Utah Astrophotography Tour Details
- September Dates: SEP 23-27, 2024 (5 spots left)
- October Dates: OCT 3-5, 2024 (Sold Out: Waitlist)
- Group Size: Max. 10
- Tour Leader/Instructor: Pete DeMarco
- Physical Activity Level: Low
- Accommodation: Included
- Price: $3,997 (Double Occupancy)
Trip Testimonial
- “Pete left no stone unturned to make sure we had a magical experience at all locations. His enthusiasm to teach is infectious. He is friendly, energetic, engaging, courteous, respectful of nature and local cultures and your background, and most importantly super experienced and talented in all aspects of photography and anyone taking his workshop will have only tremendous things to gain!” ~ Ujjwal, New Jersey, Utah Solar Eclipse Tour
Trip Overview: Way of The Navajo
Hey, I’m Pete DeMarco, and I’ve put together a bespoke astrophotography tour to one of my favorite destinations on the planet. From colossal crimson-colored stone towers, to massive mesas, and cavernous canyons, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park in southern Utah inspires awe like none other.
Just as memorable are the Navajo people, one of America’s most unique and enlightening cultures. The night sky above the valley is as clear a window to the universe as you will ever see. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime astro adventure!
Highlights: Monument Valley Tour
- Create stunning photos of the stars above Monument Valley.
- Ideal dates to view the Milky Way (core visible from 8:30-10:30 PM)
- Access secluded areas of the valley, not open to the general public.
- Get to know the Navajo and learn about their rich culture and history.
- Capture star trails over the vast canyons of Goosenecks State Park.
- Camp under the stars on Hunts Mesa, 1,000 ft above Monument Valley.
- Learn creative astrophotography composition and editing techniques.
Your Tour Includes
- Small relaxed-style group (maximum 10 photographers).
- 3 nights at Goulding’s Lodge (double occupancy villa).
- 1 night fully equipped camp on Hunts Mesa (breakfast & dinner included).
- Private sunset photography tour with Navajo guides in the park.
- 2 exclusive astrophotography tours with Navajo guides in the park.
- Photography instruction by Pete Demarco.
- Ideal time to photograph the Milky Way over Monument Valley.
Not Included
- Flights to/from Monument Valley.
- Meals and activities not mentioned.
- Transportation not mentioned.
- Travel insurance.
- Private room if available ($500 supplement).
5-Day Monument Valley Itinerary
DAY 1: Milky Way Magic Over Mystery Valley
- Kick off your tour at 1 PM at the iconic Goulding’s Lodge.
- Meet and greet your tour buddies, check your gear, and learn essential night photography tips at opening orientation and Q&A.
- Head out to capture the setting sun light up the Mittens at golden hour.
- Photograph the Milky Way rise above the valley floor on your private Navajo-guided tour.
DAY 2: Stargazing With The Navajo
- Catch the sun rise behind the mittens and explore the park.
- Hone your astro post-processing skills during our morning editing session.
- Enjoy a bit of free time to explore the area or take a rest.
- Capture star trails at secluded arches and caves on an exclusive tour with your Navajo guide.
DAY 3: Jaw-Dropping Views From Gump to Goosenecks
- Get individual feedback on your photos at our morning post-processing class, and tips for photographing grand scenic panoramas.
- Drive up the Mogi Dugway to Muley Point, over 1,200 ft above Monument Valley and Valley of The Gods.
- Stand in awe at massive canyons at Goosenecks State Park (an IDA certified Dark Sky Park), carved by the San Juan River.
- Shoot light trails from Forest Gump Hill, with the Milky Way rising above the Monument Valley buttes in the background.
DAY 4: Camp Under The Stars on Hunts Mesa
- Continue to level-up your night photo skills during your morning post processing class.
- Take an off-road adventure, deep into the heart of Navajo land, to Hunts Mesa, in time to catch the sun set over the valley below.
- Enjoy a mouth-watering steak dinner, cooked over an open fire, at your exclusive camp on top of the mesa.
- Stare in wonder at billions of stars above you, creating frame after frame of awe-inspiring images of America’s darkest night skies.
DAY 5 Morning: Striking Sunrise Above The Valley
- Capture sunrise from high above the Monument Valley floor.
- Enjoy breakfast at your private camp.
- Explore Spider Arch, one of the largest and most secluded in the valley.
- The tour ends around 11 AM.
*The schedule above may change due to factors like weather.
Monument Valley Accommodation
During your tour, you’ll stay at the iconic Gouldings Lodge. It’s conveniently located near the entrance of the park. We will also spend one night camping at the top of Hunts Mesa in Monument Valley.
It’s a fully outfitted wilderness camping adventure, including a steak dinner cooked over an open fire by our Navajo guides, and full breakfast. The tents are very large and sleep two people comfortably.
Single tents may be available upon request for those who choose the single supplement. You will be provided with a high-quality sleeping bag and thick ground mats for a comfortable and warm night’s sleep.
Getting To Monument Valley
You’ll need to get to Monument Valley on your own. The closest airport is in Flagstaff, AZ, at just under 3 hours by car. American Airlines flies direct flights from Dallas and Phoenix to Flagstaff, with connections to most major US cities.
Another option is Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), although a bit further at 5 hours by car to Monument Valley. Other major airports like Las Vegas and Salt Lake City a 6-7 hour drive. There are also a few regional airports listed in the Q&A below.
Transportation In Monument Valley
Transportation in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle (Chevy Suburban or similar) is included for all 3 Navajo-guided excursions: 2 astro tours in the park and the drive to and from Hunts Mesa.
Transportation is not included for the rest of the tour, such as visiting Forrest Gump Hill or Goosenecks State Park (about 30 miles away over paved roads). If you’d like to carpool with another participant on the tour, we will arrange it for you, as long as that option is available.
Physical Activity Level: Low
Most locations are a short walk from our vehicles at night over dirt paths. You will be responsible for carrying your own gear. There is one spot where we will climb (optional) up a small rock face using a rope. Also, the 2-hour drive up to Hunts Mesa is mostly off-road. Our Navajo guides will take us in their 4-wheel-drive vehicles over graded dirt roads, sandy single track, as well as some rocky and steep terrain.
Photography Techniques You’ll Learn In Monument Valley
This tour will focus on astrophotography. However, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to shoot durning sunrise, sunset, blue hour, and golden hour, as well as scenes of Navajo life. Teaching will take place in the field on an as-needed individual basis. We will also have some classroom time in the mornings to work on your editing skills. Learning topics include but are not limited to:
- Best settings and practices for night photography.
- How to capture razor-sharp night images with ease.
- How to plan an astrophotography shoot (with PhotoPills).
- How to capture stunning Milky Way and star trail photos.
- How to reduce noise in your astro images.
- Best post-processing techniques in Lightroom and Photoshop.
- How to refine your vision and style (with instructor feedback).
You’ll get a suggested list of photography gear once you enroll in the tour. In the meantime, feel free to reach out if you have any gear questions.
Reviews For Pete DeMarco
- “I was a bit nervous and have rarely done any photography workshops in person. Pete made it so fun and relaxed!” ~ Melissa, New York, Brooklyn Photo Tour
- “I had an excellent time with Pete; fantastic, jaw dropping locations, each better than the last, accompanied by first class constructive instruction.” ~ Justin, UK, Malaysia Photo Tour
- “Pete’s calm and collected attitude towards teaching, from when I was a rookie until now, makes learning more pleasurable.” ~ Bob, UK, online workshop participant
- “Thank you again for an awesome photo shoot! I learned so much in one evening.” ~ Vanisha, Singapore, Brooklyn Tour
- “My photography has definitely improved. I believe Pete was born to teach. And this is his natural outlet.” ~ JoAnn, New York, Vietnam Tour
- “Discover the wonders of the night sky alongside Pete and a knowledgeable Navajo guide, capturing mesmerizing shots that will leave you in awe. This isn’t just a tour – it’s an opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field and hone your craft for years to come. Don’t let this chance slip away!” Matt Brandon, Texas
FAQ
What makes this tour unique?
Our tours are unlike any other. They’re small (max 12), so we can see and do things larger tour groups can’t. Our small groups create a more laid-back, intimate experience, as if you were hanging out with friends. Also, each itinerary is hand-crafted to create the maximum amount of time at epic photo locations, with authentic local interactions. Plus, we use the best modes of transportation and stay in hotels that strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Finally, and most importantly, you’re always treated like a friend. In fact, you can call us anytime!
What photographic skill level do I need?
All skill levels, from beginner to advanced, are welcome! The important thing is that you’re open to adventure, learning new skills, and enjoy taking photos with others in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
What photography gear do I need?
A DSLR or mirrorless camera and a tripod. You’ll get a detailed list of suggested gear once you sign up. A laptop would be helpful so you can work on your photos during the trip, and ask questions or get feedback from your tour leader.
Which airports are closest to Monument Valley?
The closest major international airports to Monument Valley are:
- Pheonix (PHX) is about 5 hours.
- Salt Lake City (SLC) about 6.5 hours.
- Las Vegas (LAS) about 6.5 hours.
There are also smaller regional airports closer to Monument Valley:
- Page (PGA) is about 2 hours.
- Moab (CNY) is about 3 hours.
- Flagstaff (FLG) is about 3 hours.
Can my non-photographer spouse, relative, or friend join?
Absolutely! We’ve had non-photographer companions join tours in the past and they loved it. They will need to enroll in the tour at the same price and conditions as the other participants.