Experience:
Iberian Spring: Wetlands, Large Birds of Prey, and Steppes
Best season
April 1st to May 10th
Duration
6 days
Highlights
- Great bustards in courtship in one of the best locations in Europe
- Spanish imperial eagle Iberian from a hide with real opportunities to spot a fox
- Lesser kestrels in an active colony and rollers in nest boxes
- Large rock-dwelling birds of prey: golden eagle and Bonelli’s eagle in Mediterranean cliffs
- Three ecosystems in six days: wetland, cereal steppe, and canyon
- Small group, careful logistics, and expert guidance
Target species
- Wetland and steppe raptors: Marsh harrier, black kite, Spanish imperial eagle
- Colonial birds: Lesser kestrel, European roller
- Mammals: Red fox (occasional)
- Steppe birds: Great bustard
- Large cliff-dwelling raptors: Bonelli’s eagle, golden eagle
Day 1 – Raptors and wetlands in El Taray
We begin the experience at the “Vegamazón” hide, where the undisputed star is the Spanish imperial eagle. The morning session also offers unique opportunities to photograph the red fox, which frequently visits the scene.
In the afternoon, we will work in a reedbed and lagoon area where it is common to observe up to six marsh harriers at once. You can also take advantage of an area with reflections that is especially attractive for creative photography with soft light.
Day 2 – Lesser Kestrel and Roller Colonies
Full day of work in two different hides focusing on species that come to the peninsula to breed.
In the morning, a session with lesser kestrels: incoming and outgoing flights and social behavior within the colony.
In the afternoon, I work with rollers in a hide specially designed to capture their colorful plumage in flight and on perches.
Both sessions are conducted in quiet spaces, with controlled lighting and optimal distances for medium and long telephoto lenses.
Days 3 and 4 – Great Bustards in the Villafáfila Steppe
Two days dedicated to photographing great bustards from fixed wooden hides with spyglass.
Villafáfila is one of the best places in Europe to photograph this species during courtship.
The males display their plumage constantly, while the females move erratically, allowing for varied scenes to be captured in different daylight hours.
The strategy is based on the precise location of the hide within the areas where they normally roost, which increases the chances of success. Sessions run from dawn to dusk.
Day 5 – Bonelli’s Eagle in the Arribes del Duero Canyons
Morning session from a fixed wooden hide, located opposite a Mediterranean cliff where a pair of Bonelli’s eagles regularly come to feed.
The sidelight, clear backgrounds, and natural scenery allow for captures both from perches and in flight.
The hide is part of an active conservation program for the species, which combines ethical observation and environmental education.
Day 6 – Golden Eagle in the Arribes del Duero Canyons
Final day with a morning session from a fixed hide integrated into the rocky landscape, designed to photograph golden eagles at close range.
A stable pair has been visiting the area for years, allowing for powerful images with well-directed natural light.
Shots can include incoming flights, feeding, and perching on rocky outcrops, in a wild and scenic setting.
Included
- Guide to a guide specialized in Iberian wildlife
- Authorized access to all hides (fixed and portable)
- Bed and breakfast accommodation
- Transportation from the meeting point to the hides and between locations
- Basic travel insurance
- Process management, access, and local logistics
Not included
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Lunches and dinners
- Cancellation insurance
- Tips or personal expenses
