PHOTO TOURS
PHOTO TOURS
Oct 18-28, 2020
Set out into the mountains of Bhutan to shoot images of exquisite temples, timeless farming villages, and the towering Himalaya. Capture scenes of lively markets and crimson-robed monks set against a backdrop of whitewashed dzongs. Hike into forests where wild moss creates an otherworldly atmosphere, and photograph breathtaking panoramas of snow-clad peaks.
- Capture images of daily life in Bhutan on hikes to local villages and excursions to lively markets.
- Hike to Bhutan's most famous pilgrimage site, Taktsang Lhakhang, or the Tiger's Nest Temple.
- Photograph the exquisite carvings and sculptures of the newly renovated Gangtey Gonpa temple.
- Mingle with community leaders and government dignitaries at a banquet dinner and gain insight into modern Bhutan.
AROUND THE WORLD BY PRIVATE JET: THE NORTHERN ROUTE
June 9-30, 2020
Explore vestiges of ancient empires, fathomless lakes and fjords, and spectacular accomplishments of art and architecture as you circumnavigate the Northern Hemisphere by private jet. Revitalize your spirit in the tranquil gardens and exquisite temples of the one-time imperial Japanese capitals of Kyoto and Nara. Learn nomadic traditions in Mongolia, and delve into the rich history of Russia’s rulers and revolutionaries in Irkutsk and St. Petersburg. Venture further north to discover Norway’s pristine fjords, the remarkable geology of Iceland, and the otherworldly realm of Greenland’s vast glaciers.
- Marvel at world-famous landmarks, from the Winter Palace of St. Petersburg to the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, as you circumnavigate the Northern Hemisphere by private jet.
- Learn about the vital relationships between northern cultures and their environments, meeting with Mongolia’s nomads, Norwegian farmers, and Japanese artisans.
- Hike through deep desert canyons and descend into a dormant volcano to gain new perspectives on the wonders of the northern wilds.
- Gain unique insights into history, culture, ecology, and geology while traveling with a team of world-renowned National Geographic experts.
Feb 4-24, 2020
Journey across Central and South America—from the lush, tropical jungles of Guatemala to the granite, glacier-carved landscapes of Patagonia—traveling in the comfort of a private jet. Stand atop ancient Maya and Inca ruins, witness the spectacular spray of Iguaçu Falls and the engineering marvels of the Panama Canal, and revel in the delights of colorful and vibrant cities such as Cartagena, Rio de Janeiro, and Buenos Aires—all in one extraordinary journey.
- Soar above the Guatemalan jungle in a helicopter, touching down in the Maya city of El Mirador to explore the active dig site of National Geographic grantee Richard Hansen.
- Choose to stay at Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set on the banks of the Madre de Dios River, and explore the Peruvian Amazon on a variety of excursions.
- By special permission, go on a walking safari in the tropical forests of Panama’s Barro Colorado Nature Monument, site of a National Geographic-supported wildlife-tracking study.
- Witness vibrant cultural traditions, from an Argentine tango performance to a Peruvian Paso horse exhibition and rehearsals for Rio’s famed Carnival.
AROUND THE WORLD BY PRIVATE JET
I am on two of the departures :
Dec 28, 2019 - Jan 20, 2020 & Dec 28, 2020 - Jan 20, 2021
Set out on the adventure of a lifetime with top National Geographic experts and discover some of the world’s most celebrated treasures—all in one extraordinary journey. Explore the architectural marvels of Machu Picchu, Petra, and the Taj Mahal; encounter the incredible creatures of the Great Barrier Reef and the Serengeti Plain; and experience diverse cultures from the Buddhist monasteries of Tibet to the Polynesian paradise of Samoa.
- Alongside a team of National Geographic experts, embark on a globe-trotting expedition featuring 15 UNESCO World Heritage sites, from Easter Island to the Great Barrier Reef.
- Visit with National Geographic explorers and grantees in the field and learn about their groundbreaking research in marine biology, anthropology, archaeology, and paleontology.
- Gain insight into local cultures as you visit a women’s cooperative in Samoa, cook alongside a Cambodian chef, and sip mint tea with a Berber family in Morocco.
- Stay at world-class accommodations, with options that include two spectacular National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, in the hills of Bhutan, and on the rim of Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater.
PERSONAL TOURS
A note from Nevada Wier about her photo tours:
“I design my tours for the adventurous photographer – someone who likes to travel to remote locations of world …lugging their camera gear. We have a colossal amount of fun, but my tours are not for everyone. We often stay in village homes, eat local food (although I am a tyrant about the cleanliness of the preparations), and sometime have long day hikes. It is important to be flexible, patient, good-humored, have limited dietary needs, and be in hearty physical shape. My tours are as much about travel as they are about photography. Rugged travel is mentally difficult especially when you are photographing all day.
The groups are small; 8-12 depending on the location, and therefore they are a bit more expensive than some other photo tours. I chose locations that require more effort to reach. There are some days that we might visit more common tourist destinations but usually that is on the way to a remote region or village. I don’t want to imply that you need to be an athlete to be on these tours – but you do need to be in excellent health and reasonable physical shape. Some tours can be very isolated and have day hikes up and down ridges. You can walk at your own pace (and you will be carrying your cameras) but I want it to be enjoyable and not a struggle for you. Consult the individual itinerary for level of hikes and activities.
My tours are for the enthusiastic photographer. I do not suggest that non-photographers come on these tours unless they talk to me first. It doesn’t matter what camera or what level of expertise you possess – what matters is zeal for photography. I’m passionate about photography and go all day. However, there is plenty of flexibility. If you don’t feel like going out for sunrise or want to take time off and be on your own -- that is fine. It’s your vacation.
I have traveled to most of the locations in the tours numerous times, but sometimes there are villages and areas I haven’t visited. Occasionally I will run an “exploratory” tour or a tour that is open only to photo tour alumni. I always work with local operators and guides that understand the special nature and flexibility of my tours. They are the key to the success of my trips.
These are tours; not workshops. To me a tour and a workshop are separate beasts. There is rarely any time (and often not electricity) to review and critique your images. Sometimes I give lectures and demonstrations; it depends on the group and the trip. However, I am ALWAYS available for any questions, advice … and there is always that “fill-flash” lecture.
Yes, I photograph on these tours but my first priority is to be available as a resource. I try to control my “natural assertive nature with my wide-angle” and make sure that everyone gets a chance to photograph a scene if we are in a group. However, usually we are spread out; I don’t want people shooting over anyone’s shoulder unless there is a good reason.
So if you like nice hotel rooms all the time, western toilets, and are squeamish about eating in small local restaurants – I’d suggest a different tour. However, if you have that yen for adventure, revel in unpredictability, love to explore with your heart and your camera, and don’t mind rough conditions – then my photo tours might be for you. It is really just a group of like-minded fun people enjoying travel and photography together.
I do not advertise specific tours on my website. I notify people when a tour itinerary is ready for signups, as follows:
First, I notify, by email, the alumni of past tours and people who have taken a workshop with me and have asked to be notified about the tours. Usually the tour fills from this Select Photo Tour List, sometimes in less than an hour. .
If the tour has not filled, the next day I notify a Special List of people who have personally contacted me with their interest in my tours. I will also contact this Special List if there is a last minute cancellation.
If you have not been on a previous tour and are really interested in my tours, please email me and I can put you on the Special List. Or, better yet, take a workshop with me so you can be on the Select Photo Tour List. I offer about 3 - 4 tours a year. ”
