Experience Spain at its most spectacular on this unforgettable 2026 journey that blends world-class birding, incredible wildlife encounters, breathtaking mountain scenery, rich Spanish culture—and the rare magic of a total solar eclipse. From Madrid’s historic charm, we venture into wild landscapes where Iberian Wolves roam the Sierra de la Culebra and Cantabrian Brown Bears forage in lush Somiedo National Park. Each day brings new marvels: soaring vultures and bee-eaters overhead, enchanting medieval villages, serene glacial lakes in Picos de Europa, and forests alive with songbirds. This is Spain beyond the cities—raw, scenic, and wildly biodiverse.

Yet this adventure is not only about nature—it is also a deep dive into Spain’s heritage and way of life. We taste traditional dishes like fabada, explore sacred sites such as the Covadonga Sanctuary, stroll ancient cobblestone towns, and experience vibrant regional culture in places like Oviedo and Segovia. And then comes the grand finale: standing in the dramatic mountain landscapes of Montaña de Riaño, gathered together as the sky darkens and the August 12, 2026 Total Solar Eclipse sweeps overhead in a breathtaking two minutes of totality. With wildlife, culture, scenery, and a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event, this tour promises wonder at every turn.

Tour Highlights

  • Search for iconic wildlife including Iberian Wolf, Cantabrian Brown Bear, European Wildcat, and a stunning array of mountain birds across Spain’s most biodiverse parks.
  • Witness the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse from a prime viewing point in the dramatic mountains of Montaña de Riaño as day turns briefly to night.
  • Explore rich Spanish culture and history in charming medieval towns like Oviedo and Segovia, complete with castles, cathedrals, and Roman aqueducts.
  • Savor authentic regional cuisine from hearty Asturian fabada to traditional cider tastings in local sidrerías.
  • Journey through spectacular landscapes including rugged limestone peaks, glacial lakes, lush forests, and serene mountain meadows.
  • Enjoy guided birding and nature walks with expert leaders, spotting vultures, bee-eaters, wallcreepers, and other European specialties.

Trip Itinerary

Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary may occur to account for weather, road conditions, closures, etc. and to maximize your experience.

Mon., Aug. 3      Arrivals

Welcome to Spain! Please plan to arrive in Madrid today at your leisure. We plan to assemble as a group for dinner this evening. 
Accommodations at Hotel Agumar, Madrid (D)

Tues., Aug. 4       Madrid to Sierra de la Culebra

We wake up this morning in Madrid and enjoy our first lovely Spanish breakfast. Then, we pack up and transfer to La Sierra de la Culebra (home to the largest population of Iberian Wolves in the Iberian Peninsula) and check into our accommodations for the next two nights in Puebla de Sanabria in the region of Castilla y Leon, just near the northeast corner of Portugal. The village is beautiful, hosting cobblestone streets and stone buildings adorned with flowers; the castle, churches, and walls of the city lay within the boundaries of the Tera and Castro rivers, and a stroll through town feels like stepping back in time.

After lunch we go on an evening outing and lie in wait for a good chance to see Iberian Wolves. As we explore, we keep our eyes peeled for exciting birds like Black and White Storks, European Honey-buzzard, Eurasian Griffon, Short-toed Snake-Eagle and Booted Eagle, Red and Black Kites, gorgeous Eurasian Hoopoe, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Iberian Grey Shrike, ever-present Eurasian Magpie, and striking Eurasian Jay. European Stonechat, Northern Wheatear, Black Redstart, White and Gray Wagtails, and pretty Common Chaffinch add striking color to our bird list today.
Accommodations at Hotel Gran Casona de Sanabria, Puebla de Sanabria (B,L,D)

Wed., Aug. 5       Full Day Exploring Sierra de la Culebra

We awake and enjoy another delicious Spanish breakfast before departing for a full day focused on the observation of the fauna of Sierra de la Culebra, which includes striking Red Deer, Roe Deer, Wild Boar, Red Fox, and of course the Iberian Wolf. There is a rich culture here that has been created around this mammal since ancient times; we learn from our guides about the local customs and cultures. We also enjoy a workshop that allows us to interact with the skulls of wolves and other carnivores and herbivores of the region, as well as learning and studying the tracks of the local fauna. 

The Sierra de la Culebra, translated to Mountain of the Snake, is the natural border between this section of Spain and neighboring Portugal. As we look for and learn about the mammals of these mountains, we also watch for huge Cinereous Vulture, possible Golden Eagle, beautiful Western Marsh Harrier, Common Buzzard, jewel-like European Bee-eater, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Eurasian Kestrel, Eurasian Golden Oriole, and more.
Accommodations at Hotel Gran Casona de Sanabria, Puebla de Sanabria (B,L,D)

Thurs., Aug. 6      Sierra de la Culebra to Somiedo Natural Park

After breakfast, we journey north this morning toward Somiedo Natural Park in the region of Asturias. The region is renowned for its mountainous scenic beauty, wildlife, culture, and food. Asturias is known as “Green Spain” and we can see why. The Natural Park is one of the wildest in all of Spain and is home to all the big mammals of the Cantabrian Mountains, including more than 100 species of birds and a stable population of Brown Bear, which gives the park special importance to the conservation of these species.

We check into our cozy and locally owned hotel, enjoy lunch (perhaps trying the local specialty of “fabada”—a warm bean stew), and then enjoy a bit of a siesta or a stroll around the grounds before we head out this afternoon for our first chance to see Cantabrian Brown Bear, busily bulking up for the swiftly coming winter. This is truly wild Europe, where the human population is small and nature is queen. 

The park encompasses an impressive mix of rugged limestone peaks, lakes, and stunning beech and oak forests. At rushing mountain streams we look for White-throated Dipper, and above us it’s possible to see Egyptian Vulture. Multiple tit species, Yellow-billed Chough, Eurasian Jay and Eurasian Magpie, cute Eurasian Nuthatch, vocal Eurasian Wren, and iconic European Robin can all be found as we explore … and if we’re very lucky, we may have a chance to spot the butterfly-like Wallcreeper. This park is considered one of the most well-preserved mountain environments in the entire Iberian Peninsula. 
Accommodations at Hotel Flórez Estrada, Pola de Somiedo (B,L,D)

Fri., Aug. 7       Somiedo Natural Park

After tucking in to a fresh breakfast, we enjoy a short hike of about 2.5 miles this morning. As we hike we get a feel for the main habitats and heritage of the park. Birds on our list this morning could include strikingly bright Yellowhammer and European Serin, as well as the masked European Goldfinch. Stunning Eurasian Bullfinch, Gray and White Wagtails, Black Redstart, charming European Stonechat, Northern Wheatear, and hopefully glimpses of beautiful Blue Rock-Thrush are just a few of the species we may see this morning as we stroll through the forests and meadows. 

We enjoy a hearty lunch after our exertions this morning, then take a little siesta before heading out in the early evening for another chance to see Brown Bears, a charismatic icon of the region. 
Accommodations at Hotel Flórez Estrada, Pola de Somiedo (B,L,D)

Sat., Aug. 8     Somiedo Natural Park to Oviedo

We enjoy a leisurely morning before packing up and heading out, onward to the city of Oviedo, the capital of the Asturias province. Oviedo is well known as part of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, with its medieval old town center, a gothic style cathedral and of course, because it is the capital of cider in Spain, it boasts its own cider boulevard. The town is well known for its rich history, pre-Romanesque architecture, and impressively beautiful greens spaces. 

Upon arrival, we take a cultural tour to see the various monuments of Oviedo and end up in a sidreria (a traditional restaurant where cider is served in the old way) to taste the great variety of products of the region, including different meats, cheeses, sausages, cider, and more. 

The afternoon is free today for you to explore the city on your own, perhaps pick up a few souvenirs, and simply enjoy the lovely sights, sounds, smells, and essence of this lovely city. 
Accommodations at Gran Hotel España, Oviedo (B,L,D)

Sun., Aug. 9     Oviedo to Picos de Europa National Park: Cangas de Onis | Covadonga Sanctuary | Cosgaya

After an early breakfast, we leave for the town of Cangas de Onis to visit the famous Covadonga Sanctuary, a pilgrimage site set deep in the heart of the Picos de Europa mountains. The site is comprised of a gorgeous, pink-stoned basilica, a holy cave, a museum, the San Fernando Collegiate Church, and the Monument to King Pelayo. The site is where the first battle of the Reconquista took place in 718 between the Moors and the Christians and has been an important site in Spanish history since that time. We take a walk and enjoy the sanctuary and perhaps have time to visit the museum and do some further exploring. Birds we may see around us include Common Cuckoo, Eurasian Griffin, Common Buzzard, ubiquitous Eurasian Magpie, Eurasian Blue and Great, and Long-tailed Tits, Western House Martin and Eurasian Crag Martin, and possibly White-throated Dipper in the local streams.

From here we take a pleasant walk around the picturesque lakes of Covadonga; it’s a little under two miles between Lake Enol and Lake Ercina, but we take our time, taking in the scenery. These two glacial lakes were the original center of the national park, which was established in 1918. We have chances of Water Pipit, Wallcreeper, White-winged Snowfinch, Alpine Accentor, Northern Wheatear, Rufous-tailed Rock-Thrush, Common Raven, Red-billed and Yellow-billed Chough, Eurasian Kestrel, and Eurasian Griffon. 

We enjoy lunch on the way to the town of Cosgaya before checking into our hotel check in at the hotel, enjoying a little rest, and then tucking in to a delicious dinner.
Accommodations at Hotel Cosgaya, Picos de Europa (B,L,D)

Mon., Aug. 10    Picos de Europa National Park: Fuente Dé

Today we are visiting one of the most emblematic places in the National Park, Fuente Dé. This cable car has been around since the early 1960s and offers a really fun and unique way to view the surrounding mountains and park. Once we reach the top, we enjoy a nice hike of about 2.5 miles looking for the most symbolic fauna of this protected area, including Yellow-billed Chough, Alpine Accentor, White-winged Snowfinch, and the elusive Wallcreeper, to name just a few. If you prefer to stay at the lookout rather than hike, you can do that too! 

Lunch today is in the field, a picnic of local foods in an incredible location. We take the cable car down and head back to the hotel for some free time and perhaps a rest before dinner. Our hotel is locally owned and cozy, a nice place to relax and enjoy the incredible views.
Accommodations at Hotel Cosgaya, Picos de Europa (B,L,D)

Tues., Aug. 11     Montaña de Riaño Regional Park

After spending two days in Cosgaya and incredible Picos de Europa National Park, we move on Montaña de Riaño Regional Park at the Montaña Leonesa, one of the most renowned places in all of Spain to see European Wildcats and Iberian Wolves. Going through beautiful towns like Potes and mountain passes like Puerto de San Gregorio, we arrive at lunchtime to our hotel in Boca de Huergano, a beautiful sleepy and rural Spanish Village, a perfect viewpoint for tomorrow’s eclipse. 

We take lunch lunch and some time to rest before heading back out on an evening outing and for our first chance to see the first Wildcats hunting Montane Water Vole.
Accommodations at Hotel Tierra de la Reina, Boca de Huergano (B,L,D)

Wed., Aug. 12       Total Solar Eclipse: Montaña de Riaño Natural Park

Right after breakfast, we embark on an early birding outing to look for some by now familiar favorites and for a second chance at seeing Wildcats.  

After lunch, the countdown to showtime begins! We head towards the upper parts of Riaño, and settle down in the very the best place in the area to enjoy the highlight of the tour, the total solar eclipse. At 7:30 PM, local time, it’s time to put our eclipse glasses on as the start of this sheer spectacle unfolds and, at approximately 8:28 PM, the total solar eclipse is in full swing for two minutes. The surrounding mountain setting and the sun so low in the sky will make for an incredible viewing and leave memories to last a lifetime. We celebrate tonight!
Accommodations at Hotel Tierra de la Reina, Boca de Huergano (B,L,D)

Thurs., Aug. 13        Riaño to Segovia

Today is mostly a travel day as we make our way to our last destination of this special trip—Segovia. This city is well known in Spain as it has the most famous and best preserved Roman aqueduct in all of Spain. Our drive is about four hours today, but we have planned comfort stops to stretch our legs and enjoy some local birds.

Upon arrival in Segovia, we have time to check in and after lunch and a siesta, we enjoy a pleasant walk through the city to see the Roman aqueduct, and incredible feat of engineering with its 160+ arches and mortarless granite construction. Romanesque churches, medieval city walls, and a gothic cathedral are impressive highlights of this historic city. We enjoy a celebratory dinner tonight as well as our final bird list, recounting our favorite species, locations, and experiences of the trip. 
Accommodations at Hotel los Arcos, Segovia (B,L,D)

Fri., Aug. 14       Departures

We enjoy a final breakfast before departing for the Madrid airport, about a 2 hour drive. We say our farewells, full of great memories of an incredible wildlife and cultural experience in Spain. (B)

  • Birding Spain, Bird Watching Spain, European Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot

    Picos de Europa National Park

  • Birding Spain, Bird Watching Spain, European Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot

    Eurasian Griffon by Sharon Lynn

  • Birding Spain, Bird Watching Spain, European Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot

    Great Spotted Woodpecker by Carlos Sanchez

  • Birding Spain, Bird Watching Spain, European Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot

    Gran Hotel España, Oviedo (Asturias)

  • Birding Spain, Bird Watching Spain, European Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot

    European Robin by Mike Kershaw

  • Birding Spain, Bird Watching Spain, European Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot

    Segovia, Spain Aqueducts

  • Birding Spain, Bird Watching Spain, European Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot

    Iberian Ibex by Carlos Sanchez

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    Segovia, Spain

  • Birding Spain, Bird Watching Spain, European Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot

    Somiedo Natural Park

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    Booted Eagle by Sharon Lynn

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    Accomodations at Hotel Gran Casona de Sanabria

  • Birding Spain, Bird Watching Spain, European Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot

    Somiedo Natural Park

Cost of the Journey

Cost of the journey is $7590 DBL / $8265 SGL per person from Madrid, Spain, based on occupancy.

Included: accommodations for 12 nights, meals as specified in the itinerary, professional guide services, local guides, local park and reserve entrance fees, and miscellaneous program expenses.

NEW! all tips other than your NJ guide (optional) and local guide are included (this includes tips for your driver, lodge and staff, day activities, meals and other services).

Not included: roundtrip airfare to or from Madrid, airport transfers, or items of a personal nature such as: laundry or drinks from the bar.

This tour was priced in Euros, on October 13, 2025. If a significant shift in this rate occurs, we will need to adjust tour pricing accordingly, up to the time that final payment is made.

Travel Details

Please plan to make air travel plans only after the minimum group size has been met. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as the trip has been confirmed.

Arrival and Departure Airport: Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)

Arrival Details:  Plan flights to arrive August 3, 2026 at your leisure. The group will assemble for dinner.

Departure Details: Plan flights to depart August 14, 2026 after 3:00 PM.

Travel Tips: If you arrive early to rest up from your travels, we suggest booking an early night at our first night tour hotel, the Hotel Agumar. You can book this online and send us the confirmation number with the goal being you don’t have to switch rooms. There are also many hotels close to the airport if you wish to stay in that area after your flight. We have some recommendations below. If you are interested in exploring Madrid and want to stretch your legs after the long flight, consider a visit to Parque del Retiro, a large park in the center of Madrid. It features many walking paths, a large pond, and is also good for birding. Just a 5 minute walk from Parque del Retiro is the Prado National Museum, which has one of the largest art collections in the world featuring world renown European artists. And if you’d like to see the largest palace in Europe, the Royal Palace of Madrid is also in the downtown area. It has fascinating architecture, an extravagant interior, and an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. The easiest method of transportation in Madrid is a taxi, although Uber is also available. 

Hotel recommendations near the airport: Hilton Madrid Airport or Madrid Marriott Auditorium

Entry Requirements: See "Essential Information" section under the "Know Before You Go" tab.

Browse below for trip reports and species lists from past versions of this and other tours from this destination.

Spain

  • Stephen Grace

    Stephen is an award-winning author, natural history educator and conservationist. He has also contributed to documentary films, and his nature photography has been widely published. Over the past two decades, he has introduced groups of travelers to nature and culture in destinations as varied as Uganda, New Zealand and Alaska.

    After moving from Colorado to the Oregon coast, Stephen was captivated by the sight of a Tufted Puffin carrying fish back to its burrow, and the first time he heard a Swainson’s Thrush sing, he knew his life would never be the same. He has been studying birds and sharing their beauty with people ever since.

    Formative experiences during Stephen’s journey as a naturalist have included tagging along as a teenager with his grandparents in Madera Canyon, where he absorbed their love of Arizona’s sky islands; helping people with different ability levels experience the Yellowstone ecosystem when he lived in Jackson Hole, Wyoming; and sailing aboard a historic schooner to share the wonders of the Salish Sea with students.

    Now based in Port Townsend, Washington, Stephen explores the Pacific Northwest by backpacking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, biking, trail running, and skiing. His wide-ranging natural history pursuits include coring trees to count their growth rings, identifying bats by analyzing their biosonar signals, hunting mammoth tusks in Pleistocene bluffs, searching for the elusive Rubber Boa, preserving native prairie, raising awareness about plankton, and leading sea slug safaris.

    Other trips with Stephen Grace

Essential Information +

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have Read more

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have the best experience possible. If you only read one section, this one is key!

Ahead of Your Tour

  • Make sure your passport will be valid at least three (3) months BEYOND the date of your scheduled return to the U.S. See “Passports, Visas and Documents” section below for more details.
  • At the time of writing, a tourist visa is not required of US citizens for stays of this tour's length. However, as of Oct. 12, 2025 the EU has begun the rollout of the new Entry/Exit System (EES) at EU country border crossings for visa exempt travelers to Spain. See “Passports, Visas and Documents” section below for more details.
  • Please check current CDC recommendations for travel to Spain and consult with your doctor about general travel vaccinations you should have as precaution for travel. See the “Health and Inoculations” section below.
  • Travel insurance in case of serious medical emergency is strongly recommended. Full health coverage and repatriation is available through Allianz Travel Insurance.
  • Soft sided luggage/duffel bags are easiest for packing the vans. Pack essential medications in your carry-on luggage, as well as one day of clothing and optics in case of luggage delay.

Passports, Visas & Documents

You must have a passport that is in good condition and is valid for at least three (3) months BEYOND your scheduled return to the U.S. You should have at least one blank page per stamp per entry. The blank pages need to say “Visas” at the top; pages marked “Amendments and Endorsements” will NOT be accepted. If you are from another country, please contact the Spanish embassy websites for guidelines. Information for U.S. citizens can be found at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Spain.html

It is recommended to check for changes 60-90 days before your tour departs but, at the time of writing, a tourist visa is not required of US citizens for stays of this length.

However, the EU has begun (Oct. 12, 2025) the rollout of the new Entry/Exit System (EES) at EU country border crossings. The initial border crossing will require collecting personal data, such as fingerprints and/or a facial photo, which will be checked at all subsequent EU border crossings. See Entry/Exit System (EES).

Also note: Expected in late 2026, implementation of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require travelers from over 60 visa-exempt countries to obtain this Travel Authorization to enter most European countries in the Schengen Area. See European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

As a precaution for lost or misplaced documents you carry on your person during travel, we highly recommend you keep hard and digital backup copies on your phone (either photo or PDF scan), as well as a hard copy left with your emergency contact at home. The recommended important documents to copy include, but are not limited to; your passport ID page, travel visa, the front and back of your credit card(s), the airline barcode on your luggage. This will greatly expedite getting new ones if necessary – we hope everyone will always keep travel documents close so that losing them will not be an issue.

General Health & Inoculations Information – Be Prepared!

Health requirements for entry to any country can change. It is always advisable to double-check the country’s health requirements and recommendations 60-90 days ahead of traveling. Please, thoroughly read the  Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for the country you will travel in. You may contact them by phone at (800) CDC-INFO or (800) 232-4636 if you have any unanswered questions.

We will share your health information with your guide. This information will be kept confidential but is very important as we want to be best prepared in case of medical emergency. 

Vaccinations: Please bring your up-to-date vaccination records with you. The CDC recommends that all travelers be up to date with routine and basic travel vaccines (such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid, etc.).  Consult with your doctor for recommendations at least 6-8 weeks before departing on your trip, as some vaccines may require more than one dose and time to become effective prior to your departure. 

Mosquito and tick-borne illness: The CDC will have updated information regarding recent disease outbreaks, such as Malaria or other mosquito or tick-borne diseases, as well as extra precautions to take depending on the area(s) you will be traveling through. Travelers should reduce their risk of mosquito and/or tick-borne diseases by protecting themselves from bites using protective clothing, insect repellant (containing DEET, Picaridin, OLE, etc.) and prophylactics where applicable. Check the CDC and with your doctor to see whether your trip destination is currently at risk for malaria transmission and whether you should consider anti-malarial medication. For repellent permeated clothing, see Packing List for our recommendations. See the “CDC Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel” website for more information: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/yellowbook-home.

Prescriptions: It is a good idea to pack any meds you take regularly in your carry-on luggage.  Bring an extra pair of your prescription glasses or contact lenses. Bring an adequate supply of any prescription medications you use, a copy of the prescription(s) and a list of generic names of your medicines as “back-up” in case it is necessary to purchase drugs while abroad. Your doctor may also recommend some prescription medications to bring with you to treat possible illnesses that might occur, depending on your destination, such as an anti-malarial medication or an antibiotic. You’ll want to keep all medications in their original, labeled containers.

 Allergies: To be prepared for environmental triggers to allergies or breathing difficulties, please bring your allergy and/or asthma medication(s).  If you have severe allergies talk to your doctor about carrying an EPI pen and notify your guides. It is also recommended to carry with you an up-to-date record of known allergies, chronic medical problems and Medic Alerts so that, if necessary, emergency treatment can be carried out without endangering your health.

 Common Ailments: We recommend that you bring a travel-sized first aid kit and a supply of standard over-the-counter medications for prevention or treatment of common ailments (such as diarrhea, constipation, stomach upset, cough, congestion, head or body aches, motion sickness, insect bites and sunburn); as well as ointments, moisturizer, sunscreen, oral rehydration salts, band-aids, moleskin for blisters, cotton swabs, nail clippers, and tweezers, etc.

Altitude Illness: According to the CDC's website, day trips to high-elevation destinations less than 8000 ft. with an evening return to a lower elevation are much less stressful on the body, depending on the time provided for your body to adjust. However, overnights at higher altitudes may have more adverse effects on your body and you should be informed about altitude illness and Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) (see CDC's information for Altitude Illness). The most general symptoms are headache and occasionally fatigue and dizziness. You’ll want to take it easy, particularly at first. The likelihood of these symptoms can be reduced by resting, drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and taking aspirin.  In addition, we will optimize acclimatization by adjusting itineraries to avoid going “too high too fast." If you have worries about the altitude, ask your physician about medications (such as Diamox) that may be right for you. 

Weather & Climate

The weather in Spain is generally mild and pleasant, though it gets hot in the summer months. The spring and fall have the mildest temperatures, ranging from the high 70°F into the low 80°F, while evening temperatures can be in the mid 60°Fs. Winter is characteristically slightly cooler, dipping into the high 50°F. Year-round, humidity is generally low. We don’t expect a lot of rain, but there can be an occasional shower here and there. 

You may want to check your favorite weather information website for forecasts and predictions closer to your date of travel. 

Annoyances & Hazards

Always listen carefully to any advice given by your local guide regarding pests and other biting insects or reptiles you may encounter, especially those that may be poisonous, though this may be rare.

Mosquitos, ticks and other insects: Even if you are traveling in the dry season, mosquitos, ticks and other insects can always be encountered in your travels, so don't risk illness. See the “General Health and Inoculations” section above regarding recommended preventative measures.

Chiggers are a part of lowland and mid-elevation habitats. You may encounter them at grassland or farm locations. Your guide should have a good read on whether chiggers are a concern. It is helpful to spray your shoes with repellent and tuck your pants into your socks .  When back, be sure to shower and air out your clothing.

Remember, sunburn can be both an annoyance and a hazard, so be prepared with sufficient sun protection.

On particularly hot days be sure to increase your intake of fluids.

Food & Drinks

Spanish food is quite delicious! Food and water standards in Spain are comparable to those in the U.S. As with any travel, minor intestinal problems are possible, so we suggest bringing a remedy for traveler’s diarrhea. Please discuss appropriate medication with your physician.

One of the many ways we strive to do our part for the environment is by intentionally reducing our consumption of single use plastics (such as bottled water), so we appreciate you bringing a reusable water bottle.  Purified drinking water will be made available to refill your bottle, however, bottled water will be available for field trips where refilling your personal bottle is not an option. 

There are some great reuseable water filtering bottles on the market today that are great for travels abroad. We encourage you to invest in one (such as Lifestraw or GRAYL Ultrapress or SteriPen). A little research will be well worth the effort to reduce the reliance on single-use plastics when purified water refills are not readily available.

Packing, Clothing & Laundry

See “Packing List” tab for more detailed information and checklists, but in summary, we emphasize that you pack light in soft-sided luggage (easier to load in vans and charter planes), plan for dressing comfortably in layers (for managing varying conditions in any given day), and please pack your personal medication, travel documents, optics, and other essential items in your CARRY-ON, not in your checked luggage. Laundry services are available at most lodgings for an additional fee, but be prepared to hand launder if you need to. 

Spending Money

The Euro (EUR) is the currency in Spain. For the current exchange rate, please refer to online converter tool like www.xe.com, or your bank. We advise you carry a mix of different types of payments, such as the local currency, an ATM card, and a credit card.

You may want to exchange money before your trip. You can do so through your bank or an exchange office. Possible locations are your departing airport in the U.S., a travel agent, or a AAA office. It might be helpful to arrive with some local currency just in case you run in an “out of order” ATM or a local bank holiday.

You can also exchange your money in Spain. The easiest way is to withdraw funds from a local ATM. The ATM will give you local money and your bank will convert that into US Dollars. Many banks charge a fee of $1 - $5 each time you use a foreign ATM. Others may charge you a percentage of the amount you withdraw. Check with your bank for departure. You must become familiar with how to use your ATM card and PIN number ahead of the journey. If you plan to exchange cash in country, bring large U.S. bills ($50 or $100) that will give you the better rate when exchanging to local currency.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Spain. We suggest you have more than one card available, if possible. You may want to bring more than one brand of card (Visa, and MasterCard are more commonly used; American Express and Diners Cards are used less frequently). Not every shop will accept every card. Some smaller shops and restaurants require cash, so it is always a good idea to ask before making a purchase. Also, we recommend that you advise your bank or credit card company that you will be traveling in Europe to avoid questions, card freezes, or charges.

Traveler’s checks are not widely accepted. They can be difficult to exchange. We do not advise you that you bring them as your main source of funds.

Gratuities

We hope that you will be pleased with all professional services offered on this tour. All tips, with the exception of your NJ guide (optional) and local guide, are included in the cost of this tour (this includes tips for your driver, lodge and staff, day activities, meals and other services). 

Tipping your guide(s) to show your appreciation is entirely at your discretion and should reflect your level of satisfaction of the service provided. If you wish to offer a tip, know that they appreciate anything you care to give. Of course, you are welcome to give more in recognition of exceptional service.  Here is a guideline for tipping your NJ and local birding guide(s):

  • US $10.00 - $15.00 per day, per guest. Note: If there is more than one guide, this can be split among them. The tip amount is shown in US dollars.  

*Please note that these suggested tips are quoted in U.S. Dollars. You will want to convert and tip in Euros.

Cell Phones & Internet Service

If you plan on using your cell phone on this trip, please check with your wireless provider to see if your phone and service will work in your destination country. Ask for “international roaming” to be activated on your phone.

If your phone can connect to Wi-Fi, you may be able to make voice and video calls free of charge. Please contact your cell phone provider for further details. Another option when you have access to Wi-Fi is to use smartphone apps like Skype, WhatsApp or Viber to send text messages and make voice or video calls. Many smartphones, tablets and laptops come with one of these apps pre-installed or you can download for free. If bringing a laptop or tablet, get a good dustcover to protect it at all times.

Make sure if you do NOT want to use your cell phone for calling that you turn off your cellular data. Keep it in airplane mode. This will decrease battery usage as well. You could incur huge charges if you are not on Wi-Fi. You can still use it for photos, ebird and everything else not requiring cell reception.

Your hotel and lodges provide Wi-Fi at least in their common areas. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions due to the remote location.

Please refrain from taking or making cell phone calls in the vehicles when traveling with other passengers, unless there appears to be an emergency; this disrupts other guests.  Plan on cell phone call use on your own time.

Electricity

The standard voltage in Spain is 230V, higher than in the United States (120V), with frequency of 50 Hz. Electrical sockets (outlets) in Spain are "Type F".You will most likely need to bring a power plug adapter, and a voltage converter in order to use appliances or devices from the U.S. To be sure, check the label on your appliance. Helpful information can be found at www.power-plugs-sockets.com.

Time

Where you will be traveling in Spain is in the Central European Time (CET) Zone, which is 6 hours earlier than New York (Eastern Time). Spain observes Daylight Savings Time. A great website if you want to tell someone to check ahead of calling you is www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/spain.

Questions?

Please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at clientservices@naturalistjourneys or telephone at our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146 if you have any questions. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey!

 

Pace & Protocols +

Pace of the Tour & What to Expect You will receive a Schedule-at-a-Glance and list of Read more

Pace of the Tour & What to Expect

You will receive a Schedule-at-a-Glance and list of hotels (our eContact List) a few weeks before your departure. This will serve as an outline for each day and alert you to any recent changes made in the schedule or to our hotels, if needed.

Our journeys are set up to follow the rhythm of nature. Our focus is on birding and nature; we offer full, well-planned field days and often get up early for that magical time around dawn. We generally follow the published itinerary, but we stay flexible to the weather, wildlife opportunities and the interests of the group. Your guide will keep you apprised of the next day’s schedule at each evening meal, noting what to bring and what to prepare for. Questions and/or concerns are welcome.

The pace of our Naturalist Journeys tours is moderate; to fully participate you should be able to get in and out of vehicles several times a day, and walk 1-3 miles over uneven terrain. It is important to participate with a flexible attitude as adjustments may be made in our schedule to make the most of our time in the field or for other purposes at your guide's discretion. We are not a “listing” bird company that drills down on target species, but at times we do wait for those special species unique to the places we visit. During the day, we take time to stop for photos and for educational opportunities to learn about conservation projects, landscapes, and geology. We appreciate other taxa as well as birds, with mammals often the biggest draw but plants and butterflies are also very popular. Our clients often lend their own expertise to the mix.

We like to make meals a fun and memorable part of the experience, too. Breakfasts are often at hotels, and we carry snacks, fruit, and water in the vans each day. Lunches are a mix of picnics in the field (weather dependent) and a chance to dine with locals at small cafes and restaurants. For dinner, we pride ourselves in our homework to keep up with the best choices for dining, choosing restaurants with atmosphere that specialize in local foods. On occasion we keep dinner simple to go back out in the field for sunset wildlife viewing or night walks. In some remote locations, our choices are limited. If you are tired, room service for dinner may be an option you can choose.

Naturalist Journeys International Trips: Guide Role

Naturalist Journeys supports ecotourism and the development of excellent local guides. Once we know our international partners and guides well, we can send out small groups working directly with these trusted partners, adding a Naturalist Journeys guide to assist the local expert when we have a group of 6-7 or more. This helps us keep your costs down while retaining tour quality. The local guide is your main guide. You can expect your Naturalist Journeys guide to be well-researched and often they are experienced in the destination, but their role is not to be primary, it is to help to organize logistics, help you find birds, mammals, and interesting other species in the field, keep reports, help facilitate group interactions, and to keep the trip within Naturalist Journeys' style. Local guides live in the countries we travel to, know the destinations intimately, and are often the strongest force for conservation in their countries. They open many doors for us to have a rich experience.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in any vehicle or in any situation where the group is participating in an activity together, such as a vehicle excursion or a guided walk. Please respect all designated smoking areas at hotels and restaurants.

Transportation

As a courtesy to each other, we ask that all travelers please rotate seating. On international trips we may all be in one small bus, on some trips we are in vans, particularly the roomy Sprinter Vans when available. Some areas require us to be in smaller 4-wheel drive or safari vehicles. Rotation allows you to sit with different drivers and alternate front and back seating.

Photo Release & Sharing

We take many group photos and will share photos with the group. And after your tour, we will organize a chance to share photos via Dropbox or Google Photos. Please note that this is our policy and if you prefer to be excluded, we need to know ahead of your tour.

By registering for this tour, you agree to grant to Naturalist Journeys and its authorized representatives’ permission to record on photography film and/or video, pictures of my participation in the tour. You further agree that any or all of the material photographed may be used, in any form, as part of any future publications, brochure, or other printed materials used to promote Naturalist Journeys, and further that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit or other compensation.

Travel Insurance

You are traveling in remote areas. Naturalist Journeys strongly recommends you have full medical and evacuation insurance from a company such as Allianz, for all international travel. If you do not have medical coverage or evacuation coverage on your existing travel insurance policy or for some reason elected not to take that out, we advise getting an evacuation plan with Global RescueWorld Nomads, Medjet, Allianz (they can do evacuation only) or a similar company. These plans are typically $300-$400 for a year for multiple destinations. This coverage may be a part of a larger Travel Insurance policy but can also be purchased on its own.

Questions?

Please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at clientservices@naturalistjourneys.com or telephone our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146 if you have any questions. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey.

 

Packing List +

Please Pack Light! Soft-sided luggage is much easier for us to pack in vehicles or charter Read more

Please Pack Light!

Soft-sided luggage is much easier for us to pack in vehicles or charter aircraft than a more rigid hard sided piece, so if you have the choice, please use your soft-sided luggage. Be sure to have your name and address on the inside of the bag, as well as on the luggage tag on the handle. It is our hope that you can pack in one checked bag that does not exceed 50 pounds. Please reconfirm your airline’s baggage weight and size restrictions about a week or so before departure.

TRAVEL TIP:  Imagine NOT getting your checked luggage upon arrival. DO NOT pack any essential medications, vital optics (binoculars, camera, eye-glasses), or essential travel documents in your checked luggage! Pack these and other essential items in your carry-on bag and on your person (i.e. under-garment pouch). You will want a day pack for field trips, so this makes an ideal carry-on. Another suggested tip is to travel wearing your most important shoes for the field and have one day’s clothing change (including a change of underwear!).

Pack clothing that is appropriate for the anticipated temperatures and conditions. See the "Weather & Climate" section under "Essential Information" for general seasonal climate info for the date of this tour. In addition, you may check your preferred weather app closer to departure to get a better idea of the weather to expect.

Dress is comfortable and informal throughout the trip. Dressing in lightweight layers is the best way to provide options to get you through a day of varying weather and temperatures comfortably. Lightweight long sleeve shirts and long pants make ideal field clothing as they are more protective from sun, vegetation and pests. Also, choose clothing you don’t mind getting dirty or muddy and things that are loose-fitting, comfortable, and easy to layer and launder. Quick-dry fabrics are ideal.  A lightweight and waterproof outer layer is essential as well as comfortable hiking footwear. It is important to have a warm jacket if the tour includes higher elevations.

Treating your clothing to better protect you from insects: It is possible to purchase Permethrin spray (online or from REI) to treat your field clothing and socks before your departure. Another approach is to purchase field clothing permeated with insect repellent such as the Craghoppers Insect Shield collection.

Note on clothing colors: We recommend muted colors of tan, brown, khaki, grey or green, as they are spotted less easily than white or bright colors, though camouflage clothing is not recommended.

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND TRAVELING WITH PRECIOUS OR VALUABLE JEWELRY – don’t tempt anyone and don’t bring things you’d regret losing, and your mind will be at ease!

Clothing & Gear

  • Lightweight long pants, 2 pair
  • Shorts (optional)
  • Lightweight long-sleeved shirts (2-3)
  • T-shirts or equivalent (4-5 – remember you may be buying some!)
  • Personal underclothing and pajamas
  • Socks – lightweight and easy to wash and dry
  • Comfortable clothes for evening (a cleaner version of your field clothes or a skirt, sundress, etc.)
  • Bathing suit (optional)
  • Hat with broad brim
  • Bandana (gel bandanas work well to keep you cool)
  • Comfortable walking shoes (such as tennis shoes)
  • Lightweight hiking boots
  • Sandals for evenings, travel days (optional)
  • Lightweight sweater or jacket; fleece fabric is ideal, but a sweatshirt will do
  • Lightweight raincoat or poncho (great if this doubles as windbreaker)
  • Field vest (optional), a great source is Big Pockets

Equipment & Miscellaneous

  • Photo identification - Real ID is required as of May 2025 for U.S. citizens on domestic flights who are not carrying a valid passport
  • Airline tickets or E-ticket verification
  • Passport (and visa or other travel authorizations when traveling internationally) - Note: To avoid issues with confirming your identity when two forms of ID are required, the name on your Drivers License (or other secondary forms of ID) should match your passport.
  • Travel insurance info
  • Money & credit cards
  • A secure pouch to carry the items above on your person at all times (such as a secure, under-clothing document pouch)
  • As a backup: copies of all the above (phone and/or paper) packed in a separate location than on your person, plus a set given to your emergency contact at home as a backup. When carrying a passport, a copy of the ID and entry stamp pages.
  • Small backpack, daypack or fanny pack for carrying your field gear (this can double as your carry-on!)
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Binoculars
  • Camera and charger/extra batteries, memory cards/film, lens cleaning supplies and instruction manual (optional)
  • Spotting scope and tripod (optional – guide will have them)
  • Tablet/laptop for personal use and/or transferring photos, USB stick, USB cord and charger (optional)
  • Rechargeable power bank (optional)
  • Electricity converters and adapters for 2-to-3 prong electronics plugs if needed (See "Electricity" under "Essential Information")
  • Reusable water bottle to avoid the use of disposible plastics (*with filters such as Lifestraw and UV sterilization system such as SteriPen for destinations where tap water is deemed unsafe to drink - see "Food & Drink" section in Essential Information) 
  • Umbrella – compact and not brightly colored
  • Walking stick – we find that many travelers appreciate a walking stick on trails, sporting goods stores carry collapsible models that pack easily in your suitcase (optional)
  • Small flashlight with fresh batteries
  • Alarm clock
  • Sunscreen/lip balm
  • Sunglasses with neck strap
  • Toiletry articles
  • Laundry soap (consider laundry soap "sheets" that pack flat, and are lightweight and environmentally friendly)
  • Notebook or journal and pen (optional)
  • Field guides (optional)
  • Earplugs – in urban and even rural areas barking dogs and traffic noise can be annoying
  • A collapsible airplane footrest (such as an inflatable, foldable, or hammock type) may help make longer flights more comfortable. Some airlines may have restrictions, so confirm with your airline which types are allowed and where they may be not allowed, i.e. bulkhead or exit rows (optional)

Medical and First Aid Items

  • Health insurance and vaccination information (kept in personal pouch with other travel documents)
  • Personal Rx medications (in their original labeled prescription packaging)
  • Epi-pen if needed for allergic reactions (include prescription label)
  • Anti-malarial prophylactics and antibiotic prescription in case of infection, if recommended for this destination, prescribed by your physician
  • Altitude illness meds (such as Diamox) if likely to be needed
  • Motion sickness preventatives if likely to be needed on bus, van, drives, etc.
  • Personal first aid kit and medications for general ailments, colds and stomach ailments, etc.
  • Foot powder, lotions, general “comfort” items
  • Hydrocortisone cream to ease itching from insect bites
  • Band-Aids, moleskin to protect against blisters
  • Antibacterial and/or hygienic cleansing wipes
  • Copy of eyeglass prescription, medical prescriptions, and any medical alerts
  • Extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts (with plenty of wetting and cleaning solution)

 

Suggested Reading List +

There are many titles of interest for Spain; the following are a few that we Read more

There are many titles of interest for Spain; the following are a few that we have enjoyed that can get you started.

Top Picks

Birds of Europe

Merlin App – Europe Pack. A phone-based birding app from Cornell University Laboratory of Ornithology. Before departing the U.S., download the app for free, then from within the app, download the “pack” for Europe.

Field Guides

Collins Bird Guide App: The Ultimate Field Guide. (iPhone and iPad)

Collins Bird Guide, The Most Complete Guide to the Birds of Britain and Europe

The Birds of the Iberian Peninsula

Mammals of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East

Mammals of Britain and Europe

Collins Butterfly Guide: The Most Complete Field Guide to the Butterflies of Britain and Europe

Butterflies of Britain and Europe: A Photographic Guide

Wild Plants of Southern Spain: A Guide to the Native Plants of Andalucia

Site Guides

Where to Watch Birds in Southern & Western Spain

Where to Watch Birds in Spain: The 100 Best Sites

History & Culture

Wild Spain: A Traveller's Guide

Seville and Andalucia - DK Eyewitness Travel Guide

Spain: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture - Culture Smart!

A Traveller’s History of Spain

Iberia, Spanish Travels & Reflections by James Michener

Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary - Lonely Planet

Your guide will also have a selection of reference books and materials for participants to share. As an Amazon Associate, Naturalist Journeys earns from qualifying purchases, and may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page at no added cost to you.

 

Useful Links +

Learn more about your destination at these external websites, carefully researched for you. Read more

General

Spain – An Encyclopedic Overview

Spain’s Official Tourism Website

Madrid – An Encyclopedic Overview

Almagro - An Encyclopedic Overview

Seville – An Encyclopedic Overview

Cordoba – An Encyclopedic Overview

Trujillo, Cáceres – An Encyclopedic Overview

Nature, Wildlife & Biology

Bird Checklist of Spain - Avibase

Birdwatching in Spain

Birding Spain - Fatbirder

Andalusia Bird Society

Laguna de Navaseca – eBird hotspot

Birding Alcázar de San Juan Lagoon – Avibase Checklist

Birds of Spain - iNaturalist

Llanos de (Plains of) Trujillo – eBird hotspot

Conservation, Parks & Reserves

Doñana National Park (UNESCO)

Las Tablas de Daimiel National Park

Odiel Marshes Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO)

Odiel Marshes Biosphere Reserve

Monfragüe National Park

Llanos de Trujillo Y Caceres – Conservation Area

Sierra de Gredos Regional Park

Biodiversity Information System for Europe – Spain

The European Nature Trust

Article in the Journal for Nature Conservation, “Biases in Conservation: A Regional Analysis of Spanish Vertebrates”

News Articles on Conservation in Spain – Mongabay.com Environmental News

Geology & Geography

Geology of Spain and the Iberian Peninsula

Geography of Spain

History & Culture

History of Spain – An Encyclopedic Overview

Spain Timeline Profile – BBC

Spanish Culture

Spanish Cuisine – A Culinary History

Calatrava la Nueva Castle (Sacro convento-castillo de Calatrava la Nueva)

Magacela Castle

Helpful Travel Websites

Homeland Security Real ID Act

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

Visa ATM Locator

Mastercard ATM Locator

U. S. National Passport Information Center

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Foreign Exchange Rates

U.S. Department of State International Travel Information - Spain

Center for Disease Control (CDC) – Spain

Canada Travel Advice and Advisories - Spain

Travel Health Pro (UK) - Spain

Electricity and Plugs – Spain

Time and Date – Madrid, Spain

Holidays – Madrid, Spain

 


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