Page 1
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 1
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
The Big Island of Hawaii
“Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a
mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.”
-John Muir
Pricing, Dates & Booking
For current pricing, trip dates
& online reservations please
see our website.
Trip Packets
Our PDF Trip Packets are being
updated all the time. Ensure you
have the most recent version by
clicking here.
Last Published: December 13,
2019
Page 2
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 2
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Trip Overview
Hawaii’s Big Island is one of the most photographically interesting and
strangely beautiful locations on Earth. Situated across the Pacific
Ocean in the most remote and isolated archipelago in the world, this
young volcanic island teems with life and beckons to be explored.
Hawaii Island is an ecological wonder with life zones varying from lush
rainforests, warm pacific beaches to snow-capped mountain peaks over
13,000 feet in elevation. The micro-climates as well as the sheer volume
of rare flora and fauna species of this place are staggering – it’s hard to
put down the camera!
We run our Hawaii Volcanoes, Wildlife & Waterfalls workshop in the
winter months when temperatures are slightly cooler and Humpback
whales arrive in the islands to breed.
Our Big Island Photographic Workshop will take you to the fiery slopes
of Mauna Loa and Volcanoes National Park. If conditions permit and
Page 3
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 3
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
lava is visible we’ll have the opportunity to photograph lava as it enters
the ocean. Kilauea Volcano is one of the world’s most active Volcanoes –
it’s been erupting continuously since 1983 creating new land on the Big
Island and even the beginnings of a young Hawaiian Island, Lo’ihi still
far below the ocean surface.
We’ll photograph lush jungle waterfalls such as Akaka & Rainbow Falls
as well as the rugged & rural tropical coastlines of Hamakua and
Waipio Valley. The beaches on Big Island are small oasis between
hardened black lava flows but they are spectacular! We will photograph
sunsets at some of Hawaii’s most stunning stretches of sand including a
Black Sand Beach known as a Sea Turtle nesting ground.
One of the highlights of this excursion will be a journey to the summit
of Mauna Kea to view and photograph the powerful sunset on Hawaii’s
highest peak – usually snow covered in the winter months. The views
from Mauna Kea out over the Pacific Ocean and above the clouds are
otherworldly – as are the opportunities to photograph the Milky Way
from its lofty summit.
Join us this year for our annual Photographic Tour of Hawaii’s Big
Island! Our itinerary will show you the best Hawaii has to offer and
you’ll leave with a stunning collection of new photographs for your
portfolio. Need a vacation? Why not tack on a few extra nights after the
trip and relax by the island’s world class beaches?
Highlights
• Visit the Big Island of Hawaii
• Photograph Humpback Whales, Dolphins & Green Sea Turtles
• Breathtaking Waterfalls, Tropical Hikes and World-Class Beaches
• Photograph Kilauea the world’s most active volcano.
• Small Groups
• Cozy Island-Style Lodging
• Learn from & shoot alongside a seasoned pro
Page 4
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 4
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Noteworthy Travel Logistics
• This trip begins & ends in Kailua-Kona, HI at
Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel*
Address: 75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Phone: (808) 329-2911
*Please note: Exact hotel is subject to change - equivalent hotel may be substituted.
If you are planning on arriving early or staying late please contact us.
• The airport to fly in/out is KOA.
• The cost for a taxi between the KOA airport and the Courtyard
King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel is about $25
Page 5
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 5
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Itinerary Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day One (Travel Day)(D)
Arrive in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii and check into our Courtyard King
Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. We’ll have orientation and group
dinner at 5pm.
Day Two (B,D)
Our morning shoot will take us out on a private charter to look for and
photograph Humpback Wales along the Northern Kohala Coast.
Humpbacks winter in Hawaii and our experienced captain will take
us right to them! We’ll spend the morning and early afternoon
photographing the whales as they breach, fin slap and play in the
warm Hawaiian waters. We’ll also have the opportunity to photograph
other marine life such as dolphins and green sea turtles.
This evening we will photograph the fabled Kona Sunset along a
golden beach as it dips into the aquamarine waters of the warm
Pacific Ocean.
Day Three (B,L,D)
This morning we will photograph a stunning sunrise along the Kohalo
Coast. After a locally-inspired breakfast we’ll head around the island
with our goal being to reach Volcanoes National Park in the evening.
Tonight, we’re staying in the quaint, mountain village of Volcano right
outside the park. We’ll check into to our jungle retreat and then head
to a warm, black-sand beach in hope of photographing Hawaiian
Green Sea Turtles!
Page 6
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 6
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Day Four (B,L,D)
We’ll be up early to catch the rising sun over Halemaumau Crater.
We’ll spend the morning hiking and exploring Hawaii Volcanoes
National Park. We’ll photograph native Hawaiian bird & tree species
as we walk though forests of Ohia and check out the strange and
otherworldly lava tubes.
This afternoon we will check into our hotel in Hilo for some rest &
relaxation. This evening we will explore Hilo’s waterfalls as well as
some great landscape opportunities in a stunning botanical garden.
Day Five (B,D)
If the lava is flowing into the ocean our private charter will take us
down the coast at sunrise to photograph the flowing lava is it pours
into the ocean.
Later today it’s all about waterfalls on the North Coast. We’ll also
explore historic Hilo Town and get some great local food.
Tonight, we’ll head out into the tropical warmth and trek along the
Puna Coast to where the Lava from Kilauea Volcano enters the
Ocean. This is an incredible experience to be out in the steamy, lava-
covered jungles in the evening! Awesome photo opportunities abound.
Day Six (B,L,D)
This morning we will photograph the towering sea cliffs at sunrise
from Waipio Valley overlook. Waterfalls abound throughout the day.
This evening we’ll make our way up to the summit of Mauna Kea –
Hawaii’s highest peak at 13,796 feet. The sunset from Mauna Kea’s
lofty summit is otherwordly. Often in winter there is snow on the
ground at this elevation. We’ll photograph the spectacular sunset,
maybe even glimpse Maui in the distance. After our shoot we will
Page 7
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 7
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
head back to the Kona side of the island for our final group dinner and
our accommodations at the Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona
Beach Hotel.
Day Seven
Flights home can be arranged for any time today from Kailua-Kona.
Please note that the exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and nature photography we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions regarding wildlife or natural phenomena.
Page 8
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 8
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Transportation On-Tour
Upon arrival you will can schedule a taxi or Uber to the Courtyard King
Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel in Kona. Once on tour we will
provide ground transportation and private boat charter(s) throughout
the trip. No need to rent a car!
Pre & Post Trip Recommended Lodging
If you are arriving early or want to spend more time in Kailua -Kona we
recommend:
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel
75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
(808) 329-2911
Trip Details
Physical Requirements
All participants must be in good physical condition and have the ability
to hike with camera equipment and essential hiking gear. For example,
tripod, camera, lense(s), sunscreen, water (up to 2 liters person) and
snacks. The weight of your pack largely depends on what gear you
choose to bring on each hike. Typically backpacks weigh between 15 and
20 lbs - the choice is yours
Participants must also be able to hike between ½ mile and 2 miles per
day for several days in a row. These hikes will be on some trails with
uneven and potentially slippery terrain. One of the hikes is about 6
miles depending on where the lava enters the Ocean, this could be an
optional hike. Participants must also be able to get in and out of small
boats.
Group Size
We keep groups small to maximize your one on one time with the
guide/instructor.
Page 9
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 9
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Accommodation
We will be staying in excellent Beachside hotels as well as a boutique
cabin in the jungles of Volcano Village.
Trip Length
7 days
Mileage
Approximately 3-10 miles for the whole trip.
Fitness Level
Mostly easy hikes from ½-2 miles per day on fairly easy terrain, but to
enjoy the maximum variety of hikes on tour there is one potential and
optional hike that could be around 6 miles along very uneven crumbly
terrain. (This would only be an option if the lava conditions are right.)
Meeting Time and Place
We will have an orientation/dinner in at Courtyard King
Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel in Kona. Please make sure to send
your flight information to [email protected]
Trip Conclusion
Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua-Kona.
Price/Start Dates
Please see the The Big Island Of Hawaii trip page on our website for
the most current dates and pricing.
Meals
Most meals are included during the trip dates and we typically eat at
lodges in the evening as well as some hand-picked local restaurants. We
often do snacks on the trail and either breakfast on the road or return
for a late breakfast during photography trips as we are often out early
to capture the morning light.
Page 10
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 10
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Weather
Expect beautiful, tropical days and warm Hawaiian nights! It rains
almost daily in Hawaii so be prepared! The summit of Mauna Kea is
over 13,000 feet and regularly gets snow in the winter so bring warm
layers as well (see list below). Remember some of the best photographs
are made before, during and immediately after a storm cycle. There is
no such thing as bad weather just poor layering and gear choices –
please plan accordingly! For more info on what to bring please email or
call us.
Please check the weather links below prior to the tour to help you plan.
Kailua-Kona,HI Weather Forecast
Hilo, Hi Weather Forecast
Volcano Village, HI Weather Forecast
Mauna-Kea Weather Forecast
Price Includes
Most meals, ground & boat transportation on Hawaii Island,
accommodation during the trip dates: from the evening of Day One
through the morning of Day Seven, professional photography
instruction, National Park entrance fees, medically certified wilderness
guide, & gratuities for service personnel such as drivers, pilots, captains
as well as hotel & restaurant staff.
Price Does Not Include
Airfare, alcoholic beverages, accommodations before or after the trip
dates, souvenirs, trip leader gratuities (industry standard is typically 10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience)
Page 11
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 11
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Conditioning for Photography Trips
We will be hiking between 1/2-2 miles per day typically. (There may be
an optional 6-mile round-trip hike, depending on lava conditions.) The
better shape you’re in, the more you will enjoy the trip. Unless you are
very athletic, I recommend walking as often as possible with 15-20
pounds in your backpack, wearing the boots you plan to hike in. You
can alternate this with other cardiovascular & strength routines.
Balance is critical on rough ground. Whatever you can do to improve
your balance will pay big dividends.
Always consult your physician before commencing with a workout
program.
Page 12
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 12
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Training by Hiking
The absolute best way to train is by doing the activity you are training
for. If you live where there are trails with
1. Uneven, rocky surfaces
2. Steep terrain
3. And where you can hike multiple miles
Begin by training with a light backpack and hike 3 times/per week. The
most difficult part of hiking for most beginners is the terrain with
uneven footing, the next is the steepness or incline of a trail or
stairway, then the distance. Unless you are already in good shape it is
best to start training 6 weeks before your trip. If where you live there
are no hills, your next best bet would be walking stairs; for example,
hiking up and down stairs will work muscles used in both uphill and
downhill hiking activities. Find a building with many stories, or a
stadium with many steps for your training ground. Make sure all the
while that you use the boots you plan to bring on the tour during your
training.
Additional Training activities include:
• Bike or walk to commute to work or run errands, carry your work
supplies in a backpack if you are walking. Make time for an afternoon
or morning bike ride. This will help increase your cardiovascular fitness
as well as increase strength and endurance in your legs.
Lodging & Meals
Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours & Workshops include most
meals, lodging, ground transportation while on the tour, National Park
entrance fees, guide fees and other items essential to a successful trip –
meaning that once your there all you have to focus on is your
photography. We can accommodate most special diets so please let us
know if you have any dietary restrictions.
Page 13
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 13
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Gear List
This gear list should answer a lot of your gear questions so please read
through this carefully. If you still have questions, please give us a call.
Your clothing should be a system of layers that you add and subtract
according to the weather and temperature. A good pair of good synthetic
“Smartwool” type socks under sturdy boots works well (yes – even in
Hawaii!). Clothing should be light-weight nylon pants that convert into
shorts, a polypro shirt and either a sunhat or warm hat depending on
the weather. As weather conditions change add insulating and
waterproof layers to your base setup. Don’t bring any cotton clothing.
Cotton is not a good insulator and once it gets wet it takes forever to
dry. Absolutely no jeans!
Page 14
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 14
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Photo & Field Gear
Recommended Camera Gear:
• DSLR or Mirrorless Camera. (Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic etc.)
• Medium telephoto zoom lens (100–400mm zoom or equivalent)
• Wide-angle lens (10-20mm, 16-35mm or equivalent zoom)
• Normal Lenses (ranging from approximately 35mm to 100mm)
• Sturdy but lightweight Tripod (must be able to carry this for
hikes)
• Memory Cards
• Batteries & Chargers
• Filters such as a circular polarizer and neutral density
• Lens cleaning pen & cloth
• Camera Day Pack with a Raincover (this should appropriately
carry all your camera & hiking gear)
• Camera Rain Sleeve
Optional (but recommended) Camera Gear:
• Back-Up Camera Body
• Longer Zoom for Marine Life / Birds (500mm to 600mm)
• Macro-capable lens
• 1.4x tele converter
• Extension tubes
• Laptop Computer with Lightroom / Photoshop Pre-Installed
• External Hard Drives
• Remote Shutter Trigger
• Camera’s Instruction Manual
Page 15
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 15
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Suggested Field Gear & Clothing:
• Personal Field Clothing (think layers)
• Warm top, such as a long-sleeved sweater or fleece jacket
• Long pants, one pair of leggings or lightweight trousers to block
sun and give warmth at night (It gets COLD on Mauna Kea
during the winter!)
• Warm Hat & Gloves (It gets COLD on Mauna Kea during the
winter!)
• Down Jacket (It gets COLD on Mauna Kea during the winter!)
• Long Underwear (It gets COLD on Mauna Kea during the winter!)
• Hand warmers (it gets COLD on Mauna Kea during the winter!)
• Shorts & T-Shirts for on the trail during warmer months
• Hiking Socks (Smartwool, Darn Tough etc.)
• Brimmed Sun Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sturdy Hiking Boots
• Sport Sandals and/or flip-flops (for the beach!)
• Casual wear, for your evenings off the trail
• Water Bottle or Hydration System (2 liters)
• Rain shell, waterproof/breathable jacket
• Rain Pants
• Bathing Suit
• Headlamp (with extra batteries)
• Trekking Poles (Optional)
• Binoculars (Optional)
• Shooting Gloves
• Sunscreen
• Aloe Vera (optional)
• Bug spray
• Knee pads (for low-angle shooting)
• Personal Toiletries, Prescription medication etc.
• Money for Tripping staff & Guides (Industry standard is generally
10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience) and for any
Page 16
Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 16
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
personal expenses not included in the tour package such as
alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, etc.
This is a general list. Please call or email if you have any questions!
Note on Packing for the Tour:
Please pack your extra clothing, toiletries, extra camera gear, and other
travel items into a duffel or travel bag. You will not bring all your
camera gear on every hike or outing. Each evening you will be briefed
on which lenses, filters, etc. you will need to carry the following day on
the scheduled tour or hike.