Orange-breasted Falcon & Maya Rainforest Birding in Tikal
Deep in Tikal's Maya forest, the rare Orange-breasted Falcon soars—discover top birding tips and ancient temple views.
The journey at a glance
Following the route
The journey moves gradually through 5 chapters.
Route shown schematically for orientation.
Detailed Itinerary
Guatemala City
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Arrival Transfer from La Aurora International Airport to Hotel Barceló
On arrival at La Aurora International Airport, a transfer brings you to Hotel Barceló in Guatemala City. Most international flights arrive late in the evening, while early arrivals may need to wait until hotel check-in.
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Hotel Barceló
Altitude: 1,490m (4,888 ft)A comfortable, well-located hotel in Guatemala City, used as the base on arrival and before departure for the highland birding circuit.
Flores, San Pedro River, and Las Guacamayas
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Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel, included each morning of the stay. -
Flight Guatemala Ciudad Airport --> Flores International Airport – Mundo Maya
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Transfer Flores –> Paso Caballos
Today we leave the paved roads behind and head toward the remote forests of El Tigre National Park and Las Guacamayas Biological Station, one of Guatemala’s most rewarding wildlife destinations. The drive itself is part of the experience, crossing seasonally flooded wetlands, open savannas, cattle ranches, and small rural communities before reaching the river crossing at Paso Caballos, the gateway to the park. These varied landscapes offer excellent opportunities for birding long before we arrive in the forest. Wetlands and open country often hold White-tailed Kite, Snail Kite, Purple Gallinule, Northern Jacana, Limpkin, and Fork-tailed Flycatcher, while Vermilion Flycatchers, kingfishers, herons, and a changing cast of raptors and waterbirds add to the day’s possibilities. As we venture deeper into the Maya Biosphere Reserve, the sense of remoteness steadily grows, setting the stage for the wild forests that await us.
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San Pedro River Boat Transfer to Las Guacamayas Biological Station
At the San Pedro River, board a boat for Las Guacamayas Biological Station inside Laguna del Tigre National Park. River-edge subjects include Great Blue Heron, Little Blue Heron, Anhinga, Neotropic Cormorant, Keel-billed Toucan, and Pale-vented Pigeon.
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Lunch in a local market
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Hummingbird Feeders at Las Guacamayas Biological Station
Spend time at the Las Guacamayas hummingbird feeders, where close views may include Wedge-tailed Sabrewing, White-bellied Emerald, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, and Green-breasted Mango.
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Evening Tributary Boat Ride at Las Guacamayas
Take an evening boat ride along small tributaries near Las Guacamayas, looking for Agami Heron and Boat-billed Heron and, possibly, Scarlet Macaw. Around the station at dusk, Black-and-white Owl and Mottled Owl may also appear.
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Dinner
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Guacamayas Biological Station
Ecolodge | $$ | Altitude: 69m (226 ft)A premier sanctuary in Laguna Del Tigre National Park, this station offers rare scarlet macaw sightings and immersive wetland tours. It is a biodiverse haven for nature lovers in the Petén.
Waka Peru and Sarluc
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Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel, included each morning of the stay. -
Waka Peru Trail Rainforest Morning
From Las Guacamayas, the Waka Peru Trail leads into mature rainforest around an ancient Maya site in Laguna del Tigre. This early morning walk is a chance to look for forest specialists such as Ruddy Woodcreeper, Ivory-billed Woodcreeper, Tody Motmot, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Black-headed Trogon, White-whiskered Puffbird, Red-capped Manakin, Northern Bentbill, Scarlet Macaw, Yucatan Jay, Great Curassow, and Blue Bunting. The pace remains flexible, with time to listen and work the trail rather than rush between sightings; birds and Geoffroy’s Spider Monkey are possible encounters, never guarantees.
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Lunch in a local market
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Sarluc River Birding Boat Cruise
Spend the afternoon on a boat along the Sarluc River and its adjacent forest, looking for Yucatan Woodpecker and Sungrebe. The nearby Las Guacamayas area also offers a chance for the secretive Ruddy Crake.
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Dinner
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Guacamayas Biological Station
Ecolodge | $$ | Altitude: 69m (226 ft)A premier sanctuary in Laguna Del Tigre National Park, this station offers rare scarlet macaw sightings and immersive wetland tours. It is a biodiverse haven for nature lovers in the Petén.
Las Guacamayas
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Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel, included each morning of the stay. -
Las Guacamayas Canopy Platform Morning
Begin early from the Las Guacamayas canopy platform, watching the forest canopy for Golden-olive Woodpecker, Bright-rumped Attila, King Vulture, Black-and-white Hawk-Eagle, White-necked Puffbird, Scaled Pigeon, Brown Jay, Masked Tityra, Trilling Gnatwren, Blue-grey Gnatcatcher, Red-lored Amazon, Scarlet Macaw, Squirrel Cuckoo, and the possible Lovely Cotinga.
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Lunch in a local market
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Birdwatching near the lodge
The forest around Las Guacamayas offers a quieter, flexible birding session after the main excursions. We can work nearby trails and edges at an unhurried pace, listening for movement and watching the riverine forest for birds and wildlife. The source itinerary notes possible Central American Agouti, Morelet’s Crocodile, Common Green Iguana, and Geoffroy’s Spider Monkey; these are possibilities rather than guarantees, and the outing remains responsive to local conditions.
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Dinner
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Guacamayas Biological Station
Ecolodge | $$ | Altitude: 69m (226 ft)A premier sanctuary in Laguna Del Tigre National Park, this station offers rare scarlet macaw sightings and immersive wetland tours. It is a biodiverse haven for nature lovers in the Petén.
Return to Flores and Yaxhá
Spider Monkey, Northern Potoo, Anhinga, Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Little Blue Heron, Snowy Egret, Green Heron, Osprey, Neotropic Cormorant, Western Cattle-Egret, Great Egret, Great Blue Heron, Ringed Kingfisher, Belted Kingfisher, Amazon Kingfisher, Mangrove Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Great Tinamou, Short-billed Pigeon, Common Squirrel-Cuckoo, Black Vulture, Ornate Hawk-Eagle, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Keel-billed Toucan, Lineated Woodpecker
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Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel, included each morning of the stay. -
Boat transfer: Guacamayas Biological Station –> Paso Caballos
From Paso Caballos, we continue with a 25-minute boat ride along the San Pedro River to Las Guacamayas Biological Station, our home for the next few days. Upon arrival, we’ll be welcomed by the station’s staff and introduced to their conservation work, environmental education initiatives, and collaboration with local communities within the Maya Biosphere Reserve.
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4×4 Transfer from San Pedro River to Flores
Leave the San Pedro River and retrace the rough approach toward Flores by 4×4, following the reverse of the arrival route through the Petén lowlands after the Las Guacamayas stay.
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Lunch in a local market
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Transfer Flores –> Yaxha
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Afternoon Birding at Yaxha National Park
Spend the afternoon birding among Yaxhá’s Maya ruins and surrounding forest, looking for species including Slaty-tailed Trogon, Yucatan Flycatcher, Lesser Greenlet, Red-throated Ant Tanager, Pheasant Cuckoo, Collared Aracari, Tawny-winged Woodcreeper, Northern Schiffornis, Mayan Antthrush, Yellow-bellied Tyrannulet, White-breasted Wood Wren, Dot-winged Antwren, and the elegant Swallow-tailed Kite. These are focused possibilities for the afternoon, not guaranteed sightings.
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Dinner
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Ecolodge El Sombrero
Ecolodge | $$$ | Altitude: 259m (850 ft)A peaceful sanctuary on the shores of Laguna Yaxhá, this El Remate ecolodge offers rustic comfort and direct access to ancient Mayan ruins within the heart of the lush Petén jungle.
Yaxhá and Tikal
Spider Monkey, Northern Potoo, Anhinga, Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Little Blue Heron, Snowy Egret, Green Heron, Osprey, Neotropic Cormorant, Western Cattle-Egret, Great Egret, Great Blue Heron, Ringed Kingfisher, Belted Kingfisher, Amazon Kingfisher, Mangrove Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Great Tinamou, Short-billed Pigeon, Common Squirrel-Cuckoo, Black Vulture, Ornate Hawk-Eagle, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Keel-billed Toucan, Lineated Woodpecker
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Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel, included each morning of the stay. -
Grey-throated Chat Morning at Yaxhá National Park
Use a quiet morning in Yaxhá National Park to search for the localized Grey-throated Chat among the forest and ruins. The species is a focused possibility rather than a guaranteed sighting.
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Transfer from Yaxhá to Tikal National Park and Jungle Lodge
Travel from Yaxhá National Park to Tikal and continue to Jungle Lodge, moving from the quieter Maya ruins beside Yaxhá Lake into the rainforest and archaeological landscape of Tikal.
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Lunch in a local market
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Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal
Ecolodge | $$$ | Altitude: 257m (843 ft)Experience the lush beauty of Tikal at Hotel Jungle Lodge, your jungle paradise retreat.
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Afternoon Birding at Tikal National Park
Birding around the lodge grounds, just outside the archaeological site, exploring the rich forests of Tikal National Park. Target species include Yucatan and Ochre-bellied Flycatchers, Montezuma Oropendola, Sulphur-rumped Myiobius, Short-billed Pigeon, Plain Antvireo, Plain Xenops, Stripe-throated Hermit, Black-headed Saltator, and Yellow-winged Tanager. The Petén region is also well known for its impressive diversity of North American migratory birds. Throughout the tour, we may encounter species such as Hooded, Tennessee, Magnolia, Black-and-white, Kentucky, Wilson’s, Chestnut-sided, and Worm-eating Warblers, along with Northern Waterthrush and Ovenbird. Other possible migrants include Baltimore and Orchard Orioles, Wood Thrush, and Philadelphia Vireo.
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Dinner
Tikal National Park
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Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel, included each morning of the stay. -
Tikal National Park Temples and Rainforest
Explore Tikal’s temples, pyramids, and surrounding rainforest while watching for Ocellated Turkey, Scaly-throated Leaftosser, Tawny-crowned Greenlet, Dusky Antbird, Green Honeycreeper, Rufous Piha, Ruddy Quail-Dove, Northern Royal Flycatcher, Barred Forest Falcon, Brown-hooded Parrot, Red-lored Amazon, Slaty-tailed Trogon, Pheasant Cuckoo, Mayan Antthrush, Rufous Mourner, White-bellied Wren, Ruddy Woodcreeper, Northern Barred Woodcreeper, Rose-throated Becard, Plumbeous Kite, and Pale-billed Woodpecker.
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Lunch in a local market
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Tikal Temple IV Orange-breasted Falcon Watch
Afternoon vigil from Temple IV, the highest structure at Tikal. The exposed summit is a classic stakeout for Orange-breasted Falcon, with soaring raptors, swifts, and panoramic forest views.
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Dinner
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Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal
Ecolodge | $$$ | Altitude: 257m (843 ft)Experience the lush beauty of Tikal at Hotel Jungle Lodge, your jungle paradise retreat.
Tikal, Flores, and departure
Roadside Hawk, Swallow-tailed Kite, Laughing Gull, Mottled Owl, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Collared Trogon, Giant Cowbird, Common Pauraque, Royal Tern, Turkey Vulture
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Pre-dawn Yucatan Poorwill Search
Begin before dawn around Tikal National Park in search of the localized Yucatan Poorwill, then follow the changing light into the final morning’s forest birding.
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Tikal Old Airstrip and Scrub Specialties
Search secondary forest and scrub near Tikal's old airstrip for regional specialties such as Gray-throated Chat, Yucatán Flycatcher and Rose-throated Tanager. The focused block is useful for a final morning or flexible species follow-up.
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Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel, included each morning of the stay. -
Transfer from Tikal to Flores Airport
After the final morning around Tikal, travel from the park and Jungle Lodge to Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores for the afternoon flight to Guatemala City.
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Flight Flores International Airport – Mundo Maya --> Guatemala Ciudad Airport
Target Species
A curated selection of the iconic species we aim to encounter and photograph throughout our journey.
Accommodation
Where you’ll stay
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.
Single Supplement
- 59 USD
Included
- Hotels mentioned in the program
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Hotels mentioned in the program- Hotel Barceló — 1 night · Uncategorized Hotel
- Guacamayas Biological Station (included with package) — 3 nights · Ecolodge
- Ecolodge El Sombrero — 1 night · Ecolodge
- Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal — 2 nights · Ecolodge
- Transportation in comfortable vehicles (Car / Van), as well as Boat / Ferry
- 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: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunchs, 6 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, Dinner on Arrival day
- Tips
- International flights
- Travel, Medical & Cancellation insurance
- Additional drinks and meals
- Expenses not specified in the program
- Camera Equipment
Deposit
- 30% (1.109 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.
