WILD MADRID: WINTER
MADRID, SPAIN
Photograph rare Imperial Eagles, Mediterranean birds & mammals just a stone's throw from Madrid
Just a few kilometres from Madrid lies a hidden treasure that few know about and even fewer can access. For this tour we have exclusive access to a protected 8000-hectare estate with a network of hides dedicated to photographing some of Spain's rarest creatures such as the Spanish Imperial Eagle, Eagle Owl, and Genet.
The combination of exclusive access, a rare ancient holm oak forest and well-preserved Mediterranean pasture, a higher density of Imperial Eagles than anywhere else in Spain, and proximity to Madrid, make this a truly unique destination and photographic experience.
DATES & PRICES
2026 TOURS AVAILABILITY PRICE
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Feb 05 - 09 5 Places £1,690
Mar 22 - 26 What's Included?
2027 TOURS AVAILABILITY PRICE
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Feb TBC 5 Places £1,750
Are you interested in something similar? Send an enquiry and I’ll reply soon to discuss further.
PAUL ALISTAIR COLLINS
HIGHLIGHTS
Private access to the estate's hide network - we're the only photographers outside of Spain allowed access!
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Take truly unique photos of Spanish Imperial Eagle (Spain's rarest raptor), Eagle Owl, Vultures, Ibex, and more.
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4 nights' stay in a charming medieval village outside Madrid, near the estate.
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Develop a rich portfolio of other Mediterranean wildlfie such as Azure-Winged Magpie and Iberian Woodpecker from ground-level hides
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Expert 1-on-1 tuition from award-winning photographer Paul Alistair Collins, with photo feedback sessions
ITINERARY
The following is a proposed itinerary, is a proposed itinerary, which should be considered provisional, subject to bird activity, weather and hide choices. In the case of inclement weather, we will recommend other hides where we may observe these species, or try to rearrange sessions for another day.
Fly to Madrid. Transfer by car 40mins north to our accommodation just beyond Madrid, in the quaint medieval fortress town of Manzanares el Real, near Tres Cantos, on the edge of the Sierra de Guadarrama. Local exploration, settling in, and a chance to see the widespread White Storks which nest around town. Dinner at a local restaurant. Welcome presentation of our itinerary as well as photographic techniques to apply in the field.
LOCATION
We will stay in a medieval town just outside Madrid, and a five minute drive from the private photography estate.
The estate is home to a wealth of animals difficult to find elsewhere in Spain, and the population of Spanish Imperial Eagle is particularly healthy here, with over 30 individuals.
The Hides
This private estate is home to a rich variety of species throughout the year. We'll use many fixed and portable hides (for those species with a shorter breeding season).
The hides are designed with photographers in mind, featuring high-quality one-way glass (to the same high spec as on my other photo tours). This keeps us hidden from view, increasing the chances of spotting natural behaviours.
Spanish Imperial Eagle
Hides for photographing the endemic Spanish Imperial Eagle. Late winter is an excellent time to observe this rare species in good numbers, with the arrival of spring's warmth and subtle daylight.
Eagles often settle about 10 to 15 metres from our hide, sometimes much closer.
Capacity Seats up to 4 people.
Lens 100-400mm, up to 500mm.
Timing Morning or full day session.
Vultures
Photograph Cinereous and Griffon Vultures as they gather in large groups in the winter, alongside Black & Red Kites and Buzzards.
Vultures often settle about 10 to 15 metres from our hide, often much closer.
Capacity Seats up to 4 people.
Lens 100-400mm, up to 500mm.
Timing Morning or full day session.
Eagle Owl
This winter, it has been possible to get photos of Europe's largest owl, the Eagle Owl! With evening visits often lasting up to 40 minutes at a time, this is a rare opportunity to photograph the owl under the golden glow of sunset.
Please get in touch if you are interested in photo opportunities with the Eagle Owl.
Capacity Seats up to 2 people.
Lens 100-400mm, up to 500mm.
Timing Evening session.
Woodland Hides
With a buzz of activity and wonderful light especially in the mornings, this is a fun hide to get your teeth into hide photography and to try out interesting shots on a wide variety of Mediterranean birds.
Birds will be perched approximately 4 to 5 metres from our hide.
Species: Crested Tit, Azure-Winged Magpie, Rock Sparrow, Hawfinch, Dartford Warbler, Nuthatch, Iberian Green Woodpecker, finches, tits, thrushes
Capacity Seats up to 4 people.
Lens 100-400mm. 300mm is sufficient.
Timing Morning or full day session.
Goshawk
Photograph the formidable Goshawk at a woodland perch or water source, as it hunts near the woodland bird hide.
Capacity Seats up to 2 people.
Lens 100-400mm.
Timing Morning or full day session.
Mammals
There are also opportunities to photograph the estate's herds of Red and Fallow Deer, and occasionally some of the rarer mammals such as Genet.
Capacity Seats up to 4 people.
Lens 100-400mm.
Timing Morning, evening or full day session.
WANT TO EXTEND YOUR TOUR?
Want to combine a bit of Spanish culture or add more wildlife experiences?
Paul Alistair Collins Photography is thrilled to offer the Raptors Of The Pyrenees and the Land Of The Lynx tours.
We can arrange pre/post tour extensions in Madrid, Barcelona, or further afield.
WHAT MAKES THIS TOUR FOR YOU?
For this tour, we have exclusive access to a 8000-hectare estate on Madrid's doorstep, with specialist hides dedicated to photographing Spain's iconic birds such as the Spanish Imperial Eagle. With a higher density of these eagles than anywhere else in the country, we believe this is the best location to photograph them. A unique location with possibilities to work with species that are hard to find elsewhere in Spain.
With expert photographic guidance from award-winning photographer Paul Alistair Collins, we'll ensure you capture truly unique images. I've guided here for several seasons, alongside our excellent local guides. We believe no one knows a land better than those who’ve lived there and travelled its length and breadth, and we will help you make the most of every opportunity.
‘Wildlife tourism, done right’ is the best way to ensure long term survival of wildlife and habitats against threats such as deforestation and poaching. Our wildlife encounters create everlasting memories for you while contributing positively to conservation. For every Madrid holiday we sell, we contribute financially back to local wildlife organisations.
EXCLUSIVE
ACCESS
Gain access to private locations where other tours don't go - and capture unique shots that no one else is getting.
INTIMATE
ENCOUNTERS
Enjoy regular sightings of our target species, in diverse light and weather conditions - allowing you to build a rich portfolio of stunning images.
DEEP
IMMERSION
Develop your vision at your own pace - with thoughtfully curated itineraries, expert guiding, small groups and 1-on-1 learning.
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.