WORKSHOP

Cuatrociénegas

Workshop Description:

This workshop offers a payment plan option. See details below.

The cost of the workshop is set in Mexican pesos (MXN). If payment is made in U.S. dollars (USD), the amount to be paid will be calculated based on the exchange rate in effect on the day of the transaction.

In this workshop, you will witness one of Mexico’s most unique natural habitats: the Cuatrociénegas Valley, located in Coahuila. This area features a series of oasis-like lagoons in the middle of the desert, fed by underground springs.

Millions of years ago, this valley was part of the Tethys Sea. As tectonic plates shifted and continents formed, the waters gradually receded, isolating the aquifer from the ancient sea. This created conditions for species found nowhere else in the world, adapted to extreme environmental conditions.

These pools are home to a vast diversity of microorganisms and bacteria similar to those that existed millions of years ago during the planet’s earliest era. For this reason, Cuatrociénegas is associated with the origin of life and is studied as a model ecosystem by NASA and scientists from UNAM.

This photographic experience takes place in an area considered “Mexico’s Galápagos” due to its biodiversity and high level of endemic species. Participants will have special and nocturnal access to the Protected Natural Areas of the Dunas de Yeso, Río San Marcos, Río Mezquite, Marble Mines, and Las Playitas, guided by local experts.

What You Will Learn

  • Camera techniques
  • Panoramic photography
  • Star focusing
  • Composition and framing
  • Bracketing
  • Long exposure (day and night)
  • Use of Neutral Density (ND) and graduated filters
  • Incorporating the human element into your compositions


Who Can Participate
This workshop is designed for photographers of all levels. Top Photography will provide constant support to help beginners master their cameras, teaching you how to use settings, create compelling compositions, and apply professional photography techniques.

If you are an advanced photographer, we will help you explore various technical approaches while immersing yourself in a fully photographic environment. The workshop will be led by the TOP PHOTOGRAPHY team, offering personalized guidance to each participant according to their skill level and experience.

ITINERARY:

  • Transfer from Monterrey to Cuatrociénegas
  • Hotel check-in
  • Lunch (not included)
    Visit Las Minas de Mármol for sunset and Milky Way photography
  • Return to hotel
  • Hotel breakfast (not included)
  • Visit La Poza Azul and Río San Marcos
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Visit Dunas of Yeso for sunset and Milky Way photography
  • Return to hotel
  • Visit Las Playitas for sunrise photography
  • Hotel breakfast (not included)
  • Transfer from Cuatrociénegas back to Monterrey
What’s Included:

  • Personalized photography instruction throughout the workshop
  • Private van transportation for the entire duration of the workshop
  • Driver
  • Shared double-room accommodation
  • Access to all locations
  • Photography coaching and guidance
What’s Not Included:

  • Flights to Monterrey
  • Medical and Travel Insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners

ABOUT THE TRIP:

It is highly recommended that all participants carry travel medical insurance for the duration of the trip.

  • Camera
  • Tripod
  • Batteries
  • Memory cards
  • Lenses: 14-35 mm, 24-70 mm, 70-200 mm
  • Headlamp
  • Remote shutter release
  • Filters: Neutral Density (ND), graduated, and polarizing
  • Lightweight, breathable, quick-dry clothing
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Long pants and long-sleeve shirts are recommended at night
  • Jacket
  • Backpack or camera bag for photography equipment
  • One suitcase up to 67 cm x 47 cm (standard medium size/for one week)

PRICE / PAYMENT PLAN

  • Cost: $22,000.00 MXN
  • Single room supplement: $4,500.00 MXN

Payment Date

Installment (MXN)

Deposit

$3,700.00

March 6, 2026

$3,700.00

April 6, 2026

$3,650.00

May 6, 2026

$3,650.00

June 6, 2026

$3,650.00

July 6, 2026

$3,650.00

The final payment must be made 30 days before the start of the workshop.
If two consecutive payments are missed, we reserve the right to release and resell your spot without obligation to refund any money.

CHANGE AND CANCELLATION POLICIES

Top Photography always prioritizes the well-being and safety of participants during a workshop. Therefore, we reserve the right to make general changes due to weather, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control, such as locations, schedules, dates, and hotels.

Refunds will only be issued if the participant is up to date with all payments.

  • Cancellations requested by March 5, 2026: 90% of the total amount paid to date will be refunded.
  • Cancellations requested by April 5, 2026: 80% of the total amount paid to date will be refunded.
  • Cancellations requested by May 5, 2026: 70% of the total amount paid to date will be refunded.
  • Cancellations requested by June 5, 2026: 40% of the total amount paid to date will be refunded.
  • Cancellations requested by July 5, 2026: 20% of the total amount paid to date will be refunded.
  • Cancellations made within 30 days prior to the start of the workshop (from July 6, 2026, onward): No refund.