A tour that will make you discover the beauty of Extremadura in Spain where you can photograph almost all the emblematic species of Spanish fauna like Imperial Eagle, Golden Eagle, Black Vulture, Griffon Vulture and Egyptian Vultre, and many others birds of prey and mammals.
Day 1
After landing in Madrid, you will be transferred by Skua Guide to La Parrilla Reserve, located in Monfragüe National Park in Extremadura. Upon arrival, we organize a first experience to try our 'drinking hides' where many passerines will entertain you as they enjoy refreshing baths. After dinner, you will have the opportunity to enter in a second hide, equipped for night photography, to try and photograph elusive nocturnal predators such as Genet, Marten, and Fox using fixed light or flash. You will stay overnight on the estate in a lodge built in the center of the reserve, where you can fall asleep listening to the call of the Eurasian Eagle-Owl that inhabits the rocky cliffs in front of the rural house.
Days 2-3
We will spend our days primarily in the Skua reserves of La Parrilla e Las Vinas, focusing on photography from our specially-designed photo hides. You will have the opportunity to experience a variety of hides, both in the morning and afternoon sessions, as well as during nocturnal sessions.
Day 4
We will spend this day venture outside our reserves to discover the remarkable landscape of Monfragüe National Park. Our main focus will be visiting several scenic viewpoints ("miradores") renowned for their abundance of birdlife and vultures, set against diverse backdrops. These breathtaking viewpoints are situated among the bends of the Tajo and Tiétar Rivers and the rocky canyons, where hundreds of vultures soar above.We will start from the Portilla del Tiétar viewpoint, named after the river, a unique observation point to enjoy and observe the ornithological richness of the Monfragüe Reserve. Here, the river flows through a narrower valley, bringing us closer and allowing us to observe the birds nesting on the rocky cliffs just a few dozen meters from our eyes.The most famous and photographed viewpoint of the Monfragüe Biosphere Reserve is the Salto del Gitano, a must-stop for all visitors to the area. In all seasons, this magical place offers a breathtaking spectacle. Just stop for five minutes and observe in silence to see the majestic flight of griffon vultures and various bird species moving elegantly among the rocky walls.
Day 5
After breakfast it will be time to leave Finca la Parrilla towards Madrid airport for departure flights. Please be advised that the itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of our Skua guides based on their experience, observations, and logistical considerations. We strive to provide the best possible experience, and adjustments may be made to ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
Bring:
We recommend packing outdoor-appropriate clothing. In September and October, temperatures in central Spain can vary significantly throughout the day: chilly mornings and evenings and warm afternoons that can reach 20–25°C. Layered clothing is key — opt for breathable, lightweight technical garments, a windbreaker or light waterproof jacket, and comfortable hiking shoes.
For wildlife photography, we recommend a lens with a minimum focal length of 400mm, ideal for capturing distant animals like raptors or wild cats from hides.
For landscape photography, a wide-angle lens is best. A light, stable tripod is also useful, especially for low-light conditions at dawn, dusk, or during nocturnal shoots.
Participants: min 4 - max 6
Languages: English, Spanish
Important information:
Madrid Barajas Airport
Target Species: Black stork, Egyptian vulture, Red kite, Black kite, Griffon vulture, Cinereous vulture, Golden eagle, Spanish imperial eagle, Hoopoe, Blue-winged magpie, Rock sparrow, Woodchat shrike, Blue rock thrush, Genet, Red Deer, Red Fox.
150 € single room charge on request
