wild wonders of north carolina’s coast
This photo tour to North Carolina offers a rare chance to capture black bears, bobcats, river otters, and a rich variety of birdlife, making it a paradise for wildlife photographers. This vast and remote wetland ecosystem is also home to the elusive red wolf, one of the world’s most endangered canids, in its natural habitat. Early morning mist and golden light create stunning backdrops for dramatic portraits, while the refuge’s diverse landscapes—ranging from dense forests to open marshlands—offer endless composition opportunities. For those seeking to photograph rare and charismatic wildlife in a beautifully wild setting. this is an unforgettable destination.
North carolina Wildlife
Dates: May 20-24, 2026
Location: manteo, north carolina
Price: $3499 usd*
Fitness Level: LEVEL TWO - GENTLE ADVENTURE - there is one morning kayak tour
Group Size: 6 participants + group leader; Minimum 4 to go
*Price per person, based on double occupancy accommodations. Single supplement available for an additional fee, please inquire.
Tour Highlights:
Wildlife Encounters – Venture into bear-rich habitats where some of the largest black bears in North America roam. If we are lucky, we will get a look at the elusive bobcat or critically endangered red wolf. We will explore lush forests and wetlands where barred owls, great blue herons, prothonotary warblers, alligators, and other wildlife thrive.
Endangered Red Wolf Presentation – Learn about the world’s rarest wild canid during a special presentation on conservation efforts to protect the red wolf. Then, head into designated wildlife areas for a chance to photograph these elusive creatures.
Kayak Tour - Enjoy a morning kayak tour through the refuge. We will paddle through serene waters, surrounded by lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, including the chance to spot alligators, river otters, and a variety of bird species, including Prothonotary Warblers, Wood Ducks, Northern Cardinals, Killdeer, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Hairy Woodpeckers, and Pileated Woodpeckers.
Join us on an unforgettable wildlife photography tour through the remote coastal regions of North Carolina. This exclusive expedition is designed for photographers of all levels, offering unique opportunities to capture stunning images of coastal black bears, the critically endangered red wolf, barred owls, and a variety of other native wildlife in their natural habitats.
This is a great tour for beginner photographers!
*We are permitted to operate this tour through a Commercial Use Authorization
What’s Included:
Hotel Accommodations
Transportation during the tour
Red Wolf Recovery Presentation
Kayak Tour
Photography Guiding & Instruction
Tips/gratuities for local guides
What’s Not Included:
Transportation to Lodging (Hotel Manteo)
Meals
Trip Insurance
Photography equipment
This tour begins and ends at Hotel Manteo, North Carolina. You are responsible for transportation to the hotel for the first evening. Please make travel arrangements based on the itinerary below, or Contact Us for travel assistance.
All Images Property of Traci Sepkovic
Daily itinerary
Day 1 (Wednesday, May 20):
Afternoon: Arrive at Hotel Manteo and check into your accommodations.
Evening: Meet your Tour Leader and fellow participants over dinner and review the workshop schedule and safety guidelines.
Day 2 (Thursday, May 21):
Morning: We will spend the morning searching the refuge for black bears, red wolves, bobcats, barred owls, and other wildlife. We will return to the hotel for a late breakfast or early lunch.
Early Afternoon: Photo review/critique session; free time.
Evening: We will return to the refuge to search for and photograph black bears, red wolves, bobcats, barred owls, and other wildlife.
Day 3 (Friday, May 22):
Morning: We will spend the morning searching the refuge for black bears, red wolves, bobcats, barred owls, and other wildlife. We will return to the hotel for a late breakfast or early lunch.
We will enjoy a presentation by Katerina Ramos, Red Wolf Education and Outreach Coordinator for the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, on Red Wolves and their conservation status.
Evening: We will return to the refuge to search for and photograph black bears, red wolves, bobcats, barred owls, and other wildlife.
Day 4 (Saturday, May 23):
Morning: We will have a morning kayak tour through the refuge. We will search for and photograph wildlife on the way out of the refuge then return to the hotel for a late breakfast/early lunch.
Afternoon: Photo review/critique session; free time.
Evening: We will return to the refuge to search for and photograph black bears, red wolves, bobcats, barred owls, and other wildlife.
Day 5 (Sunday, May 24):
Morning: Go on a final drive through the refuge to search for and photograph wildlife. Return to the hotel for late breakfast followed by checkout. Guests are responsible for transportation from the hotel.
NOTE: On any day we have the flexibility to spend time in the Nags Head area to photograph beachscapes, Jeanette’s Pier, and the Bodie Island Lighthouse.
location & accommodations
Tour Leader: traci sepkovic
I have always been captivated by the beauty and serenity of the natural world. My passion for the outdoors and deep respect for wildlife drive me to create images that not only capture the essence of nature but also inspire others to appreciate and protect it. Each photograph tells a story, offering a glimpse into the lives of the incredible creatures that share our planet.
Beyond photography, I find great joy in mentoring and sharing my knowledge with others. I love working with beginners, helping them build a solid foundation in photography, and guiding them to uncover their unique creative voice. For those looking to refine their skills, I’m committed to helping elevate their craft to new heights, whether it’s mastering technical aspects or developing a sharper artistic vision.
My mission is to inspire others—not only to improve their photography but also to see the world through a lens of curiosity, respect, and wonder. Together, we can explore the extraordinary beauty of nature and create images that make a lasting impact.