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BORA BORA, TAHITI & MOOREA

Exploring the most exotic French Polynesian Islands in the South Pacific

One of the few places on earth that everyone must witness in their lifetime

Our 12-day French Polynesia Photo Tour and Landscape Adventure takes place on the South Pacific’s three most popular islands – Bora Bora, Tahiti and Moorea. Tahiti, which is the gateway to the windward islands, is home to local markets and a wonderful collection of photographic cultural experiences. Moorea, just a 30-minute speed catamaran ride from Tahiti, is all about nature and adventure. And Bora Bora, a short flight away, is all about the Blue Lagoon. Bora Bora is perhaps one of the most remote and exotic destinations in the world, and should be on every adventure traveler’s bucket list.

French Polynesia’s Society Islands archipelago, a commonwealth of France, consists of 118 islands and atolls that stretch for more than 1,200 miles across the South Pacific Ocean. The small, but beautiful island of Moorea will impress you with its green mountain peaks and plummeting waterfalls, scenic bays and breathtaking lookouts. It’s known for its jagged volcanic mountains and sandy beaches. In the north, Mount Rotui overlooks picturesque Ōpūnohu Bay and the settlements around Cook’s Bay. Inland, hiking trails wind through rainforest on the slopes of Mount Tohivea. The Belvedere Lookout has panoramic views of the island’s peaks and Tahiti in the distance. Bora Bora is a small island northwest of Tahiti. Its stunning Mount Otemanu (2385 ft) is one of the South Pacific’s most iconic landmarks. In Disney’s animated movie ‘Moana’, as Moana grows up, it’s easy to see how her fictional island Motunui was heavily inspired by Otemanu. It’s surrounded by sand-fringed motus (islets) and a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, it’s known for its scuba diving and exclusive guest bungalows that are perched over the water on stilts.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. What better place to express your creativity than in French Polynesia.

French Polynesia’s Society Islands archipelago, a commonwealth of France, consists of 118 islands and atolls that stretch for more than 1,200 miles across the South Pacific Ocean. The small, but beautiful island of Moorea will impress you with its green mountain peaks and plummeting waterfalls, scenic bays and breathtaking lookouts. It’s known for its jagged volcanic mountains and sandy beaches. In the north, Mount Rotui overlooks picturesque Ōpūnohu Bay and the settlements around Cook’s Bay. Inland, hiking trails wind through rainforest on the slopes of Mount Tohivea. The Belvedere Lookout has panoramic views of the island’s peaks and Tahiti in the distance. Bora Bora is a small island northwest of Tahiti. Its stunning Mount Otemanu (2385 ft) is one of the South Pacific’s most iconic landmarks. In Disney’s animated movie ‘Moana’, as Moana grows up, it’s easy to see how her fictional island Motunui was heavily inspired by Otemanu. It’s surrounded by sand-fringed motus (islets) and a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, it’s known for its scuba diving and exclusive guest bungalows that are perched over the water on stilts.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. What better place to express your creativity than in French Polynesia.

TOUR OVERVIEW

Group Size

6-8 Guests

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR or mirrorless cameras
  • Active and adventurous schedule
  • Travel by private vehicle
  • Limited elevation changes and some walking

Weather | Sun

September – Temps 86/70 F | 30/20 C Sunrise 5:46 | Sunset 5:54 (17:54)

Includes

  • 12 Days
  • Seascape, landscape, lifestyle, nature and people photography
  • Professional photographer | guide
  • Local Guides and Fixers
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (6-8 guests)
  • 4 and 5-star accommodations
  • Breakfasts
  • 2 meals
  • Airport transfers
  • 2 Domestic flights & ferry
  • Local transportation – modern A/C van & 4WD
  • Entry Fees

Travel Information

Arrival and Departure Airport: Faa’a International Airport (PPT), Papeete, Tahiti
Our adventure begins in the late afternoon on the first day and ends in the morning on the last day.
Travel Visa: A few visas may be required depending on your nationality. Go to Visa Map to find out.
Note: The flight from Los Angeles (LAX) is approx. 8 hours to the island of Tahiti.

 

Accommodations

Tahiti – Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts, Manava Suite Resort or similar
Moorea – Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea, Hilton Moorea Lagoon, Manava Beach (all Resorts and Spa’s) or similar
Bora Bora – Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts or similar

French Polynesia Prices & Dates


AdventurePriceREGISTER
From: $14,695

Upgraded French Polynesia Prices & Dates

*Bora Bora Overwater Bungalow upgrade


Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Michael Chinnici

October 6-17, 2024

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

FRENCH POLYNESIA 12 DAY PHOTO TOUR

Day 1 | Arrival in Tahiti

We begin in the afternoon in the lobby of our hotel where we will discuss PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles of Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique. We will also discuss the program, the places we will visit, our previous experiences, and each guest’s experience level. Informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve with their photography, subject matters, styles and techniques. In the evening we celebrate our Welcome Dinner at one of our favorite Polynesian restaurants. (D)

Day 2 | Tahiti

We begin our first day with a full immersion into Polynesian culture. We’ll head inland where we’ll explore farms, archeological sites and traditional villages. We’ll learn about native tattoo art and Polynesian dance. Each of these experiences will give us wonderful opportunities for people, documentary and portrait photography. In the afternoon we’ll return to our resort for dinner. (B)

Day 3 | Tahiti - Moorea

We’re up early for some early morning light photography, then breakfast, checkout and catch a short 30 min high-speed catamaran ferry for Moorea. After we check-in to our resort, we’ll settle in, review images, and relax and enjoy the property. We’ll photograph the sunset before enjoying a lovely seafood dinner. (B)

Day 4 | Moorea

We’re up early for some early morning light photography before getting breakfast. Then we’re off for a 4-wheel adventure throughout this lush and magnificent island. Moorea is all about adventure. We’ll photograph beautiful waterfalls and amazing overlooks. We’ll return for a sunset shoot and dinner at our resort. (B)

Day 5 | Moorea

Today we’ll spend the day exploring nature on this South Pacific tropical island. Moorea is a small island, but less touristy and perfect for finding hidden gems with our guide and fixer. We’ll enjoy lunch by the sea before concentrating on landscape and macro photography with the lush vegetation. We’ll end the day with a sunset shoot of overwater bungalows, dinner, and a traditional Polynesian dance performance. (B)

Day 6 | Moorea

Our last full day on Moorea will be spent exploring the sea, lagoons and more waterfalls. We’ll visit a local village where we’ll get to speak with the natives about their lives and culture. In the afternoon we’ll return to our resort for a boat tour and some snorkeling and underwater photography (optional for those interested). A sunset shoot and a late dinner where we’ll bid farewell to this beautiful island and people of Moorea. (B)

Day 7 | Moorea - Bora Bora

Today is a travel day, so we’re up early and begin with a relaxing sunrise breakfast. After we checkout, we’ll catch the ferry back to Tahiti where we’ll transfer to the airport for our short flight to Bora Bora. The aerial view flying into Bora Bora is simply spectacular. We’ll arrive at our resort in time for lunch. After a guided tour to our resorts amenities, we’ll explore the surroundings where we’ll capture the afternoon light and sunset. Dinner at our resort. (B)

Day 8 | Bora Bora

Bora Bora is all about the blue lagoon, so our photography and activities will primarily focus on the sea. The island centers around Mount Otemanu, one of the South Pacific’s most iconic landmarks. It’s surrounded by the blue lagoon and small barrier islands that encircle it. Disney’s animated movie ‘Moana’ was inspired by French Polynesia and Bora Bora. We’ll spend our first day exploring the blue lagoon by boat. Sunset and dinner back at our resort. (B)

Day 9 | Bora Bora

Today will be a mix of relaxation and photography. You can’t go all the way to Bora Bora and not enjoy our resort & spa, the beach, snorkeling, kayaking and water sports. We always find ways to fit in great photographic opportunities. After a beautiful sunset shoot we’ll visit a nearby resort for dinner and a show. (B)

Day 10 | Bora Bora

We’ll begin our our last day full day on Bora Bora with a sunrise shoot and a fabulous breakfast. We’ll explore by sea and on land, capturing sunning photography with a guide and fixer. We’ll have access to a boat to explore the lagoon. We’ll be treated to a shoot with locals which is always nice. Dinner back at hotel. (B)

Day 11 | Bora Bora - Tahiti

After breakfast we’ll checkout and head to the airport for our return flight to Tahiti. This is a great time for us to visit any local markets before our departure. By nightfall we return to our hotel and prepare for our special Farewell Dinner, celebrating another great PWA photo adventure. (B, D)

Day 12 | Depart Tahiti

Today we’ll sadly say our final farewells. Flights depart in the late evening and early morning hours. So depending on your flight you may depart late the evening before or on your final day. We’ll work out the details once you decide to book your flights. (B)

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

French Polynesia Photoworkshopadventures
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OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Gift Cards

Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.

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