Oman
Bhutan
Ancient Wildwood
The primaeval European landscape has virtually disappeared from our overpopulated continent, but we can still catch a glimpse of its beauty in two superb Biosphere Reserves in Eastern Poland.
We shall spend four days absorbing the timeless atmosphere of fascinating Bialowieza which has featured in innumerable wildlife documentaries including David Attenborough’s Life on Earth. Autumn is the best time to see that most magnificent of European mammals, the European Bison, as well as Wild Boar and up to eight species of Woodpecker including White-backed and Three-toed. Pygmy and Tengmalm’s Owls can be found not far from the village in which we’ll stay.
Lesser Spotted and Booted Eagles, Nutcrackers and Hazelhen are other avifaunal highlights. Forests and meadows harbour Earthstars, Chicken-of-the-Woods, huge Parasol Mushrooms and tasty Cauliflower Fungus all just part of a colourful panoply of fabulous fungi.
The last three days will be spent exploring the wonderful Biebrza Marshes, one of Europe’s most important wetlands. Marsh Gentians and Grass of Parnassus flower in Carex marshes where Moose graze with their young calves on clear, crisp mornings. We shall watch flocks of Common Cranes on migration and admire the magnificent White-tailed Eagle against a backdrop of the warm bright autumn colours of this serenely beautiful landscape. Photographers amongst you will love this holiday for the atmospheric morning mists, the approachable Bison and the extraordinary fungi.
Dates and Prices
20th September - 27th September 2024 (8 days)
* doesn't apply if you're willing to share and a room-mate can be arranged
Mammals and Birds. Also Fungi and Landscapes.
One leader for a group of up to 8, two leaders up to the maximum group size of 15.
All flights. Accommodation, transport and meals in Poland. Services of your leaders. Reserve and Restricted Area entrance fees. Please note; items of a personal nature including insurance, drinks and tips are not included.
In Bialowieza, we will stay at the comfortable Unikat Guesthouse in Bialowieza Village. The village is set by a little river in the only clearing in the forest. For the second part of the trip we’ll stay in pleasant apartments in the village of Goniadz situated in the heart of the Biebrza Marshes. All rooms have en suite facilities.
We will be walking no more than three or four miles on any one day, usually much less. Always at a slow pace, ideally suited to photographers.
UK return flights are direct from various UK Airports* direct to Warsaw. Other indirect routes from regional UK Airports* are available.
*Some routes may incur a supplement.
September is normally a glorious month to visit Poland as the summer heat has gone and the days are usually just pleasantly warm. However it can vary considerably and days of fine sunshine can be followed by dull, cold, rainy days.
Contact us to check if there is availability for the number of places you require. Click on the ‘Book this Tour’ button on this page to be taken to the online booking form or contact us and we will send one to you which you can complete and send back to us. You will receive confirmation of your place, and then a detailed information pack will be dispatched to you about twelve weeks before departure. This will contain up-to-date health information.
