Drone vacations in 2026: the ultimate guide to epic group adventures for aerial photographers and drone enthusiasts

Looking to combine your passion for drone photography with unforgettable travel experiences? 2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year for drone-focused group vacations that take you to some of the world’s most breathtaking locations — with expert instruction, small groups, and all the logistics handled for you.

Gone are the days of frantically researching drone regulations in foreign countries or wondering where you can legally fly. These curated drone photography vacations handle everything: accommodations, meals, transportation, local permits, and most importantly, access to spectacular locations that will take your aerial portfolio to the next level.

Whether you’re dreaming of photographing African wildlife from above, capturing volcanic landscapes in the Azores, or exploring Ireland’s dramatic coastlines, here’s your complete guide to the best drone photography trips of 2026.

What makes a great drone vacation?

Some of you know this, but I actually work full-time as a Travel Writer for NerdWallet! I am something of a travel expert! Yes, I even have a travel podcast.

Given my years of travel experience, I’d say the best drone travel experiences share several key elements:

• Small group sizes: A trip with 3-8 participants gives you the benefit of not being solo — and likely finding at least 1-2 people you seriously connect with, while also ensuring personalized instruction
• Expert guides: You want the trip to be led by who are accomplished drone photographers or other field experts themselves.
• All-inclusive pricing: Sometimes paying a la carte is okay (it’s pretty common to have to book your own airfare, and sometimes having 1-2 meals only on your own to get a break from the group is nice), but the benefit of a group trip is you pay one price and they cover must other expenses like accommodations, most meals, and transportation once you’re there.
• Legal flying permissions: This should be already secured for all locations. Especially for international trips, it can be tricky to know what approvals you need. Let the group leader handle it!
• Hands-on workshops: You didn’t travel away from home to just sit down in front of a screen. The best trips offer hands-on support for composition and editing (for the situations you are in front of a computer), or they offer in-person skills training like flight techniques.
• Luxury or unique accommodations: It’s always more fun when the lodging is either memorable or something you couldn’t experience solo, like safari camps, private villas and scenic hotels.
• Exclusive access: The best group trips take you to locations that would be difficult to navigate independently. If you could do it by yourself, then you probably should just do that! If the guide gives you better access, then that’s where the guide matters.

With all that in mind, there are really two different tour groups I recommend that run drone-specific group tours. The first, Johan Drone Adventures, is focused on multi-day photo tours to exotic locals. The other tour group I love, Women and Drones / Vertical Space Treks, is compelling because all of their tours are all highly varied. Some are one day, and some are one week. Some of focus on photography, but others cover other aspects of the drone industry, like drone delivery.

Let’s dive into the standout drone vacations available in 2026 across both companies.

Johan Drone Adventures: Years of experience in photography and trip-building

About the Host: Belgium-based aerial photographer Johan Vandenhecke has been leading drone photography expeditions since 2020, building a reputation as the premier provider of drone-focused group travel. Johan also powers the Drone Adventurers Community, which is an online, interactive group that meets for bi-monthly live calls, weekly photo contests and more.

His trips consistently sell out months in advance, and past participants rave about the combination of stunning locations, professional instruction and genuine camaraderie. He offers multiple tours to many locations (that Mauritius trip looks so incredible!), so browse his website, but here are some highlights:

And if you do book one of his trips, select “referral through other website” and specify it was my site to let him know I sent ya!

Azores Drone Photography Trip – 6th Edition

When: May 9-15 OR May 16-22, 2026
Where: São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal
Duration: 7 days, 6 nights
Group Size: 6 participants maximum
Price: €3,100-€3,600 (all-inclusive except flights)

Why this trip is so special: After five wildly successful editions, Johan’s Azores adventure has become the stuff of legend among drone photographers. São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and lush greenery create a photographer’s paradise.

What’s Included:

• Private luxury villa with pool and panoramic ocean views
• Private chef preparing authentic Azorean cuisine nightly
• Daily sunrise and sunset drone shoots at premium locations
• Whale watching tour (past trips have spotted blue whales, sperm whales, fin whales, and sei whales)
• Mountain biking adventures and exclusive hiking trails
• Natural volcanic hot pool relaxation
• Live drone photography workshops in the field
• Composition and Lightroom editing workshops at the villa
• Instruction on shooting with local models
• All meals, drinks, and snacks

Perfect For: Drone photographers ready to invest in a week of intensive learning in one of Europe’s most photogenic locations. Moderate fitness required for hiking.

Book at: Johan Drone Adventures – Azores

Safari Drone Photography Trip – South Africa (3rd Edition)

When: April 4-8 OR April 10-14, 2026
Where: Private Safari Camp, South Africa
Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
Group Size: 6 participants maximum
Price: €3,600-€3,900 (all-inclusive except flights)

Why this trip is so special: This is one of the only legal opportunities worldwide to photograph African wildlife with a drone. Flying drones is strictly prohibited in all South African national parks because poachers use them to track endangered rhinos. Johan’s private safari camp partnership provides ethical, legal access to wildlife droning.

What’s Included:

• Private luxury safari camp with pool, boma (firepit overlooking waterhole), gym, and bar
• Private chef preparing South African cuisine
• Two daily safari game drives (morning and late afternoon)
• Waterhole viewable from breakfast area, attracting animals throughout the day
• Drone coaching during wildlife encounters
• Composition workshops at camp
• All meals and drinks
• Transport from Johannesburg Airport (JNB)
• Option for luxury rooms with outdoor showers

Wildlife You May Encounter: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, impalas, buffaloes, and vultures. All droning occurs only when animals display calm, undisturbed behavior.

Important Note: Bring your regular camera with zoom lens — wildlife encounters happen all day, not just during drone sessions.

Perfect For: Advanced drone pilots seeking once-in-a-lifetime wildlife photography that’s impossible to replicate elsewhere.

Book at: Johan Drone Adventures – Safari

Women and Drones / Vertical Space Treks

Vertical Space Treks are guided tours, each led by a different professional subject matter expert. The Vertical Space Treks are affiliated with Women and Drones, though the tours are not limited to just women!

So many of their tours look great (see the full list on their website), but here are some upcoming highlights:

Ireland Drone Trek with Ian Kiely

When: March 26-30, 2026
Where: Dublin, Ireland
Duration: 4 nights
Group Size: 3-6 participants
Host: Ian Kiely (thousands of flight hours, emergency services trainer, European Space program contributor)

Why this trip is so special: Ian brings a unique perspective combining commercial drone operations, public safety applications, and deep knowledge of Irish history. This isn’t just a photography trip — it’s a comprehensive education on drone technology’s past, present and future.

What’s Included:

• 4 nights at 4-star seafront hotel overlooking Dublin Bay
• Daily breakfast
• Transportation to all flight locations
• Expert instruction on drone operations, BVLOS concepts, and industry trends
• Historical site tours (with flying opportunities)
• Discussion sessions on delivery drones, passenger drones, UTM systems, defense technology
• Irish history education spanning 800 years

Learning Topics: Commercial drone applications, emergency services use cases, global drone regulations, future of autonomous flight, and business development for drone operators.

Perfect For: Intermediate to advanced pilots interested in the commercial and professional side of drone operations, not just photography. Solo travelers welcome — limited single rooms available.

Book at: Women and Drones – Ireland Trek

Book this trip between now and Friday, Jan. 30 2026 to get 10% off! Use code THEDRONEGIRL100 at checkout!

Desert Escape: Off-Road & In the Air – Arizona

When: February 26 – March 1, 2026
Where: Bouse, Arizona
Duration: 4 days, 3 nights
Group Size: 1-3 participants
Hosts: Ken and Desi Ekstein (Drone Diva Desi + mining/desert expert)

Why this trip is so special: This off-grid experience combines ATV/UTV desert exploration with drone photography, creating an adventure that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts as much as drone pilots. It’s rugged, authentic and unlike anything else on this list.

What’s Included:

• Transportation from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
• Off-road vehicle usage for all excursions
• Guided tour to Swansea Ghost Town (abandoned mining site)
• Exploration of lost mining camps and rock art
• Campfire meals (western-style cooking)
• Star-filled night skies with no light pollution
• Drone instruction for all skill levels
• Mining history education
• Accommodations at AlmostA Ranch private property

What to expect: Moderate physical activity including rough off-road terrain, short hikes on sandy/rocky pathways, and desert exploration. Evenings feature campfire gatherings, storytelling, and genuine community with fellow adventurers.

Perfect for: Adventurous pilots who want to combine outdoor thrills with drone photography. Great for those who prefer smaller, more intimate groups and authentic desert experiences over luxury accommodations.

Book at: Vertical Space Treks – Desert Escape

Book this trip between now and Friday, Jan. 30 2026 to get 10% off! Use code THEDRONEGIRL100 at checkout!

Galleta Meadows Sculptures Excursion – California

When: April 11, 2026 (One day only)
Where: Borrego Springs, California
Duration: Single day trip
Group Size: 2-4 participants
Host: Drone Diva Desi

Why this trip is so special: This single-day excursion offers an affordable introduction to organized drone photography trips without travel stress.

What’s Included:

• Morning meet-and-greet and safety briefing
• Guided sculpture drive tour
• Photo shoots at multiple iconic sculptures (Scorpion, three-section Serpent, and more)
• Drone flying instruction and composition coaching
• Afternoon leisure time in charming Borrego Springs

The Location: Galleta Meadows features massive metal sculptures scattered across the desert landscape—dinosaurs, serpents, scorpions, and more. These dramatic art installations photograph beautifully from above against the rugged desert backdrop.

Perfect For: Beginners to intermediate pilots wanting hands-on instruction, Southern California locals, or anyone wanting to test the waters before committing to longer drone photography trips.

Book at: Vertical Space Treks – Galleta Meadows

What to pack for your drone photography vacation

Bookmark this page to have handy once you’ve booked!

Essential gear

• Your drone (and backup if possible)
• Multiple batteries (6-8 recommended for full-day shoots)
• 64GB+ SD cards (bring more than you think you need)
• ND filters for various lighting conditions
• Battery charging hub and adapters for international travel
• Drone case with proper padding for flight travel
• Regular camera with zoom lens (especially for Safari)

Clothing and accessories

• Layers (even warm destinations have cold mornings)
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen
• Sturdy walking shoes for uneven terrain
• Weatherproof jacket (especially for Azores, Ireland)
• Headlamp or flashlight (for early morning/late evening shoots)

Tech extras

• Laptop for editing workshops and backup
• External hard drive for photo backup
• Portable chargers for phones and tablets
• International power adapters (for trips outside North America)

Booking tips and considerations

Book early

Johan’s trips regularly sell out 3-6 months in advance. Single rooms disappear first. If you’re interested in a specific trip, don’t wait.

Understand what’s included on your drone vacation

Most trips include accommodations, meals, transportation from nearby airports, and activities. They typically do NOT include:

• International flights to/from the destination
• Travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Alcoholic beverages (sometimes)
• Personal expenses and souvenirs
• Tips for guides and drivers

Check drone regulations

Even though these trips handle permits and permissions (or tell you what you need to do if you’ll be handling it, familiarize yourself with local drone laws. Bring your Remote ID-compliant drone for U.S. trips.

Consider travel insurance

Given the investment, travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and gear damage is wise. Some credit cards offer coverage as a benefit if you pay for the trip with that card.

Fitness requirements

Read descriptions carefully. Some trips (Azores, Ireland) involve moderate hiking. The safari requires early wake-ups. Desert Escape includes rough terrain and ATV riding. Be honest about your physical capabilities.

The evolution of drone vacations

Drone photography vacations have evolved significantly since the early days. The New York Times once offered drone trips to Norway through Times Journeys (discontinued in 2021), and Airbnb Experiences briefly featured drone instruction sessions with locals. Companies like Quark Expeditions have welcomed drones on Arctic expeditions.

But dedicated, photography-focused drone travel has matured into something more sophisticated. Today’s best drone vacations combine:

• Professional photography instruction from established aerial photographers
• Logistical expertise (permits, insurance, location scouting)
• Community building among like-minded enthusiasts
• Business education for aspiring drone professionals
• Sustainable, ethical practices (especially for wildlife photography)

The result? Travel experiences that would be nearly impossible to replicate independently, with the added benefit of learning from experts and connecting with fellow drone enthusiasts who “get it”—people who understand the impulse to pull over for a perfect shot and don’t mind waking at 5 a.m. for golden hour light.

And then there’s the thing that really sets these trips apart from DIY travel (apart from just the instruction or logistics): it’s the community. Often articipants form lasting friendships with people who share their passion for aerial photography. Facebook groups and WhatsApp chats continue long after trips end, with alumni sharing techniques, celebrating each other’s work, and often booking future adventures together.

As Johan Vandenhecke notes in his trip descriptions, these experiences create the kind of memories “you’ll be telling your grandchildren about.” For many participants, that’s not hyperbole. The combination of breathtaking locations, creative challenge, and genuine human connection creates transformative travel experiences.

Frequently asked questions about drone vacations

Do I need to be an expert drone pilot?
No. Most trips welcome all skill levels, though some (like the Safari) benefit from prior experience. Beginners receive hands-on instruction, while advanced pilots get coaching on advanced composition and business skills.

What if I don’t own a drone?
Some hosts (like Desert Escape) can provide drones. Contact trip organizers directly to discuss options.

I want to buy a drone for my trip (either because I want one better suited for travel, or because I don’t have one)! What do you recommend?

Yes, the best drone for travel isn’t necessarily the best best drone that you would use at home. Qualities to look for in a great travel drone include portability, long battery life and capacity for built-in storage. Check out my guide to the best travel drones.

Are these trips just for solo travelers?
Not at all. Couples, friends, and family members are welcome. Some trips offer shared rooms at reduced rates.

What about drone regulations and permits?
Generally speaking, these trips handle permits and permissions. If there’s something you need individually, they’ll tell you. That’s one of the biggest values—you don’t need to navigate foreign drone laws independently.

What about Part 107 certification?

In the U.S., you need Part 107 certification to fly commercially. Only the Remote Pilot in Command (not necessarily the actual drone pilot) needs to be certified with a drone pilot license, meaning you can fly even a commercial mission if someone with you is willing to assume that Remote Pilot in Command role during your flight. Your trip leader likely will, which means you do not need a drone pilot’s license for U.S. trips. (Check local laws in the country for international trips, or again check in with your trip leader.)

Related read: The best Part 107 online test prep courses to pass your FAA drone test

Which drone photography destination is calling your name? Share your dream aerial photography location in the comments below!

Looking for more drone events in 2026? Check out my complete guide to drone conferences, expos, and races happening throughout the year.

The post Drone vacations in 2026: the ultimate guide to epic group adventures for aerial photographers and drone enthusiasts appeared first on The Drone Girl.