Elephants of Sumatra
8 Days from IDR127,000,000
| Dates: | 21 July 2026 - 28 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 the only wildlife photography workshop specifically dedicated to photographing Sumatran Elephants. Suitable for all levels of photographer, with in-depth one-to-one photographic tuition in the field.
Supporting the workshop is a highly experienced local team, including a network of professional trackers who monitor the movements of multiple elephant groups across the region. Their in-depth knowledge of the terrain and the behavior of individual herds significantly enhances our ability to position photographers in the right place at the right time.
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 one to two kilometres may be necessary. The terrain is level and easy to walk on.
With only four places available, this workshop offers a focused environment and a low-impact presence in the field. The limited group size ensures each participant receives relevant individual instruction, while allowing us to work responsibly in this sensitive ecosystem.
Accommodation is provided in a modest but comfortable lodge close to the field sites. Rooms are clean and well-maintained, with Western-style bathrooms and hot water showers. Meals feature fresh, locally prepared Indonesian cuisine. Most dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.
While we are guided by seasoned trackers who have precise knowledge of the Sumatran Elephants' territories, corridors, and behaviors there are no guarantees of sightings.
This is a unique opportunity to photograph one of Indonesia's most iconic species in the wild—an experience few will ever have. Reserve your place now to avoid missing out!
Photo Gallery
Itinerary
Days 1 - 7: Sumatra
The workshop begins on July 21st, as we take a domestic flight from Jakarta to north Sumatra, one of Indonesia’s most biologically rich islands. Upon arrival, we will be greeted at the airport and travel in the comfort of private vehicles, winding our way through rural countryside to our lodge. This peaceful eco-lodge, set amidst towering trees, will be our home base for the entirety of our stay.
In the days leading up to our arrival, our dedicated team of expert local trackers—people who know this land intimately—will be in the field daily, monitoring the movements of the wild Sumatran elephants that roam this region. Their deep understanding of elephant behavior, coupled with years of experience navigating the area, will allow us to strategically position ourselves for the best possible photographic opportunities—without disturbing the animals.
Elephants in this part of Sumatra are known to spend the hotter parts of the day in the dense forest to stay cool and avoid the sun. As the temperature drops in the late afternoon, they often emerge from the jungle to graze in savannah clearings, offering exceptional photography from mid-afternoon through to dusk. This is when the golden light filters through the clouds, casting a soft glow on the landscape and creating ideal conditions for capturing the elephants in their natural element.
Depending on where the elephants are located on a given day, we may need to walk up to an hour on foot to reach our observation points. These walks will take us through level, lowland terrain—a mixture of open paths and grassy clearings.
Throughout the workshop you will receive hands-on photographic guidance tailored to your individual needs and experience level. Whether you are working to refine your in-field technical ability, understand how to anticipate behavior, or learn how to make critical decisions quickly, there will be plenty of opportunities to elevate your craft in this small group environment.
Day 8: 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 two kilometres 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 127,000,000 double occupancy
IDR 127,000,000 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 22 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 7 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.