Join photographer Sean Weekly at Lake Kerkini in Northern Greece on our extensive itinerary which has been specially-designed to maximise our opportunities for photographing the Dalmatian pelicans.
Situated in the very north of Greece close to Bulgaria and North Macedonia, the tranquil waters and serene shoreline of Lake Kerkini are a haven for a multitude of bird species throughout the year and none more so than the Dalmatian pelican. In fact, Lake Kerkini has become famous due to its population of these striking birds. The lake is arguably the best location in the world to photograph these remarkable birds and there is no end of wonderful opportunities for capturing images ranging from intimate portraits to wide angle shots with stunning backdrops.
Whilst it is possible to photograph the Dalmatian pelicans all year round, it is the winter months that provide the most dramatic and intriguing photographic options. Also, the light during the winter time helps to create some stunning images of the pelicans as well.
During the course of our five-day trip to Lake Kerkini we will be able to photograph the pelicans (and other birdlife we come across) from the water on boat trips and from the shoreline. By spending four nights at the lake, we are maximising our time for photography and our hotel is only a short walk from shoreline, which again allows us to concentrate on our photographic opportunities. Throughout the itinerary, we will be led by wildlife photographer Sean Weekly who is very experienced when it comes to bird photography. In between photography sessions, Sean will also be available to help with any photographic queries that you might have. Whether you have queries about composition, techniques or editing Sean will be able to assist.
With four nights at Lake Kerkini and a combination of boat-based and land-based photography we hope to capture various images for our portfolio of these majestic birds and the scenic landscape in which they live.
Typical Itinerary
Day1: Fly to Thessaloniki & drive to Lake Kerkini
Today, we fly to Thessaloniki in Northern Greece and on arrival we are transferred to our accommodation just a short distance from the shore of Lake Kerkini.
Accommodation: Oikoperigitis Hotel, 4-nights
Days2-4: Photography sessions at Lake Kerkini for Dalmatian pelicans
Over the course of the next three days, we will have a series of photographic sessions to capture images of the Dalmatian pelicans as well as the other wildlife that we come across at Lake Kerkini.
Whilst we will aim to be as flexible as possible with our itinerary in order to make the most of different light conditions and the sightings that we have, we will usually start the day with a morning boat trip on the lake to photograph the beautiful pelicans from the water. These boat trips will provide various photographic opportunities including portraits, wide angles and capturing the pelicans in flight. We spend the majority of the morning out on the water and with stunning scenery to go with the photogenic Dalmatian pelicans, we are certain to capture some excellent images.
We return to the hotel for lunch before heading to the lake shore once again. In the afternoons we will predominantly stay on land as we will focus on photographing the pelicans and the other wildlife from the shoreline. In between photography sessions, your leader will be available to help or answer any questions you have about different techniques, composition or editing.
Day5: Return to UK
There may be time for one last photography session at Lake Kerkini before we have to transfer back to Thessaloniki to catch our return flights back to the UK.
Key info
Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 5 daysfrom £1,875 pp
Duration and price excluding international flights: 5 daysfrom £1,625 pp
Multi award-winner and full time photographer, Sean's work is regularly featured across a range of national and international publications.
After a career as a Royal Marine, Sean moved to the diverse habitats of Singapore where long-tailed macaques, snakes, lizards and tropical birds were just a stones throw away from his home.
Travelling through South East Asia and Australia with his camera was what ignited his love of the natural world and now he ventures across the globe to expand his wildlife photography. Sean has led numerous workshops in the UK and further afield in Europe at locations including Skomer, Greece, Finland, Spain and Scotland.
Situated in Northern Greece less than two hours' drive from the city of Thessaloniki, Lake Kerkini offers some of the finest birdwatching in Europe. There are birdwatching possibilities throughout the year with a variety of migrants, raptors, waders and pelicans frequenting the waters.
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Where: North Macedonia
Ideal for viewing: Dalmatian pelican, European roller, northern goshawk, great white pelican, golden oriole
