Vultures and Canyons

 

Close to Madrid, just an hour and twenty minutes away, lies the Hoz Del Río Gritos Special Protection Area for Birds, in the province of Cuenca. Over thousands of years, the river has carved out an incredible canyon, creating a unique setting made up of sharp curves, huge cliffs and rock faces that rise to over 100 meters at some points. Indeed, this region is an important environmental reserve for birds of prey.

 

Live the adventure and explore this natural treasure steeped in magic and mystery!

 

In the area can be observed the most wanted bird species of canyons, cliffs and rock walls as Egyptian Vulture, Bonelli´s Eagle, Eagle Owl, Griffon Vulture, Golden Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Blue-rock Thrush, Rock Bunting, and other bird species typical of river woods as Oriol, Cirl Bunting and Scops Owl.

 

In the scrub areas that surround the canyons can be observed species as Dupont´s Lark and Tawny Pipit.

 

Description:

One full day trip for the observation of the most wanted bird species of crag habitats in one of the most wildest and beautiful corners of Castilla-La Mancha region.

The service includes transportation in a five seat Mercedes Vito van and optics equipment.

The excursions will be guided by experienced AMBIENTEA guides with the advice and permits of Castilla-La Mancha Environment Department and rangers.

 

• Departure place: Albacete and Cuenca| Destination: Albacete and Cuenca

• Natural areas to visit: SCI and SPA Páramos de las Valeras y Hoz del Río Gritos.

• Start date:01/04/2016 | Finish date: 30/09/2016 (recommended season)

• Species to observe: Egyptian Vulture, Bonelli´s Eagle, Eagle Owl, Golden Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Blue-rock Thrush, Rock Bunting, Oriol, Cirl Bunting and Scops Owl.

• Seats: 5

• PRICE: 45 € per person.

 

What is included in the price?:

• One full observation day for one person

• One expert local guide

• Transport from Albacete or Cuenca in 5 seats Mercedes Vito van.

• Optic equipment

• Insurances and permits

 

What is not included in the price?

• Transfers from or to airports. Will be billed appart

• Any food or drinks.

• Anything not included in "included in the price"

 

Meeting point: Albacetes Train Station / Cuenca Bus Station . If you stay at a hotel in Albacete or Cuenca let us know and we will pick you up.

 

Daily program:

08:00 We will pick up our clients at Albacete Train Station, Cuenca Bus Station or at your hotel.

09:00 Arrival to the SCI and SPA Páramos de las Valeras y Hoz del Río Gritos.

09:15 We will position ourselves at strategic points, moving around the River Gritos best spots, always drawing on our local knowledge and experience. Of course our aim is to view these sensitive animals from vantage points where they do not feel disturbed or threatened.

10:30 Lunch break on the field

11:30 We will climb to the top of the canyon after a short trekking path, in the area called Eagles Peak.

13:30-14:00 We will stop to have lunch in a local restaurant of the area where you will have the chance of try local food.

15:30-16:00 After lunch we will visit the ruins of the ancient Roman village of Valeria.

17:00 We will start back to Albacete or Cuenca. On the way we will stop at other places to observe wildlife.

19:00 Arrival to Albacete or Cuenca

 

Accommodation

Is not included in the price. Albacete and Cuenca main town have a wide range of accommodation at a good price.

Let us know where you stay and we will pick you up!