Adventure Photo Tours     

Over the years, Harry Fisch has led and organized small, carefully designed, exclusive photo tours to exotic destinations. Our expeditions are exciting, passionate, and fun. Photography is our excuse to explore different worlds, to discover realities other than our own, and to see what happens behind the scenes and beyond what a normal traveler sees and experiences. Travelers of all levels and ages, novices, and experienced photographers, join our trips with a focus on travel photography and people. This is not a sightseeing tour in which a photographer has been included.

Who's Harry Fisch

Harry Fisch is a travel photographer who founded Nomad Photo Expeditions in 2011. The Winner of the 2012 World National Geographic photo contest in the Places Category and later disqualified due to editing-out a plastic bag (read the post (read the post How I won and lost the National Geographic contest in less than one second" ).

finalist in the Sony 2012 World Photo Awards, two Jury Awards in 2014 in the Grand Prix de la Découverte, 2019 two IPA Professional Awards of Merit, 2019 finalist in the Travel Photographer of the Year. In 2020 he has been awarded a Bronze in the professional category on the MIFA (Moscow International Foto Awards), 2020 finalist at the IPA as well as two honorable mentions. 2021 was the year for a 1st price (Gold) in the Fine-Art category of the prestigious PX3 (Prix de la Photographie de Paris) as well as a honorable mention. In 2022 The Tokyo International Foto Prizes (TIFA) made an official selection of 3 of his series and awarded two additional series with Honorable Mentions. In 2022 he won LENS CULTURE (Critic's Choice) award and CRITICAL MASS award

Harry Fisch's work has been published in various prestigious web photography sites such as Lens Culture, Maptia, Ephotozine, to name a few. He contributes to International Photography Magazines as SLR Lounge, Lightstalking, Digital Photography school, Extraordinary Vision Magazine, (USA), Photography Week, Digital World (UK), Fotógrafo Digital(Spain), and several other.

His interest in the photography of localities and cultural realities has seen him travel through the "Golden Triangle" area between Laos, Burma and Thailand, the camel fair of Pushkar in India, visiting the famous temples of Bagan in Myanmar or spending days in the lost salt mines in the desert of the Kutch. Mongolia, Cuba, Ethiopia, Myanmar, Senegal, Japan, are just an example of the destinations - more than 50 countries - that Harry Fisch has documented and later included on many itinerary of his photo tours.

Harry Fisch designs the photographic tours from the human perspective; looking for different locations, sometimes a nearby residence, or attending an event, accepting an invitation that can make contact between the traveler and the people the photographer more real and personal.

After years of traveling, has come to the conclusion that technique and vision are indispensable tools, but that empathy, curiosity, pleasure through personal relationships are the determinants which enable photography to transmit so much more than a post card.

Who's Roberto Pazzi

“Photography makes me look at the world like a child. That reminds me that the simplest things are also the most important ones….” Simple moments and images describing the wonderful miracle of life. Every single face is like a book of the life of someone where every wrinkle is telling a story of that book. Behind every human being there are stories made of emotions, scents, lives, rumors, memories, voices, tired hands, wet eyes, smiles."

  • Winner | The Artist Gallery Travel Photography Awards 2023
  • Silver Winner | VIEPA (Vienna Int. Photo Awards) 2023
  • Bronze Winner | reFocus World Photo Annual Awards 2023
  • Honorable Mention | ND Awards (Natural Density Photo Awards) 2023
  • Honorable Mention | PX3 (Prix de la Photographie Paris) 2023
  • Honorable Mention 1 | VIEPA (Vienna Int. Photo Awards) 2023
  • Honorable Mention 2 | VIEPA (Vienna Int. Photo Awards) 2023
  • FIAP Honorable Mention | Salon Int. Ciutad de Ceuta 2023
  • Silver Winner | PX3 (Prix de la Photographie Paris) 2022
  • Winner | GPA (Global Photo Awards) 2021
  • Winner | 500px GPA (500px Global Photography Awards) 2021
  • Winner | MonoVisions Awards 2021
  • Winner | VIPA (Visual Int. Photo Awards) 2021
  • Gold Winner | ND Awards (Natural Density Photo Awards) 2021
  • Gold Winner | MIFA (Moscow Int. Foto Awards) 2021
  • Silver Winner | VIEPA (Vienna Int. Photo Awards) 2021
  • Bronze Winner | Chromatic Photo Awards 2021
  • Bronze Winner | BIFA (Budapest Int. Foto Awards) 2021
  • Bronze Winner | TIFA (Tokyo Int. Foto Awards) 2021
  • Honorable Mention | APA (Annual Photography Awards) 2021
  • Honorable Mention | VIEPA (Vienna Int. Photo Awards) 2021
  • Honorable Mention | TIFA (Tokyo Int. Foto Awards) 2021
  • Winner | PIL WC (Photo Is Light World Contest) 2020
  • Silver Winner | TIFA (Tokyo Int. Foto Awards) 2020
  • Silver Winner | ONE EYELAND 2020
  • Honorable Mention | ND Awards (Natural Density Photo Awards) 2020
  • Runner-Up | TPOTY (Nikon Travel Photography of The Year 2020

Publications

  • National Geographic (Italy/Spain)
  • National Geographic Travels (Spain)
  • Geo Magazine (France)
  • The Times (UK)
  • The Daily Telegraph (UK)
  • The Daily Mail (UK)
  • The Guardian (UK)
  • The Sun (UK)
  • The Daily Star (UK)
  • N-Photo (UK)
  • Dodho Magazine (UK)
  • Unilad (UK)
  • Photography Masterclass Magazine (UK)
  • Life Force Magazine (UK)
  • Civilization (China)
  • Luxury Splash of Art (US)
  • Capture Mania Magazine (US)
  • What's Hamptoning (US)
  • 365 Art Plus (Japan)
  • Shades of Color (France)
  • Edition Gope (France)
  • Photographers Magazine (Portugal)
  • RNE - Radio Nacional de España (Spain)
  • Radio Canale Italia (Italy)
  • L'Eco di Bergamo (Italy)
  • InterPhoto Magazine (Italy)
  • Pentaprism Magazine (Italy)
  • Retro Kolkata Magazine (India)
  • iDNES (Czech Republic)
  • Nargis Magazine (Azerbaijan)
  • Elu24 (Estonia)
  • Nova Television (Bulgaria)
  • EXT Magazine (Brazil)

Exhibitions

  • Galerie Joseph Le Marais (Paris, France)
  • Brick Lane Gallery (London, UK)
  • Hinterland Gallery (Vienna, Austria)
  • PhotoKina 2018 (Cologne, Germany)
  • Qlick Gallery (Amsterdam, Holland)
  • ET AMS, Gashouder (Amsterdam, Holland)
  • Oborishte Gallery (Sofia, Bulgaria)
  • National museum (Chelyabinsk, Russia)
  • Mart Photography Center (Ekaterinburg, Russia)
  • Mecenate Fine Art Gallery (Rome, Italy)
  • Palazzo Ca' Zanardi Cannaregio (Venice, Italy)
  • Galleria Meravigli (Milano, Italy)Palazzo Berva (Cassano d'Adda, Milano, Italy)
  • Visual Art 4 Impact, BIG BO (Bologna, Italy)
  • Castello di Pagazzano (Bergamo, Italy)
  • Sala Giuseppe Montanari (Varese, Italy)
  • Galleria Civica "G.B. Bosio" (Desenzano, Italy)
  • Art Primitive Gallery (Sarzana, Italy)
  • International Festival of Photography (Mazara del Vallo, Italy)
  • Valid World Hall (Barcelona, Spain)
  • NFT NEXUS: Tri-City Unveil (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Pakistan)
  • Superlative Gallery (Bali, Indonesia)
  • Casacor 2019 (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
  • International Photography ( Dali, Yunnan Province, China)
  • Poppy Ball 18 (Riyadh Kingdom, Saudi Arabia)
We witnessed some phenomenal and genuine moments.... Way over what I have known until today. Perfectly organized, Outstanding photo sessions. Harry is so passionate as if it was his private photo trip.
  • A Great Experience
  • Small Groups
  • The Best Access
  • Accommodations
  • Needed Skills

Incredible destinations, great locations within the destinations, interesting subjects and places, the best photographic support and a positive day to day atmosphere. All this together with nice lodging and food. Most of our trips are Photo Tours, and a few Workshops. On a photo tour we spend about 80%of our photo time taking photos, and about 20% on analyzing them and honing our vision.

Far less academic than a photography workshop, these trips take place in remote areas that are beautiful and certainly intense, and you start in hands on from the get-go. A professional photographers will give you advice on the technical aspects of photography as needed, but above all, about the environment of the shooting: the way to approach the subject, the preparation, the equipment. Spontaneous lessons will alternate between set photo sessions,, analysis of photographic techniques and photo reviewing.

We put together small groups, between 6 and 10 people at the most, which we keep small in order to fit in all of the special interests of each participant. A friendly and less aggressive integration between the traveler and the locations we visit. The size of the group does matter. Sharing knowledge with people going on photo trips has to be done personally. On one hand, a big group just can’t make “intimate” photos and on the other, the leading photographer can’t devote enough attention to the individual traveler-photographer within a large group.

With plenty of time to discuss technical problems, creative doubts, or any other personal matters that may arise. Some are concerned with technique, others with how to approach human subjects, and almost all of them with their personal approach to the artistic element of photography.

Beyond the destination itself we look at the most interesting themes and subjects in each location. You need to know what is authentic or of genuine photographic interest and what isn’t, and you need, of course, a solid connection to the locals.

Years of investment in local research, looking for interesting places to visit, struggling to create the proper contacts, handpicking hotels.  We are all passionate about photography, and want our clients to share that. We approach this challenge by creating opportunities to catch everything at its best; people interacting until we hit the perfect, most natural and real scene.

Only after years of photographic experience on the ground do you get to know a locale’s special feeling, out of the way places, and how to make ties with the people who live there as well as with their reality.

Our priority, when choosing accommodation, is to give you proximity to the desired photographic location and contact with local people. All in comfort! 4 stars hotels, boutique hotels and occasionally 5 stars. We stay at well-placed hotels that allow us to reach the area of photography in a short time, and have good amenities, such as that have private bathrooms, air conditioning and/or fans.

We share our destinations with passionate beginners as well as advanced amateurs and, occasionally, with a “pro”. Much of the style of the tutoring on our trips is focused on the analysis of the work needed to create a picture: what can be relevant to a scene, how to establish the plot of the photograph, how to guide the eye of the viewer, create a rhythm and a direction for the photograph.

Photo tours are always a different experience, an opportunity to see the world through a new point of view. Photography trips are unforgettable as we have the chance to visit other cultures and collect images able to tell stories by themselves. At Nomad Photo Expeditions, we organize photography travel tours around the world, a unique kind of travel to boost your photographic skills while you explore the other face of the world.

All our travel photography experiences are prepared to connect and share with locals, approaching their lives , these are adventure photo tours so we work to be part of that culture for a few days. During these days you can take pictures around discovering people, landscape and details to understand the history of the land.

Photography expeditions are the best excuse to approach to other philosophies and values, expand your knowledge and keep an extraordinary memory.

Nomad photography is centred in photo expeditions along a territory, where travellers can take images which relate the particular character of the place. We organize different photography adventure events around the world. These are our best photo tours.

China is a country full of contrasts, in this tour we visit Beijin and the southern zone of this unreachable country, where we can live with local tribes full of folklore and traditions. This expedition photo tour starts in Beijing, the capital of China, where we visit the main points of interest like the Temple of the sky and the night market of Dong Hua Men. The rest of the trip will be a unique possibility to discover this country through their typical tribes.

Cuba is a place with its own taste. In this photo tours you can experience a photographic engagement with the island, visiting hidden locations that you cannot visit with typical travel agencies. Some of the best photographers in the history have chosen Cuba as the perfect landscape for their works, the reason is very simple, Cuba offers a paradise where the time stands still and people live the island as a huge party.

Ethiopia represents all the ethnicities and traditions of Africa. This is a very uncommon photo tour to know ancient cultures and take pictures close to the locals. The South Omo tribes. Landscapes in the centre of Africa are outstanding, the savannah and all the creatures that survive in this place are ready for you, to represent all the beauty of this place of the world which is the origin of the human being. We visit Lalibela, in the north of the country, to know local tribes and live their traditions with them.

Varanasi is the oldest inhabited city in the world, many times we visit this place in our photographic tour as well as Jaipur, Jodhpur or Udaipur in the north of India. On many of our tours we end in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. We love India, so we have another option based in a travel to Mumbai and other cities in the south part of the country, where you can assist to different elephant festivals and take some of the best pictures of your life.

Naadam is a traditional festival located in Mongolia where foreign people can learn the depth of the Mongolian folklore. Another good excuse to choose this photographic tour is the eagle training experience, where locals train all the eagles as hunting assistants. Come with us to this special experience in the hearth of Asia.

Marrakech, Essaouira, Merzouga…, this North African country has dozens of reasons to visit it, and we prepare each year a complete photo tour visiting some of the most attractive cities of Morocco. As part of the experience, we enjoy different activities exploring the desert with great hotels as well as camps in Jaima, the local accommodation for nomads, for a night. Morocco is full of charm and we visit the less known part of this country.

We visit Peru to enjoy Inti Raymi, the Sun Festival, but we discover other treasures kept in this country like the Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. One of the best parts of this adventure photo tour is spend time with Aymaras, a tribe that lives in different zones of Peru, Bolivia and Chile. Peru is tradition, is food, music and popular art, if you are looking for a place with a singular character come with us to Peru.

If you want to improve your photography skills with an expert guide just choose one of our programs for amateur photographers of all levels. You will learn tips while exploring some of the most beautiful places around the world. Contact us for more information.

WHY IS NOMAD DIFFERENT ?

  The destination is just the beginning. We dive beyond the surface and access the extraordinary.   It’s about where, but—most of all—it’s about what. Just being in Paris doesn’t guarantee that you will get to know Paris, just as being in Varanasi, New Delhi, or Ulaanbaatar doesn’t guarantee you will understand these places. Far […]

Capturing the Essence: A Photographic Journey to Cox’s Bazar

  Capturing the Essence: A Photographic Journey to Cox’s Bazar   Our photography tour to Cox’s Bazar, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is not just about capturing stunning images; it’s an immersive experience into the life, struggles, and beauty of a community deeply intertwined with the sea. In the early hours before dawn, the sleepy coastal town […]

BANGLADESH PHOTO TOUR: A PHOTOGRAPHER’S ADVENTURE

  Beyond Snapshots: Experiencing Bangladesh Beyond the Photo Tour   Our photo tour to Bangladesh turned into a unique photo tour, capturing the contrasts and beauty of the country through our cameras. Each place we visited offered unique  photographic opportunities, from bustling city scenes to tranquil countryside vistas. We have already published the next  Bangladesh […]

PAPUA NEW GUINEA MORE THAN A PHOTO TOUR

  Papua New Guinea, more than a Photo Tour   With over 800 different languages and a huge number of tribe societies, Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a great example of how strong the spirit of humanity’s first societies can be. From the highland valleys to the dark forests, each tribe adds something different to […]

PAPUA NEW GUINEA A FASCINATING EXPLORATION

  PAPUA NEW GUINEA A PHOTOGRAPHIC  ADVENTURE WITH ROBERTO PAZZI AND NOMAD PHOTO EXPEDITIONS   A photo tour to Papua New Guinea is fascinating and immersive, offering a unique opportunity to meet various indigenous tribes, each with their distinct cultural practices and traditions. Each tribe’s attire is not just for show but is deeply embedded […]

Papua New Guinea Photo Tour

North India, The Hola Mohalla and Holi Festival

Peru, Machu Picchu , Corpus Christi celebrations and the Incas

China Yunnan ethnic diversity

Tour Scoop

Tour Review: National Geographic Expeditions’ Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour Walks on the Wild Side

Experience incredible biodiversity on this nat geo costa rica tour..

Josh Roberts

Review: EF Go Ahead’s Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany with America’s Test Kitchen

  • I went on National Geographic Expeditions’ Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour. Here’s what I learned along the way—about the country and the tour company.
  • This tour’s strengths include incredible chances to see wildlife in the wild, expert guides, and beautiful accommodations along the way.

I’m only a few days into a nine-day wildlife and conservation tour of Costa Rica with National Geographic Expeditions , but already the monkeys seem to have gotten the message: When Nat Geo comes to town, it’s time to show off. That’s really the only way to describe what the White-faced Capuchins are doing as our river boat cruises by on the Rio Frío inside the Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge. They’re dangling from branches, swinging through the treetops, and dipping their toes in the water all around us, sometimes just inches from our boat. 

Over the course of this National Geographic trip, it becomes clear to me that witnessing this sort of animal behavior up close isn’t just some happy accident or stroke of good fortune—it’s the kind of thing that happens again and again because our expert guides are just that good at locating Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife. From rivers and wetlands to cloud forests and volcanoes, National Geographic Expeditions’ naturalist guides demonstrate an almost supernatural knack for finding, showcasing, and explaining the incredible diversity of the country’s flora and fauna. 

WORLD’S BEST: 14 Best Group Travel Companies for Guided Tours

That alone should be enough to recommend the Costa Rica: Wildlife and Conservation guided tour from National Geographic Expeditions, but in some ways it’s just the tip of the iceberg. National Geographic trips are all about access, knowledge, and giving back, and all three are on full display during this Costa Rica tour too. Evenings are spent learning from subject matter experts. Day trips to scientific research stations afford an opportunity to discover the important work being done in the field. And there are multiple chances to support local field work with hands-on service projects that help with reforestation, sea turtle rescue, and bird monitoring. 

Oh, and as for those monkeys? There are actually several unique species living along the Rio Frío—White-faced Capuchin, Mantled Howler Monkey, and Central American Spider Monkey—and they all make up-close-and-personal appearances before the end of my river boat cruise. It’s the Spider Monkeys who steal the show, though, with an impromptu Cirque du Soleil -style performance dangling just above the water as our group waves goodbye. As a lasting image of what it’s like to visit Costa Rica with National Geographic Expeditions, it’s pretty hard to beat. 

Dangling Spider Monkey at Cano Negro National Wildlife Refuge (Photo: Steven Diaz)

Things to Know about National Geographic’s Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour

  • In 2024, there are scheduled departures in January, March, November, and December, with prices starting at $6,495. 
  • Like all of National Geographic’s Signature Land experiences, the Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour is a high-end and education-focused tour. An Expedition Leader and a National Geographic Expert accompany every activity on this trip, while local guides join along the way for additional expertise. 
  • The Expedition Leader and local guides carry spotting scopes on most walks. The scopes offer enhanced views of the wildlife beyond what you could see with your own eyes. The guides also use laser pointers to reveal the location of various animals you would certainly miss on your own. 

WALK THE WORLD: Best Walking, and Trekking, and Hiking Tours

  • Traveling with National Geographic Expeditions helps fund the National Geographic Society’s important research efforts around the world. A portion of proceeds from every booking goes directly to the National Geographic Society.
  • National Geographic Expeditions always books high-end or best available accommodations, and it’s no different on the Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour. The hotels selected all have swimming pools, elegant dining, and remarkable views. 
  • Airport transfers, ground and river transportation, and meals and activities are included in the trip price. All gratuities except for the Expedition Leader are also included. Alcoholic beverages, airfare, and optional travel insurance is not included.
  • If you wish to arrive earlier or stay longer than the trip dates, National Geographic can also arrange pre- and post-trip accommodations at additional cost.

Travel by boat in Costa Rica with National Geographic Expeditions (Photo: Josh Roberts)

Important Details about National Geographic’s Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour

Tour highlights.

  • See Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity up close and with the guidance of trained naturalists.
  • Volunteer and conduct field work with researchers at critical scientific stations in Costa Rica, including the Monteverde Institute and La Selva Biological Station and Reserve.
  • Learn about Costa Rica’s pura vida philosophy through the lens of sustainability and conservation.
  • Explore Lake Arenal, the waterways of the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge, and the Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge by boat.
  • Cross swinging suspension bridges and spot unique wildlife in the misty cloud forests of Monteverde.

Itinerary Overview

Arrival day is a relaxed as tour participants start arriving. A free airport transfer is provided from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José. Since some flights arrive early and others late, the group does not assemble until dinner, when the Expedition Leader greets everyone and delivers opening remarks about the upcoming trip. There’s time before or after dinner for a dip in the hotel pool.  

The first full day takes the group north from San Jose via a luxury air conditioned tour bus to the La Selva Biological Station and Reserve . I loved getting to go immediately deep on nature and wildlife on a naturalist-led walk through a forest that’s home to hundreds of unique species of birds, mammals, and other wildlife—a sloth and a colorful poison dart frog were among the highlights spotted on my visit—followed by lunch at a local restaurant. 

WOMEN’S TRAVEL GROUPS: 9 Travel Companies That Specialize in Women-Only Tours

Following a short post-lunch drive, you’ll arrive at your home for the next several days,  Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa at the base of the famed Arenal Volcano. Dinner at the hotel is preceded by an informative talk and presentation from one of National Geographic’s experts about their fieldwork.

Remember all those monkeys I talked about earlier? Day three is when you’ll meet them (and countless other species) on a covered riverboat excursion to Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge, one of the world’s most diverse river habitats. Home to everything from spectacled caimans and two-toed sloths to herons, egrets, and the Emerald Basilisk (also called the “Jesus Christ Lizard” because it seems to walk on water), Caño Negro is a true nature lover’s paradise. 

The river cruise is a full-day experience, at once relaxing and edge-of-your-seat, followed by a luxuriously fresh lunch right along the shoreline. A late afternoon return to the hotel gives you time to relax before dinner, perhaps with a dip in the hotel’s pool or hot springs. 

Monkey at Cano Negro National Wildlife Refuge in Costa Rica (Photo: Steven Diaz)

You’ve been traveling in the shadow of Arenal Volcano National Park for a few days now, but on day four you’ll finally get up close with a naturalist-led morning hike on the slopes of this active volcano. The payoff is a spectacular view of manmade Lake Arenal followed by lunch and a free afternoon to explore the local shopping area or relax at the hotel. At dinner you’ll learn to mix a guaro sour , a delicious Costa Rican cocktail made with a local sugarcane spirit.

One of the hallmarks of National Geographic Expeditions’ Signature Land Tours is that even the travel days are packed with memorable experiences. That’s the case on day five of this Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour, which starts with an exhilarating private boat ride across Lake Arenal and continues on with a tour of a family-run coffee, cacao, and sugarcane plantation, complete with samples. After a local lunch, the day concludes with your arrival at a new hotel, Fondavela Monteverde Hotel in the cloud forest mountains of Monteverde.

A trip with National Geographic Expeditions is both a vacation and an opportunity for education and giving back. Both are on full display during the sixth day of this tour, which involves a specially arranged excursion to the Monteverde Institute , where you’ll learn about and participate in the important conservation work being done there. Hands-on volunteer opportunities include bird mist netting and tagging as well as helping with reforestation efforts. 

And in the afternoon, another trip highlight: After lunch and a short drive, you’ll hike in the cloud forest and cross a series of high suspension bridges, Indiana Jones-style, over yawning chasms and through the shrouded canopy. 

High suspension bridges in Costa Rica's Monteverde Cloud Forest (Photo: Steven Diaz)

Having already explored rivers, lakes, rainforests, volcanos, and cloud forest, the focus now turns to Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast and the province of Guanacaste. On a guided visit to Santa Rosa National Park , you’ll discover a rare tropical dry forest that reaches all the way to the beach. Then it’s off to El Mangroove , a beachfront hotel, to unwind and learn from local experts from Las Baulas National Marine Park with a lecture about sea turtle conservation efforts in the area before dinner and bed.

The last full day of National Geographic Expeditions’s Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour showcases Guanacaste’s coastal splendors alongside the importance of ongoing conservation efforts in the region. The first half of the day is spent on a boat exploring the brackish waterways of the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll spot crocodiles, monkeys, iguanas, and many different bird species up close among the crowded mangroves. 

In the afternoon, you’ll volunteer at Las Baulas National Marine Park. Your volunteer field work here includes an eye-opening beach cleanup project that reveals the role of plastics in the local marine ecology. As the sun sets back at your hotel, the group gathers for a farewell dinner.

Beach cleanup volunteer work in Guanacaste, Costa Rica (Photo: Steven Diaz)

The Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour ends with breakfast by the beach and a complimentary shuttle transfer to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Guanacaste for your flight home. 

Route Notes 

National Geographic Expeditions’ Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour hits a bunch of geographically unique areas in Costa Rica, so by necessity there are several long travel days on which you spend hours on the tour bus. The bus is comfortable and equipped with both a bathroom and wi-fi. 

Long stretches are often broken up with stops at local restaurants or other attractions, so it never feels like you’re on the bus for too long. Over the course of nine days you’ll also travel by small boat on several occasions. 

National Geographic lists the activity level for its Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour as “light to moderate.” I found it to be on the lighter side of the scale. There’s some walking and some short hiking, but for the most part the walks are deliberately slow—better to take in and observe the wildlife—and with multiple guides available, everyone is able to move at their own pace. Guests are encouraged to remain quiet during hikes so as not to disturb the animals. 

The Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour from National Geographic visits many different corners of the country, and you’ll stay at four different hotels over the course of the nine-day guided tour. As with all National Geographic tours, the accommodations are upscale and best-in-class for the area.

Upon arrival, you’ll spend your first night at Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen , followed by Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa on the slopes Arenal volcano, Fondavela Monteverde Hotel in the cloud forest region, and El Mangroove on the beach in Guanacaste. 

Walking in La Selva Biological Station and Reserve in Costa Rica (Photo: Steven Diaz)

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Go on National Geographic’s Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour

National Geographic’s Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour is best suited to curious travelers with a passion for learning and an interest in wildlife photography. While there are a few long travel days, the activities are not psychically rigorous and the pace is suitable for education and exploration. National Geographic’s Signature Land tours generally attract an older audience, however the tour company does partner with G Adventures for family tours that can include children and teens. 

More from TourScoop:

  • 10 Things to Know Before Your First Group Tour
  • How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes for Travel
  • 8 Best Senior Tour Companies for Older Travelers

Josh Roberts

Road Scholar Debuts Special Trips for Retired Teachers

kids on a tauck bridges tour in Paris throwing their berets in the air in front of the Eiffel Tower

New Vacation Trend: European River Cruise Companies Are Now Targeting Family Travelers

Northern lights display in Alaska

New Year Tour Sales: They’re Big and They’re Limited Time

What’s tourscoop.

Tour Scoop’s team of travel experts brings you in-depth tour company overviews, tour itinerary reviews, the latest tour news, and travel tips and advice written just for guided tour travelers like you.

More about us

Tour Review: Lindblad Expeditions’ Baja California: Among the Great Whales

Whale watching is only the beginning.

Northern Lights viewing on Up Norways teen-friendly tour

Tours That Are Surprisingly Great for Teens and Their Families

Guided tours hit the sweet spot when it comes to traveling with teens.

Pyramids outside of Cairo, Egypt (Photo: Intrepid Travel)

The Scoop: What to Know About Intrepid Travel

Local experts, a focus on sustainability, and immersive small group experiences help set Intrepid Travel apart from other tour operators.

A happy preteen girl with grandparents on hiking trip on summer holiday, looking at camera.

Should You Pay for a Tour Extension or Plan it on Your Own?

Three things to consider before you book that extension.

Contact Christopher P. Baker, LLC: +01 760 327 9879 or cell 760 285 9827 | cpbaker @ earthlink.net

International photo tours & workshops

INTERNATIONAL PHOTO TOURS

To cuba, colombia, japan, oman, mozambique, & scotland, with christopher p baker.

dba Christopher P Baker LLC

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

 AUTHOR | PHOTOGRAPHER | EXPEDITION & TOUR LEADER | CUBA EXPERT

LOWELL THOMAS AWARD 2008 ‘TRAVEL JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR’

IATDG TourConnect 2021 – IATDG

all photos © Christopher P. Baker

TAKE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY TO THE NEXT LEVEL ON AN INTERNATIONAL PHOTO TOUR WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER CHRISTOPHER P. BAKER

national geographic photo tours

Chris Baker Photo Tours caters to photography enthusiasts with small-group photo tours & workshops to Cuba, Colombia, Japan, Oman, Scotland, and beyond. National Geographic photographer Christopher P. Baker—the Lowell Thomas Award 2008 ‘Travel Journalist of the Year’—is one of the world’s leading freelance international tour leaders and photo instructors. He has led more than 100 photo tours and other trips worldwide for such entities as Atlas Obscura, Jim Cline Photo Tours, Lindblad Expeditions, Lumaria Workshops, National Geographic Expeditions, Santa Fe Photographic Workshops, and  UnCruise Adventures, in addition to his own tours of California and around the globe. He has a deep and ongoing association with National Geographic as author, photographer, lecturer, expedition and tour leader, and regional expert on Colombia, Costa Rica and, in particular, Cuba, about which he has written & illustrated eight books and scores of magazine articles for entities from National Geographic  to  Playboy .

"One of the world's foremost authorities on Cuba travel and culture" NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

Contact me: +01 760 327 9879 or cell 760 285 9827 | cpbaker @ earthlink.net

Christopher P Baker | Travel Writer & Photographer

cuba photo tours & workshops with national geographic photographer Chris Baker

Join a cuba photography tour & workshop with renowned   national geographic photographer, author & cuba expert christopher p. baker and experience cuba like an insider while learning to shoot like a pro, “chris, you are a one of a kind. really enjoyed you as a photographer, a guide, and of course as a fabulous story teller. you have so much cuba knowledge and i loved your positive energy “ asa m., jim cline photo tours, cuba, “molly danner [program director & director, photography trip talent, national geographic] came back with a rave review of your performance on our eastern cuba trip, along with the recommendation that i consider featuring you as ng photographer on future private jet trips—which i most definitely will do ford cochran, director of programming, national geographic expeditions, “thanks for the master class in photography. i learned so very much from you, particularly about context, ambiance and milieu to create a riveting picture. sarah s., jim clines photo tours, cuba.

Cuba’s frozen-in-time stage-set backdrop lends a twilight zone ambiance that Hollywood couldn’t dream up if it tried. It guarantees superb photography. But Cuba’s real magic isn’t its crumbling architecture, one-of-a-kind revolutionary icons, or spruced-up vintage cars. It’s the seemingly mundane, quintessential experience a lo cubano that provide for the most authentic grass-roots photography and which you’ll forever cherish as favorite take-aways. And no-one can show you this side of Cuba as well as National Geographic photographer, author and Cuba expert Christopher P. Baker.

Chris–the Lowell Thomas Award 2008 ‘Travel Journalist of the Year’–has authored and illustrated seven travel books on Cuba (including the National Geographic Traveler Cuba and Moon Cuba guidebooks, plus his coffee-table book Cuba Classics: A Celebration of Vintage American Automobiles ), and has written about and photographed Cuba on behalf of more than 200 publications, from the BBC and CNN to National Geographic Traveler , New York Magazine , Playboy and Robb Report during three decades of travel to Cuba. Plus, he has led more than 100 tours to Cuba, including on behalf of Jim Cline Photo Tours, Lumaria Workshops, National Geographic Expeditions, and Santa Fe Photographic Workshops.

Chris’ one-of-a-kind photo tours are inspired by research for his magazine assignments and guidebooks. You’ll get to experience many of the finest iconic sights that Cuba has to offer. But Chris shuns the usual tourist locations to explore off-the-beaten-path Cuba and interact with a Rolodex of fascinating and photogenic Cubans from all walks of life… while taking advantage of the best light, and with a flexibility that allows us to make the most of opportunities as they arise.

Chris combines great skill as a non-technical tutor (his focus on the art of visualization and composition and use of light includes a “How to Compose Stunning Travel Photography” presentation) with an unparalleled, all-encompassing comprehension of Cuba, and a capacity for concise, engaging and exciting explanation that will leave you spellbound with insight.

On every trip, Chris will be joined by local photographer Claudia Corral Mesa (granddaughter of Raúl Corrales, one of Fidel’s official photographers and the creator of many well-known iconic images) and/or one or more other top Cuban photographers.

These tirps are equal part tour and workshop. Chris and our professional Cuban photographer-guide will provide instruction and help in compositional and lighting techniques, guide you in using proper camera settings, and help you use the natural light to stunning effect. Plus, we’ll offer critiques. However, we will not be using technical lighting, nor provide intensive workflow/post-processing instruction. We’ll offer a happy medium for those photographers who want to grow and expand their creative vision, yet for whom the sheer enjoyment of street photography and the cultural and travel experience is an equal priority

Tours for 2021 & 2022, best of cuba photo tour & workshop   (lumaria workshops)  cuba photo tour & workshop: havana, viñales & trinidad   (jim cline photo tours) central cuba photo tour & workshop   (jim cline photo tours) cuba photo tour & workshop: sensual havana – glamour & fine art nude, see calendar of tours for a complete schedule.

national geographic photo tours

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

national geographic photo tours

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

National Geographic Photo Camp provides a meaningful introduction to photography for young people around the world. Each Photo Camp is an immersive experience where students receive instruction and guidance from world-class National Geographic Explorers and photographers, build skills and confidence, explore the world around them, and develop deep connections with each other.

The mission of Photo Camp is to inspire the next generation of storytellers, as they share their ideas and see the power of their own voice through photography and writing. Through intimate presentations in their own communities and public exhibitions that reach millions of viewers, National Geographic Photo Camp showcases global youth perspectives on issues that are important to all of us.

“NOW I CAN TELL A STORY USING PICTURES. I CAN NOW LET THE WHOLE WORLD KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING HERE.”

Akuot Chol Mayak Photo Camp Student, South Sudan 2014

Kirsten Elstner National Geographic Explorer and Photo Camp Founder

“I LEARNED FROM PHOTO CAMP THAT I DON’T NEED WORDS TO BE HEARD BY PEOPLE ACROSS THE GLOBE—MY PHOTOS CAN SPEAK FOR ME.”

Seema Gul Photo Camp Student, Pakistan 2012

“PHOTO CAMP INSPIRES KIDS TO BE EXPLORERS…TO EXPLORE THEIR OWN WORLD IN A DEEPER WAY AND ULTIMATELY CHANGE ALL OF OUR WORLDS.”

Amy Toensing National Geographic Explorer and  Photographer

“IT HAS TO DO WITH PUTTING THIS VOICE-MAKING PIECE OF GEAR IN SOMEONE’S HAND, SO THEY FEEL THEIR MESSAGE CAN BE HEARD.”

Lynn Johnson National Geographic Explorer and Photographer

EDUCATION RESOURCES

National Geographic’s 2020 photo camps were conducted online because of the Covid-19 pandemic. But the pandemic did not stop these young, Native American storytellers from sharing their experiences.

national geographic photo tours

THE LATEST FROM PHOTO CAMP

national geographic photo tours

HELP INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION OF STORYTELLERS

Photo camp stories.

national geographic photo tours

Botswana Youth Share Stories of the Okavango Delta at National Geographic Photo Camp

national geographic photo tours

National Geographic Photo Camp Traveled to Oregon, Colorado, Florida, and Texas to Explore How Water Connects Us

national geographic photo tours

National Geographic Photo Camp Series with Air New Zealand Concludes with Virtual Reality Exhibition

national geographic photo tours

Young People from across Dominica Explore Their Home Island from Ridge to Reef during National Geographic Photo Camp

national geographic photo tours

The National Geographic Society and Air New Zealand Partner to Host Five National Geographic Photo Camps throughout New Zealand

national geographic photo tours

Students Reflect on Photo Camp Experience with National Geographic Explorer Tara Roberts

Photo camp partners.

To date, National Geographic has held Photo Camps in more than 35 countries and has reached thousands of students.

National Geographic Photo Camp is conducted in partnership with VisionWorkshops of Annapolis, Maryland, and relies on its partners to reach students all over the world. If you would like to partner with Photo Camp,  email us .

Made possible through the support of generous partners

national geographic photo tours

Here's the secret behind those stunning National Geographic wildlife photographs

"Behind the Scenes” is a five-part series focusing on the inner workings of the travel industry and how those impact the consumer’s final product. If you'd like to contribute to our future reporting and share your experience as a source, you can  click here to fill out this quick form .

The object vaguely resembled a chicken, with its rounded body but no head. However, the white paper-mache bird was actually supposed to be a greater-sage grouse – a bird that lives in the North American plains.

National Geographic photographer Charlie Hamilton James was on assignment in Wyoming in 2018 to capture images of male sage grouses doing their mating dance, in which they quickly pop their chests in and out. 

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

There was a major problem, though: the birds wouldn’t perform their intimate mating ritual if a human was present.

So James approached National Geographic photo engineer Tom O'Brien, one of the only people who could help him. O’Brien is the mastermind behind the bespoke innovations that help National Geographic photographers capture the up-close, stunning photography the publication is known for. 

“You’re insane, dude,” O’Brien remembered telling James when asked for a “robot camera bird.” 

Yet it was completed in two and a half weeks. A strong yet tiny camera was placed inside the paper-mache bird, which could travel down a 100-foot-long railroad track made of quarter-inch PVC pipe. It could go left and right, up and down, and James could control all of it over a Wi-Fi mesh network. 

“It was one of the wildest things I’ve ever done,” O’Brien said. 

Placing the camera at bird-height was also a strategic move. “Now all of a sudden they look majestic as heck,” he said. “They look powerful and big.”

Dubbed “the funky bird train,” this project was just one of many MacGyver-like inventions O’Brien makes to let photographers get up close and personal to wildlife or deal with unpredictable and extreme natural conditions. 

His innovations have been everywhere, from the Arctic to Mount Everest and, soon, the Sonoran Desert. (“How are we going to keep these cameras not boiling hot in the Sonoran Desert?”)

Ever wanted to ride an airport bag belt? You can't, but we can show you where they go.

5,000 pounds of whole chicken a week? How this Carnival cruise ship galley serves thousands of meals a night

National Geographic’s 007

With a background in mechanical engineering, O’Brien also dabbled in photography as a hobby since his high school years. When applying for jobs in 2016, it was between this position at National Geographic and a firm that produced equipment for intelligence operators like the CIA. 

He took the National Geographic job and is now half of a two-person department. 

“People joke that I’m Nat Geo’s 007,” he said. “I love the freedom to create and innovate … It’s something I have that many engineers don’t have. We touch so many different types of engineering, from electric to mechanical to textiles.”

O’Brien’s team just recently acquired a sewing machine. 

Located just blocks from the White House, the underground photo engineering lab has everything a photographer could need – and things they may not know they could use. 

Upstairs is a shop with machines such as 3D printers and laser cutters. In the basement, old cabinets line the walls, filled with every type of brass fastener in the English imperial system as well as drills, bolts and screws in every size. “It allows us to quickly iterate and design, and grab and go,” he said. There are drill presses, milling machines and big butcher block tables. 

To put it simply: “If you told me the world is ending and you need to build me a car, I bet we could build you a car down there.”

Then there’s the camera gear, hundreds of lenses, batteries, cameras, lights, tripods, lighting stands, underwater housing and more “bits and bobs,” as O’Brien put it. 

Out in the wild

When photographers are heading out on assignment, they first stop at O’Brien’s desk for help. 

He made an elephant-resistant camera used in Gabon, which required meeting with the elephant curator at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and watching how elephants play with enrichment toys. O’Brien built a lightweight pyrex housing that was strong enough to withhold elephant tusks. 

For an expedition up Mount Everest, the camera equipment had to be lightweight, and he had to ensure the batteries wouldn’t freeze. “With smaller batteries, the trick is you shove them inside your coat,” he said. That wasn’t possible with 10 pounds of drone batteries, so he painted lightweight aluminum black because “solar ovens work even better” at high altitudes. 

Photographer Jen Guyton was heading out to Kenya’s Masai Mara savannah to capture images of spotted hyenas . She dove into extensive research. “I tried to dig up every story that’s ever been done on spotted hyenas, what has already been done and what’s possible,” she said. 

“I try to prepare for everything and rely on nothing,” she said. Especially regarding wildlife and nature, anything can throw a wrench into plans. “You have to bend to an animal’s will.”

When she approached O’Brien, she had a “crazy idea.” She wanted to shoot the hyenas in the dark because that’s when the animals are most active. “All the photos we see of them are taken during the day.”

They decided to try out infrared – her first time shooting with the technology – and created a custom system built onto a Land Cruiser. Two infrared spotlights typically used for crime scene investigations were mounted on top of the car and two huge car batteries for the spotlights were placed on the back. Wires were everywhere. 

Guyton went out multiple nights – some nights, it poured rain, so she had to bring the lights in, and caught never-before-seen images of hyenas eating and cubs playing.

Guyton also used a remote-controlled robot to get close to the hyena den while she stayed about 50 yards away to give them space. “How do you get that low angle when you can’t be on the ground with them?” O’Brien said. The camera settings could be adjusted as the daylight changed. 

“The cool thing about it was hyenas are naturally curious,” she said. The hyenas approached the robot, and one cub even offered it a stick in what seemed like a gesture to play. The images showed a completely different side to hyenas, exactly what Guyton sought. 

“I like to think of photos as entire stories frozen in time,” she said. “They capture a moment that can never be repeated in exactly the same way ever again.” 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Here's the secret behind those stunning National Geographic wildlife photographs

Tom O'Brien photographed in the studio at National Geographic.

national geographic photo tours

National Geographic Expeditions

Global operator

Service level

Travelers age

Trip prices

$1,595 — 67,950

Tour languages

Quick Links:

Trips other travelers liked

4-Days Cuyabeno

4-Days Cuyabeno

Family Fun In Cambodia

Family Fun In Cambodia

Discover Albania

Discover Albania

“Where the mountains meet the sea”- Kotor Bay, Lovcen & Skadar Lake National Park

“Where the mountains meet the sea”- Kotor Bay, Lovcen & Skadar Lake National Park

Brazil (North): See & Experience it ALL in 13 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Brazil (North): See & Experience it ALL in 13 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Ice to Sun 2023: Argentina & Brazil

Ice to Sun 2023: Argentina & Brazil

Iceland Discovery

Iceland Discovery

Northern Lights Escape

Northern Lights Escape

Member savings.

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

  • Group Tours
  • Private Guided Trips
  • Small Ship & Expedition Cruises
  • North America
  • Central America & Caribbean
  • South America
  • Rivers & Seas
  • Australia & Pacific
  • Middle East & North Africa
  • Antarctica & the Arctic

Compare with National Geographic Expeditions

View all tour company comparisons

How well do you know the world?

National geographic expeditions reviews & ratings, inconsistent information, no refund.

We booked a National Geographic expedition Holland and Belgium by River. The promotional literature promised a 14-day deposit refund window. The “invoice” was marke...

CaliforniaSlug

How to Ruin a Trip to Norway

My husband and I took the Norway "Trains and Fjords" tour because neither of wanted to drive the twisty roads to see the majestic areas and wanted to avoid a cruise ...

TOO MUCH TOO FAST

Firstly, it was my understanding, and confirmed in a phone conversation with the company’s representative prior to our departure, that the schedule of events would g...

Beware of False Published Itinerary

Best Part of Trip was Cancelled

signed up to travel the Columbia-Snake River to visit Hell's Canyon. That part of the trip was cancelled by Nat Geo without notifying the passengers. Instead we vi...

Well traveled

Cancel my trip but no refund

This company canceled my trip due to COVID but failed to refund all money so I am out $1500 for Lindblad portion, and will never travel with NatGeo again. They have ...

See all National Geographic Expeditions reviews

Gifts Card

Editoral Review of National Geographic Expeditions

In 1999, National Geographic launched their own tour company component: National Geographic Expeditions. Since then they have expanded to offer trips on all 7 continents in over 60 destinations. Recently they partnered with G Adventures to provide even more variety to their devoted customers.

What Makes National Geographic Expeditions Stand Out?

  • Multiple modes of travel
  • Expert guides and photographers
  • After hours and special access to sites

India mosque with National Geographic expeditions

With National Geographic, you can travel by small, expedition-style ships; classic train journeys; land tours; active adventures; photo tours; family-oriented trips; or private, independent expeditions based on your desires and budget.

Wherever you go with National Geographic, which has been in the tour business for 15 years, you can expect doors to open: entry to research sites, archaeological digs, private homes or special events.

Many expeditions are accompanied by a National Geographic expert or expert team who share their knowledge and passion for a region and help make each experience enriching and unforgettable.

Who Will Enjoy Traveling With National Geographic Expeditions?

  • Photography enthusiasts
  • Adventurous minded
  • Nature lovers
  • History buffs
  • Life long learners

National Geographic is one of those special brands that has managed to successfully straddle the line between “your grandfather loves them” and “your eighteen year old sister loves them”. They cover a wide range of topics, themes, and travel styles, with the educational aspect always prevalent yet not overbearing.

Older couple looking at iceberg on National Geographic Expeditions cruise

If you love feeling like an explorer and an adventurer when you travel, and love learning about the world from experts in a variety of fields, National Geographic is the perfect place for you. This is a company for those who want to dig deeper, like getting the inside story from multiple perspectives - historical, cultural, political, economic, scientific and more.

National Geographic trips are great for families, and you can choose a private tour or a family friendly group, where hands on activities will widen your children’s worldview in innumerable special ways.

photographer in Iceland with National Geographic Expeditions

National Geographic trips are also extremely popular with photographers - novice photographers will enjoy their photography-centric tours, while many dedicated hobbyists can be found on their other trip styles as well.

If you’re the kind of traveler who sacrifices the space for a pair of shoes in your suitcase for another lens or photography accessory...you’ll be right at home on a trip with National Geographic Expeditions.

In the same way that National Geographic magazine has always inspired and furthered conversation and discourse, so too do their trips. The spirit of learning about the world is intertwined in every itinerary, so if you consider yourself a lifelong student, you should definitely consider traveling with National Geographic Expeditions.

Top Destinations

Ruins in Cambodia

National Geographic Expeditions go all around the world, and cover almost every travel style imaginable. One might think they have a favoring of the more “exotic” locations but an impressive number of United States and European tours are offered as well as farther reaching destinations. National Geographic Expeditions in the Galapagos are especially popular.

Regardless of where you travel, you will be sure to get off the beaten path and discover unique cultural landmarks, meet interesting people, and enjoy a sense of adventure.

National Park tour with National geographic expeditions

Small-ship expeditions, done in conjunction with Lindblad Expeditions, can take you to Antarctica, the Galapagos and points beyond. Classic train journeys include the Trans-Siberian and trains through India, Spain, and Switzerland. Active adventures might take you hiking in Bhutan or meeting Berbers in Morocco. Land tours could take you to Tanzania, Peru or the Grand Canyon.

National Geographic Expeditions Travel Style

The travel style with National Geographic Expeditions has an aura of old fashioned exploration with a modern twist.

National Geographic Expeditions is a family friendly outfit, offering a wide range of prices and trip styles. Trips vary from mid range budget to higher. Physical level is usually light to moderate.

By virtue of their longstanding presence in the world, National Geographic has a wide reaching global network to lean on for incredibly unique and authentic lodging options, knowledgeable guides, and VIP access to historical and archaeological sites.

Arabia tour with national geographic expeditions

They have several broad travel styles you can choose from:

Land Trips - National Geographic Land Trips are immersive explorations, often covering nature and wilderness points of interest such as national parks. They also dive into ancient cities and cultures, with trips exploring everything from monks in Burmese mountainside temples to the lives of nomadic Mongolian peoples. Most trips are around 11 days and physical level is between light and moderate, with some trips featuring moderately challenging hikes in various altitudes.

River Cruises - a relatively new addition, Nat Geo now offers around 7 river cruises in Europe covering the Danube, Rhine, and Douro. Currently they also have 1 river cruise in Asia, along the Irrawaddy. These trips are typically between 7 - 11 days and feature wine tasting, history tours, and very light physical activity.

Douro river cruise national geographic trips

Private Expeditions - If you and your family, significant other, or a few close friends are looking for a more intimate travel experience than a group of strangers, Private Expeditions are a great way to travel. These trips are customizable, and can be crafted to perfectly suit your interests and dates.

Photography Trips - National Geographic has consistently featured award winning travel photography. They run regular contests for those inspired by the thousands of groundbreaking and historic photographs taken by journalists and travel photographers around the world. On National Geographic photography trips you can actually learn tricks of the trade from real-world photographers and improve your skills.

Galapagos tortoise photography tour National Geographic

Train Trips - Travel was revolutionized with the implementation of the railroad, allowing people to travel in what was then a rapid pace from destination to destination. Today this ideal has been flipped on its head, and train travel is a leisurely paced excursion allowing time to relax and appreciate the slower meandering through beautiful countrysides. National Geographic train trips cover the classics, such as the Trans-Siberian railway and the Rocky Mountain railroad. Accommodations are comfortable, around a premium level, with options to upgrade.

Active Expeditions - For those who enjoy a bit more of an adrenaline pumping and active travel experience, National Geographic also has trips for you. These trips feature multiple active outings, such as kayaking, hiking, and caving. Expect to explore the outdoors covering unique natural phenomena and gaining insight into how and why the landscape has been shaped the way it has. These trips also feature cultural insights, just to a lesser extent.

Diver with underwater camera on national geographic expeditions tour

Family Expeditions - National Geographic is the perfect company to travel with when you have curious and adventurous youngsters eager to see the world. They will learn about other cultures, people, food, nature and wildlife from experts with “cool jobs” that might even inspire lifelong interests and perhaps influence a career. These trips are specifically designed to be hands on, allowing everyone to get involved and learn about how things work.

Private Jet Trips - For a luxurious and more lengthy travel experience, nothing beats a Private Jet tour. A dedicated team will be with you, and you’ll experience all the best that National Geographic has to offer from local guides to premiere accommodation. These trips are in a very high budget range, but if it’s in your wheelhouse - it’s a superb way to travel and cover a lot of ground.

Journeys - Part of a partnership with G Adventures, these trips are adventurous and immersive small group excursions imbued with the spirit of National Geographic. The best of two top travel worlds!

Why Choose a Tour  With National Geographic Expeditions?

Woman in Sri Lanka on immersive tour with National Geographic expeditions

When you travel with National Geographic you are participating in and contributing to a spectacular legacy. Over the years National Geographic has cultivated a reputation for being about cultural exploration, scientific advancement, and broadening perspectives.

Their travel experiences are perfect for anyone wishing to get back to the roots of what adventurous, experiential travel really means and enjoy discovering the world from multiple angles.

Really one of the best parts about traveling on a tour with National Geographic Expeditions is the sheer breadth of knowledge, personal and professional experience their guides bring to the table. They help provide richly detailed context, historical information, and dive into the details of local life, by showing and doing as well as explaining. You the traveler will have the true experience of getting to know a place from the inside out.

If that wasn’t enough of a reason, proceeds from your trip price go towards supporting National Geographic’s ongoing nonprofit work in conservation, exploration, education, and cultural preservation.

Unlock Community Benefits

Travel better together.

  • Save favorite trips and itineraries
  • Get insider insights
  • Receive personalized recommendations
  • ... and much more

More Details

Solo friendly.

  • No single supplement
  • Trekking & Camping
  • Photography
  • Train & Rail

Travelstride featured in

About the company.

National Geographic Expeditions span the globe and are designed to reflect our travelers' broad spectrum of interests, from small-ship expeditions and classic train journeys to photography workshops and family adventures. When you travel with us, you'll enjoy boundless opportunities to be surrounded by natural wonders and exotic wildlife, to explore celebrated archaeological sites, to learn about different cultures and share in local traditions. A National Geographic expert or expert team accompanies each expedition, sharing their knowledge and passion for a region and making each experience enriching and unforgettable.

An Extraordinary Legacy of Exploration

National Geographic Expeditions, the travel program of the National Geographic Society, was founded on the same belief in the importance of exploration that distinguishes the Society's 125-year history. Launched in 1999, National Geographic Expeditions now operates hundreds of trips each year, spanning all seven continents and more than 60 destinations.

Since its founding in 1888, the Society has developed incredible resources—from its network of experts, contacts, and Society-sponsored researchers all over the globe, to the top-tier editorial staff of National Geographic and National Geographic Traveler magazines, and the books, maps, and film and television divisions. National Geographic Expeditions taps these resources to create unique and authentic expeditions to fascinating parts of the world.

As part of the National Geographic Travel group, National Geographic Expeditions aims to fulfill the Society's mission to inspire people to care about the planet by providing meaningful opportunities to explore it. Proceeds from all travel programs support the Society’s efforts to increase global understanding through exploration, education and scientific research.

National Geographic Adventures

National Geographic Adventures are unique, active itineraries for intrepid travelers that feature spectacular places, cultural interaction, and physical challenge: the perfect mix for an unforgettable adventure. Trek through some of the world's most legendary mountain ranges and veer far off the beaten path, discovering wild landscapes by foot, kayak, horseback, or camel. Each adventure has a designated activity level—from Easy to Ultimate Challenge, and you'll have the option to take it easy or push your limits on a harder hike throughout most trips. Your group will never be larger than 16 travelers, and you'll explore in the company of top guides, enjoying adventures that are both physically active and culturally rewarding.

National Geographic Student Expeditions

National Geographic Student Expeditions offer active summer travel experiences for high school students in some of the world's most amazing places. With the guidance of dynamic trip leaders and top National Geographic experts, students explore their interests, build new skills, and experience new landscapes and cultures firsthand. Each type of program—expedition, field workshop, community service trip, and photo workshop—is designed to educate and inspire, combining adventure, discovery, and cultural immersion. Photo workshops are led by a National Geographic photographer and include instruction and daily photo shoots. Students in our community service programs live in a village and work with community members on a variety of service projects. On each expedition and field workshop, students get involved in a unique, hands-on project that allows them to delve deeper into a specific topic—such as photography, wildlife and conservation, filmmaking, or archaeology—and further engage with the places they visit.

National Geographic Difference

Travel that’s tailored to your interests: Whether you're a budding photographer, a natural history enthusiast, a parent looking for a great family trip, or a traveler seeking an active adventure, you'll find an array of opportunities that fit your passions and interests.

The beauty of happenstance: Some of the best moments in travel occur when you least expect them. So that you can savor these instances and enjoy each place in a way that’s meaningful to you, we offer options and build free time into our itineraries wherever we can.

Travel in good company: Lasting friendships often begin on National Geographic Expeditions. Your traveling companions are Society members like you: active, engaged, and curious about the world.

Explore the world in comfort and style: Whether you're relaxing in the arcaded courtyard of a 15th-century monastery in Peru or speeding through Siberia on a private luxury train, our accommodations are carefully selected for their exceptional quality, location, and character.

We'll take care of the details: Leave the legwork to us. We take care of the logistics and details so you can relax, enjoy, and immerse yourself in the places you are exploring.

Exceptional resources at your fingertips: To help prepare for your trip, we’ll send you detailed information specific to your trip, including National Geographic books, articles, or maps relating to your destination. You’ll also receive a 20-percent discount on your next purchase* from our gift catalog or online store—shopng.com—as well as a free one-year subscription to a National Geographic magazine of your choice.

We’ve explored the world for 125 years. Now, let us take you with us!

National Geographic Expeditions Trips & Specials

Tibet and Nepal: Journey to the Highest Himalaya

Tibet and Nepal: Journey to the Highest Himalaya

Southern Africa Safari Experience

Southern Africa Safari Experience

Columbia and Snake Rivers Journey

Columbia and Snake Rivers Journey

Egypt Private Expedition

Egypt Private Expedition

Archaeological Wonders of Southern Italy and Sicily

Archaeological Wonders of Southern Italy and Sicily

Grand Canyon, Bryce, and Zion National Parks Family Adventure

Grand Canyon, Bryce, and Zion National Parks Family Adventure

Galapagos

South Africa Family Adventure

Want a tailor-made trip instead, your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Top National Geographic Expeditions Trip Categories

National geographic expeditions company ranking by category, similar companies, about travelstride, find your perfect trip, travel confidently.

Header Logo

ALL WORKSHOPS

custom-image

PARTNER WORKSHOPS

custom-image

PRIVATE TOUR

custom-image

BURMA WITH STEVE MCCURRY

custom-image

INTO THE WILD NAMIBIA

custom-image

FAROE ISLANDS

  • Reservation

custom-image

PASSIONATE PHOTOGRAPHERS

custom-image

  • Online Training

custom-image

PRIVACY-POLICY

custom-image

TERMS & CONDITIONS

  • Cookie Policy (EU)

Be a Part of Our Story

Join our Better Moments community and get access to exclusive behind the scenes content, tips & tricks from our experts, and travel stories that we only share with our newsletter subscribers. You will be the first to know about new workshops, special offers and giveaways.

Travel Wildlife Portrait Landscape

Professional Part time professional Advanced passionated Passionated Student Other

image

Please enter your email address

For subscription, fill the form below, better moments workshops.

Explore your passion for photography and expand your photographic skills with the world’s most experienced award-winning photographers in the most beautiful locations.

national geographic photo tours

January 27th February 6th 2025

Expert Christian Nørgaard

national geographic photo tours

KENYA: TRUE WILDLIFE

October 28th - November 5th 2024

KENYA: TRUE WILDLIFE Tom D. Jones

national geographic photo tours

The Magic of Venice Carnival

February 21st - February 26th, 2025

national geographic photo tours

TBA Contact BM for pre-booking

Burma with the Best Steve McCurry

national geographic photo tours

Into the wild Namibia

November 14th-25th 2024

Into the wild Namibia Christian Nørgaard

national geographic photo tours

November 7th-14th 2024

Spirit of the Desert Tom D. Jones

national geographic photo tours

TBA.Contact BM for pre-booking

Krung Thep Workshop with Steve McCurry

national geographic photo tours

September 7th-15th 2023

Icelands Hidden Gems Peter Eastway

national geographic photo tours

October 1st - 8th 2024

Reportage Photography James Nachtwey

national geographic photo tours

October 11-20 2024

Asia for Feinschmeckers Christian Nørgaard

national geographic photo tours

Philippines

October 4th - 14th 2025

The Pearl Hunters James Whitlow Delano

national geographic photo tours

August 23rd - August 30th 2024

Into the Ice Cap Tom D. Jones

national geographic photo tours

March 10th-17th 2025

Northern Light & Artworks of Nature Tom D. Jones

Meet your Team

Embark on a journey to explore the world through the lens of your passion for photography, accompanied by the expertise of acclaimed photographers from National Geographic, Magnum, and other award-winning masters of the craft.

national geographic photo tours

STEVE MCCURRY

national geographic photo tours

JAMES NACHTWEY

national geographic photo tours

SISSE BRIMBERG

national geographic photo tours

LAURENT BAHEUX

national geographic photo tours

JAMES WHITLOW DELANO

national geographic photo tours

MARCO DI LAURO

national geographic photo tours

HAMID SARDAR

national geographic photo tours

MICHAEL NICHOLS

national geographic photo tours

TOM D. JONES

national geographic photo tours

CHRISTIAN NORGAARD

national geographic photo tours

ARNE HODALIC

national geographic photo tours

PETER EASTWAY

national geographic photo tours

STEVE BLOOM

national geographic photo tours

ANDREAS H. BITESNICH

Christian nørgaard’s blog.

Better Moments founder Christian Nørgaard shares behind-the-scenes stories, tips & tricks and much more.

national geographic photo tours

One of a kind

One of a kind Robert Capa, a Hungarian war photographer,...

One of a kind Robert...

national geographic photo tours

Capturing Moments Around the World

Photo by Christian Nørgaard Capturing...

national geographic photo tours

Capturing History: The 5 Most Important Pictures of All Time

Capturing History: The 5 Most...

national geographic photo tours

Helmut Newton – A Visionary in Photography

Helmut Newton - A Visionary in Photography...

What Client Say About Our Services

“I’m very happy with Better Moments and the Faroe Islands” Victor Hancock,The United States

national geographic photo tours

Victor Hancock,The United States

We’ve been up every morning before sunrise, so this is a workshop, not a holiday! It’s just amazing what you can capture early in the morning when the sun is rising. I feel very lucky to come to Greenland and see the immense beauty here. Joe Lam, Canada

Joe Lam Greenland

Joe Lam, Canada

I truly enjoyed the Better Moments Workshop in Namibia. From the exploration of unique places to vast landscapes and the magic light of Namibia - this trip offered plenty of fantastic photographic opportunities.” Mathias Born

national geographic photo tours

Mathias Born

I have been on two bucket list workshops with Better Moments. The first one was to Greenland, and the second to Namibia. The expert tutelage from Better Moments pushed my photography further. It’s the help in becoming a photographer that will bring me back to future workshops. Joe Graf, US

Joe Graf

Joe Graf, US

The hotels were first class, the food was phenomenal, which is important, and more importantly, each day was very well planned out and it has been a really great experience. Aubra Franklin, USA

Passionate Photographer Aubra Frankling during our Better Moments Nehterlands workshop

Aubra Franklin, USA

Learning how to approach the local people on the markets, on the street, at their work, in the monasteries etc. was a challenge and a skill that most of us didn’t master before we started the course, but with guidance from Steve, we rapidly improved our techniques. Lisbeth Monéton, Denmark

Passionate Photographer Lisbeth Moneton with a group of Burmese children during our Burma photography workshop with sTeve McCurry

Lisbeth Monéton, Denmark

World’s most scenic cities.

Better Moments Photo Exploring is a photogenic way to discover the world's most scenic cities on private guided photo tours.

national geographic photo tours

Reykjavik & Iceland

national geographic photo tours

Better Moments News

Stay informed with our essential updates. If you want our news in your inbox, simply subscribe to our e-news

Hasselblad Masters Christian Nørgaard

Christian Nørgaard Hasselblad Masters finalist

national geographic photo tours

Vote with great hope that you, just like Christian Nørgaard, see the importance of capturing the wo...

Mursi women from Ethiopia. By Christian Nørgaard

Christian Nørgaard finalist in the Hasselblad Masters competition

Christian Nørgaard have been selected as a finalist in the Hasselblad Masters competition  ...

Celebrating 10 Years Anniversary with Better Moments

A decade of Better Moments is a moment to treasure and something we want to celebrate with you. That’s why we are sharing our 10-year anniversary book with you, looking back at some of the most memorable moments we’ve enjoyed over the years.

We Are Proud Working With

partner

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

A group of penguins waking down the steep slope of an iceberg.

Photo story: a water-borne adventure into fragile Antarctica

An increasingly fragile place of barren shores lapped by bone-chilling waters, Antarctica is home to every form of ice — in snow, glaciers and bergs — and a surprising amount of wildlife.

A pair of penguins in Antarctica looking at the camera. They are waddling on brown rocks

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

  • PHOTOGRAPHY
  • CLIMATE CHANGE
  • POLAR EXPEDITIONS
  • POLAR REGIONS

You May Also Like

national geographic photo tours

Following early polar explorers on a journey through Canada's Northwest Passage

national geographic photo tours

See the otherworldly beauty of Earth’s polar regions

national geographic photo tours

What it's like to cross Antarctica's Weddell Sea

national geographic photo tours

11 of the best wildlife cruises for 2024 and beyond

national geographic photo tours

Listen to 30 years of climate change transformed into haunting music

  • Environment

History & Culture

  • History & Culture
  • History Magazine
  • Mind, Body, Wonder
  • Coronavirus Coverage
  • Paid Content
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • About Nielsen Measurement
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Nat Geo Home
  • Attend a Live Event
  • Book a Trip
  • Inspire Your Kids
  • Shop Nat Geo
  • Visit the D.C. Museum
  • Learn About Our Impact
  • Support Our Mission
  • Advertise With Us
  • Customer Service
  • Renew Subscription
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Work at Nat Geo
  • Sign Up for Our Newsletters
  • Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

All Programs

High school, middle school, apply now & login.

national geographic photo tours

"On these programs, I repeatedly witness students maturing and gaining skills in self-reliance, collaboration, science, and critical thinking. In short, I watch students become leaders." Dr. M. Jackson, National Geographic Explorer

Student Programs to Inspire Your Inner Explorer

Explore with Nat Geo This Summer

national geographic photo tours

Anthropology, Culture, & Tradition

Understand the links between the ancient and present worlds, communities, and traditions, encountering traces of past civilizations and experiencing vibrant traditions that exist today.

Understand the links between the ancient and present worlds, communities, and traditions, encountering traces of…

national geographic photo tours

Climate & Geology

Examine Earth processes, witness dramatic geological forces at work, and discuss the science of global climate change with local researchers.

Examine Earth processes, witness dramatic geological forces at work, and discuss the science of global…

national geographic photo tours

Innovation, Technology & Robotics

Get a firsthand look at new technologies that are being created to address challenges facing the world today.

Get a firsthand look at new technologies that are being created to address challenges facing…

national geographic photo tours

Photography

Set out on shoots to improve your photography or film skills, leveraging storytelling to illuminate the places you encounter.

Set out on shoots to improve your photography or film skills, leveraging storytelling to illuminate…

national geographic photo tours

Wildlife Conservation

Delve into underwater ecosystems and better understand how the health of our oceans, seas, and shorelines impacts all life on Earth.

Delve into underwater ecosystems and better understand how the health of our oceans, seas, and…

View All Putney Student Travel Programs

View Programs

On these programs, I repeatedly witness students maturing and gaining skills in self-reliance, collaboration, science, and critical thinking. In short, I watch students become leaders. Dr. M. Jackson, National Geographic Explorer

High School & Middle School Programs

National Geographic Student Travel programs enable high school and middle school students to engage with the world in the spirit of National Geographic Explorers—fueled by curiosity, collaboration, and a desire to understand our planet and its people.

  • Attend a Webinar

Featured Programs

Featured Program

  • University Workshop

Engineering & Robotics on the MIT Campus

Featured Program

  • Exploration

Featured Program

  • Photo Workshop

Yellowstone

  • Canadian Arctic Exploration
  • Costa Rica Exploration
  • Ecuador & the Galápagos Exploration
  • Engineering & Robotics on the MIT Campus University Workshop
  • Iceland Exploration
  • Japan Exploration
  • Namibia Exploration
  • Norway Exploration
  • Thailand Exploration
  • Yellowstone Photography Workshop Photography Workshop
  • Middle School Iceland Middle School
  • Middle School Italy & Greece Middle School
  • About National Geographic Student Travel
  • Program Types
  • Our Experts
  • Our Leaders
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Scholarships
  • Apply to Lead
  • Terms Of Use
  • Putney Privacy Policy
  • Request More Information

Putney Student Travel operates student programs under license from the National Geographic Society. The name of \\\\\\\"National Geographic\\\\\\\" and the Yellow Border are trademarks of the National Geographic Society and Putney Student Travel is an authorized user.

877.877.8759 | [email protected] | 345 Hickory Ridge Rd. Putney, VT 05346

national geographic photo tours

national geographic photo tours

National Geographic Traveller Photography Awards 2023 – the winners

  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share via Email

The best mages from the magazine’s annual competition , with categories for travel, wildlife, urban settings, people, food, landscape and portfolio

Thu 2 Mar 2023 11.00 GMT Last modified on Thu 2 Mar 2023 13.27 GMT

Ed Hasler, winner: Wildlife

A stag in Richmond Park, London. The judges said they loved ‘the beautiful colour palette of this serene, intimate scene’.

Sam Davies, winner: Landscape

Nearing Tasiilaq, Greenland. The judges said they liked ‘the simplicity of the image and the placement of geometric shapes against the negative space of the sea’

Richard Quirke, winner: Urban

The water feature El Paraguas at the Museo Nacional de Antropología, Mexico City. This shot showed ‘great dedication to seeking out unusual angles within our urban environments’, said the judges.

Simon Urwin, winner: Food

Helen Turner in the kitchen of her Tennessee barbecue joint: Helen’s Bar BQ

Serge Melesan, winner: Portfolio

Mayotte in the Indian Ocean, off the north-west coast of Madagascar.

  • Travel photography
  • Wildlife holidays
  • Adventure travel
  • Photography

More galleries

Most popular.

Moscow driver

  • TripAdvisor

Contact Phone

  • Testimonials
  • Travel Tips

Moscow Metro

Moscow Metro

About Me in Short

Guide, Driver and Photographer Arthur Lookyanov

My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002. Read more about me and my services , check out testimonials of my former business and travel clients from all over the World, hit me up on Twitter or other social websites. I hope that you will like my photos as well.

See you in Moscow!

  • View full size
  • Owner: Moscow Guide & Driver
  • Date: June 3, 2012 06:12:00 am EDT
  • File name: ALP-2012-0603-146-Entering-Moscow-Metro-Station-Komsomolskaya.jpg
  • Tags: Russia , Moscow Metro , Komsomolskaya , Moscow Highlights , escalators , Moscow Famous Landmarks , underground palace , Moscow

GPS Location of the Photo

Google maps.

  • GPS Map of this album
  • GPS Map of Moscow Guide & Driver's pictures

Random image

Museum of Cosmonautics Ticket. Front View (2013)

Front view of the Museum of Cosmonautics ticket in 2013

Featured Tags

  • 273 photos are tagged with architecture
  • 199 photos are tagged with cathedrals
  • 305 photos are tagged with churches
  • 294 photos are tagged with Dear Clients
  • 260 photos are tagged with lights
  • 1875 photos are tagged with Moscow
  • 306 photos are tagged with Moscow by Night
  • 194 photos are tagged with Moscow cityscapes
  • 264 photos are tagged with Moscow Kremlin
  • 326 photos are tagged with night moscow
  • 426 photos are tagged with Orthodox Churches
  • 226 photos are tagged with Red Square
  • 2538 photos are tagged with Russia
  • 209 photos are tagged with twilights
  • 350 photos are tagged with Winter

Take one of these exciting tours:

  • Moscow Highlights
  • Discovering the Golden Ring of Russia
  • Arts & Culture Tours
  • Moscow by Night tour

Moscow driver

Moscow Metro Tour

  • Page active

Image

Description

Moscow metro private tours.

  • 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
  • Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

  • Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
  • Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
  • Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
  • Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
  • Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
  • Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
  • Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
  • If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
  • Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
  • Have fun time with a very friendly local;
  • + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

  • Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
  • + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

  • Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
  • Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
  • The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

  • + A friend in Moscow.
  • + Private & customized Moscow tour.
  • + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
  • + An authentic experience of local life.
  • + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
  • + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
  • + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
  • + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
  • + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review

Facts.net

40 Facts About Elektrostal

Lanette Mayes

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

40-facts-about-elektrostal

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

  • Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
  • With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

IMAGES

  1. All Tours & Trips by National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures in

    national geographic photo tours

  2. National Geographic's Travel Photo Contest is underway and the entries

    national geographic photo tours

  3. 'National Geographic' Celebrates 125 Years Of Photography : The Picture

    national geographic photo tours

  4. National Geographic Journeys

    national geographic photo tours

  5. Here's National Geographic's Best Aerial Travel Photography of the Year

    national geographic photo tours

  6. The 10 Best Pictures From the 2018 National Geographic Travel

    national geographic photo tours

VIDEO

  1. Cruise news Today! Carnival Jubilee, AIDA Cruises, & Alaska Shore Excursion

  2. David Mauk

  3. National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures & Barrhead Travel

COMMENTS

  1. Photography Tours & Photography Workshops

    Photography vacation packages are offered by National Geographic Expeditions to improve your photography skills with the guidance of a professional National Geographic photographer.

  2. National Geographic Traveler Vacation Packages

    The Best Luxury Travel Vacation Packages With National Geographic. Luxury Travel Packages: National Geographic Traveler Expert Guides, Special Access To Attractions & Cultural Experiences.

  3. Photography Tours & Photography Workshops

    Photography. National Geographic offers a variety of ways to improve your photography skills with the guidance of a National Geographic Photography Expert. All of our photography programs are designed for amateur photographers of all levels interested in improving their skills. On our photography expeditions you'll learn tips and techniques ...

  4. Expedition Photography

    Go 'on assignment' with National Geographic Photography Experts. Every expedition aboard National Geographic Endurance, National Geographic Resolution, National Geographic Explorer, and National Geographic Orion sails with a National Geographic Photography Expert as part of the expedition team. Sharing in the journey, they will offer tips at the deck rail, share engaging stories during ...

  5. Adventure photo tours. Photography trips

    Harry Fisch is a travel photographer who founded Nomad Photo Expeditions in 2011. The Winner of the 2012 World National Geographic photo contest in the Places Category and later disqualified due to editing-out a plastic bag (read the post (read the post How I won and lost the National Geographic contest in less than one second").. His work has deserved since then numerous awards: Official ...

  6. Tour Review: National Geographic Expeditions' Costa Rica Wildlife and

    Things to Know about National Geographic's Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour. In 2024, there are scheduled departures in January, March, November, and December, with prices starting at $6,495. Like all of National Geographic's Signature Land experiences, the Costa Rica Wildlife and Conservation Tour is a high-end and education ...

  7. International photo tours & workshops

    He has led more than 100 photo tours and other trips worldwide for such entities as Atlas Obscura, Jim Cline Photo Tours, Lindblad Expeditions, Lumaria Workshops, National Geographic Expeditions, Santa Fe Photographic Workshops, and UnCruise Adventures, in addition to his own tours of California and around the globe.

  8. cuba photo tours & workshops with national geographic photographer

    Plus, he has led more than 100 tours to Cuba, including on behalf of Jim Cline Photo Tours, Lumaria Workshops, National Geographic Expeditions, and Santa Fe Photographic Workshops. Chris' one-of-a-kind photo tours are inspired by research for his magazine assignments and guidebooks.

  9. Photo Camp

    National Geographic Photo Camp provides a meaningful introduction to photography for young people around the world. Each Photo Camp is an immersive experience where students receive instruction and guidance from world-class National Geographic Explorers and photographers, build skills and confidence, explore the world around them, and develop deep connections with each other.

  10. Here's the secret behind those stunning National Geographic ...

    National Geographic photographer Charlie Hamilton James was on assignment in Wyoming in 2018 to capture images of male sage grouses doing their mating dance, in which they quickly pop their chests ...

  11. National Geographic Expeditions Profile [2024]

    Photography Trips - National Geographic has consistently featured award winning travel photography. They run regular contests for those inspired by the thousands of groundbreaking and historic photographs taken by journalists and travel photographers around the world. On National Geographic photography trips you can actually learn tricks of the ...

  12. Better Moments

    Our Story. Join our Better Moments community and get access to exclusive behind the scenes content, tips & tricks from our experts, and travel stories that we only share with our newsletter subscribers. You will be the first to know about new workshops, special offers and giveaways. 10 Years with Better Moments.

  13. Photo story: a water-borne adventure into fragile Antarctica

    An increasingly fragile place of barren shores lapped by bone-chilling waters, Antarctica is home to every form of ice — in snow, glaciers and bergs — and a surprising amount of wildlife.

  14. National Geographic Student Travel

    Anthropology, Culture, & Tradition. Photography. x. June 26-July 12, 2024. July 12-July 28, 2024. Venture to Norway this summer to experience its stunning fjords and soaring peaks, and immerse yourself in the country's culture and traditions. Norwegians have a storied history of connecting with the natural world and their kinship with the ...

  15. National Geographic Traveller Photography Awards 2023

    Photograph: Renato Granieri/National Geographic Traveller Photography competition 2023 Thu 2 Mar 2023 06.00 EST Last modified on Thu 2 Mar 2023 08.27 EST Ed Hasler, winner: Wildlife

  16. National Geographic Expeditions Travel Catalog 2023-2024

    Explore the world with National Geographic's experts on a variety of unique and engaging trips, from wildlife safaris and expedition cruises to photography expeditions and family trips.

  17. Celestyal Launches New National Geographic Day Tours

    Guests will explore Dubrovnik's landmarks and hidden gems with a National Geographic photography guide. Starting from St Lawrence Fortress, they'll photograph Pile Gate, Stradun, Old Town Market, Jesuit Stairs and Rector's Palace. ... offered through National Geographic Tours, are the perfect addition to Celestyal's on-shore experiences ...

  18. Moscow Metro

    Photo #146 taken on June 03, 2012 during Moscow Metro tour with my Dear client from USA, Brandon Pelsmaeker. Next Previous 4 of 10 . About Me in Short. My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002.

  19. Moscow

    Moscow, city, capital of Russia, located in the far western part of the country.Since it was first mentioned in the chronicles of 1147, Moscow has played a vital role in Russian history. It became the capital of Muscovy (the Grand Principality of Moscow) in the late 13th century; hence, the people of Moscow are known as Muscovites.Today Moscow is not only the political centre of Russia but ...

  20. Moscow Metro Tour with Friendly Local Guides

    Moscow Metro private tours. 2-hour tour $87: 10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off. 3-hour tour $137: 20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

  21. 40 Facts About Elektrostal

    40 Facts About Elektrostal. Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to ...