2023 – Winter Birds of Toledo Photography Holiday

A Bearded Tit poses on a reed within the estate of El Taray in Spain photographed during the NaturesLens Winter Birds of Toledo photography holiday
02
Jan
Join Paul during January 2022 in the diverse landscape of the Castile-La Mancha region of Spain; you will spend many hours from dawn to dusk making use of a fantastic custom-built hide network on the estate of El Taray to capture images of the raptors & other birds that call Laguna del Taray home during the winter months. Species that you may be able to photograph include Raptors such as Hen & Marsh Harriers, Buzzard, Red Kite, Goshawk, Bonelli’s Eagle & Common Kestrel. With the possibility of Golden and Imperial Eagles appearing occasionally; other species include Bearded Reedlings, Spanish Sparrow, Starlings, European Cranes, Iberian Grey Shrike, Little Owl & more.
Making use of an astonishing network of custom-built hides, which are distributed throughout the vast estate of El Taray, you will be provided with the best winter bird photography opportunities possible, capturing birds in flight, within their habitats & interacting with one another.
As usual, our small group size ensures that you have excellent use of the hides, allowing you to capture dramatic images from the best angles, with photography guidance provided by Paul where needed.
A picturesque landscape, with a superb network of hides, the fantastic range of birdlife that co-exists within the estate of El Taray which is found in the Castile-La Mancha region of Spain, all contribute to an experience not to be missed. As a counter to our summer holiday, which includes a vast number of species, this winter photographic holiday is one which will add some specialist species to any photographers portfolio.
During several days in January 2019, David captured images of Harriers, Bonelli’s Eagles, Goshawks, Buzzards & Kites, all living side by side in the local ecosystem. Also, dependent upon weather, there is the opportunity for crane photography on a magnificent pool with a dedicated hide or starling photography, from within a hide actually within the murmuration.
Our Winter Birds of Toledo photography holiday provides you with 4 1/2 days packed with photography sessions, where your photography will benefit from unparalleled access to locations; the hides are situated strategically within this beautiful landscape to provide the best opportunity to photograph a stunning range of bird species.
We provide full-board accommodation – with this being in the adjacent town of Villacanas – a light breakfast before heading to the hides, lunch during the break in the day & ending with a meal at one of the local bars or restaurants after the evening photography session. Everything is taken care of for you so that experiencing & photographing the species & their environment is all you need to consider.
This holiday suits enthusiastic photographers with a passion to experience the magnificent birdlife that the winter months on the estate surrounding Laguna del Taray offers; capturing editorial-quality images of a range of bird species to treasure for years to come.
Places are minimal to ensure the best experience for every guest, so book early to avoid frustration.
Photographable Species: bearded reedlings, bonellis eagle, buzzard, common kestrel, european crane, golden eagle, goshawk, hen harrier, iberian grey shrike, imperial eagle, little owl, marsh harriers, red kite, spanish sparrow, starling
[tec_event_itinerary_title][itinerary_element tagline=" day 1"] flight to madrid from home location & transfer to the estate of el taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 2"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 3"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 4"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 5"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day"] morning photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray,then transfer to madrid & flight to home location [/itinerary_element]
One of the Bonnellis Eagles on a golden winters morning photographed during the NaturesLens Winter Raptors of Toledo Photography Holiday

2023 – Dalmatian Pelicans of Greece Photography Holiday

A Dalmatian Pelican Reflected In The Waters Of Lake Kerkini Photographed During The NaturesLens Dalmatian Pelicans Of Greece Photography Holiday
28
Dec
PLEASE NOTE: We are now including the following on this tour, four morning boat trips in the northern half of the lake; these trips include opportunities for capturing images of the pelicans in flight, great action images, superb portfolio quality portrait images& amazing reflection shots. Four afternoon shoreline feeds from a trio of different locations in the lake’s southern half. Plus NEW FOR 2023, an additional afternoon boat trip in the south half of the lake capturing images of the birds in flight, the pelicans drifting & the pelicans on two separate islands.
NaturesLens offer keen wildlife photographers the chance to capture images of the impressive Dalmatian Pelican, you will be photographing the population of this species as they thrive in their picturesque natural habitat; Lake Kerkini in northern Greece.
We have designed an all-encompassing photography experience, ensuring that internal travel & comfortable accommodation is organised for you to ensure that you can focus on making the most of opportunities to capture editorial quality images. Our trips fill up quickly so ensure that you book early to avoid missing out!
Join NaturesLens to capture images of the charismatic Dalmatian Pelicans on Lake Kerkini, in Greece, during the Dalmatian Pelicans of Greece photography holiday. This photography holiday is of 5 night/6 day duration on a Full Board, Non-Shared basis & costs £1399 per participant.
Since 2014, NaturesLens has been taking photographers to Lake Kerkini; in 2023, join Pui Hang, one of the co-founders of NaturesLens, for a unique wildlife experience, getting up close & personal with the beautiful prehistoric bird that is the Dalmatian Pelican; capturing them on camera within their natural habitat of beautiful Lake Kerkini in northern Greece. This trip encompasses four full days spent getting to know this unique landscape, offering extensive opportunities to photograph these incredible birds, as well as neighbouring wildlife such as the Pygmy Cormorant & the majestic Greater Flamingo.
The Dalmatian Pelican is, by a small margin, the largest of the Pelican species, as well as one of the largest living bird species on earth. These magnificent birds have been in decline in recent years, partly due to habitat destruction on the part of us humans, but thankfully the population at Kerkini has prevailed & still thrives within this perfect haven.
This trip is best suited to those of you with mid-level to advanced photography skills looking for a new challenge. We pride ourselves in offering something special to clients in comparison to other trip providers, so we have coordinated this itinerary to allow you to capture these magnificent birds at sunrise & sunset.
Highlights of the trip include four boat trips on to the lake on consecutive days, four shoreline feeds offering you the chance to get up close to these magnificent birds & witness their feeding behaviours, & accommodation in a nearby hotel as an oasis from the harsh winter conditions. All the details are taken care of for you so that you can relax & enjoy this unique wildlife photography adventure.
You will be on the lake before the sun comes up to see the Pelicans at first light, & after the morning’s activities, will break for a warming lunch as a much-needed break from the cold in a local taverna, discussing what the rest of the day will hold. As a group you will then embark on an afternoon of further exciting photography opportunities, remaining on the shoreline of the lake through to early evening to make the most of the changing light conditions. When the day comes to an end, you will return to the comfort of the hotel to freshen up, before heading to a local taverna to eat your freshly prepared evening meal & discuss your achievements from the day.
Pui Hang, one of our photography guides, will lead you throughout this photography tour, providing guidance & advice as needed & helping you develop your skills. They will help you shoot these birds in wide & close up shots; capturing them in movement while feeding & fighting for fish, interacting with each other or in flight with the impressive backdrop provided by the lake & surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Our group numbers are strictly limited to allow for the highest quality experience for everyone involved, & as this photography is seasonal, we can only offer this trip to a small number of lucky individuals each year. Book early to avoid disappointment!
Photographable Species: cormorant, dalmatian pelican, flamingo
[tec_event_itinerary_title][itinerary_element tagline=" day 1"] flight to thessaloniki from home location & transfer to kerkini [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 2"] morning photography from boat on lake kerkini & afternoon photography at lake kerkini shoreline [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 3"] morning photography from boat on lake kerkini & afternoon photography at lake kerkini shoreline [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 4"] morning photography from boat on lake kerkini & afternoon photography at lake kerkini shoreline [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 5"] morning photography from boat on lake kerkini & afternoon photography at lake kerkini shoreline [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 6"] transfer to thessaloniki from kerkini & flight to home location [/itinerary_element]
A Squadron Of Dalmatian Pelicans Floating On The Waters Of Lake Kerkini Photographed During The NaturesLens Dalmatian Pelicans Of Greece Photography Holiday

2024 – Winter Wildlife of Japan Photography Holiday

Stellars Sea Eagle in flight
17
Dec
NaturesLens invites you to spend this 14 night/15 day tour traveling throughout the wonderfully diverse landscapes of Japan, specifically Central Honshu & Northern Hokkaido, getting up close to a wide range of native species that thrive in harsh winter conditions. Our Japanese Winter Wildlife photography holiday, which we have been leading for the last 9 years, covers a variety of areas, providing you with unique opportunities to undertake wildlife photography of the highest quality.
Guided by David & Ian, you will visit Central Honshu & Northern Hokkaido & gain an insight into the variety of landscapes & wildlife that exists throughout the country, made even more photogenic by dramatic winter conditions. The photographic opportunities on our Japanese Winter Wildlife photography tour are always without parallel – with opportunities to photograph the red-crowned cranes, Steller’s sea eagles, white-tailed sea eagle, whooper swans, & of course, the Snow Monkeys, during this photography holiday.
Join NaturesLens to capture images of the red-crowned cranes, Steller's sea eagles, white-tailed sea eagle, whooper swans, & the Snow Monkeys, in Japan, during the Winter Wildlife of Japan photography holiday. This photography holiday is of 14 night/15 day duration on a Half Board, Non-Shared basis & costs £6999 per participant.
Join David & Ian to travel deep into stunning snow-covered landscapes, capturing beautiful images of wildlife which thrives during harsher seasons in Japan. Our group will travel throughout several different regions, including the mountainous area around Yudanaka in central Japan, & north of the mainland to the island of Hokkaido, giving you an insight into the variety of landscapes & wildlife which exists throughout the country, made even more photogenic by dramatic winter conditions.
Our trip offers enthusiastic wildlife photographers the opportunity to rise early for two dawn visits to the famous red-crowned crane roosting sites of the Tsurui region of Hokkaido; spend two days at the Akan red-crowned crane feeding centre; & spend two days observing the beautiful whooper swans which inhabit Lake Kussharo, a frozen caldera lake in the eastern region of Hokkaido.
Not only this, but our trip is unique in offering six boat trips on the drift ice of the Nemuro Strait to photograph Hokkaido’s fabulous Steller’s sea & white-tailed eagle populations as they fly, feed, dive for fish & fight over scraps. These excursions will give you unique access to the native wildlife at each location, providing ample opportunity to obtain incredible images.
Our tour begins in Tokyo; from there we immediately transfer to Hokkaido, the most northerly island of Japan, which holds the most remote & only true wilderness in Japan. North of the island, the Shiretoko Peninsula is recognised for its world heritage site status, as the landscapes of dramatic coastline & soaring mountains are stunning, giving you the perfect backdrop to achieve editorial quality images of the wildlife inhabitants. As we travel across the island, you will have the opportunity to photograph a vast selection of Japanese Winter Wildlife, including red-crowned cranes, black-eared kites, whooper swans as well as white-tailed & Steller’s sea eagles as we cruise through drift ice environments which surround the island & across additional feeding sites on the Nemuro Peninsula to the east of the island.
We will then move onward to Yudanaka & spend two days at the Jigokudani snow monkey site with the Japanese Macaque, also known as the Snow Monkey, in the mountains, at their thermal spa, as they bathe & feed in the area. We give you the second day here so that you have the chance to fine-tune your photography having become more familiar with the environment & the behaviour of this species. After spending the morning with the snow monkeys of Jigokudani Yaen Koen, we will travel to Yamanakako. Our final location is on the shores of  Lake Yamanaka; the view of Mt. Fuji from the lake is breathtaking & has a distinctive shape – making for an iconic image to complete your Japanese Winter Wildlife photography holiday.
Japan is an extraordinary country, & our Japanese Winter Wildlife photography holiday provides wildlife photographers with unrivaled opportunities to capture uniquely beautiful photographs.
In order to present the best photographic opportunities the majority of locations that we make use of throughout this photography holiday are rural or remote in nature, as such food is often based on seafood & is traditional Japanese in style – westernised menus are frequently not available – if you wish to discuss this further prior to booking please contact us.
Group size is limited to between 4 & 7 participants, this is due to the nature of the photography excursions & the type of hotel that we prefer to make use of, so booking early is essential.
[tec_event_itinerary_title][itinerary_element tagline=" day 1"] flight to tokyo from home location [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 2"] meet at haneda domestic terminal & transfer to hokkaido [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 3"] early morning location shoot for red-crowned crane roosting site, full-day photography of red-crowned cranes in tsuri [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 4"] early morning location shoot for red-crowned crane roosting site, half-day photography of red-crowned cranes in tsuri & transfer to kussharo [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 5"] full-day photography of whooper swans [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 6"] half-day photography of whooper swans & transfer to rausu [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 7"] two early morning boat trips for photography of steller's & white-tailed sea eagles, possible afternoon photography on notsuke penninsula [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 8"] two early morning boat trips for photography of steller's & white-tailed sea eagles, possible afternoon photography on notsuke penninsula [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 9"] two early morning boat trips for photography of steller's & white-tailed sea eagles, transfer to notsuke penninsula [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 10"] early morning location shoot for photography of steller's & white-tailed sea eagles plus foxes & black-eared kites, late morning or afternoon cruise for eagles & sea-birds on the nemuro coast [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 11 "] early morning location shoot for photography of steller's & white-tailed sea eagles plus foxes & black-eared kites, afternoon transfer to tokyo [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 12"] drive from haneda to yudanaka [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 13"] snow monkey photography [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 14"] ½ day of snow monkey photography & transfer to yamanakako - sunset at yamanakako lake looking towards mount fuji [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 15"] sunrise at yamanakako lake looking towards mount fuji, ½ day of swan photography alongside the lake & return to haneda - trip concludes [/itinerary_element]
A Young Snow Monkey Peers Over The Edge Of The Thermal Pool Photographed During The Winter Wildlife Of Japan Photography Holiday

2023 – Dalmatian Pelicans of Lake Kerkini Photography Holiday

One Of Kerkini's Dalmatian Pelicans Drifts Serenely Across The Waters Of The Lake Photographed During The NaturesLens Dalmatian Pelicans Of Greece WIldlife Photograhpy Holiday
28
Sep
PLEASE NOTE: We are now including the following on this Pelicans of Lake Kerkini tour, four morning boat trips in the northern half of the lake; these trips include opportunities for capturing images of the pelicans in flight, great action images, superb portfolio quality portrait images& amazing reflection shots. Four afternoon shoreline feeds from a trio of different locations in the lake’s southern half. Plus NEW FOR 2023, an additional afternoon boat trip in the south half of the lake capturing images of the birds in flight, the pelicans drifting & the pelicans on two separate islands.
NaturesLens offer keen wildlife photographers the chance to encounter the impressive Dalmatian Pelican, photographing the population of this species as they thrive in their picturesque natural habitat; Lake Kerkini in northern Greece.
We have designed an all-encompassing photography experience, ensuring that internal travel & comfortable accommodation are organised for you to ensure that you can focus on making the most of opportunities to capture editorial quality images. Our trips fill up quickly, so ensure that you book early to avoid missing out!
Join NaturesLens to capture images of the charismatic Dalmatian Pelicans, in Greece, during the Dalmatian Pelicans of Lake Kerkini photography holiday. This photography holiday is of 5 night/6 day duration on a Full Board, Non-Shared basis & costs £1399 per participant.
Since 2014, NaturesLens has been taking photographers to Lake Kerkini; in 2023, join Pui Hang, one of the co-founders of NaturesLens, for a unique wildlife experience, getting up close & personal with the beautiful prehistoric bird that is the Dalmatian Pelican; capturing them on camera within their natural habitat of beautiful Lake Kerkini in northern Greece. This 5 night trip encompasses four full days spent getting to know this unique landscape, offering extensive opportunities to photograph these incredible birds, as well as neighbouring wildlife such as the Pygmy Cormorant & the majestic Greater Flamingo.
The Dalmatian Pelican is, by a small margin, the largest of the Pelican species, as well as one of the largest living bird species on earth. These magnificent birds have been in decline in recent years, partly due to habitat destruction on the part of us humans, but thankfully the population at Kerkini has prevailed & still thrives within this perfect haven.
This trip is best suited to those of you with mid-level to advanced photography skills looking for a new challenge. We pride ourselves in offering something special to clients in comparison to other trip providers, so we have coordinated this itinerary to allow you to capture these magnificent birds at sunrise & sunset.
Highlights of the trip include daily boat trips on to the lake, daily shoreline feeds offering you the chance to get up close to the Dalmatian Pelicans & witness their feeding behaviours, & cosy accommodation in a nearby hotel as an oasis from the harsh winter conditions. All the details are taken care of for you so that you can relax & enjoy this unique wildlife photography adventure.

You will be on the lake before the sun comes up to see the Pelicans at first light, & after the morning’s activities, will break for a warming lunch as a much-needed break from the cold in a local taverna, discussing what the rest of the day will hold. As a group you will then embark on an afternoon of further exciting photography opportunities, remaining on the shoreline of the lake through to early evening to make the most of the changing light conditions. When the day comes to an end, you will return to the comfort of the hotel to freshen up, before heading to a local taverna to eat your freshly prepared evening meal & discuss your achievements from the day.

During this 5 night photography holiday, Pui Hang, one of our photography guides, will lead you throughout this photography tour, providing guidance & advice as needed & helping you develop your skills. Pui Hang will help you capture images of the Dalmatian Pelicans in both wide & close up shots; capturing them in movement while feeding & fighting for fish, interacting with each other or in flight with the impressive backdrop provided by the lake & surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Our group numbers are strictly limited to allow for the highest quality experience for everyone involved, & as this photography is seasonal, we can only offer this trip to a small number of lucky individuals each year. Book early to avoid disappointment!
Photographable Species: cormorant, dalmatian pelican, flamingo
[tec_event_itinerary_title][itinerary_element tagline=" day 1"] flight to thessaloniki from home location & transfer to kerkini [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 2"] morning photography from boat on lake kerkini & afternoon photography at lake kerkini shoreline [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 3"] morning photography from boat on lake kerkini & afternoon photography at lake kerkini shoreline [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 4"] morning photography from boat on lake kerkini & afternoon photography at lake kerkini shoreline [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 5"] morning photography from boat on lake kerkini & afternoon photography at lake kerkini shoreline [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 6"] transfer to thessaloniki from kerkini & flight to home location [/itinerary_element]
A Dalmatian Pelican Drifts Serenely Across The Waters Of Lake Kerkini Photographed During The NaturesLens Dalmatian Pelicans Of Greece WIldlife Photograhpy Holiday

2022 – Lammergeier & Golden Eagles of Spain Photography Holiday

One of the Lammergeier poses on a rocky outcrop captured at the locations used for the Natureslens Lammergeier Golden Eagle Photography Holiday
26
Sep
Join Drew for this five-day trip which will take place in the Catalonia region in north-east Spain & will focus on that region’s most emblematic species, the Bearded Vultures (Lammergeier) & Golden Eagle.
You will have the opportunity to photograph Lammergeiers feeding on the ground & in flight, with the spectacular mountains of the Pre-Pyrenees as your backdrop. The Lammergeier is a rare & magnificent bird that is in decline throughout most of its ancient European habitats. The 90 Lammergeier territories in the French & Spanish Pyrenees represents more than 75% of the total European population of this extraordinary bird.
Join NaturesLens to capture images of Lammergeier & Golden Eagle, in Spain, during the Lammergeier & Golden Eagles of Spain photography holiday. This photography holiday is of 5 night/6 day duration on a Full Board, Non-Shared basis & costs £2199 per participant.
Using a series of hides, you will have the chance to photograph up to 20 different individuals, in their natural habitat.
In this magnificent location, the Lammergeiers are the kings of the mountain.
The hides have been designed by professional photographers to take advantage of the best light & the best backgrounds. They are located at a height of approximately 1400 m in the Pre-Pyrenees near Lleida in Catalonia. Large, one-way windows enable you to capture stunning images of the Bearded Vultures (Lammergeier) & other scavengers as they perch on the ground & in flight.
The hides can accommodate up to a maximum of three photographers. There is a chemical WC & a folding bed for those rare moments when nothing is going on. The windows can be opened from the inside & cleaned should it rain (although you should pull down the blind first in order not to scare the birds). There are also shelves & hangers for storing bags, lenses & other pieces of equipment.
Accommodation is provided in a rural hotel located just a short walking distance from the hides.
During these three days of intensive photography, it will be possible to photograph the eight different plumages presented by the Bearded Vulture & obtain images of more than 20 different individuals.
Join NaturesLens for a wildlife photography holiday you will never forget.
Places are limited, so book today!
Photographable Species: golden eagle, lammergeier
[tec_event_itinerary_title][itinerary_element tagline=" day 1"] flight to barcelona–el prat josep tarradellas airport from home location & transfer to lleida [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 2"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * in lleida [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 3"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * in lleida [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 4"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * in lleida [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 4"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * in lleida [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 5"] transfer to barcelona–el prat josep tarradellas airport & flight to home location [/itinerary_element]
One of the Lammergeier poses on a rocky outcrop on the mountainside captured at the locations used for the Natureslens Lammergeier Golden Eagle Photography Holiday

2021 – Birds of Toledo Photography Holiday

A Bearded Tit poses on a reed within the estate of El Taray in Spain photographed during the NaturesLens Winter Birds of Toledo photography holiday
08
Aug
Join David during January 2022 in the diverse landscape of the Castile-La Mancha region of Spain; you will spend many hours from dawn to dusk making use of a fantastic custom-built hide network on the estate of El Taray to capture images of the raptors & other birds that call Laguna del Taray home during the winter months. Species that you may be able to photograph include Raptors such as Hen & Marsh Harriers, Buzzard, Red Kite, Goshawk, Bonelli’s Eagle & Common Kestrel. With the possibility of Golden and Imperial Eagles appearing occasionally; other species include Bearded Reedlings, Spanish Sparrow, Starlings, European Cranes, Iberian Grey Shrike, Little Owl & more.
Making use of an astonishing network of custom-built hides, which are distributed throughout the vast estate of El Taray, you will be provided with the best winter bird photography opportunities possible, capturing birds in flight, within their habitats & interacting with one another.
As usual, our small group size ensures that you have excellent use of the hides, allowing you to capture dramatic images from the best angles, with photography guidance provided by David where needed.
A picturesque landscape, with a superb network of hides, the fantastic range of birdlife that co-exists within the estate of El Taray which is found in the Castile-La Mancha region of Spain, all contribute to an experience not to be missed. As a counter to our summer holiday, which includes a vast number of species, this winter photographic holiday is one which will add some specialist species to any photographers portfolio.
During several days in January 2019, David captured images of Harriers, Bonelli’s Eagles, Goshawks, Buzzards & Kites, all living side by side in the local ecosystem. Also, dependent upon weather, there is the opportunity for crane photography on a magnificent pool with a dedicated hide or starling photography, from within a hide actually within the murmuration.
Our Winter Birds of Toledo photography holiday provides you with 4 1/2 days packed with photography sessions, where your photography will benefit from unparalleled access to locations; the hides are situated strategically within this beautiful landscape to provide the best opportunity to photograph a stunning range of bird species.
We provide full-board accommodation – with this being on the estate itself, this means no travelling in the morning or the evening back to a hotel, plus all the food is catered for the group – a light breakfast before heading to the hides & ending with a meal after the evening photography session, with a lunch in between. Everything is taken care of for you so that experiencing & photographing the species & their environment is all you need to consider.
This tour suits enthusiastic photographers with a passion to experience the magnificent birdlife that the winter months on the estate surrounding Laguna del Taray offers; capturing editorial-quality images of a range of bird species to treasure for years to come.
Places are minimal to ensure the best experience for every guest, so book early to avoid frustration.
Photographable Species: bearded reedlings, bonellis eagle, buzzard, common kestrel, european crane, golden eagle, goshawk, hen harrier, iberian grey shrike, imperial eagle, little owl, marsh harriers, red kite, spanish sparrow, starling
[tec_event_itinerary_title][itinerary_element tagline=" day 1"] flight to madrid from home location & transfer to the estate of el taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 2"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 3"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 4"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day 5"] morning & afternoon photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray [/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline=" day"] morning photography in various hides * on the estate of laguna del taray,then transfer to madrid & flight to home location [/itinerary_element]
One of the Bonnellis Eagles on a golden winters morning photographed during the NaturesLens Winter Raptors of Toledo Photography Holiday

2025 – Ice Grizzlies of the Yukon Photography Holiday

A Grizzly Bear Walking Through The Snow Captured During The Natureslens Ice Grizzlies Of The Yukon Photography Holiday
26
Jun
Join Ian on a wild Canadian experience, travelling into the depths of Yukon wilderness, to Bear Cave Mountain, in October 2025 to capture individual images of the native grizzly bear, also known as the Ice Grizzlies, as they feed on spawning salmon in the Fishing Branch River. The particular conditions & sub-zero temperatures in & around this river transforms the Grizzlies into ice bears, as their fur becomes frozen & frosted; effectively changing their appearance as photography subjects.
Only a fortunate few can witness this spectacle annually, & the unique nature of this wildlife photography experience means that we can only offer at most three places on this trip, so early booking is essential.
Join NaturesLens to capture images of native grizzly bear on the banks of the Fishing Branch river, in Canada, during the Ice Grizzlies of the Yukon photography holiday. This photography holiday is of 7 night/8 day duration on a Full Board with Drinks Included, Shared basis & costs £10999 per participant.
NaturesLens invites wildlife photography enthusiasts on a trip to Bear Cave Mountain, deep in the Yukon region, Canada’s wildest & most unspoilt territory, to capture remarkable images of the Ice Grizzlies as they feed on spawning salmon. This natural wonder only occurs for six weeks of the year so the lucky few who get to observe this event will take home memories to treasure for years to come.
The area for this wildlife photography holiday lies within a snowball’s throw of the Arctic Circle in the Fishing Branch Protected Area, where the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation & the regional government have joined hands to set aside 2,500 sq. miles of pristine wilderness as Yukon’s largest regional park.
In this area of the Yukon the grizzly bears stay active for as long as the food remains viable – and late salmon runs mean food until mid-November.
The chum salmon draw the grizzly bears to the Bear Cave Mountain area. To prepare for denning, these magnificent giants of the forest take advantage of the abundant food supply as they enter Stage 4 of the process known as hyperphagia, which simply means they eat and drink excessively in preparation for denning. Every fall, in the shadow of craggy mountains, as many as 40 grizzly bears amble along the river’s banks, foraging their limit of chum salmon, which have journeyed two thousand kilometres from the Bering Sea to spawn and die. It is a sight to behold as the grizzly excels at fishing.
By mid-October, winter settles in at Bear Cave Mountain and, along with the winter elements, the Grizzlies are transformed into “Ice Bears”.
During November the frosty, satiated bears then head up Bear Cave Mountain to den in its numerous caves and crevices. A protective layer of fat enables the bears to rest in their dens for the winter, but as they do not truly hibernate, they can easily be awakened.
The period to witness this phenomenon is short, just six weeks long, in which the Grizzlies gather to feast on the spawning salmon. Their feeding behaviour is intense during this period as they are attempting to put on enough weight to last them through their hibernation in nearby limestone caverns over the winter months & the Fishing Branch River is the key to it all.
Fed by underground springs, Fishing Branch River remains unfrozen throughout the year, & every autumn 35,000 chum salmon make the 1,500-mile odyssey from the Bering Sea to spawn in its pure waters. At times there are so many fish in the river you feel you could walk across it on their backs without getting your feet wet.
The salmon, in turn, attract the Grizzlies, as many as 40 every season & as they wade through the river an extraordinary transformation takes place.
Within minutes their wet fur freezes in the sub-zero temperatures & they become Ice Grizzlies to the delight of wildlife photographers.
Being allowed into the park is a limited right, as the region is very sacred to the indigenous Vuntut Gwitchin communities who reside in the area, & put great ancestral & cultural value on the land & the environment within the park. The 2500sq miles which make up the park was set aside by the government & local communities as an area for preservation, & the opportunity to capture its rarely disturbed wildlife population on camera is not one to miss out on.
A guide with in-depth knowledge of the wildlife & culture of the Yukon national park, & in particular the Ice Grizzlies, will lead us throughout the experience; both he & Ian will assist you in obtaining editorial-quality images that genuinely communicate the magic of this remarkable wildlife spectacle.
Our trip includes a two hour chartered helicopter journey from Dawson City to Fishing Branch River, which takes us across a far-reaching emptiness of deep-frozen rivers & boreal forests bounded by range upon range of white mountains punching to the sky. You will also enjoy seven nights full-board accommodation in a charming log cabin situated moments from the bank of the river; involving you deeply in the action yet providing a cosy retreat from the harsh conditions outside.
All internal transfers, accommodation & meals at the camp are all included to make things as straightforward & enjoyable for you as possible.
As well as cabin accommodation, all internal transfers are taken care of for you, to ensure that the whole experience is gratifying & you can focus on capturing striking images of the fauna of Fishing Branch River to add to your wildlife portfolio.
Photographable Species: bald eagle, elk, grizzly bear, moose
[tec_event_itinerary_title][itinerary_element tagline="day 1"]helicopter trip (2 hours) to fishing branch river[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 2"]ice grizzly bear & other wildlife photography along the banks of the fishing branch river[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 3"]ice grizzly bear & other wildlife photography along the banks of the fishing branch river[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 4"]ice grizzly bear & other wildlife photography along the banks of the fishing branch river[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day5"]ice grizzly bear & other wildlife photography along the banks of the fishing branch river[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 6"]ice grizzly bear & other wildlife photography along the banks of the fishing branch river[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 7"]ice grizzly bear & other wildlife photography along the banks of the fishing branch river[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 8"]late morning flight by helicopter to dawson city & overnight in dawson city[/itinerary_element]
Portrait Of An Ice Grizzly Captured During The Natureslens Ice Grizzlies Of The Yukon Photography Holiday

2023 – Black Grouse & Golden Eagles of Finland

A pair of the Golden Eagles at the dedicated hide as you will be able to photograph during the NaturesLens Black Grouse Golden Eagles of Finland photography holiday
05
Apr
Keen wildlife photographers are invited to join Drew for this five-night Black Grouse & Golden Eagles of Finland photography holiday in Kuusamo in Finland. You will photograph Golden Eagles & Black Grouse in wintery conditions set against the stunning snowy landscape.
The five-night photography holiday has an itinerary designed to provide opportunities to capture images of the Golden Eagles & Black Grouse.
Over the duration of this trip, the locations should provide opportunities for capturing images of Black Grouse, Black Woodpecker, Golden Eagle, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Grey-headed Woodpecker, Siberian Jay, Siberian Tit, White-throated Dipper & more besides.
Join NaturesLens to capture images of the Black Grouse & Golden Eagles of Finland, in Finland, during the Black Grouse & Golden Eagles of Finland photography holiday. This photography holiday is of 5 night/6 day duration on a Full Board, Non-Shared basis & costs £2599 per participant.
Throughout this photography holiday, Drew, one of our photography guides, will be on hand to guide & lead you; he will be providing assistance & advice as needed & helping you develop your skills. Drew will help you capture images of the Black Grouse & Golden Eagles with an impressive backdrop provided by the snow-covered landscapes.
Highlights of this trip include opportunities to capture mindblowing images of the pair of resident Golden Eagles in a beautiful landscape & to capture the exciting courtship display of the Black Grouse. Over 4-days of photography, you will also have opportunities to capture images of additional birds at the hides; species include Black Woodpecker, Siberian Jay, Siberian Tit, Crested Tit, Gray-headed Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Jay, Raven & more. Throughout the five-night trip, you will make use of photo hides designed by photographers for photographers.
All the details are taken care of for you to relax & enjoy this memorable wildlife photography holiday.
Photographable Species: black grouse, golden eagle
[tec_event_itinerary_title][itinerary_element tagline="day 1"]assemble at kuusamo airport - transfer to your accommodation - overnight in kuusamo[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 2"]full-day photography at the eagle hide - overnight in kuusamo[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 3"]early morning photography at the black grouse lek - photography at the eagle hide - overnight in kuusamo[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 4"]early morning photography of dippers - photography at the eagle hide - overnight in kuusamo[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 5"]early morning photography at the black grouse lek - photography at the eagle hide - overnight in kuusamo[/itinerary_element] [itinerary_element tagline="day 6"]black grouse lek - transfer to kuusamo airport[/itinerary_element]
One of the Black Woodpeckers flies past the hide as you will be able to photograph during the NaturesLens Black Grouse Golden Eagles of Finland photography holiday

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