PHOTOGRAPHY GETAWAY
The heating season of the Cantabrian chamois in the Picos de Europa
Between 15 November and 10 December
- Between 15 November and 10 December
- Picos de Europa
- Maximum 4 people
- Low physical demands
- 495€
Summary
As autumn begins to draw to a close with the arrival of the first snows and a general drop in temperatures, the Cantabrian mountains come alive with the heating season of the chamois, becoming the scene of intense activity. The males, who until then had led solitary lives, head out to join the herds of females and young grazing on high-altitude slopes, usually just below the snow line.
These males then begin a courtship ritual that involves chasing the females, sniffing the air or their urine to determine when they are receptive. But in doing so, they encounter other males vying for their harem, leading to confrontations and high-speed chases down impossible slopes amidst a landscape that is always dramatic and dizzying. During this time, the dominant males hardly rest, constantly keeping watch over the females and driving off any rival that comes too close.
As you can well imagine, for the nature photographer this is a magical and exciting time, when it is possible to take portraits of the chamois sporting their thick winter coats, and to capture unique behaviours and scenes of action against the unrivalled backdrop of the high mountains as winter approaches.
Itinerary
Potes (Cantabria)
Arrival at our accommodation in Potes, considered the gateway to the spectacular landscape of the Picos de Europa.
Potes (Cantabria)
We’ll head to the high mountain areas of the Picos de Europa, where we’ll spend the whole day searching for and photographing the spectacular Cantabrian chamois at the height of the rutting season.
Furthermore, the alpine ecosystem will give us the chance to photograph other species typical of high-altitude mountain environments, such as the yellow-billed chough and the alpine accentor, which are commonly found on rocky outcrops and high-altitude grasslands.
Potes (Cantabria)
The final morning of the trip. We will return once again to the high-mountain areas of the Picos de Europa for another session of observing and photographing the Cantabrian chamois, building on the experience gained during the previous day and seeking out new photographic opportunities in different locations and under varying light conditions.
Throughout the day, we’ll keep an eye out for other alpine species, such as the yellow-billed chough and the alpine accentor. We’ll be back at midday.
Included/Not included
Included
- Accommodation in a single room
- 2 sessions of observing and photographing chamois
- Professional tracking guide
- Transport
- Tickets for the Fuente De cable car
- Compulsory basic accident insurance
Not included
- Breakfasts, lunches and dinners
Recommendations
A 400 mm or 500 mm lens is usually the most useful for taking portraits of chamois when the animals are close by, but also for capturing action shots from a greater distance – involving several animals in the same frame – and for photographing herds. A 100–500 mm or 200–600 mm zoom lens offers the versatility needed for the full range of images that can be captured on this trip.
This activity takes place in the high mountains as winter approaches, so it is important to wear warm, mountain-appropriate clothing, including a thermal top and a waterproof or windproof anorak. Hiking boots are required. On some occasions, snowshoes may be needed to get around in the snow. In this case, the photographer will be notified in advance and the equipment will be provided or made available for hire locally (the hire of this equipment is not included in the trip’s budget).
You need to know
This activity is planned to take place over two consecutive days in order to make the most of different lighting conditions and the animals’ varying locations. The experience gained on the first day will also help to improve the results on the final morning.
We offer the option of booking this break on an individual basis. For further information, please contact us via the form, by email or by telephone.
The heating season of the Cantabrian chamois in the Picos de Europa
3 days
Per person
If the maximum group size is not reached, the trip may still go ahead subject to payment of a supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of trip is this?
This is a nature photography trip designed to observe and photograph the spectacular heating season of the Cantabrian chamois in the Picos de Europa area. Over two days, we will venture into high-mountain terrain to document one of the most fascinating behaviours of Cantabrian wildlife, accompanied by a guide specialising in tracking and nature photography.
Do I need previous experience in nature photography?
Advanced experience is not essential. This trip is designed for both experienced nature photographers and amateurs who wish to get started or improve their wildlife photography skills. Our guide will assist you during the photo sessions to help you make the most of the surroundings, the lighting conditions and the animals’ behaviour.
What species will we be able to photograph?
The star of the show will be the Cantabrian chamois, which at this time of year is in the midst of the heating season, offering unique scenes of behaviour, chases and clashes between males.
Furthermore, during our high-mountain excursions, we will have opportunities to observe and photograph other species typical of these alpine ecosystems, such as the yellow-billed chough and the alpine accentor.
Is transport included?
Yes. The trip includes all necessary transport within the area during the activity, as well as tickets for the Fuente Dé Cable Car, which we will use to reach the mountain viewing points.
Travel to the meeting point in Potes is not included Potes, nor are lunches and dinners during the stay.