Starting in January 2013, explora, along with official sponsor Nikon Inc., will combine adventure and photography when they launch a new series of photographic expeditions. Immersed in some of the most exquisite landscapes in South America, travellers will hone their photography skills under the expert guidance of renowned Japanese photographer, Katsuyoshi Tanaka, a specialist in capturing the landscapes of Latin America. From mountains, glaciers and lakes in the lower latitudes of Patagonia, to the contrasting colours and shapes of the Atacama Desert’s volcanoes and salt flats, Chile is a photographer’s dream.

Thanks to explora’s expert guides, new treks in Patagonia and Atacama have been specially designed for the photographic expeditions. Every trek starts and ends at one of explora’s award-winning and eco-friendly lodges, and each group is accompanied by Mr. Tanaka and an explora guide, who will share their vast knowledge of the history, flora, fauna and geography of the places visited. Upon returning to the lodge each night, participants will have an opportunity to meet with Mr. Tanaka in a review session, to debrief on what they learned and photographed during that day.

Participants are recommended to bring their own DSLR camera, tripod and personal computer. In each lodge, explora will make available a selection of Nikon D7000 digital SLR cameras with NIKKOR lenses (AF-S DX 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II) and Nikon compact cameras, for expedition participants to borrow.

The five-day, four-night photographic expeditions are designed for eight people, and depart monthly at each destination.  All rates are per person, based on double occupancy. For guests looking to combine trips to explora Atacama and explora Patagonia, they can book a 10-day adventure using the benefits of the explora passport. For those traveling with companions, there is a wide range of activities – such as hiking and horseback riding – available at both lodges.