before dawn and travel to the Mt Bromo volcanic region for sunrise. Spend the day exploring the volcanic plateau by private hardtop jeeps. Return to Malang in the evening. An early return to the hotel can be arranged for those who would prefer to get back for an afternoon nap.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

DAY 14: March 16th, 2023 – MALANG

~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Another early start this morning as we drive to a stunning rural location where traditional terraced ricefields are overlooked by volcanic mountains. After our sunrise photography we make our way back to the hotel for a late breakfast. In the afternoon we photograph at a waterfall location. A grand, traditional feast is prepared tonight for our farewell dinner!

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

DAY 15: March 17th, 2023 – MALANG to SURABAYA

~ Breakfast Provided

After our morning breakfast we transfer via private shuttle from Malang back to Surabaya. Once we reach Surabaya you can continue on that evening to catch your departing international flight with a new group of friends, wonderful experiences and memory cards loaded full of image files to remember it all by. Upon arrival at the airport you will check in for your outbound flight home or continue on to your next destination. Bon Voyage!

CANCELLATION POLICY

Indonesia Photo Tour 2023

March 3rd, 2023 – March 17th, 2023
Indonesia

 SOLD OUT! (Maximum 8 Participants)

This cancellation policy protects our business losses and as such is strictly adhered to. Exceptions will not be made. We strongly encourage participants to purchase travelers insurance through an agency like Global Rescue so that you’ll have coverage should you unexpectedly need to cancel your trip. At his discretion, Nathaniel may lead the tour even if it does not meet the minimum number of participants required.

1). Cancel more than one year prior to the original tour start date:

Full refund, minus any initial deposit and all PayPal transaction fees. Refunds will be paid via PayPal and processed within 72 hours of the request being approved.

2). Cancel less than one year prior to the original tour start date:

A refund will only be issued if the tour is sold out and your vacated spot filled by another participant signing up. This refund would exclude your initial deposit, single supplement payments and any PayPal transaction fees.

* Should you fail to complete the payments as scheduled for this tour you will forfeit your deposit, all payments and your spot on this tour.

** You’ll be promptly notified and provided a full refund (including your deposit) should the tour be canceled by Nature Odyssey Worldwide Tours.

TRAVEL PLANNING

Indonesia Photo Tour 2023

March 3rd, 2023 – March 17th, 2023
Indonesia

 SOLD OUT! (Maximum 8 Participants)

• Participants must arrive in Surabaya, Indonesia prior to 5:00pm on March 3rd, 2023!

• We strongly encourage participants to purchase travelers insurance through an agency like Global Rescue so that you’ll have coverage should you unexpectedly need to cancel your trip.

• Traveling in remote locations can present challenges that may require slight changes to the itinerary. We will always try to run the tour as the initial itinerary. In the event, beyond our control, such as political unrest, natural disasters, over bookings by the lodge, where a change is required, we will do our best to keep you close to the original shooting location. It is our intention for you to have the best possible experience. We will try to notify you of any changes as soon as we are made aware of them. If, however these changes cause an increase to the price, the increase will be passed on to the participant.

PAYMENTS & REGISTRATION

Indonesia Photo Tour 2023

March 3rd, 2023 – March 17th, 2023

Indonesia

 SOLD OUT! (Maximum 8 Participants)

 10,995 USD – Based On Double Occupancy
  • $3,000 Non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot
  • $1,000 Single Supplement charged to any participant not sharing

* A late fee of $250 may be added to the balance for any payments not received by the due date.

CLICK ON ‘COMPLETE PAYMENT’ BELOW TO ACCESS PAYMENT OPTIONS


INDONESIA PHOTO TOUR 2023



INCLUDED

1. 15 Day / 14 night double occupancy accommodations (minimum 3 ☆☆☆ Hotels)
2. Accommodations in comfortable, private rooms
3. Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
4. All in-tour private airport transfers starting on Day Two
5. Private late-model vehicle transport for all in-tour excursions and transfers
6. Surabaya to Borneo/Kalimantan return domestic flights
7. Entrance fees to Kalimantan National Park, Park Rangers, Private Guides and Porters fees
8. Kalimantan National Park daily riverboat and vehicle transfers
9. Surabaya to Pangkalan Bun/Borneo return domestic flights
10. Entrance fees to Tanjung Puting National Park in Borneo
11. Entrance fees to Orangutan Rehabilitation Centres
12. Private riverboat and guide fees Tanjung Puting National Park in Borneo
13. Local transport fees Malang
14. Entrance fees to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park
15. Private Hard-top Jeep 4WD transport in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park
16. All other entrance and locally-levied fees/taxes
17. All driver, boat crew, local guide, hotel staff gratuities
18. Pro photographer mentoring by Nathaniel Smalley
19. Guiding services provided by expert local tour guide
20. Casual Lightroom & Photoshop workflow session
21. Field instruction and image review

EXCLUDED

1. Airline flights to destination
2. Optional activities such as helicopter, additional plane flights or boat rides, pre/post tour activities etc.
3. Any meals not notated as ‘Included’ or Water, Snacks, Coffee Beverages or Alcohol in between meals
4. Any incidentals, laundry etc. or items of a personal nature
5. Travel, Equipment or Health Insurance
6. Visas and passport fees (where applicable in preparation for your travel)
7. Airport or hotel transport 
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WHAT TO BRING

1. Camera with manual mode capability
2. Cable release or remote control for your camera (Mirror Up and Exposure Delay will also work)
3. Lens filters of your choice (ND, CPL, GRAD, etc.)
4. Extra batteries for your camera & charger
5. Sturdy tripod
6. Warm jacket of your choice
7. Waterproof / Windproof Clothes (GoreTex jacket + pants)
8. Sturdy, Waterproof Hiking Boots (ankle high recommended)
9. Headlamp with extra batteries
10. Small Umbrella
11. Clothes for tropical weather
12. Sunhat & Sunscreen
13. Laptop with Lightroom & Photoshop

DIFFICULTY

This is an outdoor nature photography tour, so being fit and in good health will allow you to enjoy the trip more comfortably. However, our planned activities should be within the ability of most people in moderate to good shape. Our Indonesia tours are designed to suit broad range of fitness levels, however, some longer walks over uneven, uphill and rugged terrain may be required at times. Therefore, good level of fitness is recommended, as well as the ability to carry your own small back pack with extra clothing, snacks and camera equipment. Please, discuss this with us if you have any concerns. Conditions can be damp during some parts of the tour, so please pack appropriate clothing for the conditions.

 Participants are required to sign a standard medical and waiver of liability form. Every effort is made to keep participants safe during all stages of the tour, but each person is solely responsible for avoiding personal injury or damaging their equipment during the trip.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Nathaniel Smalley is not only an extraordinary photographer, but an incredible instructor as well. He was eager to share all of his knowledge to ensure that I came away with the very best photographs that I could be proud of. His knowledge of New Zealand added to the overall magic of the workshop. In addition, he insured that our travel on the “backwards” roads was managed by expert drivers. The addition of a second photography expert, completed the package. I will share my experience with all of my photo friends and encourage them to travel with Nathaniel Smalley. Thank you NOW Tours! We will meet again!”

~ Becky W. |  California, USA

“I recently completed the Secrets of New Zealand photo tour with Nathaniel Smalley. There were 8 participants on the trip and two professional photographers to guide and assist. The tour began in Christchurch and moved around the South Island as we took sunset and sunrise photos of majestic sites. The team of Nathaniel and Phillip (the local photographer) shared their special locations for taking exquisite images of classic New Zealand landscape. While we took in the iconic locations like Milford Sound, we also were able to capture unique images at obscure locations.

Nathaniel was a great group leader. A distinguished landscape photographer in his own right, Nathaniel was willing to work with each of us to master the key technical and creative aspects of good landscape photography.

Nathaniel is also not afraid to jump into action. During my last shoot of the tour at Lake Matheson, I lost my tripod mount in the water right next to the wooden staircase we were using to shoot the lake from towards the backdrop of Mount Cook and Tasman. I resolved to shoot the location holding my camera. Before I could get set up Nathaniel had climbed over the railing of the steps and lowered himself to the water to recover my tripod mount which was resting on leaves just below the water surface. Somehow he did all of this without getting wet. With the return of the mount I was able to take the shot as planned with a long shutter speed. Thanks Nathaniel!

This was my first formal landscape photo tour and I found it very instructive and helpful. Our group of photographers all got along well. I would recommend future tours with both Nathaniel and Phillip without reservation.”

~ Neal B. |  New York, USA

“My sister Wendy and I would highly recommend NOW tours. We loved the trip to New Zealand we took with them in 2019. We found the itinerary, accommodations and instruction to be excellent. Nathaniel is a wonderful instructor who is a very knowledgeable and patient teacher who shared his love of photography with all of us. Nathaniel partners with a local photographer in New Zealand who is also an excellent instructor. Together they created an exceptional experience for the whole group. We are looking forward to our next adventure with NOW Tours.”

~ Marsha F. |  Canada

“Wonders of Alaska 2017 was my first workshop with Nathaniel, but I’m sure it won’t be my last; he was as kind, caring and patient as he appears online. Nathaniel was extremely attentive during the entire workshop, he shared technical and artistic knowledge during shooting, spent time reviewing and editing files in the evenings so that we really learned as we went along, and were able to put the learning into practice while still on the workshop. The weather conditions were difficult at times, but Nathaniel’s experience and attention to his students meant that the group learned how to work around suboptimal lighting and we all went home with great photographs! I love bears and this trip afforded us hours of watching every day, not the usual glimpse here and there that I was used to in Yellowstone, we even got to watch a mom nurse her two cubs! I couldn’t have asked for more.

~ Jackie H. |  Texas, USA

“Nathaniel of Nature Odyssey Worldwide is wonderful. I observed him for almost a year before booking with him. He truly believes in the “leave no trace behind” principle, he does not like baiting animals for a shot and he limits his workshop sizes so that everyone gets time with him one-on-one. Before booking with him, I asked him questions and he was very kind and attentive. Another feature that I appreciated is that he took care of all of the accommodations and he checked every room before handing us our keys. He spends time helping each participant while processing pictures and he provides personal as well as group instruction. He is easy going and truly cares about all of us. It is important to feel very comfortable with the person who you book with and he/she should be approachable.”

~ Thea M. |  Oregon, USA

“The Bryce Canyon Workshop was a fantastic experience for both improving my photographic skills, but also enjoying the beautiful scenery at Bryce Canyon Nation Park. The trip was well organized including providing detailed pre-departure information. Accommodations were awesome and included a comfortable conference room to allow for instruction by Nathaniel as well a post-processing of our images. Nathaniel’s instructions both at photo locations and during post-processing were excellent, providing ample personalized attention. Along with his experience and in-depth knowledge of both equipment and software my photographic skills both in capturing images and processing them greatly improved. I also appreciated his experience and knowledge on composition both in image capture as well as post processing. Photographic locations were plentiful and easily accessible at Bryce Canyon. The natural beauty at Bryce Canyon was just totally breathtaking and memorable especially looking down at the hoodoos while watching the sun bring life to the multitude of colors as well as listening to the wind blow through them. I would definitely take another workshop with Nathaniel and recommend that others strongly consider taking one of his workshops.”

~ Allan P. |  Vermont, USA

“I just returned from Nathaniel’s Wonders of Alaska trip, he is a fantastic photo workshop leader. He is able to give his participants close attention which is so important on these trips. He is patient and takes the time to teach. He is kind and without attitude, which I have not found with other instructors. He makes sure to keep his trips small so he can ensure everyone is getting the personalized attention they need. He takes time to review pictures at the end of the day and to give feedback ensuring you are prepared for the next day. The photo book that he provides the participants of the trip is an added bonus! He makes everyone feel respected and welcome no matter what level of photographer they are. I really appreciated the effort and enjoyed reminiscing about the trip. The effort Nathaniel put forth for his guests did not go unnoticed! I highly recommend a workshop or safari with him.”

~ Mindy R. |  California, USA

“My wife and I know a little bit about Norway. She’s Norwegian and grew up in the far north, above the Arctic Circle. I lived in Norway for several years before we moved, and moved again (long story). On a recent trip back to visit family, we decided to couple that with Nathaniel Smalley’s photo workshop in the Lofoten Islands. Uff da, but that was a good decision! He took us to some absolutely stunning locations and is a very effective teacher of landscape photography – including how to edit the photos you take. He keeps his groups small so he can provide lots of individual attention and coaching. We stayed at nice places, ate well (get ready to appreciate pickled herring and sweet brown goat cheese) (or not), and were catered to night and day. Nathaniel is easygoing, good at problem-solving, and quick to make everyone feel comfortable. We were also lucky with the weather on our trip. I don’t know if he can deliver more of that, but we would recommend him to others without hesitation. We came away with great experiences and also some pretty darn good photographs!”

~ Pete & Solvie H. |  Oregon, USA

“I recently participated in Nathaniel’s 2017 Norway workshop. From the moment the workshop started, Nathaniel was completely engaged in ensuring our experience exceeded our expectations. Nathaniel’s approach is very interactive and instructional. He readily shares technical and artistic expertise. He also ensures that each student has what they need to maximize the photo opportunities. From our top-notch lodging, food and access to many beautiful locations – logistically, everything was smooth and easy. From a photography perspective, we had excursions to many picturesque locations that included beautiful beaches, waterfalls and Norwegian villages. We were fortunate to be able to see and photograph one of the most intense Northern Lights in over fifteen years. Nathaniel confirmed that we were prepared, set up and ready to go to maximize the moments. During our non-photography time, we reviewed photos, post processing techniques, while learning new editing skills. In addition to the learning, Nathaniel is enjoyable to work with in the field. He’s fun, easy going, while maintaining a high level of professionalism. I highly recommend Nathaniel’s workshops!”

~ Sheen W. |  Michigan, USA

“I have taken many workshops over the years and have found that maybe one third of the instructors to be excellent teachers. Nathaniel is in that category. He is very patient, has an artist’s eye for composition, and an in depth knowledge of photographic technique. He spares no effort to make his trips as memorable as they could possibly be. Nathaniel’s workshop exceeded my expectations. He is very thorough covering photography concepts, composition, and post processing technique. It truly elevated the impact of my images. I would take another workshop from him in a heartbeat. Thank you Nathaniel!”

~ Aurora O. |  Arizona, USA

“Nathaniel’s workshop is one of the best I’ve ever taken. The trip was very well organized and with enough flexibility to modify our schedule to be at places when the light was beautiful and the crowds weren’t there. With Iceland being such a popular destination, the ‘must see‘ places get completely overrun with visitors. The times Nathaniel arranged for us to be at many of our spots was when we could capture images of these places looking pristine.

We also visited some more remote, off the beaten path locations, which I appreciated very much. Our accommodations were also good selections – from clean and comfortable to luxurious. I don’t think I could have had a more enjoyable experience with any one else and gotten the amazing images I took on this trip. Nathaniel is also very helpful with all levels of photographers and I believe that everyone improved their skills in his workshop. I plan to take another workshop with Nathaniel.”

~ Beverly H. |  California, USA

“I have travelled to many countries around the world but I have to say that Norway (Lofoten Islands) was one of the most spectacular locations I have ever photographed. Nathaniel did an amazing job setting up our lodging, meals and transportation. The photo tour was packed with excursions to beautiful beaches, pristine waterfalls, quaint villages and yes, we were quite lucky to see the northern lights on three occasions! At every location, Nathaniel made sure that we had the right lens and filter for the scene and also checked our camera settings for correct exposure. In the evenings, we would spend hours on reviewing our photos, discussing composition and getting suggestions from Nathaniel for photo editing with Lightroom & Photoshop. All in all a photographers dream!!!”

~ Norm V. |  Massachusetts, USA

“In 2016 I attended an African Safari with Nathaniel, he listens to his clients and goes out of his way to accommodate their special requests.  He is also very helpful in demonstrating his processing workflow and the different types of processing tools he uses. The overall plan for the trip was EXCELLENT!  The accommodation, food, driver/guides could not have been better. I particularly appreciated the long time we spent on each game drive, using our precious time on the trip as much as possible. It was perfect. His choice of where to stay and for how long reflected your experience in the area. The structure gave us the best possible opportunities for photography. We had exceptional opportunities for photographing a variety of animals and amazing action! Cheetah kills, wildebeest and zebras crossing the river with crocodiles lying in wait, lionesses and cheetahs feeding their cubs. Awesome!”

~ Gillian S. | Maryland, USA

“I signed up for the Lofoten tour led by Nathaniel on the spur of a moment, it fitted well with my remaining holiday dates at work and I am very pleased that I did. During the trip Nathaniel was great company and took us to most of the iconic locations in Lofoten for both sunrise and sunset shoots as well as Aurora hunting trips when conditions were suitable . The choice and location of the accommodations were great and the whole trip was a pleasure to be part of. My thanks to Nathaniel Smalley for all the hard work and countless hundreds of miles behind the wheel during the week. An excellent trip.”

~ Shaun Y. | Great Britain