The program is full. Join the September workshop.
Chase and photograph aurora borealis at one of the best times at one of the world’s prime destinations for the northern lights. Aurora activity on Earth increases near both equinoxes (vernal equinox is on March 20-21).
The photo workshop is led by the National Geographic night sky photographer who takes you to some of his favorite locations, fills you with practical information on when to expect aurora, what to see in the night sky, and guides you in both aurora and general nightscape imaging, while also sharing tips on day-time photography during the day tours. The Iceland partner company which locally coordinates the trip also contributes with a tour leader who is both an aurora expert and a knowledgeable person about nature and history of the country.
Iceland has much more to offer than aurora. It’s a country like no others. Based on successful experiences of the previous programs (each March & September) we offer an improved plan each time. This tour takes you along the many landmarks of the southern coast all the way to the less touristic east in the pure quiet nature. We will do aurora chasing and outdoor workshop sessions through the trip on every clear night.
Iceland’s attractions are on our way includes unearthly landscapes, massive waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, wildlife and coastal beauties, and cultural landmarks. We begin from the capital in the southwest and end in Keflavik near the airport. Iceland weather is very challenging but we depend on our mobility and excellent access to local weather information.
You may cancel with full refund until 2018 December 15. After this date the deposit won’t be returned.
9-day/8-night program $3750 +$950 single occupancy
Day 1 Sat March 9: arrivals. We will meet at noon in our hotel in Reykjavik center and walk to the city’s landmarks. After our first group dinner, we begin the practical part of the workshop with aurora chasing near Grotta lighthouse (weather depending).
Day 2 Sun March 10: On this busy touring day we will visit the most touristic icons of Iceland, Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir geothermal area. Then continue To the southern coast, visiting iconic Skogafoss waterfall on the way, and night imaging at Vik, with plenty of attraction including one of the world’s most beautiful volcanic beaches.
Day 3 Mon March 11: Daytime visit to Vik. Continue along the south coast, and night near Hofn in the southeast where the rugged Vestrahorn mountain of Stokksnes stands at the oceanfront, providing a dramatic imagery.
Day 4 Tue March 12: Driving the winding beautiful fjord road to the eastern attractions where we will stay the next 3 nights in the pure quiet nature of the Wilderness Center, near Vatnajokull National Park, in an authentic, ecological, and peaceful hideaway, located right by the edge of Northern Europe’s biggest wilderness.
Day 5 Wed March 13: Touring the wilderness area. Multiple night time locations available in East Iceland which we will choose based on weather.
Day 6 Thu March 14: Touring the attractions in East Iceland.
Day 7 Fri March 15: Drive early back to the south to the iconic Glacier Lagoon and its Diamond Beach where shiny ice crystals and little icebergs rest on a black volcanic beach.
Day 8 Sat March 16: driving westward along the coast we will go inland to visit a massive glacier and stop along the main road for other attractions. Night at Keflavik with imaging opportunities in Reykjanes Peninsula. Accommodation is 10-15 minutes drive to the airport.
. Day 9 Sun March 17: departures. Babak will do a class between 10:00 to 13:00 on photo-editing tips for those with late departures. You also have the option to arrange your own visit to the nearby Blue Lagoon (for bathing) or consider staying an extra day for this popular tourist activity or to explore the several lighthouses and natural oceanfront beauties of Reykjanes.
Note that the itinerary details might slightly change with the aurora and weather forecast.
Reservation – closed
This program is fully booked. contact us to be on the waitlist in case of cancellation, or join the September workshop.
