Indonesia - Lombok

Black monkey Expedition

Destination

Immerse yourself in a captivating 2-day photography tour within the stunning Rinjani National Park, dedicated to the search for the enigmatic black monkeys (lutung). Set against the backdrop of towering volcanoes, dense forests, and breathtaking landscapes, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature while honing your photography skills.

Guided by experienced wildlife photographers, you’ll embark on early morning hikes through the park, where the dense canopy echoes with the sounds of wildlife. As you track the elusive lutung, you’ll learn essential techniques for capturing fast-moving subjects in low-light conditions, while also mastering the art of blending into the natural environment to avoid disturbing the animals.

In addition to photographing the lutung, the workshop will provide in-depth discussions on wildlife behavior, habitat preservation, and ethical wildlife photography. You’ll have the chance to receive personalized feedback, improve your approach to wildlife photography, and develop a deeper understanding of Rinjani’s rich biodiversity.

Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or an experienced professional, this workshop is designed to challenge and inspire you. You’ll walk away with a portfolio filled with stunning images and memories of an unforgettable adventure in one of Indonesia’s most iconic natural reserves. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this thrilling experience, where every click of your camera brings you closer to nature.

Duration

Difficulty

Tour leader

3 days, 2 nights

Easy

Alessandro Tringale

dates

preparation and equipment

Soon available

Windproof or waterproof jacket and pants, plenty of water, comfortable fitness wearing and trail shoes.

number of partecipants

modality

Payments

6 max, 3 min

Easy hiking inside Rinjani national park.

PayPal, Debit/Credit card

Tour detail

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable 2-day tour within the heart of Rinjani National Park—a must-have experience for any traveler seeking to connect with the wild. Nestled in the central-northern part of Lombok, this vast, untouched sanctuary teems with the incredible biodiversity of Indonesia. Here, the dense jungle is home to two of the island’s rarest and most endangered primates: the elusive Black Monkey (Trachypithecus auratus) and the crab-eating macaque (Macaca fascicularis). These shy and elusive creatures are not easily spotted, but with expert guidance, you’ll have the rare opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. Dressed in camouflage, we will move quietly through the forest, keeping still and silent as we watch for families of these incredible monkeys in their daily life. The experience offers a deep connection with nature as we witness their behaviors in the serenity of the jungle. Guided by Alessandro, an experienced wildlife photographer, you’ll learn invaluable techniques to approach and photograph these primates without disturbing their environment. His expert advice will help you capture intimate, breathtaking shots, offering a truly one-of-a-kind wildlife experience. To complete this adventure, you’ll stay in cozy, shared retreat-style accommodations right at the jungle’s edge, offering stunning views of Mount Rinjani. This is not just a tour but an opportunity to disconnect from the busy world and rediscover nature at its purest. Whether you're an aspiring photographer or a nature lover, this 2-day journey promises to leave you with unforgettable memories and newfound skills.

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You will be accompanied by an expert nature guide who will provide insights into the wildlife you encounter, along with Alessandro, a wildlife photographer with over six years of experience. Alessandro will share techniques and tips to elevate your photography skills. Throughout the tour, you will be immersed in natural environments where animals roam freely, and it is crucial to respect both the wildlife and their habitat as we capture these moments with our cameras. At the end of each day (except for the designated free day), Alessandro will conduct a session covering the fundamentals of photography, advanced shooting techniques, and essential knowledge in biology and ethology to deepen your understanding of wildlife and nature. Each day will also begin with a workshop to introduce the day's focus, followed by outdoor photography sessions. Additionally, we will offer post-production classes using Premiere Pro, Lightroom, or Photoshop to enhance your images and create professional-quality results.

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Tour detail​

We will pick you up from harbour or Lombok airport to Eco Homestory in Mount Rinjani.
Welcome with a breakfast and drinks, rest from your trip and recharge electronic devices. In the afternoon, we have a short brainstorm of the two days we’ll have ahead, we wil go straight to the forrest searching for Black monkeys.

It will be a full day inside the forest, and after an early breakfast, we will go again in the forest spotting for other monkeys. In the late afternoon, we will come back to the accomodation, ready for a shower, relax and a post production session together.
Then, dinner and rest.

Last moment together with a breakfast, greetings and ready to leave the accomodations.

Included

Not included

PRICE STARTING FROM

259 USD

F.A.Q.

2-Day Photography Workshop: Discover the Elusive Black Monkey of Rinjani Forest
Embark on a unique and immersive 2-day photography adventure in Lombok, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to capture the enigmatic Black Monkey of Rinjani Forest. This elusive species is a true gem of the jungle—challenging to spot but incredibly rewarding to photograph. The experience of encountering these primates in their natural habitat is nothing short of emotional and unforgettable.

What Makes This Workshop Special?

  • Exclusive Focus on the Black Monkey: Spend two full days exploring the lush Rinjani Forest, learning how to track and photograph this rare and captivating species.

  • Pre-Expedition Preparation: Before heading into the jungle, join a comprehensive editing and camera setup session. Learn how to optimize your camera settings for the best results in challenging jungle conditions.

  • Post-Expedition Editing Masterclass: After your jungle adventure, dive into an immersive editing session. Refine your photos, correct common errors, and transform your captures into stunning portfolio-ready images.

  • Feed Your Portfolio: Whether for personal or business purposes, leave with a collection of breathtaking images that tell the story of your encounter with the Black Monkey.

Workshop Highlights

  • Day 1:

    • Morning: Camera setup and photography techniques workshop.

    • Afternoon: Jungle expedition to track and photograph the Black Monkey.

  • Day 2:

    • Morning: Second jungle expedition for more photography opportunities.

    • Afternoon: Immersive editing session to polish and share your best shots.

  • Day 3:
    • Morning: Farewell and greetings session. Share your experiences, exchange feedback, and celebrate your achievements with fellow participants. This is also a great time to network and connect with like-minded photographers.

What’s Included?

  • Guided jungle expeditions with expert trackers and photography guides.

  • Pre- and post-expedition editing and photography workshops.

  • All necessary permits and transportation for the jungle trek.

What’s Not Included?

  • Personal expenses or additional photography equipment.

Why Join This Workshop?
This is more than just a photography workshop—it’s a chance to connect with nature, challenge your skills, and capture one of Lombok’s most elusive and enchanting creatures. Whether you’re a wildlife photography enthusiast or a professional looking to expand your portfolio, this experience will leave you with unforgettable memories and stunning images.

Book now and prepare for an adventure that will elevate your photography to new heights!

Transportation from/to the accomodation is not included.

At that time of the tour the weather is generally dry with scattered clouds and rains. Long pants and long sleeves t shirt and mosquitoes repellent is highly recommended. Also, we recommend to use mimetic clothing for photography use.

Do you love photography? Would you like to gradually learn how to take professional-quality photos? Then this tour is for you. Photography follows certain standards, but it’s also an art form where everyone can express their unique perspective.

The workshop includes lessons where the photography tour leader will explain the basics of photography techniques. Afterward, we’ll head into the field to practice. At the end of the day, we’ll gather to review all the photos, discuss potential mistakes, suggest improvements, and finish with a final session focused on post-production.

The accommodations have been carefully selected to provide essential services and absolute comfort after a busy day. Rooms will be shared and assigned based on gender.

As we will spot for very shy and elusive animals, bringing a zoom or superzoom lens is highly recommended, ideally something in the range of 100-400mm or 150-600mm. The photography tour leader will be happy to lend you a lens if needed and teach you the best practices for wildlife photography.
Your laptop is essential for our post production sessions after the day spent taking pictures. Two hard drivers are also highy recommended for storing you pictures and one for backup.

We always advice insurances for every kind of travels or experiences, for personal reasons or personal items.

1. *Introduction*
By booking a place on the Photography Tour (hereinafter referred to as “the Tour”), you agree to be bound by the following terms and conditions. These terms outline the rights and obligations of both the participant (hereinafter referred to as “you” or “the participant”) and the Tour organizer (hereinafter referred to as “we,” “us,” or “the Company”). Please read them carefully before making your booking.

2. *Booking and Payments*

  1. A 50% booking fee is required to secure your place on the tour. This booking fee is applied toward the total cost of the tour.

  2. The full payment of €250 must be made no later than 45 days before the scheduled start date of the tour.

  3. No refund of the booking fee will be issued under any circumstances in the event of a cancellation by the client.

  4. Once the full payment has been made, any cancellation by the client will result in the forfeiture of the full amount. No refunds will be provided.

  5. If the full payment is not completed within the 45-day period, this will be considered a renunciation of the tour, and the booking fee will not be refunded.

By booking this tour, you agree to these payment terms and conditions.

– *Cancellation by the Company*:
– In the unlikely event that we cancel the Tour due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., natural disasters, insufficient numbers, government regulations), we will provide a full refund of all payments made by the participant. However, we are not responsible for any additional costs, such as airfare, accommodation outside of the Tour dates, or other personal expenses.

4. *Transfer of Booking*
– You may transfer your booking to another participant if the transfer request is made at least *60 days before the Tour start date. An administrative fee of **EUR €150** applies to all transfers.
– Any transfers made within *60 days of the Tour start date* will be considered on a case-by-case basis and may be subject to additional charges depending on accommodation and guide bookings.

5. *Changes to the Itinerary*
We reserve the right to make necessary changes to the Tour itinerary due to weather conditions, availability of services, or other factors beyond our control. We will endeavor to provide a similar experience and notify participants of significant changes as soon as possible.

6. *Health and Travel Insurance*
– Participants are responsible for their own travel insurance, including coverage for trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and personal belongings.
– Participants must be in good health and physically capable of participating in the Tour’s activities. It is your responsibility to inform us of any medical conditions or dietary restrictions at the time of booking.

7. *Liability*
We take all reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of participants during the Tour. However, we are not liable for any personal injury, loss, or damage to property during the Tour. By booking, you accept that photography tours involve inherent risks, including but not limited to physical activities, weather-related risks, and travel disruptions.

8. *Compliance with Consumer Law*
We comply with all relevant consumer protection legislation, including refund and cancellation rights. These terms do not intend to override your statutory rights.

9. *Governing Law*
These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of local country, and any disputes will be handled in accordance with local law.

10. *Contact Information*
For any questions, cancellations, or requests for transfers, please contact us at:
travelographer.wildlife@gmail.co

who will guide you?

Alessandro tringale

Tour leader - wildlife photographer

Born in Catania, Sicily, Alessandro developed a deep connection with animals from a young age, growing up in a home filled with dogs, cats, squirrels, and other creatures. His passion for photography emerged in his early twenties when he began capturing images of pets and aquarium fish.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Natural and Environmental Science and a Master’s in Environmental Biology, Alessandro decided to combine his two greatest loves—nature and photography. After years of honing his skills through self-development and hands-on experience, he is now building a community of photographers and nature enthusiasts.

As a tour leader, Alessandro will share his extensive knowledge of photography and the natural world, guiding you on an unforgettable journey to capture the beauty of wildlife through your lens.

KUSUMA

Local Tour leader- guide - accomodation owner

Kusuma is an enthusiastic tour guide based in Lombok, Indonesia, and a passionate lover of his land and its wildlife. He has guided many nature enthusiasts and photographers to see the Black Monkey. Born and raised in the jungle, he knows all the spots to find families of Black Monkeys with ease—something nearly impossible to do on your own.

Kusuma is also the owner of the beautiful 2-day accommodation where you’ll stay. An amazing chef, he and his wife are ready to serve you fresh, local meals made with love.

He will guide you as close as possible to see Black Monkeys, Macaques, and local birds, allowing you to enjoy hours of silence surrounded by the sounds of the forest. Passionate about his culture, Kusuma will explain what nature means to the local people and how Black Monkeys are vital to the pluvial forest ecosystem.

And don’t forget—prepare to drink fresh coconuts straight from the tree! Kusuma is always ready to climb and bring them to your table

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