P E L I C A N S O F K E R K I N I
J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6
Photograph the charismatic Dalmatian Pelican and other Greek wildlife this winter
H I G H L I G H T S
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Five private boat trips and shoreline feeds with the Dalmatian and Great White Pelicans, at sunrise and sunset
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Spectacular birdlife such as Flamingos, Greater Spotted Eagles, 8 species of Woodpecker, and endangered Lesser White-Fronted Goose
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Develop a diverse portfolio of images
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Visit a major wetland near Thessaloniki for flamingos, spoonbills and more
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Local guides with intimate knowledge of the area
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Excellent guide to client ratio, with lots of 1-on-1 tuition
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Optional editing class in between photo sessions
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Single supplement en-suite rooms in a comfortable guesthouse by the lake
T R I P O V E R V I E W
During this workshop, we will focus on photographing the charismatic Dalmatian Pelican that spend the winter on Lake Kerkini in northern Greece. Over 5 days, you'll be able to build a stunning and varied portfolio of these rare and spectacular birds, with the help of local fishermen and guides who have developed an intimate relationship with the pelicans over many years. Exclusive boat trips and shoreline feed sessions offer unparalleled opportunities for flight and close-up portraits from boats and from the shore.
Winter is the best season to observe these birds, with over 100 birds on the lake sporting their breeding plumage of orange throat pouches. We will capture a range of images including portraits, in flight, feeding, and wide angle in environment, hopefully against snow-capped mountains, mist or glowing sunsets. The diversity of landscapes around Kerkini make this a photographer's dream. We will track down other spectacular animals such as Greater Flamingos and Pygmy Cormorants on the lake, and search the meadows for Golden Jackals and Wild Cats. So start clearing those camera memory cards - you'll need the space!
I T I N E R A R Y
Find out how the days will unfold and what activities make up the tour Day 1: Arriving in Thessaloniki, we'll transfer to our hotel near the shore of Lake Kerkini. Depending on timings, we may do an introductory photography session with the pelicans from the shoreline. Dinner in town. Day 2: Early morning photography around Lake Kerkini, where we will photograph Dalmatian Pelican feeding from the shoreline, as well as a handful of Great White Pelican in their pink breeding plumage. We'll take a boat out onto the lake for 2 hours, to capture a variety of feeding, in-flight and portrait shots. Return to the hotel for brunch and to review our photos. A search of the neighbouring fields and woodlands for birdlife such as Greater Spotted Eagle, Black and White Storks, Cranes, and seven species of Woodpecker. Return to the lake in the late afternoon for a 2 hour sunset session with the pelicans. Evening search for Golden Jackal and Wild Cat, which can sometimes be seen out hunting. Dinner in town. Day 3: A repeat of Day 2, focussing on getting a rich variety of images of the Pelicans in different light and backdrops. Day 4: We'll visit the Axios Delta Wetland near Thessaloniki. One of the most important wetlands in Europe, we will focus on photographing many birds at water level and at close proximity, such as large flocks of Greater Flamingo, Pygmy Cormorant, Black-Necked Grebe, Kingfisher, and various waterfowl. Optional drive for Wild Cat and Golden Jackal, and dinner in town. Day 5: Final morning boat session with the pelicans, before heading to the airport at Thessaloniki. Photographable Species: Dalmatian Pelican, Great White Pelican, Greater Flamingo, Pygmy Cormorant, Great Cormorant, Greater Spotted Eagle, Kingfisher, Black-Necked Grebe, various species of Duck, Black Stork, White Stork, Crane, Middle-Spotted Woodpecker, Syrian Woodpecker, Grey-Headed Woodpecker, Golden Jackal, Wild Cat
O U R B A S E
We'll stay in a traditional guesthouse in Lithotopos, just a short walk from the side of the lake.
With private en-suite rooms, lounge, and tavern serving fresh Greek food, it’s the perfect base for both comfort and daily creativity with the pelicans.
The Pelicans
5 boat sessions and 1 shoreline feed will give you many opportunities to photograph Dalmatian and Great White Pelicans up close and really hone your photographic style.
Each morning and evening, we’ll be out on the lake, capturing everything from feeding behaviour and birds in-flight moments, to striking portraits and silhouettes. Under expert guidance, you are guaranteed fantastic images of these magnificent birds.
Excursions
We'll spend one day at the Axios Delta - one of the most important wetlands in Europe. Here, we'll photograph birds at water level and at close range, including large flocks of Greater Flamingo, Spoonbill, Pygmy Cormorant, Black-Necked Grebe, Kingfisher, Greenshank, and various waterfowl and shorebirds.
During the afternoons, between pelican sessions, we will explore Lake Kerkini's shoreline for Golden Jackals and Wildcats, Greater-Spotted Eagles, and the numerous species of woodpeckers that make its forests their home.
P R A C T I C A L I N F O R M A T I O N
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Why Pick This Trip?These hides offer some of the best raptor photography opportunities in Europe, with over a dozen species possible - from Bearded Vultures to the rare Bonelli's Eagle and Eagle Owl. Winter is the best time of year to see these species in action before they expand their territories to breed, and our hides are the best way to witness their lives up close. I've guided here for several seasons, alongside our excellent local guides, and will help you make the most of every opportunity, ensuring you capture truly unique images.
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What's Included?✓ Services of photography & local nature guides ✓ Permits and private access to 3 days of photography hide activities ✓ Evening image review & post-processing sessions (optional) ✓ A welcome presentation on the local fauna ✓ 4 nights' accommodation at an apartment in Montsonis ✓ All meals ✓ Airport pick-up & drop-off from Barcelona El Prat airport ✓ Ground transportation by car and minibus
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What's Not Included?✗ Return flights to Barcelona (please contact me so that I can recommend the best flights) ✗ Any Visa charges or airport taxes ✗ Personal & cancellation insurance ✗ Personal snacks & beverages ✗ Personal expenses ✗ Laundry ✗ Any additional overnight stays & extra hide sessions
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What Camera Gear Do I Need? Do I Need To Be An Expert Photographer?Not at all! Beginners and more experienced photographers are all welcome, and there'll be lots of group and 1-on-1 tuition available. The beautiful thing with our groups is that we all inspire each other and have different approaches. Kit-wise, we recommend that you bring a DSLR or bridge camera with a zoom lens in the 100-400mm range for portraits and behavioural shots. A wide-angle lens (10-20mm) or GoPro is recommended for the raptors feeding at close range! Tripods are necessary for the hides (a light one will do) to ensure crisp action shots. Upon booking, I will send everyone a recommended kit list.
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Are Meals Included?Yes, all meals are included! Breakfast and lunch, prepared by the local bodiga, will consist of pastries, fresh fruit, sandwiches and salads, toast and jam, with coffee/tea and juices. Dinner will be a variety of traditional Catalan tapas cuisine (meat and vegetarian options), and we may prepare meals in the apartment. Please let me know upon booking if you have any dietary requirements.
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What's The Weather Like In The Pyrenees?The weather should range from 5 to 15C, with sunshine, mists, and low chance of rain or snow. In some of the smaller hides, although portable heaters are available, it can feel pretty cold in the morning. It is important that participants wear appropriate clothing for the season. Upon booking, I will send a recommended clothing and kit list.
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What's The Group Size?With a maximum of 5 participants, our group size ensures everyone has a better personal experience and plenty of space in each hide. Small group size, 1-on-1 tuition, and intimate encounters with animals are what people value from my tours.
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Is There A Lot Of Walking?No. We consider this light, as we will be based largely on one location with hide photography. Please contact me beforehand to discuss suitability and if you have any mobility issues.
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What Flight Should I Take?It is recommended to fly to Barcelona airport, where we will transfer together by car to Montsonis. Alternatively, if you wish to see more of the country, you could fly to Madrid and take the train to Lleida, where we will meet you for the transfer. Please discuss with me so that I can recommend the best flight for you to take.
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Do You Offer Single Occupancy?Yes we do. All rooms are private en-suite (single/double occupancy).
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When Do We Receive Our Final Joining Instructions?Usually 4 weeks prior to departure. In the event of delay, please contact me via email or by phoning +44 (0)7342983581 or emailing paulalistaircollins@gmail.com.
For full terms and conditions, including our cancellation policy and personal travel insurance, please click to see the Terms & Conditions
* To take part in our trip, you must be covered by adequate insurance for its entire duration. The insurance must cover for cancellation, medical and emergency expenses. We recommend insurance against damage or loss of baggage, camera equipment, instruments and personal items.
Contact Paul at paulalistaircollins@gmail.com for further information.
Once your booking has been confirmed, a £300 deposit will be required per person to secure your place.