This is my most unique, adventurous and remote drone photo trip so far! After 4 years of taking drone enthusiasts all over the world, it is now time for the first Socotra drone trip in November 2024.
With a small group of enthusiastic drone photographers we will create the adventure of a lifetime. This is the kind of trip you will be telling your grandchildren about! 😍
Over the course of 8 days I will show you the best drone spots on this isolated island, help you to improve your drone photography through live workshops in the field and composition/editing workshops in our private tented camp. We’ll share best practices and tips in a small group of like-minded participants. And in general we’ll just have a lot of fun in the most unique location in the Arabian Sea.
Only 1 spot left! 😲
Socotra drone trip 2024
Interested? Join my trip now:
Fill out your details below to get all the info + how to book your spot!
Socotra drone trip 2024 in a nutshell:
6 people + myself
8 days of adventure on Socotra island
10-17th of November (8D/7N)
Private 4×4 cars with driver (2-3pax per car)
Remote camping in private tents
Local guide who speaks English
Private chef to prepare us 3 fresh meals a day
Logistics team to set up the tents + camp every day
Sunrise & sunset drone shoots at the most epic locations
Several outdoor hikes to incredible canyons and natural pools*
1 boat tour where we usually see dolphins** 🐬 (with the drone!!)
Drone coaching in the field
Composition & Lightroom editing workshops at the tented camp
Official drone permit for Socotra
* moderate fitness is required 🥾
** plenty of spinner dolphins in the area. If we’re lucky and the dolphins stick around, we can even greet them from the water!
Spinner dolphins
Our camping tents on Socotra:
We use the iconic Al-Qadi tents, which are very adapted to the Socotra weather. The Al-Qadi tents have 4 windows and allow for more ventilation. Remember, Socotra can get very hot and stuffy during the summer. Technically they are designed for 2 pax, however each person will get their own tent for more comfort and privacy. Each tent comes with a mattress, blanket and pillow. You don’t need to bring anything.
You can also opt for the high-end luxury tent, which offer much more space and comfort during this trip.
The tents and sitting area will be set up for you by our team. Full service! We’ll also provide portable toilets and showers for your comfort.
Al-Qadi tentLuxury tentSitting area
Typical day:
In order to catch our locations in golden hour light, we’ll get up early every day. Usually during the day I have activities planned or one of the composition/Lightroom workshops. Here’s a typical day on the Socotra drone trip:
Rise and shine
5:20 sunrise shoot
7:00 Breakfast in the camp + back-up
Driving = charge batteries
Explore a canyon or waterfall or natural pool
12:00 lunch at the Wadi, below some palm trees
Driving = charge batteries
Explore a sand dune or lagoon or cave
Or composition/Lightroom workshop
16:00 sunset shoot
17:30 Back-up / refresh / shower
19:00 dinner at the camp
Chill in the sitting area
Sleep
These timings are indications. We will be flexible to circumstances / opportunities. All locations / activities are optional, if you wish to skip one and sleep in, it’s your holiday ☺️
Blue lagoon Socotra
Socotra drone trip pricing:
The tour prices are all-inclusive, meaning your 4×4 car with driver on Socotra island (2-3 pax per car), your camping tent (8D/7N), 1 boat tour, local guides, entrance fees for protected areas, official drone permit, all food & drinks & snacks are included.
On top of that you’ll get daily drone coaching in the field and composition/Lightroom workshops in the camp from me personally.
Your return flight from Abu Dhabi airport and your Socotra tourist visa are required extras. These have a fixed price and cannot be booked online, only through the agency I work with. So I will help you with that.
Price: €3.400
Private tent
Incl. mattress, pillow and blanket
Set up every day by our logistics team
Best view on the stars!
Price: €3.900
Luxury tent
Additional comfort
Incl. better mattress, pillow and duvet
Set up every day by our logistics team
Price: €950 + €150
Return flight from Abu Dhabi airport (AUH)
Socotra tourist visa
Required!
Not included: your own flight to Abu Dhabi airport (AUH).
Previous drone trip testimonials:
Much more than a trip to learn how to fly your drone
Now that I’m back home, I realize this trip was much more than learning how to fly my drone. It was an adventure that included so much more, the whole trip is focused on you enjoying every moment, the conversations with your companions, relaxing in a spectacular villa, enjoying delicious dinners by our chef.
In short, it’s a trip that includes holidays, constant learning, non-stop fun and memories for a lifetime … And all of this with Johan making sure that you don’t have to worry about anything and that you can just live the moment 🙏
Fernando Gómez
Spain 🇪🇸
Azores 2024
Fabulous ! 😍
Just back from the drone trip … and still buzzing! I was pretty much a beginner dronie, but from day 1 I started learning. Johan is a wonderful coach, very supportive and encouraging. Not only has he built up my confidence in flying, he has expanded my knowledge in photography and post-processing. On top of that, you really don’t have to think about anything! It felt like a 5 star service from start to end. Thank you ? Our group was also soooo much fun, lifelong friends were made and we’re already talking about booking another trip !!
Louisa Pollard
United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Azores 2023
Definitely looking forward to the next one! 🤩
Johan was outstanding, offering daily workshops on drone settings, composition, and Lightroom editing. With only six participants from across Europe, we received personalized attention, greatly improving our skills. The experience was a perfect blend of learning and relaxation. I came away with enhanced photography techniques, stunning photos, and new friends. Highly recommended for any drone photography enthusiast!
The villa and the Italian chef were absolutely perfect and allowed a well deserved rest between excursions!
Colas Decloitre
France 🇫🇷
Azores 2024
Unforgettable and irreplaceable
Starting as a complete beginner, Johan has been so patient with me, I cannot believe the progress I’ve made during this trip! Whenever you have a question, he doesn’t just roll out the answer, he makes you actually find and understand the solution, so that you can confidently apply them, even when he’s not around. Our team was so amazing, we just instantly bonded, and my face has been hurting from laughter all week! I’m already missing these random people so much. Go book your trip now, or I will take your spot! 😇
Nina Mercuur
Netherlands 🇳🇱
Azores 2023
Expectations exceeded 😍
Through 6 days of intense droning I gained a lot of confidence in handling tricky situations, because Johan is always around to help. We worked with models, launched the drone from a boat, always chasing the ‘money shots’ and editing them in Lightroom. I met like-minded people from different countries and had a lot of fun. Johan is always in the best mood, being our tutor, guide, host and driver. I’m definitely joining again!
Sabine Gerold
Germany 🇩🇪
Azores 2022
Truly a once in a lifetime experience!
I had a wonderful trip! Flying drones to photograph & video different wildlife in their environment was amazing. Even the weather was way better than I anticipated! Our safari guide was very good and went above and beyond explaining various wildlife. The rooms in the lodge were beautiful with a scenic view on the waterhole, where various animals would pass through. In addition, the staff was very humble and the chef prepared some really delicious meals. Definitely a great experience 👌
Ron Sobers
United States 🇺🇸
Safari 2024
Can’t wait to book my next trip!
Just wrapped up an incredible drone workshop in the Azores with Johan and a fantastic group! Each day, we explored stunning locations, capturing breathtaking views and perfecting our drone skills. Johan’s coaching on getting the best shots and flying tips was invaluable. The experience was elevated by amazing food prepared by a talented chef every evening. Highly recommend this workshop for anyone looking to take their drone photography to the next level! Can’t wait to book my next trip away with him! ☺️
Matt Amin
United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Azores 2024
100% recommended !!!
The truth is that the experience exceeded all expectations! 😍 We had a great group and we had a great time sharing the moments of flying our drones. Being able to share our “photography addiction” with other colleagues is great fun! I 100% recommend the experience even for experienced pilots and photographers. Johan’s lectures on technique and photography are very useful and enjoyable.
Furthermore, in the Safari Drone Trip where I was; the hotel, the safari guides and the food couldn’t be better!
Fran Arnau
Spain 🇪🇸
Safari 2024
Best experience ever 🤩
If you are insecure and lacking confidence, please book a drone trip now! I can guarantee you Johan will give you the support and teaching that you need to be that guy/girl. I went from not being sure and not knowing what to do, to a fully organized guy with a plan. And now I am so proud of everything I’ve captured and recorded!
Best experience ever 🤩
Alekssander Gaspar
Portugal 🇵🇹
Azores 2024
Very high expectations surpassed !!
The Azores drone trip was so good on so many levels, I immediately booked to go on the Mauritius trip. The high bar had been set, but somehow Mauritius was even better … stunning scenery, mountain hikes, catamaran cruises, seeing the group droning whales from the villa and so much more !! Johan is a very patient coach and spends 1-1 time with everyone helping and guiding. I am still very much a beginner, so this is appreciated.
It was such a pleasure with the group, lifelong friends are made! Already looking forward to our next drone reunion ☺️ Thank you Johan!
Louisa Pollard
United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Mauritius 2023
Just fantastic! Go for it!
The drone trip with Johan was an enriching experience on so many levels. Not only did it surpass my expectations in terms of learning the usage of drones, but added so much more to my overall understanding of capturing with a bird’s eye view! However, the trip is not just about that, it is a holistic experience – amazing companions, engaging conversations, soulful times, visits to beautiful places, unexplored treks, amazing dinners and a lovely place to stay in! The week gave me so much and I cannot recommend this experience enough! Thank you, Johan!
Rahul Nene
India 🇮🇳
Azores 2024
Boy, was I more than pleasantly surprised!
I am an experienced photographer with decades of experience. I signed up, because of the exotic locations and perhaps learn a thing or two. Johan skillfully interacted with each of us at the knowledge level we each had. He encouraged us to look at things differently and shared his experience and experiences joyfully. We all became better photographers, more than we expected, as well as adventurers. And the group forged a long-lasting bond.
Jeff Noreman
United States 🇺🇸
Azores 2022
(Hopefully not) Once in a lifetime!
Johan‘s trips are packed with a wide variety of activities that will inspire every pilot to think outside the box when it comes to composition and how to get great shots. Flying in different environments and different (weather) conditions significantly increases your confidence in just 1 week. The limited number of participants allows for individual coachings and skill improvement as well as group workshops (e.g., photo editing).
Great people, great trip (and great food/drinks) – as a famous Austrian colleague would say: I‘ll be back!
Simon Altmann
Austria 🇦🇹
Azores 2024
Only wishing for more !! 😍
The Malta drone trip was amazing in all ways. The coaching of Johan gives you so much confidence flying and other skills, like looking differently to compositions, hand catching and landing, flying in the wind or from a boat, … Johan showed us a lot of nice spots to fly and the chef spoiled us with a lot of nice Maltese food. We had so much fun in this group, with people from all over the world, they became really friends for life!!
Even if Malta is the shortest of all Johan’s drone trips, it was perfect and I learned already A LOT. Only wishing for more !! ☺️
Wivina Trossaert
Belgium 🇧🇪
Malta 2024
Level up your drone skills
The perfect way to level up your drone photography and video skills! In a small group of drone-minded people, you get to see the most beautiful places on the island! We also spent several hours at sea to capture amazing footage of dolphins and whales. Everything was organized in the best possible way. Just chill, relax and enjoy the ‘Drone Adventures’!
Miel Capals
Belgium 🇧🇪
Azores 2022
Wonderful bucket list experience 😍
The safari drone adventure really interested me. I dislike zoos and this safari allowed me to drone animals in their habitat. And I survived the trip with all of my limbs 😁 The accommodation was well above my expectations, with 3 exceptional meals a day. I learned a safari will teach you patience, for the animals are not waiting for you; distinguishing between old and new tracks and how to approach animals in the wild. The bonus was to reunite with previously met Adventurers. This was a wonderful bucket list experience!
Irving Donaldson
United States 🇺🇸
Safari 2024
🤩 Indescribable journey 🤩
Thrilling, mind-blowing, awe-inspiring, hair-raising, life-changing, exhilarating, astonishing, impressive, phenomenal, mind-bending, surreal, once-in-a-lifetime, unforgettable, otherworldly, heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping drone experience. Thank you Johan and the rest of the group ☺️🙏 ¡Hasta la próxima!
Sergio Ramiro
Spain 🇪🇸
Azores 2023
Just do it, you won’t regret it 😎
It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced drone pilot or you just have a few flights, with or without photo or film experience, Johan will assist you on your own level. Get ready for the best locations, the best food and a great time!
Arno Raps
Belgium 🇧🇪
Azores 2023
A good time with great people!
It was a very good and well organized trip. A perfect mix of flying, education, joint analysis of photos and exchange of experiences.
A good time with great people! 😍
Piotr Wojciechowski
Poland 🇵🇱
Safari 2024
I’ve started saving for the next trip ☺️
I got a lot more than I anticipated. I was immediately met with challenges, flying in complex situations and over the ocean, shooting with a model next to a tall waterfall. However Johan was always there to reassure and guide me. Besides all the photo opportunities, Johan made sure that we were indeed on a holiday. We enjoyed the natural thermal baths and our chef served excellent Italo-Azorean food in our beautiful villa. I will remember this trip forever! 😍
Andy Scherpenberg
Belgium 🇧🇪
Azores 2022
You won’t regret it!
If you are looking to fly intensively everywhere and all day long you are in the right place! Enjoyed so much discovering Azores through Johan’s eyes and sharing these days with passionate droners.
Definitely an experience that you won’t regret!
Romain Nicoloso
Hong Kong 🇭🇰
Azores 2023
A game changer for my drone skills!
Taking Johan’s drone trip was a game changer in my droning skills! I learned and improved so much on the Malta drone trip. Johan puts in a great deal of effort to pick the finest drone spots and the best villa for our learning sessions. Highly recommend for any skill drones to improve upon your photography skills with Johan’s great coaching! 💪
Krista Weber
United States 🇺🇸
Malta 2024
Johan makes the difference!
During my Azores adventure, I discovered I had no clue on what I was doing. Sure I took plenty of drone shots, but it was the coaching from Johan that now makes my audience linger and want more. Through my improved photos they are able to travel with me! 😉
Irving Donaldson
United States 🇺🇸
Azores 2022
You will be extremely satisfied
Without hesitation or mental reservation, I suggest you add Johan’s Drone Adventures to your bucket list, or the starting of the same. After completing my third adventure, I can offer some in-depth insight. Your droning competencies will not hinder what you will gain after an adventurous 6 days. I can assure you Johan will meet you at your skill level and deliver you to new heights. Why 3 adventures so far, because Johan is committed. I am confident, you will be extremely satisfied to what Johan can deliver, in his means.
Irving Donaldson
United States 🇺🇸
Azores 2023
Level up your drone skills with Johan
If you want to level up your drone skills, make sure to book a trip with Johan. You decide what you want to learn and Johan takes you by the hand and learns you all the ins and outs. The Malta trip was challenging due to the weather, but that made me learn a lot and has grown my confidence in flying in difficult situations. The flying locations were great and I brought home some amazing photos. The group was great, happy to have made some new friends as well! ☺️
Ellemieke Laman
Netherlands 🇳🇱
Malta 2024
Already my 5th drone trip with Johan!
Although, I never know what to expect, at the same time, I do know what to expect. The usual: great efforts by Johan to bring a memorable experience and great accommodation with an above-average dining experience. On top of that, a great group of international pilots embarked on this journey with me.
The Malta drone trip provides a good mix of landscapes and architecture. This rewarding experience allowed us to hone our composition skills, spanning a range of subjects. Overall, this is a well recommended journey to have 👍
Irving Donaldson
United States 🇺🇸
Malta 2024
One of the best trips of my life
From the luxury villa with the chef to the drone locations and activities – everything was planned to perfection. I learnt so much on the first day alone. Johan’s planning, knowledge, expertise, guidance and patience is unparalleled. Returning home with amazing memories, new friends and some insane drone shots from the incredible island of São Miguel, Azores. Whale watching with the drones was the absolute highlight. A once in a lifetime experience 😍 – I’m already thinking about my next drone trip and you should too!
Tanvi Kalia
India 🇮🇳
Azores 2024
Like from another world
The trip was very well organized. We had long days with a great mix of drone flying, workshops, relaxation time, and good food. Every evening ended with an excellent dinner. Thanks to Johan, you gain a lot more confidence. You learn how to start or land the drone in your hand and what to do when you lose the signal.
Because of this workshop, I want to fly more with the drone and explore new places. It was great to meet people from different countries who share the same passion. With Johan’s coaching and workshops, you think much more about how to compose a picture and video.
Michael Erlbeck
Germany 🇩🇪
Azores 2024
Once in a lifetime experience
For me it was a once in a lifetime experience. A trip full of activities and lot of tips & tricks to make my drone shots go from ‘OK shots’ to ‘WOW shots’ 😍
Niek Vandenabeele
Belgium 🇧🇪
Azores 2021
Probably the best gift I’ve ever received 🙏
My friends wanted to give me a great gift for my birthday! I’ve been passionate about drone photography for several years. So they gave me this trip to the Azores. It was a bull’s-eye! I learned a lot and gained self-confidence in flying, composition and photo editing. The trip itself was a great adventure, filled to the brim with interesting places. It made me re-discovered the Azores again.
Great organization, good coaching and workshops, lots of new tricks for both standard and FPV drones. I wholeheartedly recommend this well-mannered Belgian. Johan knows how to use drones at the higher level.
Paweł Struczewski
Norway 🇳🇴
Azores 2024
Not my first trip with Johan and surely not the last one!
Intimate moments in a lodge with nice expendables droners looking for animals, droning, teaching, sharing and good laughs and food in the wild. Awaiting the season 2 of it to go back.
Thanks Johan
Noël Nyamsy
Cameroon 🇨🇲
Safari 2024
Unmissable experience!
I have been using the drone for years but Johan’s courses are the perfect mix to increase your knowledge. Beautiful locations to practice with Johan attentive and ready to advise you. Fantastic accommodation where you can relax and have dinner together in the evening after perhaps watching the videos you filmed. Johan helps you overcome your limits and introduces you to observing the world from another perspective.
Unmissable experience, thanks Johan. Surely I will join you in another of your adventure!
Gianna Galeota
Italy 🇮🇹
Azores 2024
I knew I wanted more 😎
I signed up again with Johan for a 2nd trip and I was not disappointed. Johan continued to assess the skills I required and coached me through them. A new group of pilots, however the sharing experience was equally immeasurable. Droning certainly is an international team builder. The trip is not a vacation though and can be very exhausting. However it’s well guided and flexible enough. I highly recommend the trip to take your piloting to the next level. Learn to trust yourself and your drone. Are you up for it? 😎
Irving Donaldson
United States 🇺🇸
Mauritius 2022
Stop what you’re doing and go with Johan!
Next to composition and the right timing, I’ve learned that it’s all about pushing your own limits and trusting your gear. The knowledge, adventures & people you get to meet are really worth the trip.
Florian De Lange
Belgium 🇧🇪
Azores 2021
Definitely worth every penny
I have been flying various drones for three years and also been on other photography workshops. In comparison Johan’s daily planned adventures & personal coaching tips in photography composition & flying a drone was a great lifetime experience well worth it. Our villa was immaculate clean & comfortable, along beautiful outdoor scenery. The private chef was also wonderful and cooked some delicious meals that were well planned out. Excellent experience ☺️
Ron Sobers
United States 🇺🇸
Azores 2023
Incredible! If in doubt, book a trip!
I had the most AMAZING time on Johan’s Azores trip. I very very rarely fly my drone due to not feeling confident. By the end of the trip I was so much more confident in my abilities. Before, I wouldn’t fly if I felt even a hint of wind and now I’m happy putting it up in wind and rain to get the right picture!
Johan was an incredible host, organizing an array of activities and different drone spots. He was very informative and a fantastic teacher. He was incredibly calm, patient and honest with all of us, giving us room to learn at our own pace and reassuring if we were stressing. Definitely will be booking again! 💪
Morven Smith
United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Azores 2024
I would certainly do it again 💪
When I booked this drone trip I was a little nervous, because my English isn’t super fluent and I was afraid I would miss a lot of what would be explained. Instead Johan and the whole group made me feel really at ease, giving me an experience that I will always carry in my heart. The weather was not always favorable, but this helped improve my confidence in extreme situations. I took some very nice photos and I’m sure I improved my awareness a lot. Would I do it again? Certainly! 💪
Mirco Peragine
Italy 🇮🇹
Malta 2024
Transformative adventures in Mauritius
Joining Johan’s drone adventure in Mauritius turned out to be an adventure of a lifetime. Each day was a whirlwind of excitement and learning, from conquering majestic mountains to chasing breathtaking waterfalls and so much more. The thrill of capturing stunning aerial footage of whales during our whale expedition was unparalleled, and filming from a catamaran cruise redefined my perception of seeing the world through the lens of a drone. If you want to elevate your drone game, then Johan’s trip is a transformative experience you will enjoy 💪
Obi Nnabuihe
United States 🇺🇸
Mauritius 2023
Great minds think alike
When I saw that Johan released the safari drone trip in South Africa – I booked immediately! I couldn’t miss this chance! ☺️
I learned a lot – it was a perfect mix between both flying drones, but also workshop lessons where we went through settings and looked at the photographs we took during the trip! It was great fun meeting people from all over the world, who share one’s interest in drones and the photo results from this trip were incredible! 😍
Jonas Andersson
Sweden 🇸🇪
Safari 2024
When can I go again?
Dronetrippin’ with Johan was amazing. He showed all the best drone spots and had many tips and tricks to share! Only one question remains … when can I go again!
Dimitrie Deman
Belgium 🇧🇪
Azores 2021
Everything you could expect and more
1st drone trip with Johan (but def. not the last) and it’s been a blast! Johan knows all the best spots and had backup locations in case of bad weather. The group I was part of was great and I have made some lifelong friends. Learned a lot from Johan and the group. The Azores offers a lot of opportunities for drone photography and with Johan’s guidance, you are bound to get great shots. The editing sessions were very informative, as well as the constructive feedback. Looking forward to the next one! ?
Venkat Velagala
United States 🇺🇸
Azores 2023
Massive progress made in just one week!
From showing us the best timing and lighting in the field, to workshopping photos and videos on-screen, Johan does it all !!! There is no limit to the people who can and should join Johan – he will personally coach you to your level of skills and comfort, and then expand on them. I found amazing like-minded people and pushed my limits enormously. The only hesitation in recommending the trip, would be that others could take up my spot, if I don’t sign up quickly enough! ☺️
Dong Long
China 🇨🇳
Mauritius 2022
A real and frenetic adventure!
Mauritius has been my second trip with Johan. The island offers you all kinds of magical experiences: paradisaical beaches, mountains to climb, whales, dolphins and all this surrounded by a group of people with the same hobby & goal: traveling, having fun and flying our drones to capture those beautiful moments and remember them forever. Are you joining for the next drone trip? 💪
Sergio Ramiro
Spain 🇪🇸
Mauritius 2023
Raise your drone level with Johan
What a trip! Everything was organized as promised beforehand. We visited the most beautiful spots at sunrise and sunset to get the best out of our drones. Do you want to raise your drone level? Go with Johan!
Erwin Cammaerts
Belgium 🇧🇪
Azores 2021
Already thinking of joining another trip! 😇
My first trip was all about learning the very basics of piloting. During my 2nd trip in Mauritius, I could get more specific feedback that helped me pinpoint and work on my issues (flying with intent, finding compositions, multiple axis movements). The group of people that joined were wonderful, positive and supportive and we had the best time joking around, dancing on a yacht, exchanging tips and tricks! Some of us are already thinking about joining another adventure together in 2025! 🥳
Nina Mercuur
Netherlands 🇳🇱
Mauritius 2023
Want to go PRO?
Johan will show you how! Johan was our amazing guide, teacher and cheerleader, training us with his wisdom and insights across an amazing, intense 6 day adventure across São Miguel. We – of course – came away with epic photos, but also better skills, great memories and new friends. Join the club!
Simon Heather
United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Azores 2022
Amazing workshop in a fabulous destination
I benefited immensely from the drone workshop. I am always *so nervous* when I fly my drone in less-than-perfect conditions and Johan coached me through that. Now, I’m a confident flyer thanks to Johan’s personalized coaching. We worked on my individual needs of composition, editing and using more of the drone’s capabilities. I’m already missing my fellow droners and the gorgeous island of São Miguel. I learned so much that I hope to join another one soon! 😍
Gina Morello
United States 🇺🇸
Azores 2023
Quick skills improvement and more confidence
An amazing lifetime experience, where I enjoyed the process of learning sooo much. By day 2, I already felt a lot more confident. I like the whole concept of the trip; land & ocean adventures, enough time to practice, workshops at the villa and connecting with other enthusiastic droners. Johan is a great coach and motivated me to go beyond my comfort zone. I can’t wait to join again for more golden memories! 😍
Aicha Felesia
Netherlands 🇳🇱
Mauritius 2022
A magical trip
The Azores adventure in May 2021 was a magical trip. I had more fun pushing my limits that week than in a year of droning over flatland.
Patrick Lemli
Belgium 🇧🇪
Azores 2021
Unforgettable adventure
Watching Bertie Gregory capture wildlife with a drone made me dream about filming wildlife with my drone. This safari trip made that dream a reality, with an unforgettable adventure capturing rare moments from graceful giraffes to gentle giants like Rhinos. I also got to capture the diverse birds that reflect the beauty and wonder of South Africa’s ecosystem.
The coaching from Johan and the peer learning from other drone enthusiasts made the experience incredible.
Obi Nnabuihe
United States 🇺🇸
Safari 2024
10/10 – Would recommend !!!
If you want to have a great time with like-minded “drone addicts”, this was a great trip with a lot of learning, lessons and laughs! Johan was a great help with the ‘on-the-fly’ tips about droning and how to apply them in real life. Johan led great workshops which allowed each of us to compare, discuss and geek out about each other’s drone shots, as well as give each other tips!
The location and the experience of this Safari Drone Trip was unmatched! With great staff, great setting, great company and great food – everything was fantastic! Can’t wait for the 2nd edition! Thank you & pura vida! 😎
Anthony Wheeler
Costa Rica 🇨🇷
Safari 2024
A trip I will never forget!
Going to Mauritius on a drone adventure trip with Johan was an amazing experience. Johan made sure we were introduced to a variety of locations and different challenges. This trip has made me open my eyes to photography in a new way. Having post processing sessions between shoots, really helped me understand the process and meta that I had been lacking. I would definitely go on another trip in the future!
Simon Gjortz
Denmark 🇩🇰
Mauritius 2022
Makes you want to wake up at 5.30am
The drone trip with Johan makes you want to wake up at 5.30am each day to not miss the perfect lighting for your shot. Amazing landscapes, a lot of useful tips and practice, great teamwork – all while creating lifetime memories. A perfect example that sometimes you can mix work with pleasure 😍
Monika Klenowska
Switzerland 🇨🇭
Azores 2022
It’s worth it!
What? Testing the wind resistance of your drones and fly in various locations in Sao Miguel! This is what Johan offers, in an intense and friendly way from golden hour to sunset, either on a beach or at the top of a mountain. You will practice various situations of droning, and have good time and memories with friends. Pro or beginner, should you want to improve your skills then go with him! 💪 See you in next trip Johan
Noël Nyamsy
Cameroon 🇨🇲
Azores 2023
Great trip for drone beginners
As a newbie to drone photography I was a bit apprehensive. However, the trip was very relaxed. Johan was always there to help and give advice. The locations on this trip are amazing: wonderful opportunities for drone photography. And the accommodation and food are highly recommended as well !!
Sofie Rysheuvel
Belgium 🇧🇪
Azores 2022
**Worth the wait!**
I had to postpone my trip by a year due to health issues, but this drone workshop was definitely worth the wait! Johan’s expert guidance while flying in all sorts of challenging scenarios really helped boost my confidence. Fast-paced but super well organized, we even managed to sprinkle in some relaxing activities like soaking in thermal baths and enjoying delicious food.
If you want to boost your drone skills in the stunning landscape of the Azores, I highly recommend this trip!
Nela Fell
Croatia 🇭🇷
Azores 2024
Interested? Join my trip now:
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Highlights of the Socotra drone trip:
The island of Socotra has many cool drone spots. To give you an idea, here are some of my highlight locations that we’ll definitely try to include in our 8 days together 👍 (click to enlarge)
FAQ drone trip:
I'm a beginner, can I join this trip?
Yes, definitely. On every trip I get participants with different experience and skills, and I coach everyone on their own level. You need to be able to fly basic manoeuvres, the rest we'll learn on the trip, through my personal coaching, by learning from each other and through the composition workshops in our villa.
Regardless of your starting point, all participants go home with a much-boosted self confidence while flying the drone and can now fly under any circumstances.
Do I need my own drone?
Yes, you are supposed to bring your own drone and fly your own drone. If you have a spare drone, it's always good to bring it as well. I will also bring a back-up drone in case something happens.
That being said, I guide the participants during all flights and it's very rare that a drone crashes or is lost. Really.
What drones are supported?
I know pretty much all cinematic DJI drones by heart. Most often I see DJI Mavic 2/3 series, DJI Mini 3/4 series, DJI Air 2/3 series. More and more FPV drones as well, such as the DJI Avata 1/2 or the original DJI FPV.
Occasionally, participants also bring an Autel drone, which is completely fine. However I'm less familiar with their app and settings. In the end, it all comes down to the same thing though. So don't worry.
Who is this Johan?
Hi there 👋 I’m a professional drone photographer and educator from Belgium. I’m always traveling around the world to create beautiful and creative drone shots. I love taking photos of spectacular landscapes and looking for cool topdown patterns. My Tatacoa Desert photo won the 'Abstract' category in the prestigious Aerial Photography Awards 2020.
I have worked with brands such as DJI and PolarPro. You can see my videos for the launch of the DJI Mini 3 in 2023 and more recently also for the launch of the DJI Air 3. Commercially I also work a lot with tourism boards and the best luxury hotels all over the world. Atlantis the Royal in Dubai was my latest big hotel project, where I was contracted as the director of aerial photography, spanning both drone photography - with the Inspire 2 - and helicopter shoots.
When I’m not traveling, I like to educate other drone photographers through my drone trips. It's already been 4 years since I launched my first drone trip to the Azores! And ever since, I've been building on this experience to create more unique drone trips for you.
Apart from drone trips, I also do 1-on-1 coachings and run the Drone Adventurers Community.
Where are the other participants from?
My trips have really become very international. I attract participants from the USA, over Europe to Asia. I would say the majority is from Western and Central Europe though. Browse through my testimonials to discover the different countries!
Last time I checked I counted 24 different countries 😲
Will I be the only female in the group?
Actually surprisingly, the majority of my participants are female. About 60% vs 40% male. So you will def. not be the only one. I love having a good gender balance, it makes for the most fun groups.
Can I bring my partner?
No, I only accept drone photographers. No +1's. This is to ensure that the focus remains on the droning and learning aspect of the trip. And we can all nerd out about drones without any interruption or social judgement 😇
You are of course free to add some days before or after the trip with your partner, to explore the destination even more. I would even recommend that.
What if I need to cancel my trip?
In the unfortunate event that you need to cancel your trip, reach out to me immediately!
Before 3 months to departure: You have already paid your down-payment, which is not refundable.
Within 3 months of departure: The 2nd and final payment has been made and is not refundable.
If I still find a replacement for your spot, I will refund you 60% of the final payment and you can keep 60% of the down payment as a credit for a future trip.
FAQ Socotra:
What make Socotra so special?
Socotra's unique biodiversity and its unspoiled landscapes make it a truly extraordinary destination, especially with the drone. Because of the remoteness and limited accessibility only 4.000 tourists visit the island per year. That means, we'll be exploring the island all by ourselves!
Just let that sink in that for a second 🤯
Socotra has been listed as a UNESCO World Hertitage site since 2008, because of its incredible biodiversity. Read more on the UNESCO website.
Is Socotra safe to visit?
Yes, it is safe to travel to Socotra. The island has always remained untouched by the conflict in Northern Yemen and has never been part of the civil war. Socotra offers a peaceful and natural environment, allowing us to explore its stunning landscapes and unique biodiversity without any concerns.
What kind of food can I expect?
Our private chef will use fresh ingredients to cook a tasty meal 3 times a day. Remember, we are on a remote island, so not everything is available. However, we can get fresh locally-caught fish and free-range chicken every day. This will be complimented with rice or pasta and some vegetables. Add some seasoning and freshly laid eggs in the morning and voila, happy stomachs.
Are there any showers and toilets?
Most nights we'll sleep in a campsite with basic showers and toilets. Toilet paper will be provided. You need to bring your own toiletries, shampoo and towel though. On the other locations, we'll take a portable shower and portable toilet. For your comfort ☺️
Can I charge my batteries?
All the 4x4 cars are equipped with a 12V sine wave inverter and a multi-plug, so you can charge your devices in the car - while driving. The multi-plug typically has 2x USB-A and 4x US type B plugs. So take a universal converter, to make sure you can connect. And then you should be good to charge your phone, camera batteries, drone batteries etc...
Additionally, a power bank is never a bad idea!
Is there mobile internet on Socotra?
You can buy an Etisalat tourist SIM in the Abu Dhabi airport. It only works in a few areas of the island. And even then, mobile internet is very very slow. This is part of what makes traveling to Socotra so unique and helps you be in the moment.
If you absolutely do need internet, we can provide a StarLink for the trip, which will allow 4G speeds all across the island.
Do I need a visa for Socotra?
Yes. Everyone needs a visa when traveling to Socotra. The tourist visa comes at a fixed price of $150, to be paid to the local government. I will request the visa for you.
Here are some drone photos from my previous Socotra trip in November 2023: