AndaluCía wildlife Photography Tour
14 - 20th March 2027
Join myself and local Wild Andalucía guide, Álvaro Peral, for an unforgettable 7-day photography adventure in one of the world’s most diverse and breath-taking natural environments.
Discover the thrill of capturing unique images of some of Europe’s most elusive wildlife in and around the stunning region of Andalucía, with the support of myself and Álvaro.
As passionate and experienced wildlife photographers, we'll lead you to some of the region's most remote and unspoiled areas, where you'll encounter an incredible variety of iconic species, from soaring birds of prey to waders, songbirds and the elusive Iberian lynx.
Whether you're an experienced wildlife photographer or just starting out, Álvaro and I will provide you with personalised instruction and equip you with life-long skills to help you capture memorable images every time you go out.
With our guidance, you'll learn the secrets of capturing stunning images of species in their natural habitat. From choosing the right camera settings and lenses, mastering the use of light and composition, and learning how to read animal behaviour, we’ll be with you every step of the way to ensure you get the best shots possible.
Alongside the wildlife photography we have planned, we may have opportunities for macro and night-time photography.
Expert-guided wildlife photography tour in Spectacular Andalucia
Andalucia is a land of wild and untamed beauty where the natural world unfold in a breath-taking spectacle of life and colour
What to expect
We'll start the trip in Tarifa. Tarifa is a perfect place to witness one of the most important migratory routes in Europe as thousands of birds travel through the Eastern Atlantic Flyway.
Travelling between Tarifa and Cádiz, we will provide you with numerous opportunities to photograph migratory and wading birds in some of the best habitats in the world for these charismatic creatures.
We’ll spend one night in Ronda, in a charming, comfortable and friendly Andalucían-style hotel close to the famous Puente Nuevo bridge. Located in the heart of the town, the historic old town is a stone’s throw away with plenty of restaurants providing delicious, local cuisine and opportunities to relax and recharge between shoots, capturing the local Red-billed Choughs.
For the remaining three days we’ll stay at a hotel in Andújar, situated at the foot of the Sierra Morena Mountains and Sierras de Andujar Nature Park. This Mediterranean ecosystem supports a diverse mix of wildlife, like nowhere else. Here, we’ll spend time at local hides with an opportunity to photograph the breath-taking Iberian Lynx. We’ll also include time by the Jandula River, which is home to water-loving otters and birds; before supporting you to get back to Malaga airport.
We'll take care of all transportation and meals during the trip, so you can immerse yourself in the local culture and wildlife, focus on your photography and enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Wildlife highlights
On this 7-day guided tour, you'll have the rare privilege of experiencing some of the region's most iconic wildlife. We will set up the trip to offer the best opportunity to see the following highlights, and many others:
One of the world's most endangered cat species, is a captivating wild feline. Smaller and more spotted than its Eurasian lynx relative, this unique cat is distinguished by its black facial ruff, tufted ears, and its primary prey, rabbits.
The Iberian lynx:
A migratory bird, native to central Europe, it is now one of the most endangered bird species worldwide due to huge hunting pressures. Andalucía provides a safe-haven for these impressive and vital birds to breed.
We will be visiting this bird's main breeding colony in Europe.
Northern Bald Ibis:
Hundreds of thousands of birds migrate along this route during the spring months. A huge variety of birds cross the 14km gap between Spain and Morocco, including the Short-toed Eagle, Black Kite, Booted Eagle and Bee Eaters.
Eastern Atlantic Flyway
Proposed Tour Itinerary
Here’s a taste of what you can expect to experience on this 7-day, fully-inclusive, guided wildlife photography trip to Andalucia:
NB: The specifics of each day may change due to weather conditions or depending on unique wildlife encounters.
- Arrive in Malaga and transfer to the town of Tarifa, on the southernmost end of the Iberian Peninsula.
- Photograph birds of prey: Witnessing the massive Eastern Atlantic Flyway near the Strait of Gibraltar offers an amazing opportunity to photograph a variety of birds. This trip will be especially well timed to see the Short-toed Eagle migrate as they travel across from Africa.
- Stay: Hotel in Tarifa.
Day 1:
- Photograph waders along the coast.
- Photograph migrating birds in flight.
- Stay: Hotel in Tarifa.
Day 2:
- Dawn photography of waders in Salt pans of Barbate.
- Catch up with the Northern Bald Ibis, on of the most endangered migratory birds, worldwide.
- Travel to the iconic town of Ronda.
- Photograph Red-billed Choughs at sunset as they return to their night roosts.
- Stay: Hotel in Ronda.
Day 3:
- Visit the Majoleto Hide where we’ll photograph species such as the Black Wheatear and Rock Bunting.
- Travel to Andújar, home to the Sierra de Andújar Natural Park (around 3 hour transfer).
- Stay: Hotel in Andújar.
Day 4:
- Opportunistic otter and bird photography at dawn, by the Jandula River.
- Transfer to Málaga airport.
Day 7:
- With 2 days based at the Iberian Lynx Hide to maximize the chances of seeing these breath-taking individuals, and if we’re lucky, photograph them in different lights (morning and evening).
- Stay: Hotel in Andújar.
Day 5 & 6:
pay a deposit to secure your spot on this unforgettable trip!
GET IN TOUCH
Cost Per Person £345o
£500 deposit on reservation (non refundable)
full payment 30 days before trip
Accommodation for 6 nights
All transportation and pick-ups & drop-offs
Breakfast, lunch and dinners
Guidance from wildlife and photography experts Álvaro Peral & Espen Helland
What’s included:
Flights / travel to & from Malaga
Personal items, including camera equipment and clothing
Travel insurance
Alcoholic drinks or any additional drinks and snacks
Not included:
Espen Helland
Espen is a Norwegian wildlife photographer and filmmaker based in the Scottish Highlands. With a passion for ecology, conservation and photography, Espen has spent over a decade honing his skills to capture breathtaking images of wildlife and landscapes, in a variety of locations around the world.
His stunning images reveal a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural world, and his skillful use of light and composition creates images that are both powerful and intimate. In addition to his photography work, Espen is a filmmaker focusing on using stunning visuals to tell powerful stories.
Espen's passion for meaningful conservation is evident in all of his work, ensuring that the shots he takes does not come at a cost to wildlife. His dedication for capturing and sharing the beauty of the natural world has led to him being a respected and admired figure in the photography community. Whether in front of the camera or behind it, Espen is committed to using platforming stories of the natural world, and helping others experience it too.
Álvaro Peral
Álvaro is a highly experienced birding guide based in Andalusia, Spain. With a passion for birds and wildlife that began in his childhood, Álvaro has spent over 15 years exploring the wild landscapes of Andalusia and sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with others.
Álvaro's expertise extends to a wide variety of bird species, from migratory birds to rare and elusive local species. His knowledge of the region's ecology and geography is unparalleled, and he has a keen eye for spotting even the most well-camouflaged birds.
As a guide, Álvaro is known for his friendly, approachable style and his ability to tailor his tours to the interests and skill levels of his clients. Whether you are a seasoned birder or a beginner, Álvaro's tours offer an opportunity to learn about the birds of Andalusia and experience the region's incredible natural beauty firsthand. In addition to his guiding work, Álvaro is also a passionate photographer, and his stunning images of birds and wildlife have been featured in numerous publications and exhibitions.
Álvaro's dedication to birding and conservation has made him a respected figure in the birding community, and his passion for sharing his knowledge and love of nature with others is evident in all of his work. Whether you are a seasoned birder or simply a nature lover, Álvaro's tours are an opportunity to discover the incredible diversity and beauty of Andalusia's birdlife.
Your Guides
FAQs
A minimum of 3 and maximum of 5 people.
How many people will be on the tour?
Are we guaranteed to see wildlife?
No, some of the species such as lynx and otters are highly likely, but not guaranteed.
You’ll be picked up and dropped off at Malaga airport.
Are transfers included?
Email Espen to enquire about booking (info@espenhelland.com).
How do I book?
Camera, lenses, binoculars, tripod/beanbag, batteries, memory cards…
What gear should I bring?
Comfortable clothing for photography. It can get a bit cool in the mornings and evenings so we advise bringing a jacket and waterproofs in case of rain.
What kind of clothing should I wear?
Whilst we cannot predict anything, average temperatures range between 14 - 18°C. Mornings and evenings will be cooler and there will be a chance of rain showers.
What’s will the weather be like?
Travel insurance is required and it’s recommended that you insure your camera equipment.
Do I need insurance?
Depends on what we are photographing on the day, on some days we will be out before sunrise and photographing at sunset.
What time will we start each day?
In hotels in the areas we visit.
Where will I be staying?
Typical Andalusian breakfasts (coffee and toasts) will be served in a bar. Hotels generally don’t serve breakfast before sunrise.
Lunch will be usually eaten at specific “ventas”, establishments with a consistent day-menu. Alternatively, tapas or picnics will be provided.
Lunch will be usually eaten at specific “ventas”, establishments with a consistent day-menu. Alternatively, tapas or picnics will be provided.
