A little world in itself – Charles Darwin

I’m confident this Galapagos photography tour is unique. Staying on several different islands puts us in the heart of the wildlife action. It also gives us the luxury of spending considerably longer with animals than you’d normally get here. We’ll have some locations all to ourselves, with intimate wildlife encounters on land along with plenty of opportunities to snorkel for those who want to. Snorkelling in the Galapagos is simply divine. Encounters with sealions, turtles, penguins, marine iguanas, reef sharks and even manta rays and mola mola are gorgeous. And if snorkelling isn’t your thing, you just get more time on land while others have a dip in the ocean. I’m sure you want to see the dates and cost first which are underneath this photo. And then below that you’ll find lots of info, photos, video clips etc to give you a better feel for the trip. I’d love to have you join me a future Galapagos photography tour – contact me here about these.

2026 dates

January 9th to 21st 2026  Contact me here for availabilty

2028 dates

I’ll be running another Galapagos photography tour in January 2028 on very similar dates to the 2026 trip (exact dates to be confirmed soon). It seems like a long time away but these trips do tend to book up quite far in advance  – Contact me here to express an advanced interest.

To see a few photos from our last Galapagos trip click here.

£4600 per person based on sharing twin or double rooms. Single supplement available on request

What’s included: all accommodation on bed and breakfast basis; all wildlife and Nat park permits; day trips, inter island transfers and airport pick up and drop off.

What’s not included: Your flights to and from the Galapagos – timings and flights to be advised nearer the trip; lunch and dinners (we’ll all eat together at various local restaurants on the different islands)

This Galapagos photography tour is a journey through one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Our small group expedition offers unparalleled access to the island’s legendary wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and unique biodiversity. All through the lens of ethical wildlife photography and conservation. Whether you’re a photographer or a passionate wildlife enthusiast, this is your chance to experience the Galápagos Islands in an intimate inspiring way.

Few places on Earth offer such close, relaxed encounters with wildlife. You’ll photograph blue-footed boobies mid-dance, sea lions lounging on the beach, marine iguanas basking on lava rocks and giant tortoises roaming the highlands – all without telephoto lenses or crowds. The Galapagos animals are famously fearless, allowing you to get exceptional shots and unforgettable memories. You’ll also explore volcanic landscapes, snorkel with sea lions and enjoy golden hour light in some of the most photogenic environments on our planet.

Whether you’re new to photography or looking to refine your skills, I’ll be there to offer personalised guidance, from camera settings to creative composition and wildlife storytelling. This Galapagos photography tour is designed to be inclusive and non photographers are most welcome. This is not a classroom; it’s an immersive real-world experience to spark your creativity and deepen your connection with nature.

Day 1: Arrive and airport pick up to our hotel in Puerto Ayora. Afternoon wander around Puerto Ayora where we’ll see and photograph our first sealions, marine iguanas, pelicans and blue footed boobies.

Day 2: Sunrise at Playa Brava which is one of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the islands and a major green turtle nesting site. Along with turtles we’ll also see sealions, marine iguanas, pelicans and plenty of other wildlife. Afternoon on Tortuga bay which is the perfect sheltered horse shoe bay for gentle snorkelling or just spending time on the beach surrounded by wildlife. Afternoon boat back to Puerto Ayora.

Day 3:  Our first visit to the lush green highlands to see the giant tortoises and lava tunnels.

Day 4: Day trip by boat to Bartolomé island which affords us one of the classic views from a small hill over the other islands.

Day 5: Morning visit to fish market and Charles Darwin research centre followed by afternoon boat journey to Isabela island. Afternoon wander on another glorious beach and sunset photo shoot.

Day 6: Mini bus pick up and walk to see the impressive Sierra Negra volcano.

Day 7: Morning in the highlands to see the different species of giant tortoise and various lagoons and bays with flamingoes and other wildlife.

Day 8: Boat back to Puerto Ayora and overnight there.

Day 9: Boat journey to San Christobal island.

Day 10: Day trip to Isla Lobo island where we’ll see mating display of Frigate birds and have the opportunity to snorkel in a beautiful calm lagoon with so many playful sealions.

Day 11: Day trip to Espanola island which is bird tastic.

Day 12: Boat back to Puerto Ayora and over night there.

Day 13:  Breakfast and pick up to take you back to the airport for your flight home

A few clips of some of the snorkelling on our last Galapagos trip.

A few clips of snorkelling on my last Galapagos photography tour.

And some marine iguanas on one of the empty beaches.

A feeding frenzy of blue footed boobies.

With only 8 spaces available this exclusive Galapagos photography tour fills quickly. Whether you’re looking to build your portfolio or simply have a front row seat to one of Earth’s last wild places, this journey is designed to leave you inspired and transformed. Contact me here to express an advanced interest on future Galapagos holidays.

I’ve been blessed to spend the last 25 years photographing some of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife and the Galapagos has captured my imagination like no other place. My goal is to help you not just take great photos but to come away deeply connected to the landscapes and animals you’ve experienced. This Galapagos photography tour blends decades of photographic experience with a commitment to responsible travel and meaningful conservation.

The Galápagos Islands are like nowhere else on Earth. Scattered across the equator 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, these volcanic islands are home to some of the world’s most iconic and fearless wildlife. It’s one of the few places where the animals don’t run from you — they carry on as if you’re not even there.

That’s what makes a Galápagos photography tour so extraordinary. The wildlife here isn’t just abundant — it’s astonishingly approachable. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just someone who loves nature, the encounters you’ll have in the Galápagos will stay with you forever.

Here are just a few of the highlights you can expect:

🟢 Blue-Footed Boobies — The Dance You’ll Never Forget

If there’s one bird that steals the show in the Galápagos, it’s the blue-footed booby. Famous for their electric blue feet and comical courtship dance, these seabirds are a joy to watch and photograph. They often nest right on the trails, giving you front-row access to some truly entertaining behavior.
On my photography tours, we often spend time observing their mating rituals — beak pointing, foot lifting, and all the dramatic posturing that makes this species such a favourite.

🦭 Galápagos Sea Lions — Curious, Playful, and Everywhere

Sea lions are the unofficial greeters of the Galápagos. Whether you’re stepping off a boat or snorkeling in a quiet bay, chances are you’ll have a sea lion nearby — often basking in the sun or swimming circles around you.

Their comfort with humans makes them fantastic subjects for both underwater and above-ground photography. Young pups are especially curious, and will sometimes come right up to inspect your camera gear.

🦎 Marine Iguanas — Sunbathing Dinosaurs of the Shoreline

Nowhere else on Earth will you find reptiles like these. Marine iguanas — black, prehistoric-looking, and sometimes salt-covered — are the only lizards that feed in the sea. You’ll often find them in piles, soaking up the sun on lava rocks, or swimming lazily through shallow water.

They’re not shy, and you can get incredible low-angle shots that capture their texture, behavior, and environment. Watching them dive for algae underwater is a rare treat if you’re lucky enough to spot it.

🐢 Galápagos Giant Tortoises — Living Legends

No trip to the Galápagos would be complete without meeting the giant tortoises. These gentle giants can live over 100 years and weigh up to 250 kg. Whether you see them in the highlands of Santa Cruz or in protected reserves, the experience is always humbling.

Their slow, deliberate movements and expressive faces make them surprisingly photogenic, especially in soft morning or evening light.

🐧 Galápagos Penguins — The Only Penguins North of the Equator

Yes, there are penguins in the Galápagos — and they’re a highlight for many of my guests. These are the smallest penguins in the world and the only ones that live north of the equator in the wild. You’ll often see them perched on lava ledges or darting through the water while snorkeling.

They’re fast, so capturing them underwater is a fun challenge — but one that’s well worth it.

🐦 A Photographer’s Dream: Darwin’s Finches, Frigatebirds & More

Bird lovers are spoiled for choice in the Galápagos. From Darwin’s finches to magnificent frigatebirds with their inflated red throat pouches, the diversity and abundance of avian life is staggering.

There are also flightless cormorants, lava herons, and swallow-tailed gulls, many of which exist nowhere else in the world. You’ll quickly understand why Darwin was so inspired by what he found here — and why this place continues to fuel scientific discovery and photographic creativity.

Respectful, Close Encounters That Inspire

One of the most special things about the Galápagos is that you don’t need to chase wildlife — it’s already there, going about its life as if you weren’t watching. And because of strict conservation laws and responsible tourism practices, these encounters remain respectful and sustainable.

On my tours, we work closely with local guides and naturalists to ensure that every wildlife experience is ethical — no baiting, no crowding, and no harm. Just quiet observation, connection, and, hopefully, that perfect frame.

Every time I return to the Galápagos, I’m struck by how wild, strange, and beautiful it still is. For photographers and nature lovers alike, this archipelago is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that rewards patience, curiosity, and respect.

If you’re interested in joining me for a Galápagos photography tour, I’d love to share this remarkable place with you. Whether you’re bringing a full kit of gear or just your eyes wide open, you’ll leave with memories — and images — that last a lifetime

“Dear Ian, we’ve just got home and wanted to send our sincere thanks for organising the best two weeks of our lives. I’m just starting to go through my photos which are such a fantastic memory. The Galapagos are simply unlike anywhere else we’ve been and to share this with you and the group was utter heaven.” Lucy & Paul Mckenzie

“I learnt so much Ian during our time together in the Galapagos. Your knowledge of both the wildlife and photography made my trip so special. Every day our wildlife encounters were so exquisite and look forward to meeting up when you’re back in Blighty for a thorough de-brief chin chin !” Susy Morris