This season I completed two small, four-day photography tours at Lake Kerkini, focusing on one of Europe’s most spectacular birds: the Dalmatian Pelican.
Both trips offered excellent conditions for photography. Calm mornings on the lake, dramatic sunsets, and soft dawn light created ideal opportunities for capturing pelicans in flight, feeding behavior, and close portraits from the boat. The constantly changing colors of the lake at sunrise and sunset gave photographers a wide range of scenes—from quiet silhouettes in golden light to dynamic action shots.
What makes Greece Bird Tours trips different
These tours are designed specifically for wildlife photographers who want quality time in the field rather than a crowded, rushed experience.
10 years of experience photographing pelicans in Kerkini
I have been working in the area for a decade and know the seasonal patterns, light conditions, and best locations for close encounters.
This is how close we get to Dalmatian Pelicans
Local guide
As a Greek guide with long experience in the region, I can access locations, people, and small details that most international operators miss.
Very small groups (maximum 3 photographers)
These trips are essentially private. With only two or three participants, everyone has space to work, flexibility in the schedule, and direct guidance in the field.
Portaits of Dalmatian Pelicans
More than just pelicans
Unlike most photography tours that focus only on the lake, we also explore the surrounding region. Depending on the schedule, we may visit traditional villages, historic monasteries, and even the natural thermal springs nearby, for a post photography thermal spa
Authentic accommodation and food
We stay in small family-run guesthouses and enjoy local Macedonian cuisine rather than large, impersonal hotels.
Photoshooting from the boat
Sun rising photoshooting pelicans
Looking ahead to 2027
The dates for the 2027 pelican photography tours will be announced in the coming weeks.
Interest is already strong and places are extremely limited due to the small group size. If you would like to join a future trip, you are welcome to send an early expression of interest and secure a spot on the list.
For photographers who want close encounters with one of Europe’s most impressive birds, in a quiet and authentic setting, Lake Kerkini remains the best location in the world.
