Common Questions
The things people ask us most often before they book — about our birdwatching and wildlife tours in Greece and Cyprus. Anything else, just write to us.
Do I need my own gear?
Our guides are using a spotting scope, but if you have (and can bring) one is always better when more eyes are looking, plus it is more comfortable when something is spotted for better views.
What about bad weather?
Wildlife is often active in cloudy, or light rainy days, especially during the warm days / period of spring - autumn. Rainy days are relatively common (or expected), although it’s not so frequent to have extended rain for over a day (or lasting days) – typically they last few hours – especially in spring. Always bring a rain coat with you, plus some extra warm clothes (especially for autumn, winter and early spring, but also if your tour includes a visit in the mountains), hiking boots, ideally a reusable water flask, gloves etc.
What fitness level is required?
Always mention any health issues, and if you have difficulty walking a few kilometers, mention it in advance.
Can I bring my own camera (What type of equipment should I have)?
Binoculars for sure, spotting scope if you have one is always useful, cameras, etc. If you are planning a more photo-centric tour, depending on the type of tour you are interested in, ask us to help you decide what equipment will be more useful.
Where do you guide?
Northern Greece is our home ground and we guide there all year — Lake Kerkini, the river deltas around Thessaloniki, the Nestos and Evros deltas, Dadia Forest, and the mountains of Western Macedonia and Epirus. We also run spring trips to Cyprus for the migration and the endemic birds, and trips to Estonia. Each destination has its own page under Tours.
Do I need to be an experienced birder?
No. Our birdwatching and general wildlife tours suit anyone curious about nature, while our specialised birding tours are for people chasing particular target species. Tell us your level and what you hope to see, and we will pitch the trip to match.
How big are the groups?
Small. Bear-watching trips take up to five people, and we also guide couples and individuals. Fewer people means less disturbance to the wildlife and more time with the scope for everyone.
Can you plan a private or custom tour?
Yes. If you have particular species or areas in mind, or want to plan your own trip with a local guide behind it, we can build a custom tour around your dates and interests. See Custom wildlife & nature tours under Types of tours.
When is the best time for birdwatching in Greece?
There is something to see all year. Spring migration (March to May) brings the greatest variety and birds in breeding plumage; autumn migration (September and October) is quieter but rewarding; and winter fills the northern wetlands with waterbirds, including Dalmatian Pelicans at Lake Kerkini. Ask us what a particular month offers.
When can I see brown bears in Greece?
Brown bears are active from spring to late autumn and spend the winter in their dens, so bear watching takes place between spring and autumn. Late spring and early summer, when bears are feeding in the open, are often a good time — ask us about your dates.
Do you use bait or lures to attract wildlife?
No. We watch animals in their own habitat, without baits or lures, and keep a distance that does not disturb them. It takes more fieldcraft and patience, but what you see is natural behaviour.
Are your tours suitable for wildlife photographers?
Yes. Giorgos is a wildlife photographer as well as a guide. If photography is your priority, tell us when you enquire and we will plan around light, positions and the species you want to photograph.
How do I book a tour?
Send us a message through the contact page with your preferred dates, the size of your group and what you hope to see. We reply within 24 hours with a suggested itinerary.
Still have a question?
Ask us anything about a tour, a destination or what to bring — we answer every message.
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