Canonical URL: https://natureslens.co.uk/our-guides-favourite-wildlife-photography-locations/

# Our Guides' Favourite Wildlife Photography Locations

![Bulgaria](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/europe.svg)

## [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) named Bulgaria as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![A Purple Emperor One Of The Subjects On Our Bulgarian Mountain Butterfly Macro Photography Tour](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Purple-Emperor-one-of-the-subjects-on-our-Bulgarian-Mountain-Butterfly-Macro-Photography-Tour-1024x768.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [Bulgaria](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/bulgaria/), led by [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) Miles. The trips are built around reptiles, amphibians & butterflies, photographed close up. Current trips: [Reptiles & Amphibians in](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/bulgaria/reptiles-amphibians-in-bulgaria/)[Bulgaria](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/bulgaria/) (8 nights), [Bulgarian Butterfly Macro](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/bulgaria/bulgarian-butterfly-macro/) (6 nights) & [Bulgarian Mountain Butterfly Macro](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/bulgaria/bulgarian-mountain-butterfly/) (8 nights). Groups are limited to six photographers, & single occupancy is included on current departures.

### Why Photograph Wildlife in Bulgaria

Bulgaria sits at the crossroads of European & Mediterranean fauna, & our trips here are built entirely around **specialist macro photography** - two dedicated butterfly workshops & a third focused on reptiles & amphibians. The country's varied landscapes, rich plant communities, & favourable summer conditions produce exceptional butterfly diversity, making it one of the most rewarding macro destinations in Europe.

Our visits are designed to maximise time with target species while working in calm, undisturbed habitats. A small-group structure, combined with experienced guidance, allows careful attention to light, background, behaviour, & technique, with ongoing photographic support throughout. These tours suit photographers at all levels, from those new to macro to those refining advanced field skills.

### Photographic Conditions

Bulgaria's butterfly season peaks June through August, when clearings, woodland edges, & flower-rich meadows hold the highest species diversity. Early mornings are ideal for dew-covered subjects on low vegetation - allowing controlled aperture work & clean backgrounds. Working distances of 30-60cm are typical; a 100-180mm macro lens is the core tool, with a diffused ring flash or reflector useful for bright midday sessions.

### Photography Themes

For the wider regional programme, see our [Europe wildlife photography tours](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/) hub.

Species that must be photographed within Bulgaria include [Apollo](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/apollo/), [Swallowtail](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/swallowtail/), [Eastern Festoon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eastern-festoon/), [Southern Festoon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/southern-festoon/), [Queen of Spain Fritillary](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/queen-of-spain-fritillary/), [Southern White Admiral](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/southern-white-admiral/), [Adonis Blue](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/adonis-blue/), [Marbled White](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/marbled-white/), [Common Blue](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-blue/), [Chequered Skipper](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/chequered-skipper/), [Large Skipper](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/large-skipper/) & [Large Ringlet](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/large-ringlet/)

![Costa Rica](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/central-america.svg)

## [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) & [Ian](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/ian/) have named Costa Rica as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![A Keel Billed Toucan Perched On Branch - one of the main target species on the NaturesLens Wetlands Of Costa Rica Photography Tour](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Keel-Billed-Toucan-Perched-On-Branch-one-of-the-main-target-species-on-the-NaturesLens-Wetlands-Of-Costa-Rica-Photography-Tour.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [Costa Rica](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/central-america/costa-rica/), led by [David Miles](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) with local specialists. Groups are limited to five or six photographers & single occupancy is included on virtually all trips. The exact maximum is shown on each departure.

Choose your [Costa Rica](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/central-america/costa-rica/) trip

[Essential Costa Rican Wildlife](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/costa-rica/essential-costa-rican-wildlife/) - seven nights: cloud-forest quetzals & hummingbirds.
[Wildlife Icons of Costa Rica](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/costa-rica/icons-of-costa-rica/) - eleven nights: highlands to Caribbean foothills.
[Wetlands of Costa Rica](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/costa-rica/wetlands-of-costa-rica/) - eleven nights: herons, kingfishers & macaws.
[Ultimate Costa Rican Wildlife](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/costa-rica/ultimate-costa-rican-wildlife/) - sixteen nights: Pacific waterways to northern wetlands.

Wildlife photography in Costa Rica
 Hummingbirds, toucans & aracaris are photographed from selected gardens & feeders, with frogs & reptiles close up & night walks adding different subjects. [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) has returned across many seasons, building relationships with local guides, lodges & photographic locations. No species list guarantees a sighting. Read what guests say in our [guest reviews](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/client-reviews-of-natureslens/) or see [how NaturesLens designs its photography holidays](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/travel-with-natureslens/).

For an honest photographer's guide to the country, read [our Costa Rica photography tours guide](https://natureslens.co.uk/2026/01/20/costa-rica-photography-tours/). For wildlife photography tours elsewhere in the region, see our [Central American wildlife photography holidays hub](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/central-america/).

Species that must be photographed within Costa Rica include [Basilisk Lizard](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/basilisk-lizard/), [Blue Jeans Poison Dart Frog](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/blue-jeans-poison-dart-frog/), [Chestnut-mandibled Toucan](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/chestnut-mandibled-toucan/), [Collared Aracari](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/collared-aracari/), [Emerald Toucanet](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/emerald-toucanet/), [Fiery-billed Aracari](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/fiery-billed-aracari/), [Fiery-throated Hummingbird](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/fiery-throated-hummingbird/), [Glass Frog](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/glass-frog/), [Green Iguana](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/green-iguana/), [Keel-Billed Toucan](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/keel-billed-toucan/), [Mantled Howler Monkey](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/mantled-howler-monkey/), [Montezuma Oropendola](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/montezuma-oropendola/), [Red-eyed Tree Frog](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-eyed-tree-frog/), [Resplendent Quetzal](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/resplendent-quetzal/), [Strawberry Poison Dart Frog](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/strawberry-poison-dart-frog/), [Three-toed Sloth](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/three-toed-sloth/), [Two-toed Sloth](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/two-toed-sloth/), [Violet Sabrewing](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/violet-sabrewing/), [Violet-capped Woodnymph](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/violet-capped-woodnymph/), [White-throated Hummingbird](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-throated-hummingbird/) & [White-faced Capuchin](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-faced-capuchin/)

![Finland](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/europe.svg)

## [Johnny](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/johnny/) named Finland as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![One Of The Male Brown Bears Walks Through The Undergrowth](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/one-of-the-male-brown-bears-walks-through-the-undergrowth-1024x684.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [Finland](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/finland/), led by [Johnny](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/johnny/) Sodergard. The trip is built around Brown Bears, Wolverines & White-tailed Eagles. The current trip is [Brown Bears of](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/finland/brown-bears-of-finland/)[Finland](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/finland/) (6 nights). Groups are limited to five photographers, & single occupancy is included on current departures.

### Why Photograph Wildlife in Finland

Finland's wilderness offers some of the most reliable large-mammal photography in Europe. The boreal forest that covers most of the country shelters healthy populations of **Brown Bears**, **Wolverines**, & **White-tailed Eagles**, & our trips are built around purpose-built hides that put photographers at close range without disturbance. The long summer light of the Finnish north - sometimes 18-20 hours of usable daylight - transforms every session into an extended golden hour.

Bear hides in eastern Finland are among the most productive in Europe. Positioned beside natural feeding areas in old-growth forest, they offer consistent, close-range encounters with adult bears & cubs, often against clean boreal backgrounds that require no cropping. Wolverine sightings are rarer but remain a genuine possibility, & eagle sessions at fish-baited perches deliver sharp, backlit wing shots that are difficult to achieve anywhere else in Europe.

### Photographic Conditions

The peak season runs May through August, with midsummer providing near-continuous light that suits both static hide work & longer exposure landscape shots. Focal lengths of 400-600mm cover most bear hide distances (typically 20-50 metres); ISO performance is important for dusk sessions when bears are most active. Eagles at perches work well at 300-500mm.

### Photography Themes

For the wider regional programme, see our [Europe wildlife photography tours](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/) hub.

Species that must be photographed within Finland include [Brown Bear](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/brown-bear/), [Golden Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/golden-eagle/), [Great Grey Owl](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-grey-owl/), [Hazel Grouse](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/hazel-grouse/), [Whooper Swan](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/whooper-swan/), [Siberian Jay](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/siberian-jay/), [Siberian Tit](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/siberian-tit/), [Willow Tit](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/willow-tit/) & [Ural Owl](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/ural-owl/)

![Greece](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/europe.svg)

## [Alison](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/alison/) named Greece as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![A Pair Of The Dalmatian Pelicans Of Greece Gliding On The Waters Of Lake Kerkini In Soft Evening Light](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/a-pair-of-the-dalmatian-pelicans-of-greece-gliding-on-the-waters-of-lake-kerkini-in-soft-evening-light-1024x683.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [Greece](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/greece/), led by [Alison](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/alison/) Jenkins. The trips are built around Dalmatian Pelicans & other waterbirds on Lake Kerkini. Current trips: [Pelicans of Lake Kerkini](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/greece/pelicans-of-lake-kerkini-2027/) (4 nights) & [Dalmatian Pelicans of Lake Kerkini](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/greece/dalmatian-pelicans-of-lake-kerkini-2027/) (4 nights). Groups are limited to seven photographers, & single occupancy is included on current departures.

### Why Photograph Wildlife in [Greece](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/greece/)?

**Lake Kerkini** in northern Greece holds one of the most accessible & productive wildlife photography opportunities in Europe. The lake is home to one of the continent's largest populations of **Dalmatian Pelicans** - a globally threatened species with a wingspan of up to 3.5 metres - & during the winter & spring breeding season, the birds are remarkably approachable from traditional wooden fishing boats. Photographers can work at distances of 5-10 metres as pelicans display, preen, & take flight against the water & the backdrop of the Belles mountain range.

Beyond pelicans, Lake Kerkini supports significant populations of **Great White Pelicans**, **Pygmy Cormorants**, herons, egrets, & a variety of wildfowl. The lake's shallow northern end concentrates birds during winter drawdown, & early morning mist across the water creates atmospheric conditions that suit both wildlife & landscape photography in the same session.

### Photographic Conditions

The peak season runs December through March when pelicans are at the lake in highest numbers & displaying behaviour is most active. Boat sessions allow very close approach with patient manoeuvring; 400-600mm covers most pelican distances, though a 70-200mm is useful for wider environmental shots with the mountain backdrop. Winter morning light is low & warm - arriving at dawn gives the best combination of light angle & bird activity before fishing boats disturb the lake.

### Photography Themes

For the wider regional programme, see our [Europe wildlife photography tours](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/) hub.

Species that must be photographed within Greece include [Dalmatian Pelican](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/dalmatian-pelican/), [Great White Pelican](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-white-pelican/), [Pygmy Cormorant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/pygmy-cormorant/), [Common Crane](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-crane/), [Whooper Swan](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/whooper-swan/), [Greater Flamingo](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/greater-flamingo/), [Great Cormorant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-cormorant/), [Great Crested Grebe](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-crested-grebe/), [Eurasian Spoonbill](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eurasian-spoonbill/), [Glossy Ibis](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/glossy-ibis/), [Squacco Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/squacco-heron/) & [White Stork](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-stork/)

![Iceland](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/europe.svg)

## [Robin](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/robin/) named Iceland as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![An In Flight Atlantic Puffin With Glowing Orange Feet Photographed By Robin Lowry During The Natureslens Puffins Of Iceland Photography Holiday On Grímsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/An-in-flight-atlantic-puffin-with-glowing-orange-feet-photographed-by-Robin-Lowry-during-the-NaturesLens-Puffins-of-Iceland-photography-holiday-on-Grimsey-Island-1024x683.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [Iceland](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/iceland/), led by [Robin](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/robin/) Lowry. The trip is built around Atlantic Puffins on Grímsey Island. The current trip is [Puffins of](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/iceland/puffins-of-iceland/)[Iceland](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/iceland/)'s Grímsey Island (7 nights). Groups are limited to seven photographers, & single occupancy is included on current departures.

### Why Photograph Wildlife in Iceland

Iceland strips wildlife photography to its essentials: extraordinary subjects, dramatic light, & minimal obstruction. The landscape is uncluttered - black basalt, grey sea, wide sky - & the animals stand fully within it.

**Grímsey Island** hosts one of the most accessible Atlantic Puffin colonies in the North Atlantic. With virtually no predators on the island, the birds have no learned flight response to human presence, allowing close-range photography at eye level as they land on clifftops, exchange sand eels with partners, & tend burrow entrances within a few metres. Arctic terns defend nests actively, diving at close range - giving dynamic flight sequence opportunities throughout the breeding season. Oystercatchers, fulmars, black guillemots, & kittiwakes complete the seabird complement.

### Light Conditions

The Iceland window (June-July) runs under midnight sun. Golden-hour light at 11pm & dawn light again by 2am - soft, low-angle, directional across the full 24-hour period. Pale subjects against bright sky will underexpose on evaluative metering: work with positive exposure compensation & monitor your histogram. Bring weather-sealed kit; sea spray from exposed clifftops reaches further than you expect.

### Photography Themes

For the wider regional programme, see our [Europe wildlife photography tours](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/) hub.

Species that must be photographed within Iceland include [Atlantic Puffin](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/atlantic-puffin/), [Arctic Fox](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/arctic-fox/), [Arctic Tern](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/arctic-tern/), [Great Skua](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-skua/), [Northern Fulmar](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/northern-fulmar/), [Northern Gannet](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/northern-gannet/), [Gyrfalcon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/gyrfalcon/), [Iceland Gull](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/iceland-gull/), [Razorbill](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/razorbill/), [Rock Ptarmigan](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/rock-ptarmigan/), [Common Guillemot](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-guillemot/) & [Black-legged Kittiwake](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/black-legged-kittiwake/)

![India](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/asia.svg)

## [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) also named India as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![One of Bandhavgarhs tigers strides through a waterhole photographed during the NaturesLens India’s Bengal Tigers of Bandhavgarh Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/one-of-bandhavgarhs-tigers-strides-through-a-waterhole-photographed-during-the-natureslens-indias-bengal-tigers-of-bandhavgarh-photography-holiday.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [India](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/india/), led by [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) Miles. The trips are built around Bengal Tigers, Indian Leopards, Asian Elephants & the wildlife of Kaziranga. Current trips: [Majestic Bengal Tigers of](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/india/tigers-of-india/)[India](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/india/) (7 nights), [Wildlife of Kaziranga National Park](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/india/wildlife-of-kaziranga/) (7 nights) & [Tigers of Bandhavgarh](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/india/tigers-of-bandhavgarh/) (7 nights). Groups are limited to between five & seven photographers, with the exact maximum shown on each trip, & single occupancy is included on current departures.

### Why Photograph Wildlife in India

**Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve** is the centrepiece of our India programme. Few places on earth offer a comparable chance to photograph **Bengal Tigers** in open sal forest, & the reserve's tiger density is among the highest in India. Beyond tigers, Bandhavgarh's wildlife includes **Leopards**, Sambar Deer, Sloth Bears & a rich bird community that rewards every hour between big-cat sightings.

We run two Bandhavgarh trips that differ in how you travel. [Majestic Bengal Tigers of India](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/india/tigers-of-india/) (March 2027) limits safaris to two guests per jeep, includes a full-day safari across all three zones & stays in a villa at Bamboo Grove Lodge. [Tigers of Bandhavgarh](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/india/tigers-of-bandhavgarh/) (March-April 2028) has twelve morning & evening safaris with three guests per jeep & an eco-lodge stay at Aranyak Resort.

**Kaziranga National Park** in Assam carries the world's largest population of **Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros**. [Wildlife of Kaziranga National Park](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/india/wildlife-of-kaziranga/) (March 2028) also covers Asian Elephants, Hog Deer, Ganges River Dolphins & wetland birds such as Greater Adjutant Stork & Bar-headed Goose, across sweeping floodplain.

### Photographic Conditions

Bandhavgarh is most productive from October through April, when vegetation is lower after the monsoon & animals concentrate near water. Early morning drives deliver the best tiger light as animals are active & shadows are short. 400-600mm lenses cover typical jeep distances; a 70-200mm is useful on tighter forest tracks where tigers approach closely. Kaziranga is best from February through April, before the rains flood the grassland.

### Photography Themes

Species that must be photographed within India include [Asian Elephant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/asian-elephant/), [Bengal Tiger](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/bengal-tiger/), [Crested Serpent Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/crested-serpent-eagle/), [Ganges River Dolphin](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/ganges-river-dolphin/), [Grey Langur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/grey-langur/), [Hog Deer](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/hog-deer/), [Indian Elephant](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/indian-elephant/), [Indian Gaur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/indian-gaur/), [Indian Hornbill](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/indian-hornbill/), [Indian Leopard](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/indian-leopard/), [Indian One-horned Rhinoceros](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/indian-one-horned-rhinoceros/), [Indian Peafowl](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/indian-peafowl/), [One-Horned Rhinoceros](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/one-horned-rhinoceros/), [Sloth Bear](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/sloth-bear/), [Spotted Deer](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/spotted-deer/), [Swamp Deer](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/swamp-deer/) & [Wild Water Buffalo](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/wild-water-buffalo/)

![Japan](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/asia.svg)

## [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) also named Japan as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![One Of The Snow Monkeys Or Japanese Macaques Of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park In The Thermal Pool One Of The Species Featured During Our Japans Winter Wildlife Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/One-of-the-Snow-Monkeys-or-Japanese-Macaques-of-Jigokudani-Snow-Monkey-Park-in-the-thermal-pool-one-of-the-species-featured-during-our-Japans-Winter-Wildlife-photography-holiday-1024x768.jpg)

NaturesLens runs winter wildlife photography tours in [Japan](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/japan/), led by David Miles, Ian Roberts & Pui Hang Miles. The trip is built around Hokkaido's Red-crowned Cranes, Whooper Swans, Steller's Sea Eagles & White-tailed Eagles, with Japanese Macaques on mainland [Japan](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/japan/). The current trip is [Japanese Wildlife in Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/japan/japanese-wildlife-in-winter/) (14 nights). Groups are limited to six photographers, & single occupancy is included.

What a Japan wildlife photography tour involves
 Winter is the point of this trip. Snow, ice, steam & low sun give Japan's wildlife a graphic quality you cannot get at other times of year. Our itinerary pairs the Hokkaido scenes with the contrasting pace of the macaques of mainland Japan, & adds hidden gems such as the elusive Ural Owl.

A winter programme built through experience
 Our Japan itinerary has evolved over many winters. Returning to the same areas has helped us judge where extra time is useful & how to connect locations without losing productive sessions. The priority is repeat opportunities with productive subjects, not adding a stop to lengthen a species list. Read the full story in [our account of Japan's winter wildlife photography](https://natureslens.co.uk/article/winter-wildlife-tour-of-japan/).

Eastern Hokkaido
 In eastern [Hokkaido](https://natureslens.co.uk/specific-location/hokkaido/) the subjects are [Red-crowned Cranes](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-crowned-crane/), [Whooper Swans](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/whooper-swan/), [Steller's Sea Eagles](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/stellers-sea-eagle/) & [White-tailed Eagles](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-tailed-eagle/). Opportunities are shaped by snow, water, coastal light & changing weather, with boat-based eagle sessions & repeat visits so we can respond to behaviour rather than rely on a single attempt.

Mainland Japan: the macaques
[Japanese Macaques](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/japanese-macaque/) offer a different pace: social behaviour, expressions, snow & steam. It is a chance to slow down & concentrate on storytelling rather than action.

What to expect from the photography

**Exposure in snow:** keeping whites clean without losing detail, & reading the histogram when light changes quickly.
**Autofocus for moving birds:** settings & techniques for eagles in flight & dancing cranes.
**Positioning & composition:** using light direction, backgrounds & weather to simplify frames.
**Cold-weather handling:** keeping kit & batteries working in sub-zero temperatures, snow & ice. February in Kushiro averages about 0°C by day & -8°C overnight.

Is this trip for you?
 It suits photographers who want a serious winter portfolio & are happy with early starts & cold mornings in return for exceptional subjects. Read our [guest reviews](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/client-reviews-of-natureslens/) or [how NaturesLens designs its photography holidays](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/travel-with-natureslens/).

Best time to go
 Our departure runs in February, when cranes, swans & eagles are at their best. Check the trip page for current dates & availability.

Species that must be photographed within Japan include [Blakiston's Fish Owl](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/blakistons-fish-owl/), [Ezo Brown Bear](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/ezo-brown-bear/), [Ezo Red Fox](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/ezo-red-fox/), [Ezo Sika Deer](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/ezo-sika-deer/), [Japanese Macaque](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/japanese-macaque/), [Red-crowned Crane](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-crowned-crane/), [Steller's Sea Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/stellers-sea-eagle/), [Whooper Swan](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/whooper-swan/), [White-tailed Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-tailed-eagle/) & [Long-tailed Tit](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/long-tailed-tit/)

![Madagascar](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/africa.svg)

## [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) also named Madagascar as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![Madagascar Wildlife - red ruffed lemur (Varecia rubra) is an endangered species](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Madagascar-Wildlife-red-ruffed-lemur-Varecia-rubra-is-an-endangered-species-1024x683.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [Madagascar](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/africa/madagascar/), led by [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) Miles. The trip is built around lemurs, Aye-ayes, couas & mantellas. The current trip is [Madagascar](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/africa/madagascar/) Wildlife & Rainforest (15 nights). Groups are limited to six photographers, & single occupancy is included on current departures.

### Why Photograph Wildlife in Madagascar

Madagascar is one of earth's great evolutionary outliers - isolated from mainland Africa for over 88 million years, the island has developed a fauna found nowhere else on earth. More than 90% of its wildlife is endemic, from the extraordinary diversity of **Lemurs** - over 100 species, from tiny mouse lemurs to the spectacular Indri - to chameleons, fossas, & a bird community unlike anything in continental Africa.

Our Madagascar trips are built around the island's most photogenic primate encounters: **Ring-tailed Lemurs** at Berenty, **Sifakas** dancing across open ground in their distinctive sideways gait, & the haunting calls of Indri in the eastern rainforest. The island's reptile diversity - including the world's highest chameleon species richness - rewards macro photographers with subjects of extraordinary form & colour.

### Photographic Conditions

The dry season (April through October) provides the most accessible conditions in the south & west; the eastern rainforest is productive year-round but wet season travel is challenging. Lemur photography in reserves is close-range work - 200-300mm is often sufficient. Chameleon & reptile macro requires specialist lighting; a dedicated macro setup (100-180mm) with ring or twin flash is the essential complement to standard wildlife telephoto.

### Photography Themes

Species that must be photographed within Madagascar include [Fossa](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/fossa/), [Boky](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/boky/), [Giant jumping rat](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/giant-jumping-rat/), [Verreaux's sifaka](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/verreauxs-sifaka/), [Red-fronted brown lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-fronted-brown-lemur/), [Pale fork-marked lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/pale-fork-marked-lemur/), [Red-tailed sportive lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-tailed-sportive-lemur/), [Gray mouse lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/gray-mouse-lemur/), [Indri](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/indri/), [Diademed sifaka](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/diademed-sifaka/), [Common brown lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-brown-lemur/), [Eastern gray bamboo lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eastern-gray-bamboo-lemur/), [Goodman's mouse lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/goodmans-mouse-lemur/), [Eastern woolly lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eastern-woolly-lemur/), [Black & white ruffed lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/black-white-ruffed-lemur/), [Red-bellied lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-bellied-lemur/), [White-fronted brown lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-fronted-brown-lemur/), [Aye-aye](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/aye-aye/), [Macarthur's mouse lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/macarthurs-mouse-lemur/), [Red ruffed lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-ruffed-lemur/), [Northern bamboo lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/northern-bamboo-lemur/), [Masoala woolly lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/masoala-woolly-lemur/), [Masoala sportive lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/masoala-sportive-lemur/), [Greater dwarf lemur](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/greater-dwarf-lemur/), [Ring-tailed vontsira](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/ring-tailed-vontsira/), [Spotted fanaloka](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/spotted-fanaloka/), [Falanouc](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/falanouc/), [Madagascar flying fox](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/madagascar-flying-fox/), [White-breasted mesite](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-breasted-mesite/), [Sickle-billed vanga](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/sickle-billed-vanga/), [White-browed owl](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-browed-owl/), [Couas](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/couas/), [Vangas](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/vangas/), [Parrots](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/parrots/), [Pygmy kingfisher](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/pygmy-kingfisher/), [Blue coua](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/blue-coua/), [Asities](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/asities/), [Tetrakas](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/tetrakas/), [Pitta-like ground roller](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/pitta-like-ground-roller/), [Rufous-headed ground roller](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/rufous-headed-ground-roller/), [Madagascar harrier hawk](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/madagascar-harrier-hawk/), [Helmet vanga](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/helmet-vanga/), [Scaly ground roller](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/scaly-ground-roller/), [Oustalet's chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/oustalets-chameleon/), [Nicosia's chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/nicosias-chameleon/), [Short-horned chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/short-horned-chameleon/), [Parson's chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/parsons-chameleon/), [Short-nosed chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/short-nosed-chameleon/), [Perinet's chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/perinets-chameleon/), [Horned leaf chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/horned-leaf-chameleon/), [Thiel's leaf chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/thiels-leaf-chameleon/), [Panther chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/panther-chameleon/), [Hooded chameleon](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/hooded-chameleon/), [Giant leaf-tailed gecko](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/giant-leaf-tailed-gecko/), [Mossy leaf-tailed gecko](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/mossy-leaf-tailed-gecko/), [Satanic leaf-tailed gecko](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/satanic-leaf-tailed-gecko/), [Madagascar tree boa](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/madagascar-tree-boa/), [Malagasy giant hognose snake](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/malagasy-giant-hognose-snake/), [Spiny-tailed iguana](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/spiny-tailed-iguana/), [Elegant skink](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/elegant-skink/), [Green-backed mantella](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/green-backed-mantella/), [Baron's mantella](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/barons-mantella/) & [Tomato frog](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/tomato-frog/)

![Spain](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/europe.svg)

## [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) also named Spain as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![A Red Kite Soars Past In Flight Captured At One Of The Locations Used For The Natureslens Eagles Other Birdlife Of Northern Spain Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/thumbnails/large/A-Red-Kite-soars-past-in-flight-captured-at-one-of-the-locations-used-for-the-Natureslens-Eagles-Other-Birdlife-Of-Northern-Spain-Photography-Holiday-1024x683.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [Spain](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/spain/), led by [Pui Hang](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/pui-hang/) Miles & Ian Roberts. The trips are built around Iberian Lynx, plus raptors, vultures & bee-eaters in Extremadura & Northern [Spain](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/spain/). Current trips: [Iberian Lynx of the Spanish Winter](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/spain/the-iberian-lynx-in-spain-during-winter/) (5 nights), [Birds of Extremadura](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/spain/birds-of-extremadura-2027/) (7 nights), [Birdlife of Northern Spain](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/spain/birdlife-of-northern-spain/) (7 nights) & [Iberian Lynx in Summer](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/spain/iberian-lynx-in-summer-2027/) (5 nights). Groups are limited to between four & six photographers, with the exact maximum shown on each trip, & single occupancy is included on current departures.

### Why Photograph Wildlife in Spain

Spain is built around hide-based photography - you are static, silent, & the animals move on their own terms. The result, when conditions align, cannot be staged.

Around **Toledo**, the focus is the **Iberian lynx** - one of the world's rarest wild felids, now recovering from near-extinction & accessible in mountain scrubland south of the city. Hides positioned at established movement corridors allow close-range, natural-light photography without any disturbance to the animals. Alongside the lynx: the **Spanish imperial eagle**, another highly restricted species, photographed in flight between feeding grounds & nest sites during the breeding season.

In **Extremadura**, the cork & holm oak dehesa supports one of Europe's most spectacular raptor concentrations. Greater & lesser kestrels, red kite, black vulture, & enormous white stork colonies - best in March-April when nesting birds crowd the rooftops of ancient towns - give flight photography opportunities unavailable elsewhere in Western Europe.

### Best Season

February-April for Iberian lynx & imperial eagle. March-May for stork colonies & raptor concentrations. October for red deer rut - stags bellowing through misty mountain mornings that reward atmospheric technique.

### Photography Themes

For the wider regional programme, see our [Europe wildlife photography tours](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/) hub.

Species that must be photographed within Spain include [Azure-winged Magpie](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/azure-winged-magpie/), [Bonelli's Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/bonellis-eagle/), [Common Crane](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-crane/), [European Bee-eater](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/european-bee-eater/), [European Roller](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/european-roller/), [Griffon Vulture](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/griffon-vulture/), [Iberian Lynx](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/iberian-lynx/), [Little Owl](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/little-owl/), [Spanish Imperial Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/spanish-imperial-eagle/), [Eurasian Black Vulture](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/eurasian-black-vulture/), [Egyptian Vulture](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/egyptian-vulture/) & [Red Kite](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-kite/)

![Sweden](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/europe.svg)

## [Conny](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/conny/) named Sweden as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![A Pair Of Golden Eagles Greeting One Other On Snow Photographed During The Natureslens Northern Swedens Eagles In Winter Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/A-pair-of-Golden-Eagles-greeting-one-other-on-snow-photographed-during-the-NaturesLens-Northern-Swedens-Eagles-in-Winter-Photography-Holiday-1024x683.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [Sweden](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/sweden/), led by [Conny](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/conny/) Lundstrom & Robin Lowry. The trip is built around Golden Eagles, Northern Goshawks & winter birds. The current trip is [Northern](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/sweden/northern-swedens-eagles/)[Sweden](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/sweden/)'s Eagles In Winter (5 nights). Groups are limited to seven photographers, & single occupancy is included on current departures.

### Why Photograph Wildlife in Sweden

Sweden's vast boreal forests & remote highland terrain provide the setting for one of Europe's most impressive raptor photography programmes. Our Sweden trips are built around **Golden Eagles** - one of the continent's great aerial predators - photographed at purpose-built feeding stations that bring the birds to reliable, repeatable positions in excellent light. Shooting distances are consistently close, giving photographers the opportunity to fill the frame with an eagle in a way that is difficult to achieve anywhere else in Europe without hide infrastructure.

The Swedish forest also holds **Brown Bears**, **Wolverines**, & **Moose**, & our itineraries can be structured to include additional mammal hide sessions alongside eagle work. Sweden's northern latitudes produce long summer evenings with warm, directional light that extends well past 9pm, giving several hours of prime photography conditions around each hide session.

### Photographic Conditions

Golden eagle sessions work year-round but are most productive in winter & early spring when eagles are less mobile & feeding is concentrated. Snow backgrounds in winter produce clean, graphic compositions. Shooting distances of 15-30 metres are typical; 300-500mm telephoto lenses are the core tools. High-speed burst & good AF tracking are essential for capturing landing & take-off sequences.

### Photography Themes

For the wider regional programme, see our [Europe wildlife photography tours](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/) hub.

Species that must be photographed within Sweden include [Golden Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/golden-eagle/), [Great Grey Owl](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-grey-owl/), [Whooper Swan](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/whooper-swan/) & [White-tailed Eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-tailed-eagle/)

![Trinidad & Tobago](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/wrld-sa.svg)

## [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) also named Trinidad & Tobago as a favourite location for their wildlife photography.

![A Scarlet Ibis in Trinidad photographed in Trinidad at the locations used by the NaturesLens Tropical Birds Of Trinidad Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/A-Scarlet-Ibis-in-Trinidad-photographed-in-Trinidad-at-the-locations-used-by-the-NaturesLens-Tropical-Birds-Of-Trinidad-Photography-Holiday-1024x683.jpg)

NaturesLens runs small-group wildlife photography holidays in [Trinidad & Tobago](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/south-america/trinidad-tobago/), led by [David](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) Miles. The trip is built around hummingbirds, manakins, Bearded Bellbirds & other tropical birds. The current trip is [Tropical Birds Of Trinidad](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/trinidad-tobago/birds-of-trinidad/) (7 nights). Groups are limited to six photographers, & single occupancy is included on current departures.

### Why Photograph Wildlife in [Trinidad & Tobago](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/south-america/trinidad-tobago/)

Trinidad & Tobago offer some of the finest tropical bird photography in the Caribbean, combining extraordinary resident diversity with close-approach opportunities that are genuinely rare in the region. The twin islands sit near the South American mainland & share much of its avifauna - Trinidad alone holds over 450 species, including **Tufted Coquettes**, **White-bearded Manakins**, **Blue-crowned Motmots**, & the extraordinary **Scarlet Ibis**, which roosts in mangrove swamps in flocks that turn the treeline red at dusk.

The world-famous feeders at **Asa Wright Nature Centre** in Trinidad's Northern Range rainforest are the centrepiece of any visit - multiple hummingbird species, honeycreepers, trogons, & large woodpeckers feed at close range on the veranda, giving relaxed, controlled portrait sessions without any fieldcraft required. Forest trails around the centre add trogons, antbirds, & specialist understory species.

### Photographic Conditions

The dry season (January through May) is the prime photography period - reduced humidity & clearer light, with Scarlet Ibis roost flights at Caroni Swamp at their most reliable. Feeder work at Asa Wright suits 200-400mm; forest trail shooting requires higher ISO tolerance & fast AF in variable shade. Tobago adds offshore seabirds & reef-edge frigatebirds for a broader portfolio.

### Photography Themes