Elephants of Sumatra
5 Days from IDR68,500,000
| Dates: | 25 July 2026 - 29 July 2026 |
|---|---|
| Locations: | Sumatra |
| Group size: | Limited to 4 participants |
| Activity level: | Moderate |
| Experience: | Wildlife |
The Elephants of Sumatra 2026 Photo Workshop is designed for a small group of only four passionate photographers. This workshop takes place in prime Sumatran Elephant habitat and offers the best opportunity available to find and photograph these magnificent animals in the wild. We are only the wildlife photography workshop with access to this area. Suitable for all levels of photographer, with in-depth one-to-one photographic tuition in the field.
As the name suggests, this photo workshop will take place on the island of Sumatra, which is located west of Indonesia's most populated island Java. Arrival into Indonesia will be through Jakarta.
Each day we will be photographing during the peak active periods and we typically use vehicles, and riverboats, to access locations where the elephants are. Walking distances of up to five hundred metres may be necessary. The terrain is level and easy to walk on. In addition to elephants, these areas are also home to the Sumatran Tapir (also known as the Malayan or Asian Tapir), Sun Bear, Sumatran Barking Deer, and a variety of birds.
While our lodge for the duration of this workshop is basic the rooms are clean and well-maintained with full Western-style facilities including hot water showers. Meals are freshly-prepared delicious Indonesian cuisine. Please let us know if have any specific dietary requirements as we can usually accommodate these.
With a group limit of only four participants on this exciting photo workshop reserve your place now to avoid missing out!
Photo Gallery
Itinerary
Days 1 - 4: Sumatra
The workshop begins on July 29th with a domestic flight to Sumatra. Upon arrival we transfer by private vehicles to our lodge which is located in a village on the fringe of the jungle. Prior to the group's arrival our expert local trackers will closely monitor elephant movements to determine where the optimal photo opportunities are going to be. Typically, the best time of the day to find and photograph elephants in open areas is in the mid afternoon to dusk period when these animals come out of the jungle to graze on the savannah. Based on the elephants' location we may need to walk up to an hour to be within range for photography. The terrain is level and easy to negotiate.
While in this region we will also photograph forest and river birds which are found here.
Day 5: Sumatra to Jakarta
After an early breakfast we will depart the lodge and travel back to the airport for our domestic return flight to Jakarta. If your departing flight home is not until the following day we can recommend and arrange an airport hotel for you.
What to Expect
This workshop takes place in the dry season, with the chance of scattered rain periods. All of our locations are either at or very close to sea level. The temperature range is typically 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F).
Activity Level
Moderate
Guests should be in good health and able to:
- Take walks up to approximately five hundred metres on flat and/or undulating terrain
- Carry your own camera equipment on walks
Visas
A very easy online purchase of a Visitor Visa is all that is required for most nationalities to enter Indonesia for up to 30 days. ASEAN country citizens can enter visa-free.
Workshop Fees
IDR 68,500,000 double occupancy
IDR 70,500,000 single occupancy
All amounts are in Indonesian Rupiah and are per person.
To confirm your place on this workshop we require a deposit payment of 50% of the total fee. Balance of the workshop fee is due on 28 April 2026. Payments may be made by internet or international bank transfer. We also accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express payments (+3% card fee).
What's Included
- Accommodation in comfortable, private rooms for 4 nights
- All-inclusive meals from lunch on Day One until breakfast on the departure day
- Domestic flights Jakarta to Sumatra return
- Local taxes and fees
- Local guide fees
What's Not Included
- Any travel services required to arrive at the workshop commencement location
- Any personal items such as alcoholic beverages and souvenirs
- Gratuities for support crew, guides, and porters
- Visa and other immigration fees where applicable
Terms and Conditions
Please ensure you read our terms and conditions.
Trip Leader
Phillip Bartlett
Phillip is a professional nature and wildlife photographer, workshop instructor, and expedition leader whose exploration of Indonesia began in 1992. Together with his gifted wife Engelina, a descendant of the Royal Kingdom in Central Java, they began leading Indonesia photo workshops and photography tours in 2015.
Fluent in Bahasa Indonesia, the official language of Indonesia, Phillip has a deep understanding of its diverse cultures. His ability to communicate fluently has enabled him to establish a wide network of relationships across the archipelago, ranging from remote Papuan hill-tribes to the President's personal security detail — a tale in itself.
With over two decades of experience as a full-time photographer, Phillip generously shares his knowledge and passion for Indonesia with photographers from around the world. His commitment to providing exceptional experiences has led to collaborations with respected international photo workshop providers.
Phillip is also credited with pioneering New Zealand multi-region photography workshops. In 2005, he founded Capture New Zealand, offering exclusive photography workshops in New Zealand.
Currently, Phillip is focusing on photographing Indonesia's most elusive and endangered wildlife species, celebrating the natural wonders that call the world's largest archipelago home.
Reviews
I have had the pleasure of joining Phillip on a few Indonesian trips now and can honestly say that his meticulous planning and attention to detail have made for lots of memorable photographic and cultural experiences. The small group adventures that Philip undertakes ensure we are all well looked after. With the ability to communicate and interact with the locals, Phillip provided us with a number of unique and fun interactions. I am already packing my camera gear in readiness for his next adventure! (Reviewed on Google)
Sam Mariani
Did a recent trip with Phillip and top notch from start to finish, have been on many many trips with him and there is a reason - extremely well planned, top notch subject matter, and lots of fun. Highly recommended.
David and Wipada Salmanowitz
Phillip is an experienced and thoughtful workshop leader. Having traveled with him previously in Indonesia I can say his trips are well-planned, offering a variety of photographic experiences. His years of experience, and ability to speak the local language, made for a journey that was amazing and intimate. I’m looking forward to when I return to Indonesia with Phillip in 2025. (Reviewed on Google)
Dale Grosbach
Read more feedback from our clients on our testimonials page.