the big island of hawaii - backcountry journeys · 2019-12-13 · waipio valley. the beaches on big...

Backcountry Journeys – The Big Island of Hawaii 1

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com

The Big Island of Hawaii

“Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a

mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.”

-John Muir

Pricing, Dates & Booking

For current pricing, trip dates

& online reservations please

see our website.

Trip Packets

Our PDF Trip Packets are being

updated all the time. Ensure you

have the most recent version by

clicking here.

Last Published: December 13,

2019

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.backcountryjourneys.com/

http://backcountryjourneys.com/photography-tours-workshops/the-big-island-of-hawaii/


http://backcountryjourneys.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/The-Big-Island-of-Hawaii-Trip-Packet.pdf



Trip Overview

Hawaii’s Big Island is one of the most photographically interesting and

strangely beautiful locations on Earth. Situated across the Pacific

Ocean in the most remote and isolated archipelago in the world, this

young volcanic island teems with life and beckons to be explored.

Hawaii Island is an ecological wonder with life zones varying from lush

rainforests, warm pacific beaches to snow-capped mountain peaks over

13,000 feet in elevation. The micro-climates as well as the sheer volume

of rare flora and fauna species of this place are staggering – it’s hard to

put down the camera!

We run our Hawaii Volcanoes, Wildlife & Waterfalls workshop in the

winter months when temperatures are slightly cooler and Humpback

whales arrive in the islands to breed.

Our Big Island Photographic Workshop will take you to the fiery slopes

of Mauna Loa and Volcanoes National Park. If conditions permit and





lava is visible we’ll have the opportunity to photograph lava as it enters

the ocean. Kilauea Volcano is one of the world’s most active Volcanoes –

it’s been erupting continuously since 1983 creating new land on the Big

Island and even the beginnings of a young Hawaiian Island, Lo’ihi still

far below the ocean surface.

We’ll photograph lush jungle waterfalls such as Akaka & Rainbow Falls

as well as the rugged & rural tropical coastlines of Hamakua and

Waipio Valley. The beaches on Big Island are small oasis between

hardened black lava flows but they are spectacular! We will photograph

sunsets at some of Hawaii’s most stunning stretches of sand including a

Black Sand Beach known as a Sea Turtle nesting ground.

One of the highlights of this excursion will be a journey to the summit

of Mauna Kea to view and photograph the powerful sunset on Hawaii’s

highest peak – usually snow covered in the winter months. The views

from Mauna Kea out over the Pacific Ocean and above the clouds are

otherworldly – as are the opportunities to photograph the Milky Way

from its lofty summit.

Join us this year for our annual Photographic Tour of Hawaii’s Big

Island! Our itinerary will show you the best Hawaii has to offer and

you’ll leave with a stunning collection of new photographs for your

portfolio. Need a vacation? Why not tack on a few extra nights after the

trip and relax by the island’s world class beaches?

Highlights

• Visit the Big Island of Hawaii

• Photograph Humpback Whales, Dolphins & Green Sea Turtles

• Breathtaking Waterfalls, Tropical Hikes and World-Class Beaches

• Photograph Kilauea the world’s most active volcano.

• Small Groups

• Cozy Island-Style Lodging

• Learn from & shoot alongside a seasoned pro





Noteworthy Travel Logistics

• This trip begins & ends in Kailua-Kona, HI at

Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel*

Address: 75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Phone: (808) 329-2911

*Please note: Exact hotel is subject to change - equivalent hotel may be substituted.

If you are planning on arriving early or staying late please contact us.

• The airport to fly in/out is KOA.

• The cost for a taxi between the KOA airport and the Courtyard

King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel is about $25



https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1CHBF_enUS850US850&q=courtyard+by+marriott+king+kamehameha%27s+kona+beach+hotel+address&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAOPgE-LRT9c3zEg2Sjauyk3Rks1OttLPyU9OLMnMz4MzrBJTUopSi4sXsTok55cWlVQmFqUoJFUq5CYWFWXml5QoZGfmpStkJ-amZoCxerFCdn5eokJSamJyhkJGfklqjgLUCADG002zcgAAAA&ludocid=8926803268909669439&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjN7rrxq6HlAhUCVa0KHcEhB6wQ6BMwEXoECA4QAw

https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1CHBF_enUS850US850&q=courtyard+by+marriott+king+kamehameha%27s+kona+beach+hotel+phone&ludocid=8926803268909669439&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjN7rrxq6HlAhUCVa0KHcEhB6wQ6BMwEnoECA4QBg

https://www.google.com/search?q=courtyard+king+kamehameha%27s+kona+beach+hotel&rlz=1C1CHBF_enUS850US850&oq=courtyard+king+kamehameha%27s+kona+beach+hotel&aqs=chrome..69i57j0l5.4282j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8



Itinerary Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day One (Travel Day)(D)

Arrive in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii and check into our Courtyard King

Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. We’ll have orientation and group

dinner at 5pm.

Day Two (B,D)

Our morning shoot will take us out on a private charter to look for and

photograph Humpback Wales along the Northern Kohala Coast.

Humpbacks winter in Hawaii and our experienced captain will take

us right to them! We’ll spend the morning and early afternoon

photographing the whales as they breach, fin slap and play in the

warm Hawaiian waters. We’ll also have the opportunity to photograph

other marine life such as dolphins and green sea turtles.

This evening we will photograph the fabled Kona Sunset along a

golden beach as it dips into the aquamarine waters of the warm

Pacific Ocean.

Day Three (B,L,D)

This morning we will photograph a stunning sunrise along the Kohalo

Coast. After a locally-inspired breakfast we’ll head around the island

with our goal being to reach Volcanoes National Park in the evening.

Tonight, we’re staying in the quaint, mountain village of Volcano right

outside the park. We’ll check into to our jungle retreat and then head

to a warm, black-sand beach in hope of photographing Hawaiian

Green Sea Turtles!





Day Four (B,L,D)

We’ll be up early to catch the rising sun over Halemaumau Crater.

We’ll spend the morning hiking and exploring Hawaii Volcanoes

National Park. We’ll photograph native Hawaiian bird & tree species

as we walk though forests of Ohia and check out the strange and

otherworldly lava tubes.

This afternoon we will check into our hotel in Hilo for some rest &

relaxation. This evening we will explore Hilo’s waterfalls as well as

some great landscape opportunities in a stunning botanical garden.

Day Five (B,D)

If the lava is flowing into the ocean our private charter will take us

down the coast at sunrise to photograph the flowing lava is it pours

into the ocean.

Later today it’s all about waterfalls on the North Coast. We’ll also

explore historic Hilo Town and get some great local food.

Tonight, we’ll head out into the tropical warmth and trek along the

Puna Coast to where the Lava from Kilauea Volcano enters the

Ocean. This is an incredible experience to be out in the steamy, lava-

covered jungles in the evening! Awesome photo opportunities abound.

Day Six (B,L,D)

This morning we will photograph the towering sea cliffs at sunrise

from Waipio Valley overlook. Waterfalls abound throughout the day.

This evening we’ll make our way up to the summit of Mauna Kea –

Hawaii’s highest peak at 13,796 feet. The sunset from Mauna Kea’s

lofty summit is otherwordly. Often in winter there is snow on the

ground at this elevation. We’ll photograph the spectacular sunset,

maybe even glimpse Maui in the distance. After our shoot we will





head back to the Kona side of the island for our final group dinner and

our accommodations at the Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona

Beach Hotel.

Day Seven

Flights home can be arranged for any time today from Kailua-Kona.

Please note that the exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and nature photography we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions regarding wildlife or natural phenomena.





Transportation On-Tour

Upon arrival you will can schedule a taxi or Uber to the Courtyard King

Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel in Kona. Once on tour we will

provide ground transportation and private boat charter(s) throughout

the trip. No need to rent a car!

Pre & Post Trip Recommended Lodging

If you are arriving early or want to spend more time in Kailua -Kona we

recommend:

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel

75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

(808) 329-2911

Trip Details

Physical Requirements

All participants must be in good physical condition and have the ability

to hike with camera equipment and essential hiking gear. For example,

tripod, camera, lense(s), sunscreen, water (up to 2 liters person) and

snacks. The weight of your pack largely depends on what gear you

choose to bring on each hike. Typically backpacks weigh between 15 and

20 lbs - the choice is yours

Participants must also be able to hike between ½ mile and 2 miles per

day for several days in a row. These hikes will be on some trails with

uneven and potentially slippery terrain. One of the hikes is about 6

miles depending on where the lava enters the Ocean, this could be an

optional hike. Participants must also be able to get in and out of small

boats.

Group Size

We keep groups small to maximize your one on one time with the

guide/instructor.





Accommodation

We will be staying in excellent Beachside hotels as well as a boutique

cabin in the jungles of Volcano Village.

Trip Length

7 days

Mileage

Approximately 3-10 miles for the whole trip.

Fitness Level

Mostly easy hikes from ½-2 miles per day on fairly easy terrain, but to

enjoy the maximum variety of hikes on tour there is one potential and

optional hike that could be around 6 miles along very uneven crumbly

terrain. (This would only be an option if the lava conditions are right.)

Meeting Time and Place

We will have an orientation/dinner in at Courtyard King

Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel in Kona. Please make sure to send

your flight information to [email protected]

Trip Conclusion

Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua-Kona.

Price/Start Dates

Please see the The Big Island Of Hawaii trip page on our website for

the most current dates and pricing.

Meals

Most meals are included during the trip dates and we typically eat at

lodges in the evening as well as some hand-picked local restaurants. We

often do snacks on the trail and either breakfast on the road or return

for a late breakfast during photography trips as we are often out early

to capture the morning light.







Weather

Expect beautiful, tropical days and warm Hawaiian nights! It rains

almost daily in Hawaii so be prepared! The summit of Mauna Kea is

over 13,000 feet and regularly gets snow in the winter so bring warm

layers as well (see list below). Remember some of the best photographs

are made before, during and immediately after a storm cycle. There is

no such thing as bad weather just poor layering and gear choices –

please plan accordingly! For more info on what to bring please email or

call us.

Please check the weather links below prior to the tour to help you plan.

Kailua-Kona,HI Weather Forecast

Hilo, Hi Weather Forecast

Volcano Village, HI Weather Forecast

Mauna-Kea Weather Forecast

Price Includes

Most meals, ground & boat transportation on Hawaii Island,

accommodation during the trip dates: from the evening of Day One

through the morning of Day Seven, professional photography

instruction, National Park entrance fees, medically certified wilderness

guide, & gratuities for service personnel such as drivers, pilots, captains

as well as hotel & restaurant staff.

Price Does Not Include

Airfare, alcoholic beverages, accommodations before or after the trip

dates, souvenirs, trip leader gratuities (industry standard is typically 10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience)



Kailua-Kona%20Weather%20forcast

Hilo,%20Hi%20Weather%20Forecast

Volcano%20Village,%20HI%20Weather%20Forcast

Mauna-Kea%20Weather%20Forecast



Conditioning for Photography Trips

We will be hiking between 1/2-2 miles per day typically. (There may be

an optional 6-mile round-trip hike, depending on lava conditions.) The

better shape you’re in, the more you will enjoy the trip. Unless you are

very athletic, I recommend walking as often as possible with 15-20

pounds in your backpack, wearing the boots you plan to hike in. You

can alternate this with other cardiovascular & strength routines.

Balance is critical on rough ground. Whatever you can do to improve

your balance will pay big dividends.

Always consult your physician before commencing with a workout

program.





Training by Hiking

The absolute best way to train is by doing the activity you are training

for. If you live where there are trails with

1. Uneven, rocky surfaces

2. Steep terrain

3. And where you can hike multiple miles

Begin by training with a light backpack and hike 3 times/per week. The

most difficult part of hiking for most beginners is the terrain with

uneven footing, the next is the steepness or incline of a trail or

stairway, then the distance. Unless you are already in good shape it is

best to start training 6 weeks before your trip. If where you live there

are no hills, your next best bet would be walking stairs; for example,

hiking up and down stairs will work muscles used in both uphill and

downhill hiking activities. Find a building with many stories, or a

stadium with many steps for your training ground. Make sure all the

while that you use the boots you plan to bring on the tour during your

training.

Additional Training activities include:

• Bike or walk to commute to work or run errands, carry your work

supplies in a backpack if you are walking. Make time for an afternoon

or morning bike ride. This will help increase your cardiovascular fitness

as well as increase strength and endurance in your legs.

Lodging & Meals

Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours & Workshops include most

meals, lodging, ground transportation while on the tour, National Park

entrance fees, guide fees and other items essential to a successful trip –

meaning that once your there all you have to focus on is your

photography. We can accommodate most special diets so please let us

know if you have any dietary restrictions.





Gear List

This gear list should answer a lot of your gear questions so please read

through this carefully. If you still have questions, please give us a call.

Your clothing should be a system of layers that you add and subtract

according to the weather and temperature. A good pair of good synthetic

“Smartwool” type socks under sturdy boots works well (yes – even in

Hawaii!). Clothing should be light-weight nylon pants that convert into

shorts, a polypro shirt and either a sunhat or warm hat depending on

the weather. As weather conditions change add insulating and

waterproof layers to your base setup. Don’t bring any cotton clothing.

Cotton is not a good insulator and once it gets wet it takes forever to

dry. Absolutely no jeans!





Photo & Field Gear

Recommended Camera Gear:

• DSLR or Mirrorless Camera. (Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic etc.)

• Medium telephoto zoom lens (100–400mm zoom or equivalent)

• Wide-angle lens (10-20mm, 16-35mm or equivalent zoom)

• Normal Lenses (ranging from approximately 35mm to 100mm)

• Sturdy but lightweight Tripod (must be able to carry this for

hikes)

• Memory Cards

• Batteries & Chargers

• Filters such as a circular polarizer and neutral density

• Lens cleaning pen & cloth

• Camera Day Pack with a Raincover (this should appropriately

carry all your camera & hiking gear)

• Camera Rain Sleeve

Optional (but recommended) Camera Gear:

• Back-Up Camera Body

• Longer Zoom for Marine Life / Birds (500mm to 600mm)

• Macro-capable lens

• 1.4x tele converter

• Extension tubes

• Laptop Computer with Lightroom / Photoshop Pre-Installed

• External Hard Drives

• Remote Shutter Trigger

• Camera’s Instruction Manual





Suggested Field Gear & Clothing:

• Personal Field Clothing (think layers)

• Warm top, such as a long-sleeved sweater or fleece jacket

• Long pants, one pair of leggings or lightweight trousers to block

sun and give warmth at night (It gets COLD on Mauna Kea

during the winter!)

• Warm Hat & Gloves (It gets COLD on Mauna Kea during the

winter!)

• Down Jacket (It gets COLD on Mauna Kea during the winter!)

• Long Underwear (It gets COLD on Mauna Kea during the winter!)

• Hand warmers (it gets COLD on Mauna Kea during the winter!)

• Shorts & T-Shirts for on the trail during warmer months

• Hiking Socks (Smartwool, Darn Tough etc.)

• Brimmed Sun Hat

• Sunglasses

• Sturdy Hiking Boots

• Sport Sandals and/or flip-flops (for the beach!)

• Casual wear, for your evenings off the trail

• Water Bottle or Hydration System (2 liters)

• Rain shell, waterproof/breathable jacket

• Rain Pants

• Bathing Suit

• Headlamp (with extra batteries)

• Trekking Poles (Optional)

• Binoculars (Optional)

• Shooting Gloves

• Sunscreen

• Aloe Vera (optional)

• Bug spray

• Knee pads (for low-angle shooting)

• Personal Toiletries, Prescription medication etc.

• Money for Tripping staff & Guides (Industry standard is generally

10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience) and for any





personal expenses not included in the tour package such as

alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, etc.

This is a general list. Please call or email if you have any questions!

Note on Packing for the Tour:

Please pack your extra clothing, toiletries, extra camera gear, and other

travel items into a duffel or travel bag. You will not bring all your

camera gear on every hike or outing. Each evening you will be briefed

on which lenses, filters, etc. you will need to carry the following day on

the scheduled tour or hike.



the big island of hawaii - backcountry journeys · 2019-12-13 · waipio valley. the beaches on big...

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