Galapagos Safari Camp Announces 2026 Photography Safaris Led by Lucas Bustamante
What is being announced?
Galapagos Safari Camp will host two small-group Photography Safaris in October and November 2026. These six-day, land-based experiences combine wildlife photography mentorship, guided island exploration, and conservation insight in the Galapagos Islands.
When are the 2026 departures?
October 5–10, 2026
November 17–22, 2026
Each departure includes 5 nights of accommodation and 6 days of curated exploration.
Who is leading the Photography Safaris?
The safaris are led by Lucas Bustamante, a Galapagos-based wildlife photographer and conservation biologist with nearly two decades of experience.
His work has been published by National Geographic, BBC Wildlife, and Smithsonian. He has authored Reptiles of Ecuador and contributed to the scientific description of new species.
Each expedition is also accompanied by an official Galapagos naturalist.
What makes this a land-based photography safari?
Unlike cruise-based itineraries, this experience is anchored at Galapagos Safari Camp in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island.
This approach allows:
Flexible daily pacing
More time for optimal lighting conditions
Evening photography workshops
Access to 55 hectares of private land
Night photography opportunities
Guests explore by boat during the day and return to the privacy of the camp each evening.
What wildlife can participants photograph?
Commonly encountered species include:
Giant tortoises
Marine and land iguanas
Sea lions
Blue-footed boobies
Frigatebirds
Sea turtles
Darwin’s finches
Galapagos mockingbirds
Sally Lightfoot crabs
Participants also photograph marine life within the Galapagos Marine Reserve, one of the most biodiverse protected marine areas in the world.
What is included?
Rates start at USD 6,131 per person (based on group size). Inclusions:
5 nights luxury tented accommodation
VIP airport services
All meals per itinerary
Professional photography coaching
Exclusive boat charters
Snorkeling excursions
Evening collaborative workshops
Who is this experience designed for?
The Photography Safaris are suitable for:
Nature photography enthusiasts
Beginner to advanced photographers
Conservation-focused travelers
Guests seeking immersive wildlife experiences
The focus is on capturing behavior, atmosphere, and ecological context while deepening technical skills.
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About Galapagos Safari Camp:
In 2007, Galapagos Safari Camp evolved from the passion of its founders, Michael Mesdag and Stephanie Bonham-Carter, who set out to transform the Galapagos experience by creating the first sustainable, tented camp in Latin America. Set in the secluded highlands of Santa Cruz Island, the independent, family-owned hideaway features nine canvas tents and one private family villa. As a land-based alternative to cruising, guests experience safaris that are flexibly designed to immerse guests in the surrounding environment. Galapagos Safari Camp minimizes environmental impact while embracing warm hospitality, challenging the notions of luxury travel in the archipelago.
For Media Inquiries:
Anna Gilchrist
REYA Communications
