Capture Atlantic Puffins and Whales on a 3-Day Photography Tour in Bonavista, Newfoundland

Private · St. John's

Private Atlantic Puffin Photo Tour Overnight Trip (Bonavista) – 3 Days

Spend three unforgettable days in Bonavista, Newfoundland capturing Atlantic Puffins up close and photographing majestic whales from a zodiac boat. This exclusive guided photo tour offers tailored wildlife encounters and stunning coastal vistas for aspiring and experienced nature photographers alike.

View experience
Duration3 days (overnight stay included)
LocationSt. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
OperatorNewfoundland Photo Tours
Price shownCheck dates

Adventure brief

Private Atlantic Puffin Photo Tour Overnight Trip (Bonavista) – 3 Days

Spend three unforgettable days in Bonavista, Newfoundland capturing Atlantic Puffins up close and photographing majestic whales from a zodiac boat. This exclusive guided photo tour offers tailored wildlife encounters and stunning coastal vistas for aspiring and experienced nature photographers alike.

Set along the rugged coastline of Bonavista, Newfoundland and Labrador, this exclusive three-day Private Atlantic Puffin Photo Tour offers an immersive wildlife photography experience unlike any other. Known for its dramatic cliffs, vibrant bird colonies, and sweeping ocean views, Bonavista is a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers aiming to get up close with one of the North Atlantic’s most charismatic and colorful birds: the Atlantic Puffin. This carefully crafted tour centers on giving participants unparalleled opportunities to observe and photograph puffins in their natural habitat.

These charming seabirds, famed for their striking orange beaks and comical waddles, often come as close as four to five feet to the shore in this area, allowing photographers to capture stunning, full-frame portraits without excessive zoom or cropping. With two prime puffin viewing sites on the itinerary, your early mornings and golden hours will be filled with scenes of puffins flying between cliffs, nesting burrows, and interacting against the backdrop of Newfoundland’s iconic coastal landscape. What truly sets this tour apart is the addition of a zodiac boat excursion.

From the vantage point of a sturdy inflatable, you’ll photograph puffins from the water’s surface, framing them against glistening waves, sheer cliffs, and open sky. The zodiac also offers a chance to witness and photograph majestic whales breaching and gliding through the surrounding Atlantic waters, adding both scale and drama to your wildlife portfolio. Guided by a dedicated photography expert, the tour goes beyond just sightseeing: you’ll receive hands-on assistance with camera settings, tips on puffin behavior, and the best techniques to master wildlife portraiture.

The intimate group size—up to four people per booking with options for larger groups—ensures personalized attention and a tailored experience. The overnight stay in Bonavista allows relaxed exploration of this fishing village’s charm and provides time to soak in local culture and landscapes, ranging from quaint harbors to windswept headlands. Optional side excursions can be arranged on request, including visits to other wildlife hotspots where foxes and shorebirds abound, or hidden coves perfect for wide landscape shots.

Bonavista’s combination of accessible wildlife, dramatic geography, and expert guidance makes this three-day photo tour a standout offering for photographers and nature lovers visiting Newfoundland. Whether you’re aiming for that perfect puffin shot or looking to add whales and wild coastal scenery to your portfolio, this experience delivers both in spectacular style.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Arrive with a Fully Charged Camera

    Bring extra batteries and memory cards; cold weather can reduce battery life, and you'll want plenty of space for high-res puffin shots.

    essential
  2. 02
    Wear Non-Slip Footwear

    Rocky shorelines and boat decks can be slippery; sturdy shoes will keep you safe and comfortable during land and zodiac excursions.

    essential
  3. 03
    Bring a Telephoto and Wide-Angle Lens

    A telephoto lens captures detailed puffin portraits, while a wide-angle lens frames the sweeping coastal scenery perfectly.

    info
  4. 04
    Dress in Layers for Coastal Weather

    Prepare for changing temperatures and wind with moisture-wicking base layers and a waterproof shell.

    essential
DifficultyModerate
Duration3 days (overnight stay included)
FitnessModerate fitness needed to walk uneven terrain and board zodiac boats safely; basic agility and balance recommended.
Technical skillsBasic photography skills recommended but not required

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

DSLR or Mirrorless Camera

Essential for capturing high-quality images of puffins and whales with flexible lens options.

Essential
02

Telephoto Lens (200-400mm)

Allows close-up wildlife portraits without disturbing the animals.

Essential
03

Waterproof Jacket

springEssential
04

Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Provides grip and protection on rocky and wet terrain.

Essential

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Explore nearby Elliston, known as the 'Root Cellar Capital of the World', Visit Dungeon Provincial Park’s sea caves for dramatic coastal formations

Wildlife

Local fauna

Atlantic Puffin, Humpback Whale

History

Historic heritage

Bonavista is historically significant as the site where John Cabot first landed in North America in 1497, marking a key moment in exploration history.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

This tour promotes responsible wildlife viewing practices to minimize disturbance to puffins and marine mammals, supporting local conservation efforts in Newfoundland.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Cliffside puffin colonies overlooking the Atlantic, Zodiac boat on open water for dynamic wildlife shots, Bonavista Harbor for colorful village scenes
Subjects
Atlantic Puffins in flight and nesting, Whales breaching from the zodiac, Rugged Newfoundland coastline
Best times
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon), Overcast days for soft lighting, Sunrise for calm seas and quiet wildlife activity

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

How close can I get to the puffins?

Puffins in the Bonavista area often approach within 4 to 5 feet of the shore, enabling detailed photographs without disturbing them.

Is this tour suitable for beginners in photography?

Yes, a photography guide assists with camera settings and techniques to help both beginners and pros capture great images.

What wildlife can I expect to see besides puffins?

You may see whales from the zodiac boat, as well as foxes and a variety of seabirds along the coast.

Are meals and accommodation included?

An overnight stay in Bonavista is included; meals are typically arranged independently or can be requested through the operator.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Tours are weather-dependent; in case of severe conditions, operators usually reschedule zodiac trips to ensure safety while maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities.

Can the tour be customized for larger groups?

Yes, group tours of up to 9 people can be accommodated upon request for a more personalized experience.

Newfoundland Photo Tours

Capture Atlantic Puffins and Whales on a 3-Day Photography Tour in Bonavista, Newfoundland