Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of Southeast Asia—where ancient temples, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes await your lens.
Join us for an immersive photography tour in two of the region’s most photogenic countries—Thailand and Cambodia—as we explore iconic locations, hidden gems, and everything in between. This exclusive tour is designed for photographers of all skill levels, offering an unforgettable journey through ancient temples, bustling cities, and stunning landscapes. With expert photo instruction from Art Wolfe, and a deep dive into the local culture with our second photo guide who lives in Thailand, Gavriel Jecan, you’ll have the opportunity to capture the essence of these incredible countries like never before.
In Bangkok, the energetic capital of Thailand, your camera will be your best companion as you explore the golden temples, vibrant street scenes, and lively markets. From the serene beauty of Wat Arun at sunrise to the colorful chaos of the city’s street life, Bangkok offers an endless array of photographic moments, each more inspiring than the last. Wander along the Chao Phraya River, capturing the juxtaposition of traditional life and modern vibrancy as you witness the city pulse with energy.
Next, venture to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat in Cambodia. This world-renowned temple complex is an absolute must-see for any photographer, and its soaring stone spires, intricately carved bas-reliefs, and serene surroundings make it a paradise for anyone behind the lens. Whether you’re shooting at sunrise, when the temple’s silhouette glows in the early light, or capturing the quiet beauty of its hidden corners, the magic of Angkor will leave you in awe.
In Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, you’ll immerse yourself in the cultural heart of northern Thailand. The mountain landscapes surrounding Chiang Mai provide the perfect backdrop for capturing ancient temples, lush forests, and tranquil countryside scenes. Visiting one of the numerous Karen Long Neck villages in Thailand is an extraordinary and culturally enriching experience. The tradition of using brass rings for exaggerated jewelry holds a profound mystery and beauty that is best witnessed in person rather than through mere descriptions.
This journey isn’t just about taking photos—it’s about connecting with the culture, the people, and the landscapes that make this region so extraordinary. You’ll gain access to authentic local experiences, whether that’s discovering hidden temples, meeting artisans, or experiencing the peaceful rhythms of village life. Southeast Asia has an energy that’s impossible to put into words, but with your camera, you’ll be able to capture it all.
Spaces for this exclusive tour are limited, so don’t miss your chance to join this unforgettable photography journey through Southeast Asia.
Early Bird Special Through Dec 31st!
Led by Art Wolfe
Assisted by Gavriel Jecan
Limited to 10 participants
Transportation and Accommodation
All meals, lodging, and transportation specified on the itinerary are included. You will be responsible for your flight to and from Bangkok, Thailand. You are encouraged to arrive one day prior to the workshop so that there is no worry of flight delays causing any problems.
Itinerary
Shooting schedules have the ability to be altered to effectively cater to the photographic desires of the group, as well as to adapt to changeable weather conditions.
Day 1 May 30th Bangkok, Thailand (D)
Arrive at the international airport. Meet with guide and driver, and transfer to the hotel. At leisure in the city until dinner.
There will be a meet and greet dinner this evening.
Day 2 Bangkok – Angkor Wat (B,L,D)
Once we arrive in Ankor Wat and get settled into our hotel we will have an afternoon photo session at the main temple. We will photograph through the afternoon with nice afternoon light on the temples and will have an early night because we will be getting up early the following morning.
Day 3 Angkor Wat (B,L,D)
This day will begin with a sunrise photo session over the main temple. Following that we will visit the complex of Angkor Thom. Many monuments can be found within its enormous walls, which are about 13 km long, 6 m wide, and 8 m high. Our tour will start at the South Gate, a stunning entrance to Angkor Thom, where well-preserved statues of gods and Asuras (demons) line the bridge before we enter the section with the banyan trees.
Inside the complex, we will also visit the Bayon with 200 endless smiling faces. This temple mountain situated in the center of Angkor Thom City where sets the Bayon apart from many other Angkor monuments.
In the afternoon we will visit the bustling market for street photography.
Day 4 Angkor Wat (B,L,D)
Today our group will visit the Tonle Sap Lake to photograph the locals and the stilted houses and boat markers.
During the rainy season, the Mekong River supplies water to Tonle Sap Lake, the biggest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.Tonle Sap Lake, which is 250 km long and 100 km wide at its widest point, is situated in Siem Reap. It is surprisingly shallow, reaching a maximum depth of only 10 meters. We will pass stilted schools and marketplaces, visit communities that flourish at the water’s edge, and stop by a local residence to gain insight into daily life and culture.
Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake is Tonle Sap Lake. Belonging to the Mekong River system, Tonlé Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and one of the most diverse and productive ecosystems in the world. It has been designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1997 due to its high biodiversity.
Day 5 Angkor Wat – Bangkok (B,L,D)
This morning after breakfast we will catch an morning flight back to Bangkok.
Day 6 Bangkok (B,L,D)
Today we will visit the former royal residence that stands as a symbol of the Thai Kingdom. Explore the opulent grounds and marvel at the intricate architecture, which includes the stunning Wat Phra Kaew, home to the revered Emerald Buddha. The Grand Palace’s grandeur and historical significance make it a must-see for any visitor to Bangkok.
Day 7 Bangkok (B,L,D)
Today we will explore more of the beauty that Bankok has to share with a visit to Wat Pho a Buddhist temple complex in the Phra Nakhon District. Renowned for its giant reclining Buddha statue that stretches 46 meters in length. Wat Pho is also famous for being the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn about its ancient healing practices. The serene atmosphere and rich history of Wat Pho offer a deep insight into Thai culture and spirituality.
Day 8 Bangkok – Chiang Mai (B,L,D)
After we arrive in Chaing Mai we will have settle into our hotel and then head out for our first photo session in the region. We will visit an elephant sanctuary where they care for rescued elephants and when possible prepare them to be released back into the wild. Their ethical half day program gives our group an opportunity to meet the elephants and learn about their history, behavior as well as the ethics of elephant care in Thailand. We will have an opportunity to join the mahoots thier marvelous Asian elephants this morning for their bath in the Mekong River.
Following their bath in the river we will go back to the sanctuary to feed the elephants. Getting up close and personal with such a gentle giant is a truly incredible feeling and one that you want to ensure you feel happy about once you leave.
Day 9 Chiang Mai (B,L,D)
Today we will depart after breakfast to photograph the local Hill Tribes. See the impressive Wat Chedi Luang, home to the largest stupa in Chiang Mai. Marvel at the intricate design carved into the wood of Wat Phan Tao. Visit the stunningly lavish Wat Phra Singh with its mosaic-decorated sanctuary
Day 10 Chiang Mai (B,L,D)
We will start off the day with a morning visit to see the impressive Wat Chedi Luang, home to the largest stupa in Chiang Mai. Marvel at the intricate design carved into the wood of Wat Phan Tao. Following that we will visit the stunningly lavish Wat Phra Singh with its mosaic-decorated sanctuary
Day 11 Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai (B,L,D)
Today we will depart for the beautiful Chiang Rai. After getting settled into our hotel we will depart to photograph the local Hill Tribes. Visiting one of the numerous Karen Long Neck villages in Thailand is an extraordinary and culturally enriching experience. The tradition of using brass rings for exaggerated jewelry holds a profound mystery and beauty that is best witnessed in person rather than through mere descriptions.
Day 12 Chiang Rai (B,L,D)
Today we will visit more hill tribes in the region.
There are hundreds of Hill tribe villages in Chiang Rai. The Karen, Akha, Hmong, Lahu, Lisu, Palong, and Mien (Yao) villages can all be found here. Chiang Rai is a melting pot of different hill tribe groups making it the perfect place to discover authentic hill tribe culture, and traditional hill tribe life.
Chiang Rai’s proximity to China, Laos and Myanmar, means that historically, the hill tribes crossed over the borders to settle in the highland areas of Chiang Rai. Some settled here in search of arable land for farming, whilst others fled persecution in their native lands. The result is that Chiang Rai is a melting pot of ethnic minority groups (hill tribes) and their villages are scattered throughout the province. The different hill tribes live harmoniously together, and it’s common to find different groups and their villages located in close proximity to one another.
Day 13 June 11 Chiang Rai – Bangkok – Home
After a morning flight back to Bangkok you are free to fly home on afternoon departure flights.
End of tour
Services Included
- Accommodations (twin sharing basis) as indicated above in the itinerary.
- All meals noted on the itinerary.
- Services of Air Conditioned Van
- Services of English speaking guide escort accompanying the trip
- Entrance fee to visit monuments.
- Services of local English guides during city sightseeing (as required)
- Mineral water during all meals, transfers, drives and sightseeing (available in vehicle)
Services Not Included
- Any international Airfare, travel insurance or medical insurance. (health insurance is mandatory and travel insurance is highly recommended)
- Anything not mentioned in inclusion above.
- Tipping to accompanying escort is not included in our quote.
- Any expenditure of personal nature like alcoholic drinks, Fruit shakes, sodas, laundry, telephone calls, or internet
- Anything ordered from room service at any hotel including mineral water (other than what being offered by the hotels on their compliment).
- Any sudden increase in price due to steep hike in fuel cost, change in government tax policy or for any reason beyond our control like acts of god, natural calamity, law and order situation, riots etc and any forced change in itinerary for any unforeseen situation or reason beyond our control.