Please note that that a medium level of fitness is recommended for this tour. We will not be walking that far but the jungles can be very humid which makes all activities more draining. We will be climbing in and out of boats and safari vehicles with the aid of our staff which requires some fitness. 

Use the early bird  $350 discount by paying your $2000 deposit by the end of October 2025 and the balance before December 31st 2025. The discount will be applied to your balance. Please note: the current advertised price is for 2025. I will honour this price until I can apply 2026 prices so potentially an extra discount for you. 

As with all our small group tours, this shorter private wildlife tour is designed for photographers by photographers. Our senior guide not only is very knowledgeable with all things animals and birds but is also a very good photographer himself so really understands what we value. We take our time, going out at times when the animals are more likely to be active and resting when the animals rest. 

 

Our locations are chosen for the flora and fauna known to be there which increases our chances of seeing some extraordinary wildlife. Borneo is a diverse Island, made up of 3 countries, Indonesia, Brunei and our destination, the state of Sabah in Malaysia. Sabah has much to offer a photographer from the deep steamy jungles to long winding waterways and from the mysterious caves to fantastic culture so there are plentiful opportunities to get amazing photos. Sabah offers a varied amount of flora and fauna including the orangutan, proboscis monkey, hornbills, fireflies and over 5000 species of flowering plants found nowhere else in the world. We are visiting some jungle areas in the hope of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat but we start our tour by visiting the rehabilitation centres where we will see orangutans, sun bears and proboscis monkeys so one way or another you will see these wonderful creatures. 

This itinerary may run in reverse so either starting in Kota Kinabulu and ending in Sandakan or as stated below, Sandakan to Kota Kinabulu. Please do not book any flights until our agent has confirmed our final route. 

Day 1:  (D)

We start early afternoon with a meet and greet of the flight from Kuala Lumpur at Sandakan Airport (arrives 13:25) or a hotel pickup if you have arrived earlier in the week.  We transfer to Sepilok to check in to our hotel before heading out to the nearby Rainforest Discovery Centre to photograph the vast array of birdlife and hopefully the flying squirrels.

 

Day 2:  (BLD)

Today we will make two visits to the wonderful Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. We will be able to photograph many orangutans here although I expect we will see some in the wild as well. The centre rehabilitates injured and orphaned orangutan then slowly limits human interaction until they are independent and disappear into the surrounding jungle to live wild. Occasionally wild apes will come in from the jungle for a feed of bananas, which is very special to see. Our morning visit will be to the nursery and feeding platform to photograph these wonderful animals.  After lunch we will return when the area is quieter and then visit the nearby Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Sun Bears are the smallest of the bear family and are very vulnerable with very few left in the wild. There are more than 40 Sun Bears at the centre which have been orphaned or are ex-captive bears, some held to terrible conditions before coming to the centre. The centres aim is to rewild most of the bears but there are some who are resident at the centre as rewilding was not possible for them. We are very unlikely to see these in the wild so this will be our only opportunity to see these amazing creatures. 

 

Day 3:  (BLD)

We will explore the beautiful tropical gardens around our hotel before departing for the Kinabatangan River our home for the next 2 nights. On route we will stop at the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary to see and photograph these extraordinary monkeys. The Kinbanatang River, which is the longest river in Sabah (560km) passes through many diverse habitats and eventually spreads out in to a huge fertile floodplain that supports many animals, birds and water life. We will stay here for 2 nights so that we get the most of what the river has to offer. The area was under threat from logging historically but now Sabah’s government have gazetted 27800 hectares creating the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. David Attenborough who filmed the documentary ‘The Private Life of Plants’ here made the area famous. 

 

Day 4: (BLD)

We will head out early morning and late afternoon along the river to spot for macaque and proboscis monkeys, gibbons and many other primates including orangutan, as well as crocodile, lizards and plentiful birdlife including hornbills and kingfisher. In this area there have been many sightings of pygmy elephants coming down to the river for a drink or to bathe. The river cruise in the afternoon will provide a beautiful sunset along the river. There is an option to join a night walk (RM20) after dinner when you can get up close with birds whilst they sleep in the trees around the resort. We have also seen frogs, native cats and the tiny western Tarsier. 

 

Day 5:  (BLD)

We depart the River and head towards the town of Lahud Datu. On the way we will stop at Gomantong Cave as this area is a favourite haunt of wild orangutan. They are often spotted here quite close up on the edges of the car park lazing in the canopies during the heat of the day. If you wish to visit the caves known for the swiftlets that create nests harvested for bird's nest soup then this is an optional extra as it is not for everyone. The caves main chamber is massive and with multiple openings which allows the light to filter through giving it a cathedral like atmosphere and great photo opportunities. However, the cave is also home to thousands of bats and cockroaches that over the decades have produced mounds of guano and the smell is quite overpowering. It is not recommended for people with weak lungs but if you wish to go in then Anna-Mair will accompany you. The cost per person is RM30 plus and additional RM30 camera fee. We will transfer vehicles in Lahud Datu for our onward journey to Tabin National Park our home for the next 2 nights. 

We will be staying within Tabin National Park for our last jungle adventure which are known for a huge variety of flora as well as insects, spiders, birds as well as the chance of the wild animals like orangutan, gibbon, macaque, otter and pygmy elephant.  Night drives or walks will give us the chance to see some of the nocturnal animals like the flying squirrels and the civet cat. Tabin National Park is known as Sabah's greatest wildlife sanctuary. It was created in the year 1984; the 300000 acres reserve is the largest wildlife reserve in Malaysia. It has areas of mud 'volcanos' which ooze mineral salts that attract many different varieties of creatures to it; even sun bears are known to visit although we would be very luck if we saw one. We will stay in the heart of the jungle at a river resort.  We may see the 3 largest of Sabah’s mammals, the Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Sumatran Rhinoceros and Tembadau or Banteng, which is like a wild buffalo. There are many mammals including otter, nine species of primate, three species of cats including the clouded leopards all of which are on the protected wildlife list and more than 300 species of bird.  We will head out after dinner for our first nocturnal safari. 

 

Day 6: (BLD)

We are likely to be awoken by the gibbon dawn chorus in the surrounding jungle and will head out after breakfast to one of the many trails through the Jungle looking for animals and birds that are out looking for a feed. This area is very lush and has areas where mineral salts come to the surface that is one of the reasons that there are so many animals that call Tabin home. The animals hide in the heat of the day so we will return to the resort for lunch and a rest before heading out again for another safari drive. 

 

Day 7:  (BLD)
Our final full day of photography will start with an early morning walk looking for the gibbon in the area before we have breakfast. After breakfast we will head out again with the cameras in the area around the resort. We will depart Tabin to return to Lahad Datu to get our flight to Kota Kinabalu where we will head to the coast for a sunset shoot and our farewell dinner. 

 

Day 8:  (B)

Breakfast at leisure before transfer to Kota Kinabalu International Airport for your onward flight to Kuala Lumpur

Please note: This tour needs a minimum number of 3 people to book before departure is confirmed. Please do not book your flights until the tour has been confirmed. A deposit of $AU2000 will secure your place now ($AU 750 of the deposit is non refundable)  If the tour does not go ahead then your deposit will be refunded minus any bank fees. 

The price is based on the currency conversion rate between Malaysian Ringgits and the Australian Dollar in January 2025. If there is a significant fall in the exchange rate before the balance is paid this cost will be passed on to you. This tour will only take place with a minimum of 3 people booking so please do not book flights to Kota Kinabulu until the tour has been confirmed. 

 

A non-photographer companion is welcome to join us although they need to be aware that this tour is all about photography and no alternative itinerary will be given for them. Having said that, the itinerary is of interest to any lover of nature. 

 If you are a single person who would like to share with another person of the same gender please book a twin share but if we are unable to match you with another person then the single supplement price will be applied. 

The full itinerary will be given nearer departure although some small changes may be applied. 

 

What's Included:

·       Airport transfers in Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu

 

·       Internal flight from Lahad Datu - Kota Kinabalu

 

·       All internal transport and accommodation

 

·       8 days/ 7 nights in Borneo -7 days of photography

 

·       Entry fees for all attractions unless stated as an option

 

·       All meals on Tour

 

·       Highly experienced local guides and drivers

 

·       Small group size

 

·       Photographic support from Anna-Mair Francis

What's not included:

·       Flights to/from Sabah and your home City Arriving Sandakan departing Kota Kinabalu

 

·       Camera tax (local tax on photographers charged at some location approx total RM150)

 

·       Tourism tax in hotels (RM10 per room/per night)

 

·       Entry into Gomantong Cave (RM30 plus RM30 camera tax)

 

·       Alcohol/soft drinks with meals

 

·       Photographic equipment

 

·       Laundry, gratuities, etc

 

·       Excess baggage (20kg limit on local flight)

 

·       Travel Insurance (we require a copy of your insurance with your final payment)

 

*Please note the price is based on $US9995 which is approximately $AU$14250. This amount in AUD may vary up or down depending on the exchange rate. The correct rate will be determined for you on booking. Please contact us for clarification. 

We need a minimum of 3 people for this trip to go ahead so please do not book flights until the trip has been confirmed. Although the tour commences on April 8th 2027 in Guwahati, India and finishes in Paro, Bhutan on April 25th 2027. The final price will depend on the internal flight price, transfer fee & exchange rate at the time of payment. An early bird $Au500 discount is in place for bookings placed before April 6th 2026 which will be taken from your final balance.

The Kingdom of Bhutan is an extraordinary place known for the concept of Gross National Happiness. In the foothills of the Himalayas it is full of temples, fortresses, forests and has a unique culture. 

Join this amazing small group tour (maximum 10 people)  to the Land of Happiness with professional photographer Anna-Mair Francis who will be on hand for technical and compositional support. We will be entering Bhutan from Assam, India, flying into Guwahati International Airport. We will meet our guides and drive up the foothills of the Himalyas and enter Bhutan from Samdrupjongkhar, crossing the country from the East which are rarely visited by Westerners into Central and Western Bhutan. We will attend one (hopefully two) local festivals in villages away from huge crowds where we will mix with locals and monks in their beautiful traditional dress to watch masked performers who enact historic dances about the fight between good and evil. We will visit a remote mountain town where women create complex silk  fabrics in their homes which sell worldwide. We will be expecting to photograph landscapes, people, cultural scenes, magnificent Dzongs, flora and fauna and so much more along the way. 

The Kingdom of Bhutan is an extraordinary place known for the concept of Gross National Happiness. In the foothills of the Himalayas it is full of temples, fortresses, forests and has a unique culture. Our professional photographer will be on hand for technical and compositional support. 

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change but our route will be via Samdrupjongkhar, Trashigang, Khoma, Jakar Valley,  Phobjikha,  Panakha, Thimphu, Haa Valley and Paro. 

Day 1. 8/04/2027  Guwahati – Samdrupjongkhar (D)

The main party will enter arrive from Singapore but you can fly from other Cities so long as you are there for our pick up time to meet our guide. 

Arrive in Guwahati by 1440 and meet our expert guide, Namgay and drive to Samdrupjongkhar.

We will stop at a local Tea Garden for refreshment and photography en route to the border crossing. 

Overnight in Samdrupjongkhar

 

Day 2. 9/04/2027 Samdrupjongkhar – Trashigang (BLD)

 After an early breakfast, we have about  5-6 hours drive (with photo stops) up the Himalayan foothills to Trashigang, the major town in the East which nestles about a scenic valley with paddy fields above it. 

Overnight in Trashigang

 

Day 3. 10/04/2027 Trashigang (BLD)

 Day excursion to town of Trashiyangste with it's  wood turning and arts and crafts school which teaches traditional methods giving us some interesting images. We will  visit beautiful Gomphu Kora (temple) which sits on a river bank. 

Overnight in Trashigang

 

Day 4.11/04/2027 Trashigang (BLD)

Today we will head out to meet the Merak or Brokpa People. These semi nomadic yak herders have a unique culture and are known for their colourful costume and unusual headgear.   We will also spend some time in Trashigang township which is the centre for trade in the region. There will be many opportunities for street photography and to capture day to day life in Bhutan. 

Overnight in Trashigang

 

Day 5. 12/04/2027 Trashigang - Khoma (BLD)

 After an early breakfast, drive to Khoma, Lhuntsi via Mongar. Our route takes us through the valley between the Dangme Chu River and the Mountains. The drive is about 5-6 hours with photo opportunities en route. We will stop in the town of Mongar for lunch before heading North through wooded valleys to our home for the next 2 nights, the village of Khoma. Khoma is famous for it's weavers who produce the most beautiful textiles which are sold world wide. 

Overnight in Khoma Home stay

 

Day 6. 13/04/2027 Khoma (BLD)

 I opted to spend 2 nights in this village so we have time to soak up local life and photograph and documenting the women weaving Kushithara (textile) in Backstrip looms. Most homes have a loom set up on the porch on which ladies produce the most amazing fabric. We hope to visit the local school for some interaction between the local kids. In the evening we will visit the nearby Lhuntse Dzong. 

 Overnight in Khoma

 

 Day 7. 14/04/2027 Khoma – Mongar  (BLD)

 Today we start our drive towards Central Bhutan but we will break the journey part the way there so we avoid a massive drive.  We will stop to photograph a long wooden suspension bridge, suspended high above a raging river. It's decorated with pray flags perhaps to gaurantee a safe crossing! After lunch on Mongar we will visit Kadam temple and photograph lay monks.

Overnight in tbc

 

Day 8. 15/04/2027 Mongar – Bumthang  (BLD)

Today will be the longest drive (6-7 hours) through the Thrumshing la National Park. If we are lucky, we might see red panda and hornbills. The road is slow due to the many switch backs which wind through wooded valley following the edge of the mountain. There will be waterfalls and other photo opportunities. As we leave the high country for a while we visit Ura valley before heading to Bumthang. If time allows we will stop at the Red Panda Brewery and Cheese Factory. Entry price, a beer! The local town of Jakar offers us some great street photography opportunities. 

Overnight in Bumthang

 

Day 9. 16/04/2027 Bumthang (BLD)

 Today we will attend the Dhomkhar festival in one of my favourite locations. It is in the court yard of a village temple at which we will mix with locals dressed in their colourful traditional costumes. The festival is will be full of ancient dances about the fight between good and evil or for fertility lead by musicians with local instruments. The photo opportunities are endless. If time allows we will also visit the Burning Lake, a sacred waterhole steeped in legends. It is a pretty gorge with surrounded by steep cliffs and small waterfalls. Locals come to pray and light candles.

Overnight in Bumthang

 

Day 10. 17/04/2027 Bumthang – Trongsa (BLD)

 We continue West today stopping for a second visit to the festival before driving on to Trongsa. The town nestles in the valley with the beautiful Trongsa Dzong on the cliffside above it. The Dzong has some resident monkeys who are on the mischievous side so watch what you put down as it may not be there when you turn around! 

Overnight in Trongsa

 

Day 11. 18/04/2027 Trongsa – Phobjikha  (BLD)

 Today we will drive  on to Phobjikha Valley via Pele la mountain pass (3500 metres). This pass used to be the demarcation between east and west in the olden days and is surrounded by rhododendron forests and topped by a chorten and pray flags. It offers views of Himalayan peaks like Mt. Jomolhari if we have clear skies. We will have a special stop at our Guides home village of Tshangkha. We will stop at Gangtey Monastery, an impressive building standing proud over the Phobjikha Valley before descending into the valley to hike through the Natural Trail (approx 1.5 hours). Phobjikha Valley is a wetland of international importance and the winter home to the black headed crane. The fauna recorded are deer such as muntjacs (barking deer) and sambar plus black bear and leopards are occasionally seen.

Overnight in Phobjikha

 

Day 12. 19/04/2027 Phobjikha – Punakha  (BLD)

 We head back over the Pele la Pass through mossy forests stopping in a valley full of paddy fields to visit the Divine Madman's 15th Century Temple, Chimi Lhakhang. After a local lunch we will head to Punakha, home to the Punakha Dzong. This stunning building is built between 2 rivers and lined with Jacaranda trees. We will visit the inner courts this afternoon and return in the evening to photograph it under floodlights from the river. 

Overnight in Punakha

 

Day 13. 20/04/2027 Punakha – Thimphu (BLD)

We head to the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu , via Dochu La pass  (3150m). The Dochu La is topped by 108 Memorial white and gold Stupas, known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens, built to honour Bhutanese soldiers who died in a 2003 military operation. On a clear day we can see some of the Himalayan mountains but often the pass is covered in mist which will give us some very atmospheric shots. Once we reach the City we have options. It is not a large city and had a very traditional feel about it.  We may visit oldest dzong in the country, Semtokha dzong, a fortress with thick walls giving us some interesting shots of red robed monks in an ancient building or Thimphu's Nunnery for something different.  Zorig Chusum Art School is another option which trains students in the 13 traditional arts and crafts preserving ancient methods of carving and painted. 

 Overnight in Thimphu

 

Day 14. 21/04/2027 Thimphu (BLD)

One of the more quirking sights in Thimphu is it's famous traffic Police. They tried to install traffic lights to control the flow of traffic but it was decided that traffic lights did not fit with the Bhutanese philosophy so they were removed and a traffic policeman now directs at the busiest junction with a series of complex hand movements. 

We will also visit the Centenary Farmer's Market and the nearby covered bridge for some interesting people and cultural shots. The takin is the national animal of Bhutan, a very strange looking animal that looks like a cross between a yak and a goat with a bit of deer thrown in. We are unlikely to see them wild so we will make a quick stop at the Motithang Takin Preserve to photograph them. Towering over Thimphu is one of the largest Buddha stupas in the world at 54 metres,  the Buddha Dordenma Statue. It is made of bronze and gilded with gold. It gives us a great vantage point for the surrounding area. 

 Overnight in Thimphu

 

Day 15. 22/04/2027 Thimphu – Haa Valley (BLD)

We depart Thimphu and drive towards an area which was off limits to travellers for many years and it still few visit. It is an agricultural area with  untouched alpine forests, traditional villages, and rich cultural heritage so we should get some great people and landscape photo opportunities

Overnight in Haa

 

Day 16. 23/04/2027 Haa – Paro (BLD)

We will get up early for the soft light and explore the village and photograph farmer doing their morning chores before driving over the Chele La Pass the highest motorable road in Bhutan (3988m). There are often yak grazing on the side of the road as we wind up the mountain to the summit which is covered with pray flags. We will had descend towards Paro where we will explore the town for street and architectural photography.

Overnight in Paro

 

Day 17. 24/04/2027 Paro (BLD)

Our last full day of photography will start with a hike to the most famous of Bhutan's monastery, Taktshang or Tiger's Nest. The trek is a round trip of around 6 km and is described as moderate, it's path snakes through pine forest past waterfalls, pray flags and shrines. There is an option to hire a horse (approx US$20) for those under 85 kg. The horse ride will go part the way up the path as far as the cafeteria.  Although there is no photography within the monastery itself there will be so many photo ops on route. For some of the group walking to the top of the monastery steps is reward enough for the trek whilst others will want to commit to the extra distance to visit the iconic building. 

After our day of trekking we will go to a farmhouse to soak our muscles in traditional hot stone bath at a farmhouse. There will also be an opportunity to try your arm at archery before we have our final dinner together. 

Overnight in Paro

Day 18. 25/04/2027 Departure (B)

Departure for Paro International Airport to your chosen transfer hub and then to your home country. For those traveling to Australia, Bangkok is probably the best option although there are other choices. 

Lok Jay Gay (see you again)!

 

Costs: USD $ 9995(approx AUD $14250)per person twin/double* room 
 
*Single supplement addition of USD $800(approx AUD $1125) applies

#Pay a $AUD2000 deposit (AUD $500 of which is non refundable) on this site to hold your place and we will instruct you how to pay the balance in US Dollars once we have reached minimum numbers. If we do not reach minimum numbers we will return your deposit in full. Please do not book flights until we confirm departure.  This price are subject to change until we pay in full with our Bhutanese Agent.

Includes:

• 17 nights and 18 days in Bhutan

• Visit to Merak to meet the semi nomadic yak herders

• One (hopefully two) authentic cultural festivals

• Visiting traditional weavers in Khoma

• Small group size 

• All your accommodation and meals on Tour


• Highly experienced Bhutanese guides and drivers


• Photographic support from internationally renowned photographer Anna-Mair Francis.

What’s not included:

• Flights to Guwahati or from Paro to your home city


• Alcohol or soft drinks with meals


• Photographic equipment


• Laundry, gratuities, etc


• Horse ride up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery café  if required.

• Entry to sites not on the itinerary 


• Excess baggage


• Travel Insurance

• Bhutan or Indian Visas

Please note that the main group will fly from Singapore and return via Bangkok but if you are travelling from Europe then flights should be arranged via India. 

Payment schedule: Deposit of AUD $2000 to secure the booking (AUD $500 of which is non refundable). Please note that the trip is not locked in totally as far as the Bhutanese agency is concerned until the total balance is received. So the balance will need to be paid as soon as practical. We need 4 people for the trip to go ahead, if we cancel the trip we will refund your full deposit to you(minus any bank or transfer fees). Please do not book flights until we confirm departure. 

See our Terms and Conditions

 This price are subject to change until we pay in full with our Bhutanese Agent.

Please note: this tour costs US$6995 which is approximately AU$ 9995 per person in a twin room. A single supplement of $US400 extra for our own room. This is US$7395 approximately AU$10495. The final price will depend on the internal flight price, transfer fee & exchange rate at the time of payment. An early bird $Au500 discount is in place for bookings placed before April 6th 2026 which will be taken from your final balance.

The Kingdom of Bhutan is an extraordinary place known for the concept of Gross National Happiness. In the foothills of the Himalayas, it is full of temples, fortresses, forests, beautiful landscapes, animals and has a unique culture. It is one of the few countries which is carbon positive due to the large areas of forest and low pollution. We have designed a shorter photography tour for those who can not commit to our extended 19 day tour. Whilst it is shorter in duration the experience will be just as incredible. 

To make the most of the time we will be making an internal flight to Central Bhutan (hoping for clear skies the see the Himalayas from above) and then driving back through picturesque villages, valleys and over high mountain passes topped with temples and prayer flags. We will visit 2 traditional and colourful festivals which will give us the opportunity to mix with the locals in their beautiful national costumes. We will be expecting to photograph landscapes, people, cultural scenes, magnificent Dzongs, flora and fauna along the way. Our professional photographer will be on hand for technical and compositional support. We have engaged one of the most experienced Bhutanese guides who guides many other photography tours so understands exactly the different expectations of a group of photographers over a regular tour group. 

 The final price paid will be determined may vary up or down depending on the exchange rate, transfer fees and internal flight price. The correct rate will be determined by our Bhutanese agents when the balance is due. Please contact us for clarification. 

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change:  

Day 1 Paro (LD)

Arrive in Paro - Explore town with market, archery field and picturesque Dzong (Dzong is a fortified monastery)

Overnight Paro

Day 2 Paro-Bumthang (BLD)

We fly into Central Bhutan and will head to the first of our traditional festivals with colourful masked dancers and locals in their finest costumes. The festivals are important religious and cultural events with the dances having various significance from chasing out evil to blessing the harvest. 

After lunch we will go to Mebartsho or the Burning Lake. It is not actually on fire but gets it's name from a legend dating from the 15th Century. It is a pretty water hole nestling in a deep rocky gorge It is a sacred site and has an area where people come to lit candles and pray. 

As we return I hope we can visit the Red Panda Micro Brewery and have time for some street photography in the town we are staying in. 

Overnight Bumthang

Day 3 Bumthang (BLD)

Today we are heading to Chummey, a small village that hosts several festivals during the year. As we will be here most of the day with time not only for photography but to soak out the atmosphere and be in the moment. It has a intimate courtyard that the dances take place in which means we are very close to the dancers and audience for great action and candid shots. We will have a picnic lunch on a nearby hillside before returning to the festival. If we have time on our return to our hotel we will stop at a local craft centre with beautiful products great for photos and gifts. 

Overnight Bumthang

Day 4 Bumthang to Phobjikha (BLD)

We start our drive westward stopping along the way for photography. We will visit the lovely Trongsa Dzong which is perched on the hillside overlooking the town and surrounding valley. It has some resident monkeys who are a little cheeky but make for some great shots. We will cross the Lawa La Pass at 3300 metres which is topped by a picturesque Chorten surrounded by white prayer flags. There is a change of seeing yaks and their herders in the meadows below the Pass as we descend into the towards the Gangtey Gomba, a striking monastery overlooking the glacial valley below. We will take the 1.5km nature trail from the monastery into the wide Phobjikha valley below with the hope of seeing some of the black necked cranes who migrate to the valley for the Winter at this time of year. The valley is known for a large variety of flora and fauna . 

Overnight Phobjikha 

Day 5 Phobjikha to Punakha (BLD)

We return via the Lawa La Pass through a heavily forested area before following the Puna Tsang Chu river on our drive to Punakha so we should have many landscape opportunities today. 

We will visit Punakha Dzong, one of my favorite buildings in Bhutan. It is surrounded by jacaranda trees and is situated on the banks one of the tributrities of Puna Tsang Chu river. We will photograph it from various positions inside and out. We will return in the evening when then building is flood lit. 

Overnight Punakha

Day 6 Punakha to Thimphu (BLD)

We will take a short trek to Khamsum Yuling Namgyal Chortan, a stunning 3 level temple with views over the valley and the mountains beyond. We will have lunch at a farmhouse before continuing our drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's Capital. We have an optional stop at the Royal Botanical Park at the base of the Dochu La Pass. It has some lovely gardens and a lake that attracts local wildlife. There is a nominal entry fee to enter. The Dochu La Pass (3150km) is one of the most famous of the Bhutanese passes as it's home to 108 memorial chortens standing in memory of Bhutanese fallen soldiers. There is also a lovely tea house on top of the pass. If we have a clear day we will see the surrounding mountains. We will stop on the Pass to photograph Sunset before descending into the valley and Thimphu. 

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 7 Thimphu (BLD)

Thimphu is a Capital city like no other, it has very traditional buildings and shops. It is known for having no traffic lights instead a white gloved policeman directs the traffic on the busiest junction with a complexed series of hand signals. 

Our full day in the Thimphu will give us some great photo opportunities. We will visit the Kaja Throm (the central market) which is close to a traditional covered wooden bridge.  We will go to Semtokha Dzong which is the oldest in the country and will give us some interesting photographs of the monks there. We also hope to visit the nearby Nunnery, home to a lovely group of women who gave us some wonderful joyous images on our last visit. If there is time we will make a optional stop at the Takin Preserve to see the national animal which we are unlikely to see in the wild. The takin is an unusual animal so whilst we will be seeing them in a zoo like setting it's certainly worth the effort. There is a nominal entry fee to enter. There is one of the largest statues of Buddha that over stands over the City. The 54 metres bronze statue is gilded in gold and will give us some amazing images. 

 Overnight in Thimphu

Day 8 Thimphu to Haa (BLD)

The Haa Valley is a pretty Valley which for many years was closed to tourists. It is one of the most important agricultural regions including dairy farming but also known for stunning landscapes with alpine forests, small villages and mountain peaks. We hope to stay in a homestay to have an authentic, rustic experience this may mean that single rooms and private bathrooms will not be available. 

Day 9 Haa to Paro (BLD)

We leave early to drive up the highest drivable mountain (3988m) pass in Bhutan,  Chele La Pass. The road switches back and forth up the mountain until it reaches the top which is crowned with prayer flags and on a clear day commanding views of the surrounding mountains. We will have many photo opportunities on route to Paro and a short hike. 

We will explore Paro town including some street photography. 

Overnight in Paro

Day 10 Paro (BLD)

Our last full day of photography will start with a hike to the most famous of Bhutan's monastery, Taktshang or Tiger's Nest. The trek is a round trip of around 6 km and is described as moderate, it's path snakes through pine forest past waterfalls, pray flags and shrines. There is an option to hire a horse (approx US$20) for those under 85 kg. The horse ride will go part the way up the path as far as the cafeteria.  Although there is no photography within the monastery itself there will be so many photo ops on route. For some of the group walking to the top of the monastery steps is reward enough for the trek whilst others will want to commit to the extra distance to visit the iconic building. 

After our day of trekking we will go to a farmhouse to soak our muscles in traditional hot stone bath at a farmhouse. There will also be an opportunity to try your arm at archery before we have our final dinner together. 

Overnight in Paro

Day 11 Paro (B)

Departure for Paro International Airport to your chosen transfer hub and then to your home country. For those coming from Australia Bangkok is probably the best option although there are other choices. 

Costs: USD $6995# twin/double room

*Single supplement addition of USD $450 applies. Please note that single rooms may not be available in heritage homes. 

Includes:

• All internal transport including internal flight


• 11 full days in Bhutan


• Two authentic cultural festivals


• Small group size maximum 12 people


• All your accommodation and meals on tour

• All entry fees to listed locations

• Traditional hot stone bath on day 10

• Highly experienced Bhutanese guides and drivers


• Photographic support from internationally renowned photographer Anna-Mair Francis.

What’s not included:

• Flights to/from Paro to your home city** 


• Alcohol or soft drinks with meals


• Photographic equipment


• Laundry, gratuities, etc


• Horse ride up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery café  if required (approx US$25)


• Excess baggage


• Travel Insurance

**Please note that the main group will enter and exit Paro from/to Bangkok but you can also access from other hubs including India, Nepal or Singapore. You need to be in Paro for the start of the tour on 25th October 2026. 

Payment schedule: Deposit of US $2000 to secure the booking (US $500 of which is non refundable). Please note that the trip is not locked in totally as far as the Bhutanese agency is concerned until the total balance is received. So the balance will need to be paid as soon as practical. Bank transfer costs and international fees may be deducted. 

See our Terms and Conditions

# Price is based on cost of internal flight from Paro/Bumthang. This price are subject to change until we pay in full with our Bhutanese Agent. The exchange rate between the US$ and AU$ will also affect the final cost. 

Ask about our multi tour discount.

There is a $500 discount offer available until Oct 31st 2026. To receive this you need to pay a deposit of $2000 by that date and the balance is to be paid by Dec 31st 2026. $500 will be removed from that balance.

Please note that that a medium level of fitness is recommended for this tour. We will not be walking that far but the jungles can be very humid which makes all activities more draining. We will be climbing in and out of boats and safari vehicles with the aid of our staff which requires some fitness. 

This tour will go ahead at this price with a minimum of 3 guests but can go ahead with less guests at an increased price. 

We have been able to retain the 2026 price for this tour which ultimately will be paid in Malaysian Riggots (RM25650 per person twin share or RM31350 single) so the final price in AUD may be slightly different than advertised depending on the currency rates at the time. 

Only children over the age of 10 who have a strong photographic or nature interest are welcome.

As with all our tours, this private wildlife tour is designed for photographers by photographers. Our senior guide is very knowledgeable with all things animals and birds. He is also an excellent photographer so really understands what we value. We take our time, going out at times when the animals are more likely to be active and resting when the animals rest. We use private boats and vehicles with our own private guides, drivers and boatman. This is a small group tour with a maximum of 6 photographers lead by photographer, Anna-Mair Francis. If you have a partner who is not a photographer but loves animals we may be able to accommodate them but they will not be able to sit in the prime spots in the safari vehicles which are reserved for the 6 photographers. Please contact me if you would like to bring a non photographer so we can discuss terms and discounts. 

We visit in late May/ early June (May 28th-June 9th) when there should be an abundance of fruit and flowers, which should increase our chances of seeing a variety of animals. We are intentionally visiting some remote jungle areas in the hope of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat and then visit some rehabilitation centres where will see orangutan, sun bears and proboscis monkeys so one way or another you will see these wonderful creatures. 
We arrive on the friday to start our 12 days of photography refreshed on the following morning. 

Our locations are chosen for the birds, flora and fauna known to be there which increases our chances of seeing some extraordinary wildlife. Borneo is a diverse Island, made up of 3 countries, Indonesia, Brunei and our destination, the state of Sabah in Malaysia. Sabah has much to offer a photographer from the deep steamy jungles to the long winding waterways and from the mysterious caves to amazing birds so there are plentiful opportunities to get amazing photos. It offers a varied amount of flora and fauna including the orangutan, proboscis monkey, hornbills,fireflies and over 5000 species of flowering plants found nowhere else in the world. 

We will begin in Kota Kinabalu where we will start by visiting a cultural village experience where locals in traditional dress bring alive tribal customs. After lunch we will drive South for our first private river cruise to see monkeys and birds along the river before we stop for dinner. After dark we return to our boat to explore the banks for masses of fireflies that light up the trees like fairy lights. Although it's very hard to photograph it is one of the most wonderful nature experiences you will ever have. 

Sunday we take an early flight to Lahad Datu on the Eastern Coast where we will meet our driver and venture into the rain forest jungle to experience all that it has to offer. We will be staying within Tabin National Park which is known for a huge variety of flora as well as insects, spiders, birds as well as the chance of the wild animals like orangutan, gibbon, macaque, otter and pygmy elephant.  Night drives or walks will give us the chance to see some of the nocturnal animals like the flying squirrels, civet cat and with any luck, the clouded leopard. We have seen 2 porcupines here too.  Tabin National Park is known as Sabah's greatest wildlife sanctuary. It was created in the year 1984, the 300000 acres reserve is the largest wildlife reserve in Malaysia. It has areas of mud 'volcanoes' which ooze mineral salts that attract many different varieties of creatures to it, even sun bears are known to visit although we would be very luck if we saw one. We will stay in the heart of the jungle at a river resort.  We may see the 3 largest of Sabah’s mammals, the Borneo Pygmy Elephant and Tembadau or Banten, which is like a wild buffalo. There are many mammals including otter,  nine species of primate, three species of cats all of which are on the protected wildlife list and more than 300 species bird. 

Our next destination is the Kinbanatang River which is the longest river in Sabah (560km). It passes through many diverse habitats and eventually spreads out in to a huge fertile floodplain which supports many animals, birds and water life. The area was under threat from logging but now Sabah’s government have gazetted 27800 hectares creating the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.  As we head West we will stop in the car park of the Gomantong Cave which is a favourite haunt of wild orangutan and monkeys. They are often spotted here on the edge of the jungle, lazing in the canopies during the heat of the day. 

If you wish to visit the caves this is an optional extra as it is not for everyone. The cave itself is known for the swiftlets that create nests harvested for bird's nest soup. The caves main chamber is massive and with multiple openings which allows the light to filter through giving it a cathedral like atmosphere and great photo opportunities. However, the cave is also home to thousands of bats and insects which over the decades have produced mounds of guano (droppings) so the smell is quite overpowering. As I said, it's not for everyone but if you wish to go at your own cost (RM60), then Anna-Mair and the guide will accompany you. 

We will stay on the river for 4 nights staying at 2 different resorts so that we get the most of what the river has to offer. We will head out early each morning and late afternoon along the river to spot for macque and proboscis monkeys, gibbons and many other primates (including an orangutan if we are lucky), as well as crocodile, lizards and plentiful birdlife including hornbills and kingfisher. With luck we might see pygmy elephants coming down to for a drink or to bathe. The cruise back in the afternoon also provides a beautiful sunset along the river. There is an option (RM20) to join a night walk when you can get up close with birds whilst they sleep and if you are fortunate see frogs and the tiny western Tarsier. We will transfer by boat down the river between the resorts which will give us more chances of seeing wildlife as we journey that we would certainly not see by road. Our second river resort is new to us but we have chosen it because the wild orangutan in the area are known to come down to the rivers edge at low tide in search of tasty mangrove roots which would give us some amazing photo opportunities. 

 

Our final full photographic destination is Sepilok where we will have 2 nights. The main reason for coming here is the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre that works with orphaned, injured and stolen apes. If we haven't seen any orangutan in the wild we certainly have an increased chance of seeing them here. Although many of the apes here have come through the rehabilitation process, it backs onto unfenced jungle meaning that wild apes will visit occasionally. We will visit the centre at least twice seeing the nursery and feeding sessions so you will get some great photos here. Next door is the Sun Bear Conservation Centre which does an incredible job at with over 40 rescued captive sun bears. The facility has large forest enclosures providing a natural environment facilitating their rehabilitation back into the wild. Sun Bears are the world's smallest bears and are on the vulnerable list. There is the option of a night walk around the hotel or the nearby the Rainforest Discovery Centre with a tree top walk which will bring us close to some amazing birds and nocturnal animals. We will also visit Labuk Bay for a close up experience with the proboscis monkey. We will transfer to Sandikan staying at waterside hotel for our farewell dinner at an amazing local restaurant. Our hotel is close to a great market for a quick shoot after breakfast on our last morning or you can chose to head to the shopping mall for some retail therapy. Our tour will finish on Tuesday late morning with a transfer to Sandakan Airport. 

The full itinerary will be given on request although some small changes may be applied before departure. 

Tour extensions: If you care to arrive early in Kota Kinabalu or stay longer in Sandikan please let me know.  I can arrange extra nights B+B at the hotels we are using at a discounted rate. I can also arrange a snorkelling trip to Turtle Island though our local agent. Please let me know if you would like a quote. 

Please Note: A deposit of $AU2000 will secure your place now ($AU1000 of the deposit is non refundable)  If the tour does not go ahead then your full deposit will be refunded minus any bank fees. The final balance need to be paid in Malaysia Ringott to the account of our agent.  This balance will reflect the price in Malaysia Ringgits so depending on the exchange rate changes between the Australian Dollar and the Ringgit so it may not totally reflect the price quoted it may be a little less or a little more. The quoted price is based on the exchange rate of October 2026. This tour will only take place with a minimum of 2 people booking so please do not book flights to Kota Kinabalu until the tour has been confirmed. 

What's Included:

• Airport transfers

• Internal flight from Kota Kinabalu - Lahad Datu

• Small group size - Maximum 6 photographers

• All internal transport and accommodation


• 13 days/12 nights in Borneo -12 days of photography


• Entry fees unless otherwise mentioned


• All meals on Tour


• Highly experienced local guides and drivers


• Photographic support from Anna-Mair Francis

What's not included:

• Flights to/from Sabah and your home city arriving Kota Kinabalu departing Sandakan
• Entry visa into Malaysia
• Camera tax (local tax on photographers charged at some location approx total RM150)
• Tourism tax in hotels (RM10 per room/per night
• Entry into Gomantong Cave (RM30 plus RM30 camera tax) and optional night walks in Bilit and Sepilok
• Alcohol/soft drinks with meals
• Photographic equipment
• Laundry, gratuities, etc
• Excess baggage
• Travel Insurance (we require a copy of your insurance with your final payment)