Doñana & Kingdom of the Iberian Lynx

Our interesting two-centre tour will be a combined birding and mammal trip, with a special focus on seeing the endangered Iberian Lynx in the wild. In January, Lynx are at their most active during the daytime as they seek a mate before becoming nocturnal in the hotter months. We can also enjoy the mild winter sunshine of southern Spain and visit famous birding sites such as Doñana and Sierra de Andújar at a relaxed pace.
Other species anticipated on this trip include Red-crested Pochard, Red-knobbed Coot, Golden Eagle, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Blue Rock Thrush, Dartford Warbler, Firecrest, Crested Tit and Cirl Bunting. Please note that we will be looking for the Lynx in the wild, and although the chances of seeing one are relatively high we cannot guarantee views of this species.

Days 1-4: Doñana National Park
Morning flight to Seville, met by our driver/ guide Cristian Jensen, transfer by minibus to the National Park, where we enjoy a local tapas lunch. Doñana is a wonderful place throughout the year, but for birdwatchers the winter is a particularly attractive time to visit. The famous marismas of Doñana usually hold water at this time and attract large quantities of Greater Flamingos, Glossy Ibises, ducks, geese, gulls, terns and shorebirds foraging side by side with White Storks, Spoonbills, Purple Swamp-hens and several species of herons and egrets. Some breeding raptors are back on territory whilst others are passing through on migration; the whole area is just teeming with life.
Overnights: Rural Location near Doñana NP

Days 4-8: Sierra Morena
Transfer to Sierra de Andújar, a well-kept secret in terms of wild mountain habitat in Spain. This beautiful mountain chain holds dense populations of Moufflon, Red and Fallow Deer, Otter and Wild Boar as well as the largest Iberian Lynx population in Spain. Birds seen here include Griffon and Black Vultures, Golden and Spanish Imperial Eagle, Azure-winged Magpie, Sardinian Warbler, Hawfinch and Iberian Green Woodpecker. Transfer to Seville airport on the morning of Day 8.
Overnights: Andújar rural location

Tour ref: AA23**

Cost: £1,975
Deposit: £300
Single Room Supplement: £120

Leaders: Cristian Jensen & Shena Maskell

Max. Group: 10 plus leaders

Includes: Return flights (London Gatwick-Seville-London Gatwick), accommodation (based on twin occupancy), meals, all transportation in Spain and services of leaders.

Excludes: Travel insurance, drinks and items of a personal nature.