14 days Xi'an to Kashgar - trip code EBSR11
US$4,300 (single room optional for US$680)
Travel the historic Silk Road to the far west of China across a vastly changing lanscape all the while honing your travel photography skills under the guidance of award-winning photographer Ewen Bell.
A journey along the Silk Road is a journey into the history of China itself, exploring magnificent Buddhist caves, discovering the influences of Arabic peoples and seeing a side of China few people ever get to appreciate. For the photographer this is an immense experience, a feast of inspiration.
Book now for your free book
When you book on the tour you'll receive a free book to take with you as you travel. "Photography for Travellers" was written by Ewen Bell to inspire, inform and encourage creativity with your camera. Along with techniques and philosophies to discuss on the journey the book includes a wealth of images to illustrate his ideas. The perfect companion for any photographic journey.
Itinerary
Days 1-3 | Xi'an
Start of the Silk Route and home of the famous Terracotta Warriors, there is also a whole lot more to Xi'an. We visit the bustling Muslim markets and have the chance to capture the unique blend of old and new presented by this vibrant city.
Days 4-5 | Jiayuguan
Jiayuguan was traditionally seen as the western boundary of Han China, and it is here that the last grand fortress along the Great Wall is to be found, surrounded by desert which stretches away to colossal mountains on the horizon.
Days 6-7 | Dunhuang
The Silk Road was more than just a trade route, it was also a conduit for ideas and religions. This is in evidence along the length of the Silk Route, but nowhere more spectacularly than at the oasis town of Dunhuang, famous as the site of China's finest Buddhist cave art. We tour the frescos and carving within the grottos (cameras are not permitted inside) and venture into the sea of huge dunes which surround the town.
Days 8-9 | Turpan
Turpan sits in a vast depression and is surrounded by a maze of grape-trellis-lined dusty lanes which lead to the desert and its fiery Flaming Mountains, ancient cities, hidden ravines and even vineyards.
Days 10-14 | Kashgar
Kashgar was a crucial trading post along the Silk Road and its bustling Sunday Bazaar still attracts traders from around the region. The proximity to Central Asia gives Kashgar a unique blend of cultures and the old city is alive with Uighurs, Tajiks, Kazaks and Kyrgyz, each distinguishable by their traditional headgear. To really take the Silk Route to the limits of China we travel along the Karakoram Highway to stunning and remote Lake Karakul, nestled among 7000m plus peaks where we spend a night in a yurt.
Facts and Information
Style
travel photography workshop
Inclusions
accompanying photographer, photography workshops and notes, tour leader, two domestic flights, many meals, entry fees
Group Size
minimum 4, maximum 8
Accommodation
11 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night mountain yurt, 1 night sleeper train
Meals Included
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 8 dinners
Instructing Photographer
Ewen Bell - Australian Travel Photographer of the Year 2007
Ewen Bell's website and photo tours
Camera Requirements
Digital SLR or Compact Digital
Difficulty Rating
easy/moderate
Note
This trip is also suitable for non-photographers. We visit a fantastic variety of locations and there is plenty to do apart from take photos - it really would be a great trip even if it wasn't a travel photographer tour! Non-photographer partners are particularly welcome.
