Some places defy description they must be lived, felt, and seen with your own eyes. This once-in-a-lifetime journey takes you across three of the most awe-inspiring and remote landscapes on Earth, each offering a unique gateway to the cosmos.

We begin in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, a world-renowned haven for stargazers and astrophotographers. Beneath some of the clearest skies on the planet, we’ll capture stunning images of the Milky Way’s luminous core, the ethereal Magellanic Clouds, and a sky overflowing with deep-sky marvels invisible from the northern hemisphere. The Atacama’s alien landscapes—twisted rock formations, salt flats, and lunar valleys—provide the perfect stage for unforgettable compositions, both day and night.

Next, we ascend into Bolivia and step into a surreal dreamscape: the legendary Salar de Uyuni. During the rainy season, this immense salt flat transforms into a natural mirror, blending sky and Earth in otherworldly reflections. Standing in complete silence at 3,700 meters above sea level, surrounded by stars stretching to the horizon, feels like floating in deep space. We'll explore the haunting Train Cemetery, vividly colored high-altitude lakes, and ancient volcanic landscapes unlike anything on Earth.

Our final destination is the mystical Easter Island (Rapa Nui) — one of the most isolated inhabited places on the planet. Here, the iconic Moai statues rise solemnly under the vast Pacific sky, where darkness reigns and stars burn with breathtaking intensity. We’ll capture the spirit of this sacred land, photographing the ancient stone giants as they stand watch beneath a canopy of starlight.

Throughout the expedition, you’ll receive personalized mentorship from me — whether you're just starting your astrophotography journey or are a seasoned photographer seeking to push your limits. This isn’t just a photo tour — it’s a journey to the edge of the Earth and beyond, where you’ll connect with the night sky like never before.

12 March- 26 March 2026

Group size: 8 participants + 1 instructors + local guides

Join me on an unforgettable astrophotography adventure across some of the

most breathtaking and otherworldly landscapes on Earth.

Astro Photo Tour Itinerary

Day 1 – Santiago

Arrival and transfer. Walking tour of the city center and sunset from the SKY Costanera Center tower.

(-/-/-)

Day 2 – San Pedro de Atacama

Flight to Calama. Transfer to San Pedro. Terrain exploration visit: Rainbow Valley, Vallecito (The Magic Bus), The cacti of Guatín. Rest at the hotel.

(B/-/-), 2400 m

Day 3 – San Pedro de Atacama

After midnight, astrophotography session in the Salt Mountain Range – Magic Bus & Vallecito. Breakfast and rest. In the afternoon, excursion to the highland lakes Meñiques and Miscanti, Tuyajto Lake, and Aguas Calientes Salt Lake. Early picnic dinner.

(B/-/D), 2400 m

Day 4 – San Pedro de Atacama

After midnight, astrophotography session in the Rainbow Valley. Return to San Pedro and rest. Afternoon visit to Moon Valley with cocktails. Rest.

(B/-/Cocktail), 2400 m

Day 5 – San Pedro de Atacama

After midnight, astrophotography session among the cacti. Breakfast and rest. Night journey to the Monks of the Pacana.

(B/-/D), 2400 m

Day 6 – Hito Cajón (Border crossing)

Early return to the hotel. Breakfast and rest until 11:00 a.m. Time for lunch and a stroll around San Pedro. At 2:00 p.m. transfer to the Hito Cajón border crossing from Chile to Bolivia. When we cross the border with Bolivia we will visit the Green Lagoon, open-air thermal baths, Dali Valley, and rest at the hotel near the Red Lagoon. Due to the lack of other accommodation options in the area, we’ll be staying at the modest Luna Dorada hotel, which offers convenient access to the Red Lagoon—our location for nighttime astrophotography.

(B/-/D), 3650 m

Day 7 – Uyuni

After midnight, astrophotography session and flamingos at the Red Lagoon. Visit to Sol de Mañana geysers, the Stone Tree. Picnic on the road. Lakes Chiarkota, Honda, and Hedionda. Late arrival in Uyuni.

(B/L/D)

Day 8 – Uyuni

After midnight, astrophotography session at the salt flats. Return to hotel and rest. Midday photography session on the salt flats, then continue to Incahuasi Island. Sunset photography. Night under the stars for astrophotography.

(B/L/D), 3700 m

Day 9 – Uyuni

After midnight, astrophotography session and then sunrise photography! Return to the hotel and rest. Midday photography again at the salt flats. SUNSET and COCKTAIL at the lake.

(B/L/Cocktail), 3700m

Day 10 – Uyuni – Ollagüe – Calama (Border crossing)

Today we are crossing the border with Chile. Breakfast and transfer to the Ollagüe border (Chile). Transfer to Calama, flight to Santiago. Hotel near Santiago airport.

(B/Packed lunch/-)

Day 11 – Easter Island

Flight to Rapa Nui. Transfer and rest. Visit to Puna Pau and Ahu Akivi.

(B/-/-)

Day 12 – Easter Island

Excursion to Rano Raraku, Tongariki, and Anakena.

(B/-/-)

Day 13 – Easter Island

Visit to Rano Kau and Orongo. After midnight, astrophotography session at Rano Raraku with special guide included in the price.

(B/-/-)

Day 14 – Santiago

Afternoon transfer to the airport and flight to Santiago. Hotel near Santiago airport.

(B/-/-)

Day 15 – Departure Time

(B/-/-)

Price: $7,500 USD

Deposit: $2,500 USD

To secure your place in the workshop, a deposit of $2,500 USD is required. This amount includes a deposit as well as domestic flights Santiago - Calama - Santiago worth $220 and flights to Easter Island worth $860. You also have the option to pay the full amount at any time. The final payment must be completed no later than 60 days before the tour begins. Failure to pay the full balance by the deadline will result in the loss of your reservation.

Bonuses:
Access to Mihail Minkov's on-line masterclass editing video tutorial (valued at $250).
Participants will have the opportunity to receive personal guidance and advice from Mihail on how to capture their best night shots.

What does the price include?

• Private transport

• Accompanying local guide

• Entrance fees to attractions

• 3* or 4* hotels according to the program

• Daily breakfast

• Meals as per the itinerary

• Road map of Northern Chile

• 24/7 assistance via WhatsApp

• Included one astrophotography session at Rapa Nui, Rano Raraku for one night

Not included:

• International flights

• Visa entering Bolivia

• Two domestic flights: Totall: $220

• Flights to Santiago - Easter Island - Santiago: Totall: $860 (The price may vary and change depending on the airline's conditions.)

• Meals not listed in the itinerary

• Health or travel insurance

• Personal expenses and tips

• Bank fees

• Additional visits for astrophotography sessions at paid locations in Rapa Nui depending on the size of the group

*(B/L/D) B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Accommodation

Accommodation is based on double occupancy at some of the region’s finest hotels.
Private room upgrade: +$1,000 (subject to availability).

Essentials Guide

Photography Gear
• Must-haves: DSLR/mirrorless camera, sturdy tripod, wide-angle (14–24mm), mid-zoom (24–70mm), and telephoto (70–200mm) lenses, camera bag, and headlamp.
• Recommended for Milky Way: Fast prime lenses (e.g. 20mm f/1.8, 24mm f/1.4).
• Optional: Star tracker, astro-modified camera, or telephoto/telescope for deep-sky shots (not the workshop focus).

Clothing & Weather
Expect temperature extremes (27ºC daytime to -5ºC nights) across desert and high-altitude areas (4,000+ m).
• Layering system: Base, fleece, windproof & waterproof layers.
• Warm pants, hiking boots, wool socks, gloves, hat, neck gaiter.
• Optional: Hiking poles, sun hat, sunglasses, lip balm, water bottle, sneakers/sandals for warmer areas, power bank.

Money
• Currencies: Chilean Peso (CLP), Bolivian Boliviano (BOB).
• Bring local cash in advance if possible. Cards work in Chile, less so in Bolivia.

Travel Documents
• Chile: No visa needed for most countries (under 90 days).
• Bolivia: Bulgarian and U.S. citizens needs a $100 - $160 visa (available at the border).
• Check your country’s entry and vaccination requirements (e.g. yellow fever for Bolivia).

Altitude & Fitness
• Moderate hikes, but high-altitude exposure (sleeping at 3,700 - 4,000+ m).
• Itinerary is designed for gradual acclimatization.

Local Guides & Fees
• All local guides and attraction fees (e.g. Valle de la Luna, Laguna Colorada) are included.
• Trusted partners with years of experience in Chile & Bolivia.

Your tour leader

Mihail Minkov is an award-winning astrophotographer. His fascination with the stars began in childhood, as he gazed at the night sky in awe. In recent years, he has dedicated much of his free time to capturing the beauty of the cosmos, particularly the Milky Way through his camera.

Mihail has received numerous accolades from prestigious international astrophotography and night photography competitions. In 2020, NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day featured his work on May 20. Two years later, in 2022, four of his images were selected for recognition, with one earning second place in the renowned Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition, organized by the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London. In both 2023 and 2024, he was named one of the top 25 Milky Way photographers in the world by the highly regarded Milky Way Photographer of the Year competition.

Over the past three years, Mihail has been organizing hands-on astrophotography workshops, helping photographers of all levels learn how to capture the night sky. He offers in-person and online masterclasses focused on post-processing techniques for landscape astrophotography using Adobe products. His images have been featured by major global media outlets, including National Geographic, Forbes, The Times, The Guardian, BBC Earth, Daily Mail, Sky News, Bored Panda, and many others.

What My Happy Clients Say

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Accommodation

Luna Salada Salt Hotel in Colchani offers the finest lodging in the Uyuni area, perfectly positioned at the edge of the breathtaking Salar de Uyuni is a truly unforgettable experience. Accommodation consists of twin rooms shared between two guests, with an option for a private room at an additional cost (subject to availability).

Important Notice

Due to the demanding altitude of this expedition, all participants will be required to sign a brief waiver acknowledging that it is their responsibility to ensure proper acclimatization before the workshop begins. Please note that no refunds will be issued for inability to participate due to altitude-related illness.

Itinerary Flexibility

This tour takes place in remote and rugged regions, and flexibility is key. Our itinerary may be adjusted on the go due to weather conditions, strikes, roadblocks, or other unforeseen circumstances. We’ll always aim to adapt and ensure the best possible experience under the given conditions.

Bolivia

Chile

During your stay in San Pedro de Atacama, you’ll be accommodated at Hotel Poblado Kimal - a charming retreat located in the heart of the historic center. This welcoming hotel offers comfortable lodging, an on-site restaurant, a relaxation center, and a variety of excursions, ensuring a sensory-rich experience in the desert.

Easter Island

While exploring the wonders of Easter Island, you’ll stay at the Eco Lodge a peaceful and sustainable retreat surrounded by nature. Located just minutes from the island’s cultural landmarks and the town center, the lodge offers comfortable accommodation, personalized service, and an authentic Rapa Nui atmosphere, making it an ideal base for your island adventure.

Frequently asked questions

What level of physical fitness is required?
While many shooting locations are only short walks from where we park, the tour itself can be physically demanding due to the long days and changing altitudes. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the adventure.

Will altitude be an issue during the trip?
We’ll spend a good portion of the tour at high elevations, including an overnight stay above 14,000 feet (4,000 meters). The itinerary is designed to gradually acclimate your body to the altitude. If you’re generally healthy, you should manage well.

Is it okay to bring a drone?
Drones are allowed in several locations, including the Uyuni Salt Flats, but are restricted in private areas and some protected parks. If you own a drone, we suggest bringing it—just be aware of local regulations and fly responsibly.

What photography skills should I have to join this photo tour?
This tour is open to all levels—from beginners to seasoned photographers. No matter where you are on your photography journey, you'll find this experience both valuable and enriching. We’ll work together to ensure you return home with a deeper understanding of key photography concepts.

Do I need a visa to travel to Bolivia?
Travel requirements vary by nationality. Most European citizens do not need a visa, but travelers from the US and some other countries do. Please check with your local government website to confirm the latest visa regulations for Bolivia.

What will I learn during the photo tour?
Despite the demanding travel conditions, the tour offers in-depth guidance on landscape, travel, and night sky photography at various points along the journey. The challenges of the terrain and altitude are balanced with opportunities for personalized tuition in stunning locations.

What kind of clothing should I bring?
Pack for a range of conditions, from warm daytime temperatures to cold nights at altitude. Here’s a suggested list:

• Lightweight hiking pants and wind-resistant heavier-duty pants

• Waterproof outer layers

• Thermal base layers and fleece or insulating underlayers

• Warm-weather clothing for daytime

• Hiking and thermal socks

• Insulated down jacket or wind/waterproof coat

• Hiking boots or sturdy trainers

• Optional: spare footwear, hand/foot warmers, heated socks
  Note: You’ll need to pack efficiently into a medium-sized duffel bag due to limited space in the 4x4 vehicles. Specific dimensions will be shared before the trip.

How physically demanding is the tour?
There are no extreme hikes on the itinerary. Expect long hours on bumpy roads, early mornings, and the occasional late night for astrophotography sessions. A full briefing and disclaimer will be provided in advance, along with more detailed information on altitude considerations.

Featured In:

I am the winner of many awards from prestigious international competitions for astro and night photography. My shots have been shared by world media such as National Geographic, Forbes, The Guardian, The Times, Sky News, Daily Mail, BBC Science Focus, Astronomy pictures of the day by NASA, Bored Panda, and many others.