Alaska Musk Ox Photo Workshop
- 6 Days
From $6,295 - Interests
- Wildlife
- Activity Level
- Moderate
- Group Size
- 6
Photograph musk oxen and arctic birdlife with tundra fall colors in Nome, Alaska.
In autumn, the tundra around Nome erupts in spectacular displays of yellow, orange, and red colors. This remote area of Alaska is also home to easily accessible herds of musk oxen. We’ll explore the tundra to find photo opportunities with these magnificent, prehistoric-looking creatures in stunning fall colors. This time of year is the rut, where males showcase their strength and defend their harems with dramatic head-to-head clashes.
While our primary focus will be on musk ox, there is also prolific arctic birdlife around Nome that we’ll photograph, including terns, loons, ducks, plovers, ptarmigans, and others.
September in Alaska also means the potential for northern lights. If the weather cooperates, we’ll also head out for the aurora borealis. Consider extending your Alaska adventure by joining us in Fairbanks for a Northern Lights workshop.
Highlights
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Fall tundra colors during the action of the musk ox rut. Imagine musk ox bulls clashing against a backdrop of blazing tundra reds and golds that only Alaska can deliver
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Prolific arctic birdlife. From terns skimming the water to ptarmigans on the ground, Nome’s tundra teems with vibrant arctic birdlife
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Potential for northern lights. When night falls and the aurora dances overhead, you’ll capture ethereal light shows that turn the sky into art
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Small group size for individualized attention and instruction. With just a few fellow shooters, you’ll get personalized guidance and plenty of space to chase every perfect shot
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Two experienced photo instructors who will help you make the most of your images. Seasoned guides will be there every step of the way to help you see the light, refine your craft, and walk away with images you’ll be proud of
Your Guides
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James Begeman
Sep 7–12, 2027 -
Mindy Huston
Sep 7–12, 2027
Activity Level
We will be able to photograph many species at close range from the vehicle, but we will take short hikes up to 1 mile (1.6 km)Â to reach some species. You should be able to carry your camera gear over uneven, potentially spongy terrain.
This tour has an activity level of Moderate. Read more about the Activity Levels for our trips.
Itinerary
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This tour offers opportunities to photograph wildlife. We'll maximize our chances of encountering wildlife, but we want to remind you that we don't control wildlife and cannot guarantee encounters with particular species. Itineraries for wildlife trips are subject to change based on wildlife activity.
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Day 1: Arrive in Nome
Arrive at Nome Airport (OME) before 6:00 PM on this day. Air travel delays are possible, so please consider arriving early, possibly the day prior. We don't want you to miss out on trip activities. Airport transfer is included on arrival.
Our guides will pick you up at the Nome airport and transport you to our hotel in town. We’ll have dinner this evening to get to know one another, and go over camera settings and our plan for the adventure ahead.
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Day 2–5: Musk ox and bird photography
Our itinerary these days will be similar but varies based on the location of wildlife. We’ll grab breakfast and then head out to photograph musk ox and birdlife in the best light. We’ll travel in comfortable vehicles with plenty of space for your gear as we explore the three roads leaving Nome.
If the nighttime weather looks promising, we will also attempt an aurora photo shoot.
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Day 6: Departure
Departure from Nome Airport (OME). You can book your return flight for anytime this day. Airport transfer is included on departure.
Accommodations
We’ll stay in Nome at a comfortable inn overlooking the Bering Sea. Rooms include kitchenettes.
Why Travel With Us
Our small-group trips are designed for photographers, with guides who know the best locations and offer instruction to help improve your photography. Read more about why you should travel with us.
Dates & Prices
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Sep 7–12, 2027$6,295 USD Per PersonDouble Occupancy$825 USDSingle SupplementGuides: James Begeman, Mindy HustonGroup Size: 6Payment Terms: Deposit: $1,500 USDBalance Due: May 10, 2027
All of our standard Terms & Conditions apply. Be sure to read our Cancellation Policy.
What's Included
- Double occupancy lodging. Single lodging is available with payment of a single supplement fee.
- All transportation during the tour.
- Airport transfers at arrival/departure.
- Snacks and water between meals.
- All permits and entry fees.
- Instruction, guidance, and image reviews from our expert photography guides.
- Personal pre-trip phone consultation.
What's Not Included
- Airfare to and from destination, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees.
- Passport and visa fees, if applicable.
- Our group will dine together, but the cost of most meals is not included.
- Travel medical & evacuation insurance (required).
- Trip cancellation insurance (optional but recommended).
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Any accommodations or meals before or after the tour dates.
- Items of a personal nature.
Prepare for Your Trip
Please review our photography travel resources, including know your camera and our camera gear list, to help you plan your trip. Before your trip, we’ll contact you with more detailed gear recommendations specific to your trip.
Also, get a head start on your workshop learning experience with our wildlife photography tutorials.