Spain - Realm of the Iberian Lynx

This holiday twocCentre holiday provided so much and our leaders Niki and Alejandro were excellent in their knowledge and determined we should see as much as possible in our limited time there. Every day we saw something different and so many different birds or mammals. The locations we stayed in were so interesting too from wetlands to mountains. Coto Donana has such a history too. You don’t need to be an expert, the expertise is with our guides. The fact that there was so much variety keeps it interesting for those who are not purely ‘twitchers’. The group was 12 which is also ideal and not too big not to relate to the others with you. You didn’t need specialist binoculars or scopes - our guides had those and made sure we’d seen what had been spotted. It was great to be outdoors all day. Naturetrek are friendly, helpful, only too happy to help. Well organised and good communicators.

S.B. West Yorkshire, Feb 23

This was a holiday in search of the Iberian Lynx. I had been once before with a different company and failed to see the Lynx. This was a much better organized holiday lead well with accommodation & meals well catered for. Some of our party were lucky enough to see about 6 Lynx. I was not so lucky but did have viewings in the late evening sun of one down to about 300 yards and seen exceedingly well. A very enjoyable holiday. Naturetrek are a very caring and helpful company especially as I have slight disabilities. They are also extremely environmentally aware of the world situation with the planet. A well run and informed staff. I have travelled with them many times and have never had to worry about anything as they look after you and if they are not able to answer your question will always find a means to answer it. I highly recommend them.

F.W. London, Jan 23

We spent 6 days in two different areas of southern Spain--the Coto Donana National Park and the Sierra Morena--to try and have sightings of the elusive Iberian Lynx, other mammals and birdlife. We stayed in two comfortable hotels with excellent food provided for the whole trip. The food at our hotel in Los Pinos was outstandingly good. The group of 13 fellow travellers were good companions for this holiday and we were led by two excellent guides in Niki and Byron who made this holiday so enjoyable for us all. With their dedication, their friendliness, their enthusiasm, their sense of humour and all of their hard work on our behalf, we could not have wished for better leaders. They are a credit to their company, Naturetrek. We had sightings of many birds, mammals and insects on this trip and--when we had almost given up hope--we  all had a good view of a male Iberian lynx on our very last morning. This was a wonderful 6 day holiday which I would recommend to anyone who loves the natural world. You cannot do any better than travelling with Naturetrek. Naturetrek provides holidays for nature lovers all over the world with small group holidays of varying lengths to suit everyone. They have excellent tour guides who go out of their way to ensure that the whole holiday experience is a success. These guides spend all of their time with the group they are leading--they are literally on hand 24 hours a day to give help wherever it may be needed. Their knowledge of the natural world is second to none and they are friendly, sociable people who really love the work they are doing. If I wanted a nature holiday I would travel with this company every time.

I.R. Hertfordshire, Oct 22

Three generations of my family (grandmother, daughter, granddaughter) enjoyed this tour very much. The animal/bird sightings, due to the expertise of our tour leaders and some members of our group, were enjoyable. The 2 beautiful locations chosen for viewing/scanning, sightseeing and other points of interest were very good. We loved the picnics on several days too. Our 2 tour leaders were extremely knowledgeable, helpful in many ways sorting problems out when unexpected situations arose concerning members of our group. They were also fun to be with. I have travelled with Naturetrek before. Their tours have always well organised and interesting.

H.D. Kent, Mar 22

A two centre wildlife holiday in the habitat of the Iberian lynx, deer, otter and mouflon with opportunities to see vultures, the Spanish Imperial Eagle and other raptors. Experienced and expert tour guides ensure that the trip runs smoothly, needs are met and all opportunities to view wildlife and the area  are maximised to the full. Good accommodation and food included, with opportunities to fly from local airports and to extend the trip if requested. Efficient and well organised operation, with professional and helpful staff. Good pre-briefing pack with comprehensive tour information and guidance. Expert and experienced tour guides. Opportunities to take alternative flights and extend the stay are all accommodated and efficiently managed.

B.H. Lancashire, Mar 22

A two centre holiday searching for Iberian lynx and other wildlife, based firstly at El Rocio for Coco Donana then close to Anduja National Park in the Sierra Morena. Our small group of 11 was led by two expert guides who helped us find over 100 bird species and several mammals including long range views of Iberian lynx. The hotels were good with excellent food... Naturetrek provide excellent guides and operate as far as possible in a sustainable manner. They try to support local operators and companies that assist in the conservation of nature. 

A.G. Worcestershire, Mar 22

A two centre wildlife trip to see Iberian Lynx in Sothern Spain with Naturetrek. Location one was in El Rocio, a wild west of a town with sandy streets and horses, ideally located next to the Doñana national and natural parks. During our 2 night stay the park vehicles took us on 3 trips to try and see the lynx and bird life (Spanish Imperial Eagle, Eurasian Black Vulture and Little Owl were among my highlights). We had a short sighting of a Lynx crossing the road about 100 metres ahead of us before it disappeared into the bush. The hotel we stopped in has a lake behind it and any spare time we had was spent viewing the Flamingo, Spoonbill and Purple Swamp Hen. Our second location was in Andujar. A 4 hour drive including stops took us to our hotel for 3 nights. We were out all day during our stay, with picnic lunch, between two locations; one in the hills looking down across the valley to scan for wildlife and the other at river location. Both lovely locations, we had Lynx success in the hills. One fleeting glimpse crossing the road and the other about 1km away but for about 2mins max across 45mins, as it navigated between bushes. The trip was led by 2 Naturetrek guides, with a group of 13. All food was excellent and included, and both hotels were clean and comfortable. A very enjoyable and rewarding trip. I've been on about 5 trips with them and they have all been excellently ran, with knowledgeable and experienced tour leaders. During these uncertain times, they kept us fully informed as travel restrictions changed. Would recommend.

S.P. Worcestershire, Jan 22

The holiday promised lynx, but I didn't really expect to see any. However - we did! Three sightings, plus two near misses - as well as ibex yards away from our group, ignoring us while they mock-sparred, mouflon, eagles, vultures, kingfishers - catching fish! And many other birds like the extraordinary stone curlews and black shouldered kites I had only ever seen in photographs. Add to that great travel companions, eager guides, unusual and welcoming accommodation, first class food and good weather - and we had the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable week. I've used them [Naturetrek] four times and have three more trips booked with them, into 2023. That says it all?

J.T. Hertfordshire, Jan 22

The main reason we chose the trip was that it appeared to have a good mix of mammals and birds and a chance to see the rare Iberian Lynx. The trip lived up to its billing and with the aid of the very knowledgeable Niki and Simon surpassed our expectations. The trip was very well balanced in terms of locations, Donana and the mountains providing differing habitats and opportunities for wildlife sightings. It was also well paced with breaks being planned at the right times and opportunities to rest and relax in the company of the group in the evenings. Both leaders, Niki and Simon were outstanding! They were fantastic throughout the trip, their knowledge and organisational skills were excellent but more than that they were very good company and eager to please. Overall the entire trip was first class and exceeded our expectations in many ways. We were very lucky to have stunning views of the Lynx on the trip and managed to see all the other targets from the ibex and otter to many species of birds and butterflies.

AH, Warwickshire, Jan 22

We set out to try to find the endangered Iberian Lynx as well as looking for eagles, vultures, other birds and mammals. This was a small group of 7 people with an excellent guide who worked tirelessly to help us see out target animal. I didn't have a telescope but our guide ensured that his was available. We had 9 excellent sightings which was really thrilling. And was saw a range of other mammals including Ibex, Mufflon and excellent views of raptors and other birds.  Always available and wiling to help with queries. However this holiday really tested Naturetrek. Whilst in Spain the UK Government demanded extra PCR (negative) tests to be taken 2 days before leaving Spain. We were in a remote area and our guide worked a miracle in finding a clinic who could do the tests and get them verified prior to our return. We then had to fill in complicated form took hours on our mobile phones. Frankly I am not IT competent and our guide really helped me. This extra help is a reflection of the quality of our guide (outstanding) and of Naturetrek as an organization.

S.D. Worcestershire, Dec 21

The tour was well organized: the team and co leaders worked tirelessly scanning the landscape for Lynx, Mouflon, well anything that flew or moved. At meals and particularly at breakfast, they were very attentive ensuring we had breakfast and refreshments before a busy day of looking for wildlife. The Lynx were particularly elusive but at the end of 2 days of scanning different Landscape we were successful. Overall two adult Lynx in a very romantic mood and two yearling cubs. Picnic lunches were most enjoyable with Spanish Tortilla, local cheeses and meats. The company of fellow like minded travellers, the wonderful scenery, as well as the attentiveness of the tour leaders made a wonderful break during these challenging times of the Covid19 Pandemic. We added pre and post extension in Seville which allowed us to enjoy nature and culture.

S.B. Hampshire, Nov 21

The two accommodations were in good locations and provided comfortable rooms and good food. The tour leaders were excellent and extremely knowledgeable and ensured that we had the best chances to spot Lynx and other wildlife. We have used Naturetrek for a number of trips and not been disappointed.

L.C. Cambridgeshire, Nov 21

We booked "Spain - the Realm of the Iberian Lynx" not really expecting to see this elusive cat, but we had four separate sightings. In addition, we saw some 70 bird species and a wild boar, otter, ibex, mongoose and ladder snake. The weather was perfect and it was just wonderful to be out in the Spanish mountains. We added on three nights in Seville, so had the best of city and countryside. Expert tour leading by our guide ensured we saw as much of the local fauna as possible. We were very well looked after and had lots of fun too.

J.W. Hertfordshire, Oct 21

It was brilliantly run and as I had originally booked it for March 2020, Naturetrek did their up most to get me on the first available trip that I could go on, after restrictions were lifted. The trip itself had 2 excellent tour leaders on who were the fount of all knowledge for the wildlife that we were seeing, which did include sightings of Iberian lynx. Naturetrek were amazing... Brilliant company who go above and beyond to help their clients. 

E.R Oxfordshire, Oct 21

Very good holiday in South Western Spain looking for birds and mammals especially the Iberian Lynx. Very good guides Simon and Nicki. Lots of water birds including flocks of flamingos. Saw mouflon and ibex climbing up steep rocky slopes, little owls, woodpeckers and lots of other birds. Naturetrek always provides excellent holiday experiences all over the world. We have travelled with them elsewhere on a number of occasions and have never been disappointed. They always have well qualified and experienced guides.

H.J. Norfolk, Jan 20

I really loved this holiday, and with excellent leaders and a really good set of fellow travellers, it was just right. Byron and Peter are both top-quality leaders and really looked after us. All the organisational elements of the holiday worked very well too. Aside from the sightings of the lynx, which were absolutely amazing, the birds of prey were a real highlight for me.

CS, Hampshire, Jan 20

The trip was highly enjoyable and I would thoroughly recommend it. The two locations were great - we especially liked the uniqueness of El Rocio. Both our tour leaders, Byron and Chris, were brilliant. They worked well together to ensure an effortless client experience. Their knowledge of birds and wildlife was beyond my expectations and they were great company. Their hard work and enthusiasm was much appreciated.

SC, Kent, Nov 19

Thoroughly enjoyed the trip from start to finish. Very professional leaders who tried incredibly hard to find a lynx for us. It was a very enjoyable experience and good to see a wide range of species including a death's head hawk moth, Iberian ibex, mouflon, vultures, and Spanish imperial eagles.

GR, Aberdeenshire, Oct 19

It was great to get a very close-up viewing of a young adult female very near to the vehicle - we followed her for about a half-hour and watched typical cat behaviour, checking out the bushes, scratching on her favourite log and then hunting and catching a small rodent. Amazing to get such good views of this rare and elusive cat! Otherwise, the birding was also great, hotels and food quite acceptable and the small group size was perfect.

M.S. Canada, Oct 18

Amazing holiday, very well organised. Saw lots of amazing wildlife including the lynx, which was of course the highlight of the trip, incredible scenery too. Excellent guides in Niki and Simon who were very knowledgeable and helpful. Such a good trip we have in fact booked to go again!

J.P. South Yorkshire, Nov 18

This was a fantastic experience taking in two fascinating regions of Southern Spain. The two hotels we stayed at were delightful with good local food. We saw the most fantastic range of birds including raptors and waterbirds, some in spectacular numbers. The group also had sightings of the very rare Iberian Lynx as well as other mammals such as Ibex, Mouflon and Red and Fallow deer, the last two being very numerous.

R.G. Oxfordshire, Nov 18

We both enjoyed the holiday, especially the excellent view of the Lynx. The Spanish food and catering were excellent.

A.O. Buckinghamshire

It was a great trip, ably guided by the local guides. I carry with me still the images of my first sighting of flamingoes in the wild and the pair of Spanish Imperial Eagles on a telegraph pole. Thank you for putting together such trips. Thanks again for a great experience.

D.H. West Sussex

You should be commended for the quality of your guides; Byron is the finest I have encountered. The wildlife on view for Western Europe was outstanding. It was fantastic and great value for money, meaning our first trip will not be our last.

N.M. Gloucestershire

This was a wonderful insight into the world of the Iberian Lynx. Can you imagine all of those big cats living in the National Parks and mountains of Spain? Food and drink were plentiful and the travelling companions to share it with made for excellent meal times. Our tour guides were outstanding in their local knowledge and their attentiveness to traveller needs. I would recommend this holiday to anyone with an interest in wildlife and the natural world - go explore!

J.W. Co. Durham

Probably the most endangered species of cat, the Lynx lives in two areas of Spain. This holiday promised to visit both but, understandably, could not promise sightings of this enigmatic animal. Our two guides, Julian and Laura met us at Seville and calmly and expertly drove us to El Rocio on the edge of the Coto Donana National park. By the end of the evening we had all had clear views of a Lynx! Subsequent tours into the park did not produce more sightings but our guides worked hard to ensure that we all had great views of a variety of mammals and birds. Our guides then drove us to the Sierra Morena, where over the next few early morning and dusk visits we saw a number of Lynx, some at very close range an rewarding us all with amazing photographs. Julian and Laura worked hard to spot a variety of wildlife for us, sometimes communicating with friends who were watching out for the Lynx at different sites. Julian and Laura not only worked hard all day to deliver great wildlife experiences for us all but also carried cases, ordered food, made packed picnics, reviewed the day and sorted any accommodation problems with great humour and patience, these two helped make this an excellent holiday.

R.P. West Midlands

I went to Spain to try and find the Iberian Lynx. We were very lucky to find the Lynx and had a great view of him. That obviously was the highlight of the trip. However, the whole experience was great. Our guides were exceptionally good and a lot of fun. I highly recommend Naturetrek to anyone who wants to a holiday wildlife watching.

N.D. West Yorkshire

I travelled across the globe from Australia to join Naturetrek's Iberian Lynx tour, hoping for a sighting of the world's rarest cat. The odds of a sighting were even at best, but I'd heard that Naturetrek had a good track record. After two days of great birdwatching in Coto Donana it looked like we'd lucked out, but on the third day a male crossed the road in front of our vehicle, dragging a freshly killed rabbit. We backed off to let it consume its breakfast then returned shortly after for stellar views of it licking its chops and grooming before ambling off into the undergrowth. The group's relief was palpable and we all felt we had joined an exclusive club that day.

D.A. Australia

We spent two days in Coto Donana and two days in Sierra Morena looking for Iberian Lynx and other wildlife. Excellent guides helped with getting us to the right places and pointing out and identifying species. I had a bird list with over 80 species across the two destinations, together with a mammal list of 6 large mammal species including lynx. Hotels, travel and logistics were all excellent.

M.T. Herefordshire

A well organised holiday with plenty of Lynx seen playing and moving through wonderful landscapes both in the Donana National Park and in the Andujar mountains. Birds from the Spanish Imperial Eagle and Griffon Vultures to the Southern Grey Shrike and water birds, including Glossy Ibis and Spoonbills. In Donana we also saw a wild boar and in the Andujar hills we saw handsome Mouflon, perching Spanish Ibex as well as the Lynxes which we saw every day. Interesting birds like the Andalusian Thin Foot and Iberian magpies were great to see, pointed out by our leaders with their telescope. There were wild flowers everywhere. The accommodation was comfortable and the food was not only interesting but every diet was catered for with great picnics organised by our leaders, Simon and Niki.

N. & D.H. Surrey

I travel extensively. I had also been to the area that was covered by the recent trip. So I can make some comparisons. It was a really good holiday, well planned out. The Naturetrek guides were very good, not only with their natural history knowledge, but on the administration too. It did help that the group saw six Lynx in total.

X.C. Lancashire

This was a last minute booking - so thank you for getting me what was probably the last seat on the plane. Wonderful holiday in every way! Really appreciate Byron and Kerrie helping us to always get the most out of this holiday.

M.W. Manchester

Byron was an excellent tour leader - really good minibus too. The sit down picnic lunch provided in the Coto Donana was excellent in all respects. Dinners at Los Pinos were of a very high quality.

D.L. Cambridgeshire

I was impressed at the company's professionalism in taking such a small group. I guess we benefited from this logistically and in places where we needed to be quiet. I know this is not exactly under your control but weather good and warm - and delivered more wild flowers and butterflies than I would have expected.

A.N. Lincolnshire

The trip was a massive success even though we didn't see a Lynx. We saw pug marks and other wildlife. Both guides went beyond the call of duty to give us the best chance of seeing the elusive Iberian Lynx. Both Byron's and Julian's knowledge was very up to date. They tried everything and always remained positive and bright day in day out. If all the Naturetrek guides are like these two it's no wonder all the positive reports I've heard about Naturetrek are true. Well done guys, keep up the good work.

A.P. Kent

A well paced and very successful tour meeting all that was promised. Simon and Nikki make an excellent team. They are both very knowledgeable and went to great lengths to make sure we all saw the wildlife promised in the itinerary. This trip was particularly successful because we saw lynx on several occasions which exceeded all expectations. But we also saw many other animals and lots and lots of birds and great scenery. We were a nice group of people who all seemed to like each other and got on well. All of this is due in no small measure to the quality of the guides (Simon and Nikki). Experienced and knowledgeable, they were always ready to share their expertise and help those of us less well informed. They have a great sense of humour which made us all feel comfortable and they were cognisant of the needs/interests of each of the group members.

S.J. & R.M. Shropshire

Byron was a first rate leader, and was particularly good at sorting out vegetarian options, which isn't always easy in Spain. His effort in finding the lynx, and in adjusting our plans when the second days' visit to Donana had to be cancelled due to flooding, couldn't be faulted.

N.R. London

Good planning and organisation. Leader was caring and considerate - and very knowledgeable.

J.L. Hampshire

Despite not personally seeing any Lynx, this was still a great trip, thanks largely to the expertise of the tour leader, Byron, who was simply brilliant at identifying the many bird species that we saw.

P.B. Hertfordshire

The tour leaders were very good. Simon was a phenomenal field naturalist as was Niki who also looked after us well providing very good picnics. The group with their different personalities bonded well together so that there was an atmosphere of general bonhomie developed.

D.P. Oxfordshire

A really enjoyable holiday. Andy was a very good leader, helpful and friendly, and also flexible. The local guides, Antonio and Abel, were knowledgeable and helpful. All the people with telescopes were very generous and everyone was happy to share their knowledge. Thank you for a worthwhile holiday!

R.R. Nottinghamshire