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Capture Costa Rica's Incredible Biodiversity on a Wildlife Photography Workshop
Immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s wildlife and photography paradise! This Central American gem boasts 5% of the world’s biodiversity, lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and incredible animals. Join our fully inclusive photo workshop and explore the Caribbean and Cloud Forest regions’ biologically diverse ecosystems. We have curated the perfect locations to maximize photographic opportunities.
We’ll stay in comfortable mountain lodges with delicious seafood, fresh fruits, and local cuisine.
This a 9-night, 10-day fully inclusive workshop perfect for photographers of all levels who are passionate about wildlife and nature. Get yourself to San Jose, (SJO), Costa Rica and we will do the rest and take care of all your food, lodging, transportation and educational opportunities. This is an intensive workshop, perfect for photographers of all levels who want to learn from professionals and experience the magic of Costa Rica. We’ll work hard to capture the best images by rising early and staying late to take advantage of the best light. But don’t worry; we will have plenty of breaks to rest and reflect on the day’s activities.
Learn Wildlife Photography with Richard L. Camp and Dennis Atencio in Costa Rica
Join renowned wildlife photographers and educators Richard L. Camp and Dennis Atencio on an unforgettable photography adventure in Costa Rica! Dennis is a native Costa Rican who has extensive knowledge of the country and a passion for finding unique wildlife locations. Richard has a passion for creativity and education that will help you capture stunning images.
Why Choose This Workshop?
- Expert Photography Guidance: Learn from wildlife photographer Richard L Camp and expert Costa Rican photographer/guide Dennis Atencio to improve your wildlife photography skills
- Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters: Photograph amphibians, sloths, monkeys, macaws, toucans, hummingbirds, Quetzals and more in their natural habitat
- Diverse Locations: Explore rainforests, mountains, and valleys,capturing the beauty of Costa Rica’s landscapes
- All-Inclusive Experience: Enjoy comfortable lodging, delicious meals, and convenient transportation, allowing you to focus on photography
- Small Group Experience: To get the most out of this workshop, we are limiting this trip to just five photographers who are serious about their work. You’ll have expert, almost a 2:1 instructor-to-client ratio, that gives you skills and confidence in your photography.
- Cultural Immersion: Dennis’s fluency in Spanish ensures a seamless and authentic experience
- Hands-on Learning: Shoot alongside Richard and Dennis, receiving real-time guidance and technique demonstrations
- Focus on Your Growth: Receive personalized support image reviews and post-processing instruction to improve your wildlife photography
- Supportive Community: Connect with fellow photographers and learn from each other in a friendly atmosphere
WORKSHOP HIGHLIGHTS
Sarapiqui Rainforest – 4 Nights – Salva Verde Lodge
We begin our journey North of San Jose at the base of the central mountain range in Sarapiqui. This Caribbean Rainforest is rich in wildlife like anteaters, monkeys, coatis, toucans, sloths, emerald basilisks, manakins, woodpeckers, King Vultures, and the endangered Green Macaw. Sarapiqui is known as a bird lover’s paradise, and Dennis will introduce us to an incredible species diversity. We’ll also include a visit to a Cacao farm to learn more about regional agriculture and chocolate production.
Boca Tapada
We venture further North, close to the Nicaraguan border, to Boca Tapada. Here is the Maquenque Wildlife Refuge. Maquenque is a protected area that safeguards flora and fauna in wetlands and lagoons. It is perfect for increasing our sightings of unique Costa Rican wildlife, including emerald toucan, king vulture, and green macaw.
San Gerardo de Dota Cloud Forest – 3 Nights Gema de Bosque Lodge
We travel along the spine of Costa Rica’s central range to the cloud forests of San Gerardo De Dota. Our Eco-Lodge is at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level. It will be noticeably cooler with a rich variety of birds to photograph including the Resplendent Quetzal and species of hummingbirds not found in the rainforest.
Fitness, Weather, and Travel Essentials
- Fitness: Moderate fitness is required for this workshop, as temperatures can reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit in high humidity in the rainforest and 40 degrees
- Weather: Expect humid, hot weather, with rain showers in Sarapiqui and cooler temperatures in the San Gerardo De Dota Cloud Forest elevations. For part of our trip, we’re in the Costa Rican rainforest. Don’t be alarmed if you see rain forecasted every day of our tour. Not to worry, rains typically occur mid to late afternoon after our main shooting opportunities. We may find ourselves shooting in a light rain. Depending on what we are shooting, it can add drama to our shots.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory, including coverage for cancellation, medical emergencies, and repatriation.
- Health and Visas: Ensure you meet all vaccination requirements and health recommendations for Costa Rica. Verify visa requirements and confirm your passport is valid for at least six months beyond travel dates.
Accommodations
At each eco-lodge we have reserved three single occupancy rooms and one double occupancy room for sharing. If you are traveling alone you can book single occupancy, or if you would like the lower double occupancy rate, we can pair you with an appropriate client.
Financial Terms and Arrangements
The tour/workshop cost is $5,950 per person sharing a room and $6,950 for a single room.
Payment can be made to Camp Photo Tours by ACH bank transfer or, for a 3% supplement, by credit card. Deposits and final payments must be made net of all bank charges, with the remitter responsible for all fees.
Deposits
- A non-refundable $2500 deposit is required within 7 days of booking confirmation
- Balance is due 60 days before the first day of the workshop.
- Bookings within 60 days of the first day of the workshop is due in full within 7 days of booking confirmation
Travel Insurance
Because unforeseen circumstances can arise, we require trip cancellation and health insurance for all participants. Secure your coverage promptly after booking to protect your non-refundable deposit.
Costa Rica Rainforest & Cloud Forest Tour FAQs
What level of fitness do I need?
This tour doesn’t have long hikes. Most of our tour locations are close to where we park our vehicles. You need the ability to get in and out of a tour van and walk short distances.
What about bathroom stops?
Bathrooms are readily available during our excursions.
Are rooms air conditioned?
The Selva Lodge and Gema del Bosque have AC rooms upon request.
What about food?
We love our food, and our Lodges have excellent choices. Think fresh fruits, delicious smoothies, fresh-caught seafood, and the best of Costa Rican and Western cuisine.
What about bugs?
You’ll be surprised by the lack of pesky insects. We usually don’t use bug spray, however feel free to apply repellent if you desire.
What photography skills do I need?
A basic knowledge of your camera is all you need. We teach all levels of photography, from beginners to pros.
What clothing do I need?
We will be in two different climates. In the rainforest, lightweight shirts, hiking pants, and shorts are appropriate. In the cloud forest, we will be at higher elevations with temperatures in the forties. Adding layers. such as a light jacket over a long-sleeve shirt works well. Long pants are recommended. Special hiking boots are not needed. Any sturdy outdoor shoe works.
