ABOUT THIS TRIP:

Winter transforms Lake Kerkini into a sanctuary for migrating birds, including the largest species of pelican in the world, the stunning Dalmatian Pelican. You’ll be photographing from a boat as these large majestic birds drift through soft morning light. During the winter month of January, they will be in breeding colors, showing off that bright red pouch and fancy feathered hairdo. It’s also possible to see great white pelicans, flamingos, cormorants, grebes, and other birds while on the lake. Expect to photograph in strategic locations for reflections, landscape, lighting, flight approaches, and behavior. Do not wait to book as this will sell out quickly.

DATES:

• Jan 10-13, 2027 (group 1)

• Jan 13-16, 2027 (group 2)

COST AND INFO:

• 4 days/3 nights

• $2500 USD

• Non-refundable deposit of $450 required to secure your reservation

• Balance is due 90 days prior to the start of your tour

GROUP SIZE:

• 4 participants max

GETTING THERE:

• We will be picking you up at SKG Thessaloniki airport for departure to the lodge. Your flight needs to arrive by 1 p.m. (13:00) on either Jan 10 or Jan 13 depending which group you book. Your return flight should also leave sometime in the afternoon or evening on the last day. Group 1 will fly in on Jan 10 and return to SKG on Jan 13 afternoon. Group 2 will fly in on Jan 13 and return to SKG on Jan 16 in the afternoon. SKG is a vibrant coastal city if you choose to fly in early or stay after your trip (at your own expense).

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Airport transfers to and from SKG to Lake Kerkini

• Lodging and accommodations (double room shared with another photographer)

• All meals, snacks, and water

• Boat Excursions and English/Greek speaking guide

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

• International airfare/visa if needed

• Travel Insurance

• Tips

• Alcoholic beverages, soda, and special order drinks like cappuccinos and lattes

SAMPLE ITINERARY:

• Day 1, arrival and transfer from SKG to Lake Kerkini

• Day 2, predawn from the boat on the lake, mid morning back to hotel, afternoon back on the lake

• Day 3, predawn from the boat on the lake, mid morning back to hotel, afternoon back on the lake/possibly on the shoreline also

• Day 4, predawn from the boat on the lake, mid morning back to hotel, and transfer back to SKG.

EXPERIENCE/DIFFICULTY:

• Beginner, amateur, enthusiast, any level expertise

• Travel by car and boat rides on the lake

• Early morning winter excursion taking a short walk on uneven terrain to get to the boat. Suitable for anyone with normal mobility.

RECOMMENDED GEAR:

• DSLR, mirrorless, smartphone cameras. 2 camera bodies if you have them.

• Lenses: 70-200mm, 24-70mm. Optional: 300mm, 16-35mm

• Batteries and memory cards, more than you think you’ll need

• Laptop if you want to edit or offload photos

CLOTHING:

• Weatherproof clothing. Dress in layers, with hat, gloves, coat, scarf, and warm shoes. It is winter and you can expect temps from -5 Celsius to 10 Celsius (30s Fahrenheit). Being on the lake will make it seem colder also. Hand warmers will be beneficial. Frosty mornings are not uncommon with occasional rain or light snow.

FINE PRINT:

• Itinerary may be subject to change due to bad weather or other reasons

CANCELLATION POLICY:

• 90 days or earlier cancellation before tour start date – full refund minus credit card processing fees

• 60-90 days cancellation before tour start date – 50% refund minus credit card processing fees

• Less than 60 days cancellation before tour start date – NO REFUND

NOTE: If you find someone to replace your reservation, you will not lose your payment for cancelling.