Galapagos: The Enchanted Isles Photography Workshop
"Exotic, Unique, Stunningly Beautiful, Off the Beaten Path" are just some of the words and phrases used to describe the Galapagos Islands. Ever since Charles Darwin first visited the Islands in 1835 and shared his amazing observations with the world, this small archipelago of islands has captured the imagination of adventure travelers, nature photographers, and a host of others worldwide wanting to witness firsthand the Island’s special beauty. Briefly stated, the Galapagos Islands are a series of islands unlike any other on the planet and an absolute "must see and shoot" location for any nature photographer.
What truly makes these islands so special is that they are home to some of the highest levels of endemic species (found nowhere else on earth) anywhere on the planet. About 80% of the land birds, 97% of the reptiles and land mammals, 30% of the plants, and more than 20% of the marine species you will see in the Galapagos are found no place else on the planet. Favorites and the most famous include the giant Galapagos tortoise, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and the Galapagos penguin—the only penguin species to be found in the Northern Hemisphere. Furthermore, since the animals of the islands have existed free from human contact until recent history, they show relatively little if any fear of human beings. For the wildlife photographer, conditions for up close and personal wildlife images couldn’t be more perfect.
To get the absolute most out of this special Aperture Academy Sojourn, we have designed a photography trip that goes far and beyond the standard tourist Galapagos visit. We have emphasized an upscale balance of absolute comfort and luxury, extensive landings at multiple islands at the best wildlife locations during the best photographic hours with like minded individuals, and perhaps best of all, exclusive use of our own private luxury yacht – widely considered one of the very best in the Galapagos. This means we have far more time and freedom to photograph than the standard cookie cutter cruise options that most tour operators offer. Every detail, every consideration has been taken into account to maximize our ability to capture world class, publication quality images.
Under the expert guidance of professional nature photographers you will learn the subtle tips and techniques of nature photography that help differentiate a good shot from a great one. Utilizing extensive hands-on in field instruction, ship board image reviews and critiques, as well as detailed photoshop instruction, our absolute goal is to take your photography skills whether you are new to photography or an advanced shooter, to the next level in a fun, supportive, exciting and thrilling atmosphere.
In addition to pro photographers Stephen and Ellie, we are fortunate to also have special guest instructor Jonathon Green, a 25-year former Galapagos park guide and professional photographer...which gives an unsurpassed instructor ratio of 3 guides to 16 passengers as we seek out incredible photos of giant tortoises, lizards, marine and land iguanas, penguins, blue-footed boobies, albatross and myriad other species of birds, sea turtles, sharks, sea lions & more. This active adventure also allows you to snorkel with large marine creatures, zodiac cruise among unique ecosystems, hike on pristine beaches and stark volcanic landscapes, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, and of course, take in majestic sunsets & stargaze under the equatorial sky.
When you compare all the facets of this Sojourn, we truly believe we have crafted a Galapagos photography trip that far surpasses what others provide. This is a trip of a lifetime that will create images and memories that will last a lifetime. We feel there should be no compromises. It’s the Aperture Academy way.
Detailed Itinerary*
DAY 1
Flight to Quito, Ecuador - Overnight at Casa Gangotena Hotel
DAY 2
Full day to explore and photograph beautiful Old Town Quito - Overnight at Casa Gangotena Hotel
DAY 3
Departure to the Galapagos
This morning we fly to San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos. Flight time is approximately 1½ hours. Upon arrival we board our luxury boat, the M/Y Grace, where you will have lunch and a quick briefing en route to our first visitor sites: Lobos Beach and Kicker Rock.
Lobos Island, across a small channel off the coast of San Cristobal Island, lives up to its name of -Sea Lion Island- with its noisy population of frolicking and barking beasts. This is your first chance to share the water with a playful colony of the "wolves of the sea". From lobos we head to Kicker Rock, a spectacular rock formation that rises 152 meters (500 feet) out of the Pacific. It takes the form of a sleeping lion, but from another angle you can see that the rock is split, forming a colossal tablet and, piercing the sea, a great chisel ready for etching.
After this visit you have time for a shower as we get ready for our welcome cocktail and our first formal briefing before dinner. (L, D)
DAY 4 AM: Española Island (Hood): Punta Suarez PM: Española Island (Hood): Gardner Bay
Hood is the southernmost island of the archipelago, and is one of the most popular due to the breathtaking variation and number of fauna that inhabit the island. In the morning we visit Punta Suarez where you will witness the largest variety of marine iguanas in the Galapagos, masked boobies and blue footed boobies nesting along the cliff’s edge, as well as the famous waved albatross. In the afternoon we visit Gardner Bay, a magnificent long white sandy beach, where colonies of sea lions laze in the sun, sea turtles swim offshore, and inquisitive mockingbirds boldly investigate new arrivals. (B, L, D)
DAY 5
AM: Floreana Island: Post Office Bay / Asylum of Peace
PM: Floreana Island: Cormorant Point & Champion Islet
Floreana has had a colorful history: Pirates, whalers, convicts, and a small band of somewhat peculiar colonists—a Baroness among them—who chose a Robinson Crusoe existence that ended in mystery and death. We visit Post Office Bay, where in 1793 British whalers set up a barrel as the island‘s Post Office, to send letters home on passing ships. The tradition continues to this day, simply by dropping a post card into the barrel without a stamp. Late morning hike to the Asylum of Peace, the site of an artesian spring, one of the few year-round sources of fresh water in the Galapagos. In the afternoon we visit Cormorant Point which offers two highly contrasting beaches; a green-olivine beach and an iron-red beach. Between the two beaches is a salt lagoon frequented by flamingoes, pintails, stilts and other wading birds. In the late afternoon we head to the tiny islet known as Champion, considered one of the top snorkeling sites in the Galapagos and offers prime underwater sea lion interactions. (B, L, D)
DAY 6
AM: Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill
PM: Santa Cruz Island : Breeding Center, Charles Darwin Reserve Station
After a dry landing at Dragon Hill, we head up the beach to a trail that takes us to a hyper saline lagoon. This is a seasonal haunt for pink flamingos. You will notice that as we make our way from the coast toward the top of the hill, there is a transition from intertidal vegetation like mangroves to dry zone vegetation including Palo Santo cactus and the silvery leafed Palo Santo trees. Keep your eyes open for the famous Darwin’s Finches and Land iguanas in the bushes. The lava flows that reach out from the shore from Dragon Hill form black reefs where we will enjoy some excellent snorkeling late in the morning. In the afternoon we are off to the Fausto Llerena Center. This Center receives about 7,800 visitors a month and currently houses 925 youth and 70 adult turtles. It has been the primary center for the Galapagos Tortoise Breeding Project. This project, which began in the 1970′s has been an incredible success in helping repopulate the Galapagos Giant Tortoise population. (B, L, D)
DAY 7
AM: Santa Cruz Island: Las Bachas Beach
PM: Chinese HatIslet
In the morning we visit Las Bachas, a sandy white-coral beach that is a major egg-laying site for sea turtles. The name Bachas refers to the remains of landing craft left here at the end of WWII. Ashore marine iguanas mingle with flamingos and other wading birds in another of the many super saline lagoons found in the Galapagos. In the afternoon we head north to Chinese Hat Islet, named for the resemblance its shape has to a traditional Chinese Coolie’s hat. Our next visitor’s site is off limits to larger groups and day boats, making it one of the least visited sites in the central islands. Our landing site is a tiny crescent shaped cove with sandy white beach cradled between black lava rocks and the crystal turquoise waters of the channel. A sea lion colony likes to rest on the warm white sands, while the rockier sections of the coast are alive with fiery colored sally lightfoot crabs. Marine iguanas sun themselves atop the rocks after foraging for algae in the channel. (B, L, D)
DAY 8
AM: Rabida (Jervis) Island
PM:
Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay
Rabida Island, also commonly known by its English name of Jervis Island, is known for its unique reddish-maroon terrain as a result of the oxidation of lava. It is home to large populations of sea lions, pelicans, flamingoes, as well as a thick forest of Palo Santo trees. A yellow saltwater lagoon is found behind the reddish beach, where vast numbers of brightly colored pink flamingoes can be seen lazying around male sea lions that have been ousted from their groups.
Late morning snorkeling opportunity along the rocks with sea lions and tropical fish. Afternoon visit to Sullivan Bay, one of the most outstanding volcanic sites in the Galapagos. In the nearly 100 years since the Sullivan Bay Flow, only a few plants like Mollugo and Lava cacti have managed to take root in this harsh environment. Oystercatchers can be seen fishing for crabs and mollusks in the tide pools of Sullivan Bay.
After exploring the lava flow, there is swimming and snorkeling with playful sea lions off two small coraline beaches. (B, L, D)
DAY 9
AM: Bartolome Island: Pinnacle Rock
PM: North Seymour Island
In the morning we visit Bartolome Island, famous for Pinnacle Rock, where we will see Galapagos Penguins and sea lions. We will also hike a trail to Bartolome’s summit where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Pinnacle Rock and the beach, where the crystal blue waters of the bay cradle your yacht. Afternoon visit to North Seymour, a good nesting site for frigate birds and Blue-footed boobies. The Island was lifted from the ocean floor by a seismic event, and its origins as a seabed give the island its low, flat profile. This island is teaming with life! You might have to give way to a passing sea lion or marine iguana; blue-footed booby nests sit beside the trail where mating pairs perform their courtship dance. A tiny forest of silver-grey Palo Santo trees stand just above the landing, usually without leaves, waiting for the rain to bring them into bloom.
(B, L, D)
DAY 10
AM:
Mosquera Islet Late AM: Depart for mainland Ecuador from Baltra Island
Today your Galapagos cruise comes to an end, but before we bid farewell to the Grace we visit Mosquera Islet, located between North Seymour and Baltra. It is one of the smallest Islands resulting from an uplift of sand, made up of coral reefs and rocks.
It boasts one of the largest sea lion colonies in the Galapagos archipelago. There are occasional reports of Orca whales seen praying on the sea lion colony. It is also home to many sea birds which is an excellent site for observing shorebirds.
Next we return to the airport where we began our journey in the Galapagos for the flight back to the Ecuadorian mainland. We will overnight in Quito this last night (for those going on to Machu Picchu).
*This is the itinerary governed and approved for us by the Galápagos National Park. The time spent at each place will depend on the variety of wildlife present, weather conditions and decided by the naturalists and captain on board. This Itinerary is subject to alteration in case of changes by the authorities of the Galápagos National Park and acts of providence.
M/Y Grace Yacht
This 18 passenger Camper & Nicholsons yacht has traversed the waters of this world under many names, but has been rechristened with a name that takes her back into her history; to the very best of her times. Named after her late owner, Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco, the name is a representation of her elegance, beauty and prestige. Grace is the ideal yacht for the traveler who seeks a true explorer experience, complemented with excellent service, superb accommodations and fine dining. All who travel aboard this yacht will be part of a unique mission: to bring to life the natural living legacy of the islands through an experience unlike any other in Galapagos.
Staterooms & Bathrooms
Staterooms: Grace offers 2 Master Suites, 2 Twin Suites and 5 Premium Staterooms of up to 19 square meters (200 square feet) with private facilities, individual climate controls, safe boxes, telephones and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage.
Bathrooms: All staterooms have private bathrooms with hair dryers, amenities and ample space to store toiletries.
Public Areas
Grace features a main salon equipped with a bar, TV/Video system and stereo system. Passengers can choose to eat inside, in the interior dining room or they can eat outside in the al-fresco dining area. The sundeck has a bar and plenty of space to be in the open air. Guests can also relax in the front of the boat where the jacuzzi and sun chairs are located.
Meals and Dining
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served buffet style either in the interior dining room or in the al-fresco dining area. All meals are served in wholesome quantities and in a variety of menus with tropical exotic fruits always available. Special menus like vegetarian, lacto/ovo intolerant, etc. can be catered to upon request.
What to Expect
The Galapagos provides one of the worlds most unique landscapes and wildlife species, most endemic and with little to no fear of humans. Due to this rich combination, this workshop is best conducted from our 110-foot private luxury boat, allowing us to create an itinerary to visit multiple islands and to be on shore as the sun rises.
We will spend 8 days and 7 nights aboard our private yacht and many other activities will be available to you beyond the photography workshop itself. This is a workshop and a vacation so you will also have time to relax, go snorkeling and kayaking if you choose. Kayaks and snorkeling gear are provided at no additional cost.
Our luxury boat, the M/Y Grace, accommodates 16 passengers and 10 crew members and your every need will be met by our wonderful staff. The food is exceptional and plentiful and the cabins are comfortable and spacious.
Each day we will depart the luxury boat in two Panga (dingy's) boats to motor to shore for photography. Each Island offers a variety of subject matter and wildlife. We will return to the boat around 9am for breakfast and to depart to our next location. Each afternoon we will again depart the boat for land, arriving around 4pm and spending the best light of the day photographing the amazing wildlife and unique landscapes the Galapagos has to offer.
→ Group Size
We have designed this trip with superb comfort and quality in mind. For these reasons, we have purposely limited this trip to only 16 photographers, and with 3 instructors. Having a small group allows us to be highly efficient while ensuring personal attention and the ultimate intimate educational experience.
→ Getting to The Galapagos
You will need to purchase a flight from your location to the Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO). In country flights from Quito to Galapagos are included in the workshop price, as well as two nights accommodations in Quito prior to the workshop.
Meet our master instructors and learn what qualifies them to give you a great experience during your workshops! While you're joining us, you will receive comprehensive digital photography instruction and tutoring by our team of award-winning photographers.
→ Jonathan Green
Jonathan Green born in England and graduated Bachelor of Sciences, Geology with Geography from North London University, 1984. Traveled and lived in France and Spain for four years, before working as a Naturalist and dive master for the Galapagos National Park from 1988 to present day. Elected Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society of London, 1989. Has led expeditions to the Amazon, Antarctic, Costa Rica, Patagonia and Peru, trekking, climbing, diving, wildlife and photography workshop trips. Elected Member International of the Explorer’s Club of New York in 2007. Widely published photographer both on land and underwater, author of: Galapagos: Ocean, Earth, Wind and Fire.
Four times finalist in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. Bronze medalist at Hasselblad World Circuit 2000. Photos published in Time, Time Life, Time for Kids, GEO, BBC Natural History and Royal Geographical Magazines. Photography exhibited at the Natural History Museum of London, Olympia Stadium, London and assorted venues around the world.
→ Samuel Quiroz
Samuel Quiroz has lived and worked in the Galapagos Islands for the last 24 years. He has a college degree in biology and has been a Level III Guide (the highest qualification available) through the Galapagos National Park Services during all of this time. His English is also excellent.
Mr. Quiroz has a deep-seated love of the islands and he is quite enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge with you. He cares deeply about the preservation of the islands and their unique ecosystem with its many fascinating creatures and diverse plant life. With Galapagos Essence you will experience a unique opportunity to feel part of the preservation of this historic place.
→ Stephen W. Oachs
Stephen W. Oachs is an award-winning photographer, successful entrepreneur and technology veteran, who began his journey in photography the moment he picked up his first camera.
Completely self-taught, Stephen's unique and distinctive style has earned him recognition as one of today's finest nature photographers. He was recognized in 2007 as wildlife photographer of the year by the National Wildlife Federation and was awarded best nature photographer in 2008 by National Geographic.
Stephen has received many other awards and achievements. His work has graced the pages of such notable publications such as National Geographic, Popular Photography, Outdoor Photographer, National Wildlife Magazine and many others.
In 2009 Stephen founded The Aperture Academy, a unique combination of fine art photography gallery in conjunction with classroom and workshop instruction. Students of the Aperture Academy receive hands-on instruction designed for their individual skill levels, which includes everything from learning to shoot in the field to digital post-processing techniques.
Whether trekking through the wilds of Alaska, enduring the raw challenges of nature or experiencing the thrill of life on the edge, Stephen captures rare and breathtaking moments of light and time. His exceptional eye is filtered only by his passion for life, deep affinity with nature and love of adventure.
→ Ellie Stone
Ellie Stone's experience with photography goes back 30 years. Her photographic interests are quite broad; from landscape to wildlife, weddings to photojournalism, portraits to night photography, and even the fast action trickery of sporting events. Years ago, Ellie combined one of her passions with another and plunged head first into volunteering for animal welfare. Ellie has spent time in Africa, volunteering for Elephant Voices Conservation and Research Project, and the Mara-Noboisho Lion Project. She provides valuable information, along with wildlife photos, which aids in the ongoing research of these projects. Ellie also volunteers her photographic talent on a weekly basis for the Humane society, where her high quality images help homeless pets find their new forever homes. Her work proved remarkable, and she quickly received notoriety by being published in magazines and newspapers.
As a teacher, Ellie's passion, enthusiasm, and affection for capturing the beauty of the world through photography is infectious. Teaching is one of her tremendous strengths as she has an uncanny skill of listening and understanding her student's unique ways of learning. By doing so, she caters to each student's learning style so her students maximize their photographic learning potential.
Besides Ms. Stone's obvious passion for photography, her diversity and interests are infinite! She is a triathlete, accomplished equestrian, chef, business woman and gifted runner. Ellie qualified for and competed in the Boston Marathon in 2011, the most competitive marathon in the world, and re-qualified for 2012. She resides in the "frog-jumping" capital of the world, Calaveras County.
Note: In the event a scheduled instructor for a particular workshop is unavailable, a replacement instructor will be scheduled.
While we make every effort, there is no guarantee that the assigned instructors for a scheduled workshop will be present.
What type of camera gear is recommended?
→ We recommend a range of lenses covering 16mm up to 400mm. Due to the lack of predators in the Galapagos Islands, the wildlife exhibit little, if any, fear of humans so it is possible to come within just a few feet of most species. In fact, most wildlife can be photographed at 200mm or less.
Be sure to bring your battery charger, extra batteries, a good camera backpack and your laptop. There is no need for a tripod on this workshop.
We will go ashore twice daily in a panga (dingy) so it is a good idea to pack large ziplock bags to protect your gear inside of your backpack as well as some type of protection for your camera if we do experience light rain.
Is this a tour or a workshop?
→ Both! We do expect you to be familiar with the basic settings of your camera because you don't want to be figuring out basic exposure while the action is unfolding in front of you - that would probably not be the best situation for getting the "shot," nor for learning. However, our instructors will be available in the field with suggestions about exposure, composition and technique; but in general, its best to come with a working knowledge of your camera gear. Back aboard the boat, we have options that are more of a workshop format where we focus specifically on Photoshop post-processing techniques to bring out the most in your images.
When will we be shooting?
→ We will go ashore twice each day. In the morning to get an early start for the best light, leaving for shore at 6am and returning to the boat around 9am for breakfast. In the afternoon, we will depart for shore around 3pm and return at sunset.
Are there any Luggage size/weight restrictions?
→ No more than 20 Kilos (44 pounds) of luggage (one suitcase) may be checked on flights to or from the Galapagos Islands. Additional luggage may be stored at the hotel in Quito. These restrictions do not include small carry-on flight bags or camera cases.
What type of clothing and shoes should I pack for the trip?
→ For travel in the Galapagos, clothing ranges from informal to very informal. Essentials include sneakers, shorts, long and short-sleeve lightweight shirts, bathing suit, a wide-brimmed hat, long pants, and a wind breaker or light jacket for evenings. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and of course, your camera. :)
Because the Galapagos Islands are located right on the equator, sun rays are direct. Fair-skinned persons should use sun protection at high altitudes and seashore at all times, even if the weather is cloudy, as UV rays penetrate light clouds. We strongly recommend sun block with SPF30 or higher.
Most walking ashore is over rocky lava terrain. Therefore tennis shoes, sneakers or walking shoes with rubber soles must be worn. You should also pack sandals and/or flip-flops for more casual walking.
What will the weather be like?
→ High temperatures average 78-80 degrees, and overnight temperatures 65-70 degrees. The water temperatures average 72-75 degrees and rainfall averages .75 inches. There is a chance for both sunny and cloudy days which provides a nice mix of conditions.
Will there be an opportunity for snorkeling and/or diving?
→ Yes! We will provide all snorkel equipment and there will be many opportunities to snorkel with sea lions, sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, hammerhead sharks and a variety of other marine life.
Diving excursions are available during day 7 if you opt for a free day. Several dive operators are available in Puerto Ayora where we will spend the day.
What type of electrical power is available?
→ 110/AC in Quito as well as on-board our luxury boat. There are plenty of outlets to accomodate your electronics. Electric shavers and hair dryers can be accommodated.
Will there be Internet Access?
→ Yes. The hotel in Quito has wifi access. Once we are in the Galapagos there will be Internet access when we visit the ports on Isla Santa Cruz and Isla San Cristobal.
What type of food will be served?
→ Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Wine, beer, cocktails and soft drinks are extra. Bottled water is supplied free of charge. The food is high quality and plentiful. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advanced notice.
I plan on travelling alone. Do I need to bring someone?
→ No, you don't. However, tour price is based on double occupancy, so we will place you with other solo travelers of the same gender. If you must have your own room you may do so by paying for two seats on this trip.
Do I need vaccinations or medications when visiting the Galapagos/Ecuador?
→ Contact your travel physician for information regarding vaccinations and other health protocol. Plan well ahead for this, as vaccinations and some other protocols are ineffective if started the day before the trip.
Do I need a Passport and Visa to visit Ecuador?
→ As with any foreign travel, a passport is required. As of April 2013, a tourist Visa is not required.
Do you recommend trip insurance?
→ YES! We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover any non-refundable registration fees, travel, lodging, equipment rental or any other related expenses.
I've got a bunch of little questions. Who should I contact?
→ Always feel free to contact us at info@apertureacademy.com. We'll do our best to answer all your questions.
Workshop Price and Deposit
The workshop fee is $8200-$8900 depending on your cabin choice. A $2000 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your space.
On November 1st, 2013, 50% of the remaining balance will be due.
The remaining balance is due in full on or before March 1st, 2014. Due to the exclusivity of this trip, and the limited number of seats available, refunds are as follows:
100% refundable: 150 days (five months) or greater (not including deposit)
50% refundable: 149-121 days (not including deposit)
No refund within 120 days or less of the start date
Seats are transferrable
Please Note: Returning students discounts are not applicable to Sojourn Series workshops.
What is/isn't included?
The workshop/tour price includes:
Lodging on our private boat
All in-country transportation
All in-country airport transfers
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners
Water
The workshop/tour price DOES NOT include:
Transportation to/from Quito Ecuador
Soda
Alcoholic beverages
Staff/Guide gratuities
Travel insurance
Machu Picchu 5-Day Photography Workshop
Join us on this 5-day adventure as we journey to the remote "Lost City of the Incas", known as Machu Picchu.
In a remote region of southern Peru, perched high above the Urubamba river valley, you'll find the legendary Machu Picchu,
one of the most famous archeological ruins in the world. Inexplicably, it is nestled into a narrow saddle between two sharp peaks,
where it was mysteriously abandoned more than four centuries ago. Yet, to this day, it remains as a remarkable symbol of the
engineering prowess of the Inca.
We'll overnight in the beautiful city of Cusco, rich with well preserved colonial architecture and history.
Cusco represents the center of indigenous Quechua culture in the Andes, and by merely walking the streets one sees the layers of history. Spanish colonial buildings erected directly atop Inca walls line the square, while the modern tourist nightlife flourishes in their midst.
Every detail of this workshop is first class. We will be staying in two of the finest hotels such as Hotel Monasterio, set inside a stunning 16th Century Monastery. This historic luxury hotel offers unparalleled service and comfort in the heart of Cusco Peru.
To reach Machu Picchu, we'll board the Inca Rail Train that follows the valley floor and through some of the most scenic views Peru has to offer.
We will have two full days in Machu Picchu to explore and photograph this amazing location before returning, again by train, to Cusco.
This trip is designed to give you access to Machu Picchu and the Peruvian culture as well as provide you with the most luxury accomodations and other comforts.
→ Itinerary
Day 1: Flight to Cusco, Peru. Reception and transfer to Hotel Monasterio. Free day to relax and acclimatize to the altitude
Day 2: Free morning to explore Cusco - Afternoon Train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu). Transfer to hotel
Day 3: Full Day in Machu Picchu
Day 4: Half Day in Machu Picchu. Afternoon Train departure - Overnight in Cusco with Farewell dinner
Day 5: Transportation to airport - Return flight home
Workshop Price and Deposit
The workshop fee is $3,795. A $1,000 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your space. (Single Supplement: $1050)
On November 1st, 2013, 50% of the remaining balance will be due.
The remaining balance is due in full on or before March 1st, 2014. Due to the exclusivity of this trip, and the limited number of seats available, refunds are as follows:
100% refundable: 150 days (five months) or greater (not including deposit)
50% refundable: 149-121 days (not including deposit)
No refund within 120 days or less of the start date
Seats are transferrable
Please Note: Returning students discounts are not applicable to Sojourn Series workshops.
What is/isn't included?
The workshop/tour price includes:
Lodging in Cusco and Machu Picchu Peru
Train transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu Peru
Departure Dinner in Cusco
The workshop/tour price DOES NOT include:
Transportation to/from Cusco Peru
Alcoholic beverages
Staff/Guide gratuities
Travel insurance
Students of the Aperture Academy are eligible for special discounts and promotions from our partners.