Guatemala Birding Trip: Quetzals, Horned Guan & Tikal Sunrise
A 13-day birding journey through Guatemala chasing the big four — Horned Guan, Resplendent Quetzal, Pink-headed Warbler and Goldman's Warbler — then the lowland rainforest of Tikal for Ocellated Turkey and Orange-breasted Falcon. From Los Tarrales' 400-species Pacific slope and Lake Atitlan's cloudforest to the Cuchumatanes páramo and Tikal's sunrise ruins.
This Guatemala birding trip is a quiet, thorough exploration of the country’s finest habitats, from Pacific-slope coffee forest to the dawn temples of Tikal. Over 13 days we keep an easy pace, with a maximum of eight guests, focusing on a set of very special birds: Resplendent Quetzal, Horned Guan, Pink-headed Warbler, Goldman’s Warbler, and Ocellated Turkey.
We begin at Los Tarrales Natural Reserve, birding shade-coffee and broadleaf forest before a guided nocturnal tour. From Lake Atitlan we spend a full day on Volcán Toliman for Horned Guan, and a morning at Mirador Rey Tepepul for quetzal and hummingbirds. A transfer north includes Finca el Espinero for Pink-headed Warbler, then two nights in Todos Santos for Goldman’s Warbler on the high Cuchumatanes plateau.
After Antigua highland birding at El Pilar, we fly to Tikal and spend two mornings in the national park, including a dawn session at Temple IV among Ocellated Turkey, toucans, and parrots. Accommodation is simple and well placed, meals often come from local markets, and optional night outings add an extra dimension without altering the calm, unhurried character of the journey.
Bird Photography in Guatemala
For bird photographers, Guatemala offers some of the finest opportunities in Central America. The country’s cloud forests, highland ecosystems, and tropical lowlands support nearly 720 bird species, including a remarkable collection of regional endemics and sought-after specialties. Many birding locations feature well-maintained feeders, forest hides, and accessible trails, allowing excellent photographic opportunities in beautiful natural settings.
The undisputed star of Guatemala’s birdlife is the Resplendent Quetzal. Revered by ancient Maya civilizations and celebrated as the country’s national bird, the quetzal is one of the most spectacular species in the Americas. Guatemala is among the best places in the world to observe and photograph this iconic bird, particularly during the breeding season when males display their magnificent elongated tail feathers.
Beyond the quetzal, photographers can search for a remarkable diversity of hummingbirds, tanagers, warblers, owls, and highland endemics, including species such as the Wine-throated Hummingbird, Pink-headed Warbler, Horned Guan, and Azure-rumped Tanager. Whether you are building a life list or pursuing portfolio-quality wildlife images, Guatemala offers an exceptional combination of biodiversity, accessibility, and photographic potential.
Expedition Highlights
Suitability & conditions
A practical overview of the pace, comfort, and conditions to expect on this journey.
Seasonality
The journey at a glance
Following the route
The journey moves gradually through 5 chapters.
Route shown schematically for orientation.
Detailed itinerary
Arrival in Guatemala City
Arrive at Guatemala Ciudad Airport and transfer to the Hilton Garden Inn Guatemala City, your base for the night. Settle in, then head out for a generic dinner, with a budget of around 35 USD. This opening stop offers a straightforward introduction to the capital before the journey continues, combining an airport transfer, hotel check-in and an evening meal.
Key activities
Los Tarrales Natural Reserve
An early morning transfer travels 130 km west from Guatemala City to Los Tarrales Natural Reserve, a verdant paradise in Patulul on the Pacific slope of Volcán Atitlán. Breakfast is included before a full day of birding across the lodge grounds, shade coffee, and humid broadleaf forest, with morning and afternoon sessions seeking White-bellied Chachalaca, manakins, tanagers, motmots, trogons, woodcreepers, and hummingbirds. Lunch at a local market and dinner round out the day at the reserve.
Key activities
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Day 3 AM Los Tarrales Lodge Grounds and Coffee Forest
Los Tarrales foothill forest
Spend a full day exploring the Los Tarrales foothill forest and Tarrales Natural Reserve in Patulul, a verdant protected area on volcanic slopes known for exceptional birdwatching and coffee tours. After breakfast, an early morning birding excursion in Los Tarrales reveals exotic and endemic species across diverse ecosystems. Pause for lunch at a local market, then continue discovering the reserve. As darkness falls, a guided nocturnal tour through Tarrales Reserve looks for owls, snakes, frogs, deer and other nighttime wildlife, closing with dinner.
Key activities
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Day 3 AM Los Tarrales Lodge Grounds and Coffee Forest
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Night Widlife Photo Activity in Los Tarrales
Lake Atitlan
A guided morning birdwatching activity in Los Tarrales offers the chance to observe diverse avian species and rare regional endemics in their natural habitat. After breakfast and a local market lunch, an afternoon transfer heads toward Lake Atitlan, about a two-hour drive with waterbird checks en route for grebes and kingfishers. The journey ends at Hotel Atitlan in Panajachel, where lake views and dinner complete the day.
Key activities
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Morning Bird Activity in Los Tarrales
Horned Guan cloudforest hike
Begin with breakfast before a full-day Horned Guan tour on the slopes of Volcan Toliman, a premier birding destination with over 70 documented species. The optional trek reaches 2,800 meters above sea level, where the true highlight is a rare chance to witness the elusive Horned Guan in its natural habitat. Later, enjoy a generic lunch in a local market and a generic dinner. Overnight at Hotel Atitlan, with lake views in the heart of Panajachel.
Key activities
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Horned Guan Tour Full Day Volcan Toliman
Mirador Rey Tepepul and the Atitlan afternoon site
Breakfast precedes a morning of birdwatching at Mirador Rey Tepepul, an ecological park above Lake Atitlan with views toward the Pacific coast and surrounding volcanoes. Trails through humid subtropical mountain forest, including the Hummingbird Trail, offer chances to look for Resplendent Quetzal, Green-throated Mountain-gem, Bushy-crested Jay and other species. Lunch follows at a local market. In the afternoon, visit a site around Lake Atitlan for Sparkling-tailed Hummingbird, Slender Sheartail and Belted Flycatcher. Dinner and a stay at Hotel Atitlan in Panajachel close the day.
Key activities
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Resplendent Quetzal Quest in Mirador Rey Tepepul
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Atitlan Afternoon Slender Sheartail Site
Todos Santos via Finca el Espinero
Travel north from Lake Atitlan into the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes, with an all-day transfer via the important Finca el Espinero stop, a designed pause to look for the Pink-headed Warbler. Continue to Todos Santos, your two-night highland base for Goldman’s Warbler country. Meals include breakfast, a local market lunch and dinner, with an optional night outing to listen for Unspotted Saw-whet Owl in the surrounding highlands.
Key activities
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Finca el Espinero Pink-headed Warbler Stop
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Optional Night Birding for Unspotted Saw-whet Owl near Todos Santos
Cuchumatanes páramo-edge
Birders head into pine-juniper country above 3,000m on the Cuchumatanes plateau near Todos Santos, where the Goldman’s Warbler is the central target alongside juncos, siskins, kinglets and highland sparrows. A full day on this high plateau anchors a two-night highland stay in Todos Santos, with breakfast included and lunch and dinner taken locally.
Key activities
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Todos Santos Goldman’s Warbler Plateau Birding
Antigua Guatemala
Start with included breakfast before an afternoon highland birding block near Chancol in the Cuchumatanes, a gentle pace at 3,000m+ around Unicornio Azul lodge gardens for highland hummingbirds, siskins and first Goldman’s Warblers. Continue with a transfer from Todos Santos to Ciudad de Guatemala and a generic lunch in a local market. In Antigua Guatemala, enjoy an afternoon Rufous Sabrewing search, a possibility rather than a guaranteed sighting, plus an optional night Fulvous Owl listen-first search. Dinner and a generic hotel in Antigua Guatemala follow.
Key activities
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Afternoon Highland Birding near Chancol
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Antigua Afternoon Rufous Sabrewing Search
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Antigua Optional Night Fulvous Owl Search
El Pilar, flight to the Tikal gateway
Begin with early highland birding at Finca El Pilar near Antigua, exploring pine-oak forest edges, feeders, and forest tracks for motmots, sabrewings, ground-sparrows, and mixed flocks. After breakfast and a local market lunch, transfer from El Pilar to Guatemala City Airport for the onward flight to Flores International Airport – Mundo Maya. Settle in at Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal, a jungle retreat at the Tikal gateway, before a generic dinner to close the travel day.
Key activities
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Finca El Pilar Early Highland Birding
Tikal sunrise
Start with an included breakfast before a dawn session at the Tikal temples and surrounding rainforest. Explore Temple IV, Plaza Mayor and connecting trails as the forest wakes, looking for Ocellated Turkey, Keel-billed Toucan, parrots and mixed flocks. Continue with a morning visit to the Tikal Archeological Site, wandering ancient Mayan ruins and towering pyramids hidden in dense jungle. Lunch at a local market and dinner follow, with a stay at Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal, a retreat set within the lush surroundings.
Key activities
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Tikal Dawn Temple and Rainforest Birding
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Morning Visit of Tikal Archeological Site
Tikal and back to the capital
Begin with breakfast before a morning birding walk in Tikal National Park, entering the rainforest before dawn to listen for parrots, toucans, and trogons along the paths and temple surroundings. After lunch at a local market, fly from Flores International Airport Mundo Maya to Guatemala City Airport. Settle in at the Hilton Garden Inn Guatemala City and finish the day with dinner.
Key activities
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Morning Birding in Tikal National Park
Departure
Enjoy a final included breakfast at the Hilton Garden Inn Guatemala City before checking out and transferring to Guatemala Ciudad Airport. This concluding leg of the tour keeps the route simple and stress-free, moving you from the hotel to the airport for your onward flight. It is a straightforward departure morning, with the transfer arranged as part of the package, allowing you to wrap up your Guatemala travels with ease.
Key activities
Target Species
A curated selection of the iconic species we aim to encounter and photograph throughout our journey.
Long-tailed Manakin
- Finca los Tarrales — sector el Vesubio, Mirador Rey Tepepul — Sendero Chumil
Azure-rumped Tanager
- Finca los Tarrales — sector el Vesubio, Mirador Rey Tepepul — Sendero Chumil
Elegant Euphonia
- Finca los Tarrales — sector el Vesubio, Finca El Pilar (Antigua Mountain Trail)
White-winged Tanager
- Finca los Tarrales — sector el Vesubio, Finca El Pilar (Antigua Mountain Trail)
Accommodation
Where you’ll stay
Gallery
Price Details
Our tour prices are based on a tiered pricing model. more guests = lower price, per person. That means the prices go down on a per-person basis as more people book onto a specific tour departure.
Price Base
- Price for 2 people: 8.595 USD (661 USD / day)
- Price for 3 to 4 people: 7.495 USD (577 USD / day)
- Price for 5 to 6 people: 5.995 USD (461 USD / day)
- Price for 7 to 8 people: 5.195 USD (400 USD / day)
** Prices are based on double occupancy / twin share basis.
Single Supplement
- 423 USD
Included
- Hotels mentioned in the program
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Hotels mentioned in the program- Hilton Garden Inn Guatemala City — 2 nights · Upscale Hotel
- Tarrales Natural Reserve — 2 nights · Ecolodge
- Hotel Atitlan — 3 nights · Resort
- Todos Santos Accommodation (TBD) — 2 nights · Uncategorized Hotel
- Generic Hotel in Antigua Guatemala (TBD) — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal — 2 nights · Ecolodge
- Local guides for selected activities
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Local guides are included for- Patulul
- Santiago Atitlán
- Resplendent Quetzal Quest in Mirador Rey Tepepul
- Transportation in comfortable vehicles (Car / Van)
- 2 domestic flights
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Included domestic flights- Flight Guatemala Ciudad Airport –> Flores International Airport – Mundo Maya
- Flight Flores International Airport Mundo Maya –> Guatemala Ciudad Airport
- Meals indicated in the program: 12 breakfasts, 11 lunchs, 12 dinners
- 1 cocktail before dinner
- Water is included
- Professional photographic guidance & instruction by Tristan Quevilly
- 1h skype session of photo editing in Lightroom or Photoshop
- Restaurant gratuities / tips
- Pre-trip planning assistance
- Detailed trip notes with practical information and cultural insights
- Access to Remote Expeditions custom travel app
Not Included
- Lunch on Arrival day and Departure day
- Tips
- International flights
- Travel, Medical & Cancellation insurance
- Additional drinks and meals
- Expenses not specified in the program
- Camera Equipment
Deposit
- 30% (1.799 USD approx)
Payment Options
- Bank Transfer (Recommended): Free
- Credit / Debit Card: Secure payment via Revolut. A 3% processing fee applies.
Booking Conditions
- Deposit: 30% to secure your booking
- Final payment: Due 90 days before departure
- Cancellation more than 90 days before departure: Deposit retained as a 4-year travel credit
- Read the full Terms & Conditions ↗
Services to Expect
Accommodations and Amenities
Summary: Our Guatemala photo expedition features hand-picked accommodations that blend local character with modern comfort. From historic colonial mansions in Antigua to lakeside retreats at Lake Atitlán, each stay is selected for its proximity to prime photography locations and its unique aesthetic appeal, ensuring you are always close to the action.
Boutique Colonial Hotels in Antigua
In the heart of UNESCO-listed Antigua, we stay in restored colonial buildings that are photographic subjects in their own right. These hotels offer a perfect blend of history and luxury.
- Central Locations: Stay within walking distance of iconic landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch for early morning blue-hour shoots.
- Architectural Detail: Enjoy lush courtyards, Spanish-style fountains, and vibrant bougainvillea that provide excellent backdrops for detail shots.
- Modern Comforts: Despite the historic setting, expect high-quality bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and authentic Guatemalan hospitality.
Scenic Lakeside Lodging at Lake Atitlán
Our accommodations at Lake Atitlán are chosen specifically for their views. We prioritize hotels that allow you to capture the sunrise over the volcanoes directly from the property.
- Volcano Vistas: Most rooms feature private balconies or terraces overlooking the water and the towering San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán volcanoes.
- Peaceful Environment: We select quieter areas of the lake to ensure a restful environment away from the main tourist buzz.
- Boat Accessibility: Private docks make it easy to hop on our chartered boats for excursions to indigenous villages like Santiago Atitlán and San Juan La Laguna.
Jungle Lodges and Remote Comfort
When exploring the highlands or the northern rainforests, we utilize the best available eco-lodges and boutique hotels that keep us close to nature without sacrificing essential amenities.
- Proximity to Wildlife: Stay in locations where you can hear howler monkeys and see tropical birds right outside your window.
- Authentic Design: Lodgings often incorporate local materials and traditional Mayan textiles in their decor.
- Sustainable Practices: Many of our chosen lodges emphasize eco-friendly operations to preserve the stunning Guatemalan landscape.
Practical Amenities for Photographers
We understand that a photo expedition requires more than just a comfortable bed. Our selected hotels cater to the specific needs of digital creators.
- Power and Charging: Rooms are equipped with reliable power outlets for charging camera batteries, drones, and laptops overnight.
- Internet Access: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in common areas and most rooms, though speeds can vary in more remote highland locations.
- Safe Storage: Accommodations offer secure environments and in-room safes for your valuable photography gear.
- Hot Water and Cleanliness: All hotels provide private bathrooms with consistent hot water and high standards of cleanliness.
Practical Information
Weather and Packing
Summary: Guatemala is famously known as the “Land of Eternal Spring,” offering a generally pleasant climate year-round. However, weather patterns vary significantly depending on the altitude and whether you are visiting during the dry season (November to April) or the rainy season (May to October).
The Dry Season (November to April)
This is widely considered the peak time for travel in Guatemala, offering clear skies and consistent sunshine. It is the ideal period for outdoor activities such as hiking the volcanoes near Antigua or exploring the jungle-clad ruins of Tikal.
- Clear Vistas: You will enjoy the best views of the volcanic landscapes and Lake Atitlán without cloud cover.
- Cooler Evenings: While days are warm, the lack of cloud cover means temperatures in the highlands can drop significantly at night.
- Dusty Trails: In rural areas, the lack of rain can make unpaved roads and hiking trails quite dusty.
The Rainy Season (May to October)
Often referred to as the “Green Season,” this period sees the landscape transform into a lush, vibrant emerald. While rain is more frequent, it rarely rains all day, typically manifesting as heavy afternoon or evening downpours.
- Sunny Mornings: Most days begin with bright sunshine, allowing for sightseeing and travel before the rain starts in the late afternoon.
- Lush Scenery: This is the best time for photography if you want to capture the deep greens of the Guatemalan countryside.
- Humidity: Humidity levels rise, particularly in the tropical lowlands of Petén and along the coast.
Regional Climate Variations
Guatemala’s diverse topography means you will encounter several microclimates during this tour. Understanding these variations will help you prepare for daily transitions.
- The Central Highlands (Antigua & Lake Atitlán): Located at higher elevations, these areas enjoy mild, temperate weather. Daytime temperatures usually range between 22°C and 26°C (72°F to 79°F).
- The Tropical Lowlands (Tikal & Rio Dulce): These regions are consistently hot and humid. Temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F) year-round, and the jungle environment means brief rain showers can occur even in the dry season.
Practical Packing Tips for the Climate
To stay comfortable throughout your journey, we recommend a flexible approach to your wardrobe to account for changing elevations and weather patterns.
- Layering is Key: Bring lightweight clothing for the heat of the lowlands and a warm fleece or light jacket for the cooler highland evenings.
- Rain Protection: A high-quality, breathable rain jacket or a sturdy travel poncho is essential, regardless of the season.
- Sun Safety: The sun is exceptionally strong at high altitudes; always carry sun protection including a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes with good grip are recommended for navigating slippery or uneven terrain.
Geography and Terrain
Summary: Guatemala is a land of dramatic topographical contrasts, ranging from the soaring volcanic peaks of the central highlands to the dense tropical rainforests of the northern lowlands, providing a diverse backdrop for any traveler.
The Volcanic Highlands
The central and western regions of Guatemala are defined by the Sierra Madre mountain range. This high-altitude zone is the most populated part of the country and offers some of its most iconic scenery.
- Volcanic Activity: The country is home to over 30 volcanoes, including Acatenango, Fuego, and Pacaya. These peaks create a rugged landscape perfect for hiking and photography.
- Lake Atitlán: Nestled in a massive volcanic caldera, this lake is surrounded by three volcanoes and steep cliffs, representing one of the most significant geographic landmarks in Central America.
- Altiplano Climate: Because of the elevation, the highlands enjoy a “perpetual spring” climate, though nights can be surprisingly chilly.
The Northern Lowlands of Petén
In contrast to the mountainous south, the northern department of Petén consists of a vast limestone plateau covered in thick subtropical rainforest.
- Tropical Rainforests: This region is part of the Maya Forest, the largest tropical forest in Central America, serving as a vital habitat for jaguars, howler monkeys, and exotic birds.
- Mayan Basin: The relatively flat geography of this region facilitated the rise of ancient Mayan civilizations, with sites like Tikal and Yaxhá emerging from the jungle canopy.
Coastal Regions and Waterways
Guatemala is bordered by two different oceans, each offering a distinct geographic experience.
- The Pacific Coast: Characterized by long stretches of volcanic black sand beaches and fertile plains used for agriculture.
- The Caribbean Coast: A smaller, humid coastline near the Río Dulce, featuring lush mangroves, canyons, and the calm waters of the Amatique Bay.
- River Systems: The country is crisscrossed by significant rivers, such as the Motagua and the Usumacinta, which have historically served as vital trade routes.
Practical Travel Tips for the Terrain
The varied geography of Guatemala directly impacts how you should prepare for your journey.
- Travel Times: Due to the mountainous terrain and winding roads in the highlands, travel between destinations can take longer than the mileage suggests.
- Microclimates: You may experience multiple weather patterns in a single day. Layered clothing is essential when moving from the humid lowlands to the brisk mountain air.
- Footwear: Given the rocky volcanic paths and muddy jungle trails, sturdy hiking boots with good traction are highly recommended.
Photography Workshop Details
Summary: This immersive photography expedition is designed to sharpen your technical proficiency while teaching you how to artistically document the vibrant indigenous cultures, colonial architecture, and breathtaking volcanic landscapes of Guatemala.
Mastering Technical Fundamentals in Diverse Environments
Guatemala’s varied geography—from the humid jungles of the Petén basin to the high-altitude peaks of the Sierra Madre—requires a versatile technical approach. You will learn to adapt your camera settings to any lighting situation.
- Optimizing ISO, aperture, and shutter speed for high-contrast scenes in the sun-drenched plazas of Antigua.
- Techniques for long-exposure photography to capture the dramatic eruptions of nearby volcanoes or the tranquil, misty waters of Lake Atitlán.
- Methods for achieving sharp focus and balanced exposure in the low-light environments of ancient ruins and baroque churches.
The Art of Composition and Visual Narrative
We go beyond simple snapshots to help you develop a “photographer’s eye,” focusing on how to frame the unique spirit and layers of the Mayan highlands.
- Utilizing leading lines and natural framing within the cobblestone streets and iconic archways of colonial towns.
- Exploring color theory to highlight the intricate patterns and vivid dyes of traditional Mayan textiles found in local villages.
- Developing a narrative through environmental portraiture, learning to tell the story of the artisans, weavers, and farmers you encounter.
Ethical Street and Portrait Photography
Interacting with the local population is a core part of this tour. You will learn the nuances of capturing human emotion while maintaining deep cultural respect and sensitivity.
- Best practices for approaching subjects and asking for permission in a way that builds rapport and trust.
- Candid photography skills for navigating the organized chaos and vibrant energy of the Chichicastenango market.
- Understanding lens choice for portraits to create professional-grade depth of field or to include the surrounding cultural context.
On-Site Review and Post-Processing Workflow
Refining your work is essential for creative growth. We provide hands-on guidance to help you polish your images and develop a consistent personal style.
- Daily critique sessions to identify strengths and areas for improvement in your composition and technical execution.
- Introduction to Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop workflows specifically tailored for enhancing travel and landscape photography.
- Advice on digital asset management to ensure your files are safely backed up and organized while on the move.
Photography Gear Guide
Summary: From the misty rainforests of Tikal to the vibrant colonial architecture of Antigua, Guatemala is a visual feast. This gear guide ensures you are equipped to capture stunning landscapes, colorful street scenes, and diverse wildlife while remaining mobile during your generic tour.
Cameras and Versatile Lenses
Guatemala’s varied terrain requires a flexible lens setup to minimize frequent changes in dusty or humid environments. A versatile kit allows you to transition quickly from wide-angle landscapes to intimate portraits.
- Standard Zoom Lens: A 24-70mm or 24-105mm lens is your primary tool for capturing the bustling markets of Chichicastenango and the colonial streets of Antigua.
- Telephoto Zoom: A 70-200mm or 70-300mm lens is essential for photographing tropical birds in the jungle or capturing the details of active volcanoes.
- Fast Prime Lens: A 35mm or 50mm f/1.8 lens is perfect for low-light photography inside historic cathedrals or for achieving a shallow depth of field in portraiture.
- Action Camera: Consider a waterproof action camera for boat rides on Lake Atitlán or hiking through the humid cloud forests.
Environmental Protection and Maintenance
The tropical climate and volcanic ash found in the Guatemalan highlands can be challenging for sensitive electronics. Proper protection is vital for the longevity of your photography gear.
- Rain Covers: Sudden tropical downpours are common; always carry a dedicated rain sleeve for your camera body and lens.
- Silica Gel Packets: Place these in your camera bag to absorb excess moisture and prevent lens fungus in high-humidity areas like the Petén basin.
- Cleaning Kit: Bring a manual air blower, lens pen, and several microfiber cloths to clear away dust and humidity streaks throughout the day.
- Dry Bag: A small dry bag is highly recommended for boat transfers or when exploring near waterfalls and rivers.
Support and Power Essentials
Long days of exploration mean you need reliable power and stability to capture the best possible images without interruption.
- Lightweight Travel Tripod: A compact carbon fiber tripod is ideal for long-exposure shots of the stars over Mayan ruins or the smooth waters of Lake Atitlán.
- Extra Batteries: Cool temperatures in the highlands can drain battery life faster than expected; carry at least two spares for a full day of shooting.
- Power Bank: A high-capacity portable charger is useful for keeping your phone and camera batteries topped up during long bus transfers.
- Multi-Plug Adapter: Guatemala uses Type A and B plugs (same as North America), but a universal adapter ensures you can charge multiple devices in older hotels.
Storage and Filters
Managing your data and controlling light are the final steps in a successful photography packing list for your Guatemala adventure.
- Circular Polarizer: This filter is essential for cutting glare on water surfaces and making the lush green foliage and blue skies of the tropics truly pop.
- High-Speed Memory Cards: Bring multiple high-capacity SD cards (64GB or higher) to handle high-resolution files and 4K video footage.
- Portable Hard Drive: Backing up your photos nightly is a safety must; consider a rugged, shock-resistant drive for travel.
- Discreet Camera Bag: Use a comfortable, weather-resistant backpack that does not look like a traditional camera bag to maintain a lower profile while traveling.
Detailed Trip Notes, including practical tips, cultural insights, and a complete packing list will be sent to you 60 days before departure.
Booking this tour means you agree to our full Terms and Conditions. Below is a summary of the key points. As life is unpredictable, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance.
- Deposit: A 30% deposit is required to secure your booking. This deposit is refundable for 7 days (less transaction fees), after which it becomes a non-refundable credit, transferable to a future tour offered by Remote Expeditions within 4 years of the cancellation date, less any non-recoverable costs already paid on your behalf.
- Final Payment: The remaining balance is due 90 days before the tour begins.
- Cancellation more than 90 days before departure: You will receive a full refund of any payments made, except for the 30% deposit. Your deposit will be converted into a travel credit valid for 4 years on a future tour Remote Expeditions.
- Cancellation within 90 days of departure: 100% of the tour price is forfeited. There are no refunds or credits.
* This is a summary only. Please read our complete
Terms and Conditions
for full details before booking.
** We strongly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events.
A few kind words
Colombia Photography Tour 2026
Top notch photographic experience for enthusiasts of nature, culture, and portraits. Tristan is well connected to the area and the local communities with a specialty in indigenous tribes and less-visited areas. Additionally, he is an excellent teacher and will provide incredibly helpful instruction on exposure, lighting, and composition. Our tour was incredibly well organized and ran on time, with full days of photography. I fully recommend Remote Expeditions for your photographic travels!
You are in good hands with Tristan!
Tristan does an amazing job at putting together a culturally rich experience. He also does a great job at adapting to his clients needs and interests. He responds well to feedback. He is both professional and personable. I feel as though I had the opportunity not only to photograph many different elements of Colombia, but that I truly experienced the country and its culture. Our adventure took us from birding in the mountains outside of Cali, to visiting remote indigenous tribes, to visiting active fishing villages, to learning about local and historical musicians and customs, to beautiful settings in the mountains and along the seashore.
I give Tristan the highest recommendation as a guide for Colombia.
Colombia Birding Tour
I visited Colombia with Tristan of Remote Expeditions and would highly recommend him. He put together a wonderful itinerary with great knowledge of the areas and attention to details to give us a wonderful sampling of the country. He is personally very gentle and fun by nature and you will return home feeling very happy and satisfied. Whatever your special interest is, I’m sure he can make an itinerary to exceed your goals.
The difference is in the details
Journeys shaped by experience
Every route is built from time spent in the field: knowing when to linger, when to move on, and which small details are worth noticing.
Room for the unexpected
The best moments are not always on the itinerary. We leave enough flexibility to follow a good conversation, an unusual sighting, or a changing landscape.
Local relationships that open doors
Our journeys are grounded in long-term relationships with people who know their home intimately and are proud to share it in their own way.
A small group, properly looked after
With only a few travellers, decisions remain personal. We can adapt the pace, answer questions, and make sure everyone feels part of the journey.
Your Tour Guide
Tristan Quevilly
My relationship with Guatemala spans two decades, starting with a transformative backpacking trip in 2004 where I lived among the communities of Lake Atitlán. In preparation for this tour, I returned twenty years later on a motorcycle for an intensive scouting expedition, re-connecting with the land and rigorously scouting everything from the remote highlands to the jungles of Tikal to ensure the perfect logistical flow. I’ve traded my backpack for high-end gear, arranging exclusive access like 4x4 transport up Volcán de Fuego and private cultural sessions. This tour is the distillation of that two-decade relationship, blending deep nostalgia with fresh, expert scouting to offer you an authentic, visually stunning adventure through the country that started it all for me.
- Nationality: French
- Languages: English, French, Spanish, Portuguese
- Guiding since: 2003
- Specialties: Photography, Trekking, Indigenous Communities
Frequently Asked Questions
Most Remote Expeditions journeys are arranged privately, so the pace and rhythm can be shaped around the people travelling together. When a scheduled group departure is offered, it is typically limited to four or five travellers.
No. Photography is one of the ways we observe and connect with a place, but it is not a requirement. Our journeys also welcome travellers drawn to slow travel, wildlife, culture, trekking, landscapes, and genuine encounters. You can join with professional equipment, a simple camera, or just your curiosity.
Every itinerary has its own rhythm. Some journeys are gently paced, while others include long walks, trekking, uneven terrain, altitude, or substantial travel days. The practical details on each tour page explain the expected walking, terrain, altitude, distances, and overall physical level so you can decide whether the journey suits you.
Tristan designs the itineraries and personally leads many Remote Expeditions journeys. Depending on the destination and the character of the trip, trusted local guides, drivers, cultural hosts, or specialist leaders may also join part of the route. This combination gives you direct personal support alongside local knowledge.
Often, yes. Private journeys can usually be shaped around your interests, pace, and available time. Fixed group departures have a defined route and dates, but it may still be possible to arrange additional nights, private extensions, or other travel before or after the main journey. Tell us what you have in mind and we will explain what is practical.
