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An exclusive expedition to the Himalayas in search of the legendary snow leopard.
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€ 500,00
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There Spiti Valley, suspended between the peaks of the Himalayas and the Tibetan border, is one of the most fascinating and remote regions of India. Here, the landscape is not only spectacular: it is primordial, vast, and silent. A place where time flows differently, where the mountains seem alive, and where man learns to confront nature in all its grandeur. The wind-sculpted valleys, the frozen riversThe sharp ridges illuminated by the dawn and the small villages perched above 4,000 meters form a mosaic of beauty that is hard to forget. Every bend in the road, every plateau, every ridge offers a new perspective, a constantly changing play of light and shadow that transforms the valley into a natural photographic set. But the true heart of the Spiti Valley is not just the landscape: it is its spirituality. Ancient Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags blowing in the wind, yaks crossing snow-covered paths, and communities living in perfect harmony with the environment tell of a way of life that no longer exists elsewhere. And it is in this unique context that the snow leopard, one of the planet's most mysterious creatures. This valley is one of the very few places in the world where it is possible to observe it with excellent probability, especially in the winter months. Seeing it move among the rocks, almost invisible in its own habitat, is a breathtaking experience; photographing it is something many consider a privilege, a once-in-a-lifetime moment in a photographer's life. Spiti Valley is not just a place to visit: it is an environment you live, breathe, and feel. A journey that combines nature, culture, photographic research, and adventure in one of the most powerful and pristine landscapes on the planet.
All overnight stays included
Andrea Benvenuti
Reach the Spiti Valley It's already an extraordinary journey in itself. Our itinerary is designed to ensure comfort, safety and optimal acclimatization, essential elements for tackling the Himalayan altitude without stress and with maximum efficiency in the field.
After arriving in India, we will gradually start climbing the Himalayan valleys with scheduled stops in top-notch hotels, avoiding too rapid ascents and allowing the body to adapt naturally. This phase is essential to reduce fatigue and ensure that each participant arrives at Kibber—the heart of the expedition—in the best possible condition.
The transfers will take place entirely on comfortable vehicles, chosen for their comfort, safety, and reliability on mountain roads. They will be with you throughout the journey. two professional photographer tour leadersOne will always be by your side during every photography outing, while the other, a photographer and local guide, will also act as an interpreter and point of contact for any needs, ensuring a flawless experience in every way.
Once we reach Kibber, we will enter the most intense phase of the expedition. Here we will have the support of the best trackers and spotters in Spiti Valley, who every morning, before dawn, will scout the most promising areas in search of the movements of the snow leopardTheir work is essential: thanks to their knowledge of the valley, their reading of tracks, and reports from the local community, we will be ready to intervene quickly as soon as an animal is spotted.
Each day will be carefully planned: when the spotters' call comes, we will reach the indicated point with the jeep until the terrain allows it, and then continue on foot in total safetyDuring the journey we will have the support of personal assistants who will help us with backpacks, tripods, chairs, water and food, allowing us to move lightly and concentrate on photography.
The goal is to maximize the chances of a close encounter, because Spiti Valley is today the best destination in the world to spot and photograph this legendary feline. Here, unique environmental conditions, behavior, and human presence allow for closer sightings than in other Asian regions. Seeing a snow leopard is already an extraordinary event; being able to photograph one in its natural habitat is, for many photographers, the fulfillment of a dream.
Our time at Kibber will be entirely dedicated to this experience. Every return to the facility will be a time to rest, share experiences, and prepare for the next day, always supported by our local and international staff.
The photography of the snow leopard It requires patience, collaboration, and great teamwork. That's why our on-the-job approach is structured to offer you the highest quality and best chances of success.
Each day will begin with awaiting reports from spotters in the area. As soon as a suspicious movement, a sighting, or a promising trail is identified, the guides, tour leaders, and drivers will coordinate their efforts to quickly reach the relevant area. It's an adrenaline-filled moment: the realization that we could be just steps away from one of the rarest and most fascinating animals on Earth.
Once we arrive, we will continue standing, with assistants who will carry all the heavy equipment, allowing you to focus on photography. Once we've identified the best observation point, we'll set up tripods and monitor the feline's movements with discretion and respect.
Spiti Valley is in fact the only place in Asia where you can hope for relatively close observations. Despite this, the snow leopard remains an elusive and often distant animal, which is why it is recommended optics of at least 600 mm, teleconverters and APS-C/DX sensors, very useful for increasing the effective focal length.
In addition to the snow leopard, the valley is home to a rich ecosystem. Among the most fascinating animals we might encounter: Asiatic ibex (Siberian ibex), bharal (Himalayan blue sheep), Himalayan red fox, Tibetan wolf, bearded vulture, golden eagle, urial of Ladakh, Himalayan marmots.
In some more remote areas, with incredible luck, the Pallas's cat, one of the rarest species in the world.
Our goal is not just to capture the photograph, but to live the experience as deeply and safely as possible, supported by a complete and highly trained team.
The route to Spiti Valley passes through some of the most spectacular and isolated regions of the Himalayas, and for this reason we have carefully selected the best available facilities, always in balance between comfort, authenticity and safety. The first nights will be spent in excellent hotel, comfortable and welcoming, ideal for resting after transfers and for gradually acclimatizing to the altitude.
As we go deeper into the valley we will reach more typical structures of the area, until we arrive at Kibber, where we will stay in a Home Stay premium, chosen for its excellent management, cleanliness, and the great hospitality of the family that runs it. Despite being located at over 3,800 meters above sea level, we can count on Heated rooms, electric blankets, continuous electricity and a surprisingly good Wi-Fi connection for such a remote area.
The local staff will always be attentive, available, and ready to assist you with any needs, making your stay comfortable and enjoyable even in such an extreme environment. However, it's important to remember that Spiti Valley remains a remote place, where small unexpected events like brief drops in connection, reduced water pressure or temporary lack of hot water They can happen. They're normal aspects of high-altitude life and are part of the authenticity of a land where even what we consider "obvious" becomes a true luxury.
The goal is to offer you the best possible experience at every stage of the journey, ensuring comfort and safety without giving up the magic of the Himalayas and the unique atmosphere of the Spiti Valley.
Find out how the days will unfold and which activities make up the experience
Our journey begins in the morning at the airport of New Delhi, where we will meet to get to know each other and prepare for the transfer to the northern regions of the country. Once the group is reunited, we will board the internal flight to Chandigarh.
Upon arrival, we'll transfer to our hotel, a comfortable property with double rooms, private bathrooms, and meals included. After checking in, we'll have time to rest from the journey, unpack our photography gear, and mentally prepare for the adventure that awaits us in the coming days.
After breakfast, we will set off towards Rampur, a transfer that can take several hours depending on road conditions and the scenic stops we'll make along the way. The day will be relaxing, with the chance to observe some of the characteristic wildlife, such as the lively macaques that populate this part of the Himalayas.
We'll arrive in the small town of Rampur in the afternoon/evening and settle into our hotel. A hot dinner, rest, and a first taste of the local atmosphere will accompany us into the night.
After breakfast, we will depart from Rampur for one of the most scenic days of the trip. The transfer to Tabo, at the gateway to the Spiti Valley, is long and can vary greatly in travel time, as the road passes through high-altitude landscapes, remote villages, and scenic spots that merit photo stops. Furthermore, the necessary checks for entry into the valley will be carried out along the way.
Tabo is located approximately 3,600 meters This represents our first step into the true Himalayan environment. Here we'll stay in a simple but clean accommodation, equipped with electricity, heated blankets, and double rooms. There's no running water, but in the morning we'll be provided with buckets of hot water for washing and taking care of our daily needs.
This first night at altitude will be crucial for gradual and safe acclimatization. After dinner, we'll rest to prepare for the next day's climb.
After breakfast we will leave Tabo to head towards the final destination of our journey, going up the beautiful and remote Spiti Valley. Here we will already have the first real chance to observe high-altitude fauna: Tibetan foxes, bharal (blue sheep), Himalayan ibex, golden eagles and, with a bit of luck, the first movements of the snow leopard.
We will arrive at our mountain lodge, located between the 3,800 and 3,900 meters altitude. This is the best accommodation available in this remote region: clean rooms, heated facilities, and extremely hospitable local staff. There's no running water here either, but you can always request basins of hot water if needed.
From this moment the real photographic adventure begins. Our spotters, already active in the field since first light, will notify us immediately in case of a sighting. If there is a signal, we will drop off our bags and head directly to the designated area for our first encounter with the ghost of the Himalayas.
After sunset we will return to the lodge for a hot dinner and a night at high altitude.
These will be the most intense and exciting days of the entire trip: entire days dedicated to research and photography of the snow leopard, one of the most elusive and fascinating species on the planet.
Every morning we'll wake up slowly, have breakfast, and await news from the spotters, already operational before dawn in the surrounding hills. This system allows us to avoid long, needless hours stuck in the freezing cold, staying warm until it's time to head out.
When the call comes in, we'll quickly move to the spotting point using our own vehicles. From there, depending on the feline's location, it may be a short 10–15-minute walk or a longer trek of up to two hours. You'll always have a porter by your side, ready to help you with your backpack, tripod, and everything else you need. Chairs, snacks, and hot drinks will also be carried to allow us to wait for the feline in the best possible conditions.
Spiti Valley offers the highest odds in the world to observe and photograph the snow leopard in the wild. During these days we may also encounter red foxes, Tibetan foxes, bharals, ibex, Himalayan wolves, as well as numerous species of birds of prey such as golden eagles and bearded vultures, often protagonists of extraordinary scenes.
At sunset we will return to the lodge, where a hot meal, a comfortable environment and the opportunity to recharge body and mind await us.
After breakfast, we'll say goodbye to the local staff who accompanied us during the most intense days of the trip and begin the descent into the valley. The descent requires no acclimatization and will allow us to reach the valley directly. Rampur, where we will stay in a comfortable hotel with hot running water and all the comforts we have left behind for a few days.
Dinner and night in Rampur.
After breakfast we will set off calmly towards Chandigarh. Once we arrive at the airport, we will board the internal flight that will take us back to New Delhi in the late afternoon.
From here, everyone can board their international flight in the evening. All flights departing from 11pm onwards they are perfectly compatible with the itinerary.
Before purchasing any airline ticket, you must send the flight information (dates, times, flight number) to the organization to ensure full compatibility with the program.
If you need extra nights in New Delhi before or after your tour, we'll be happy to recommend suitable hotels.
During this trip we will reach altitudes between 3,600 and 3,900 meters. To ensure the well-being of all participants, the itinerary has been designed with a gradual acclimatization, so as to make the adjustment more natural and minimize any discomfort. Many people cope with these altitudes with ease, but it's always important to listen to your body and communicate any unusual sensations to the staff.
The high-altitude facilities, while simple, are among the best available in the region: clean, heated rooms with extremely attentive local staff. Even without running water, they are provided every day. basins of hot water, and the rooms are equipped with electric blankets. If you think it's helpful, you can talk to your doctor before your trip to get advice on any medications you should bring, such as Diamox.
In the unlikely event that they do occur more marked fatigue or persistent headaches, You may need to temporarily descend to aid your recovery. In these situations, our team will assist you fully in arranging transfers to lower altitudes or to a more comfortable alternative accommodation in the valley. Any additional transportation or overnight stays are not included in the package and are paid for on-site, as is the case with all high-altitude trips.
Likewise, if the weather conditions Should they request it, we may choose to spend the last night in Tabo, a purely precautionary measure to avoid risks on the high mountain roads. This is standard procedure and will not compromise the program.
Our goal is to offer you an intense, authentic, and safe experience, with ongoing support and careful management of every situation.

Nature photographer from Rome, he has cultivated a passion for photography since the age of 18, fascinated by the animal world since he was a child. Having graduated in Environmental Sciences with a thesis on the man-wolf conflict, he then obtained a master's degree in Ecobiology. Develop global photography projects integrated with bird and mammal conservation initiatives. He has won national and international competitions and published in magazines such as National Geographic.

















Discover all the places and views that you can admire during this trip. All the material shown here comes from our trips

















Signing up is simple and requires just a few steps. Just click on “Book Now” and follow the wizard by entering your personal data. To confirm participation, you will be required to pay a deposit and not the total amount. At the end of the procedure, you will receive an automatic confirmation email. The final balance will be requested according to the terms listed at the top of the page, generally 60 days before departureOur team is always available for any questions or needs.
Snow leopard sightings can occur at very variable distances. To get the best photos, we recommend a lens of at least 600mmAPS-C/DX sensor cameras, teleconverters, and teleconverters can be extremely useful for increasing your range.
In the field, we'll travel by jeep and on foot for short distances. Local assistants can help transport tripods, backpacks, and accessories, so you can focus exclusively on photography. If you need assistance, rent equipment, contact us and we will be happy to help you.
Spiti Valley winter temperatures can drop below freezing. -20°C, so it's essential to travel with appropriate technical clothing. We recommend a layering system consisting of thermals, fleeces, or mid-layers, a heavy winter jacket, insulated pants, and warm socks.
Given the nature of the trip and the limited walking involved, heavy clothing won't limit mobility. They're essential. gloves, wool hat, balaclava or neck warmer, And sunglasses with anti-glare side protection. After registration, we will provide a complete clothing guide with all the details.
Our team will assist you directly with your flight purchases after booking. Itineraries to the Himalayas require precise connections and schedules that fit your schedule, so we'll help you find the best options and avoid booking errors. We're always available to answer any questions or requests regarding flight connections.
By booking by paying the deposit to the organizers you accept the following clauses:
1. Since this is a pre-registration, the organizer will endeavor to promptly communicate any possible change in the price of the tour, characterized by cost fluctuations. An annual price fluctuation of around 5% is highly likely if booking is made more than one year in advance. in relation to potential changes in prices of ground services (for example changes influenced by fluctuating costs of electricity, fuel and more).
2. The price of the entire workshop will be paid via the payment methods offered by the organizer, such as bank transfer, PayPal, credit card or cash according to the procedures and deadlines established by the organizers, taking charge of the transaction costs.
3. In the event that the tour does not take place due to the organiser, the entire amount paid will be refunded.
4. In case of cancellation for personal reasons of any kind and in any case not dependent on the organizer, the deposit and any other registration fees will be retained as a reimbursement of expenses.
5. In case of cancellation for personal reasons within 60 days of departure, the entire balance of the tour will be required.
By registering, paying the deposit and sending your personal data you again accept clauses 1,2,3,4,5.
We will reply to you by email as soon as possible
Sabina Capoferri16/04/2024Mio marito ed io abbiamo partecipato al viaggio in Costa Rica organizzato da Just Explorers con Michele Bavassano e Sharon Vanadia. Esperienza fotografica fantastica, ottima organizzazione e professionalità. Un viaggio completo che comprende i Lowlands e Highlands per poter vedere e fotografare un'enorme varietà di specie diverse. Consigliamo vivamente di fare quest'esperienza. Conserveremo un ottimo ricordo e sicuramente faremo altri viaggi con loro!wouter faasse08/04/2024We hebben genoten van de workshop in Costa Rica. Alles was goed geregeld van de lodges en het eten tot aan de foto sessies. Dit was onze 4e reis met Sharon en Michele en zeker niet de laatste!ANDREA MAZZOLI04/04/2024Costa Rica Tropical Wildlife - Just Explorer con Michele BAVASSANO e Sharon VANADIA. Un viaggio fotografico nell’entroterra del Costa Rica appagante e appassionante, che consiglio a tutti i fotografi, perché in grado di regalare momenti e scatti esaltanti !!gian luca Toncelli03/04/2024che dire …. è stata per me la quinta esperienza Wild Life con Michele e Sharon, ed e’ proprio grazie a loro ed alla loro straordinaria professionalità che ogni volta imparo sempre di più….. ma soprattutto sono persone fantastiche disponibili ed estremamente preparate. grazie davvero !!!! non vedo l’ora di ripartire con loro !!! una nuova avventura mi aspetta !!! l’ho gia’ prenotata!!! e sarà l’ennesima nuova meravigliosa esperienza Wild life pura !!!!! grazie ragazzi 💪💪💪marcondes pereira03/03/2024WE HAD A DREAM TRIP. ALL PLANNING AND LOGISTICS CARRIED OUT VERY WELL, INCLUDING THE CHOICE OF THE SUITABLE LOCATION AND TIME OF YEAR TO COME INTO CONTACT WITH INCREDIBLE ANIMALS AND STUPENDOUS LANDSCAPE, ALL IN COMPLETE SAFETY AND WITH THE COMPANY OF EXPERIENCED GUIDES. PERFECT FOR ENJOYING NATURE AND MAKING NEW FRIENDS. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.TIVEMOS UMA VIAGEM DOS SONHOS. TODO PLANEJAMENTO E LOGÍSTICA MUITO BEM REALIZADO, INCLUINDO A ESCOLHA DO LOCAL E ÉPOCA DO ANO ADEQUADOS PARA ENTRAR EM CONTATO COM INCRÍVEIS ANIMAIS E ESTUPENDAS PAISAGENS, TUDO COM TOTAL SEGURAÇA E CONTANDO COM A COMPANHIA DE EXPERIENTES GUIAS. PERFEITO PARA APRECIAR A NATUREZA E FAZER NOVOS AMIGOS. ALTAMENTE RECOMENDÁVEL.Virginio Passera26/02/2024Mi è stato regalato il workshop "Winter gran paradiso" dai miei familiari, regalo azzeccatissimo,sono stati 4 giorni intensi e meravigliosi nella splendida Valsavarenche.I nostri accompagnatori Sharon e Jonathan sono stati splendidi,sempre disponibili per consigli e suggerimenti su come scattare e avvicinare gli animali presenti.consigliatissimoWanda Serrao25/02/2024Gran Paradiso, 4 giorni meravigliosi, Sharon e Jonathan bravissimi, molto competenti e professionali, oltre che simpaticissimi. Posti meravigliosi dove è stato possibile fotografare stambecchi, camosci, volpi avvicinandoci con rispetto ma garantendo ottime posizioni per lo scatto. Consiglierei a chiunque di fare workshop con loro.JOAQUIN FUENTES05/02/2024Michele and Sharon were the best hosts a photographer could ask for. They are two of my heroes and are some of the best wildlife photographers in the world. This was the trip of a lifetime! We had luxury accommodations and 5 star meals daily. Each photographer had our own row in the vehicles. Highly recommend booking with Michele through his official website if you’re interested in any type of wildlife photography tour. We had all advanced photographers on our trip, but I understand that all levels are welcome to join. What a fun group and experience! Note that the all inclusive photography experience actually cost much less than what you would have to pay on your own! It would have cost around twice as much to reserve the rooms, transfers and private vehicle for a week. I’m really looking forward to my next tour with Michele and Sharon!Josef Gelernter04/02/2024It was truly an amazing and unforgettable experience ! Extremely well organized and managed ! I have to thank Sharon and Michele for their wonderful support and guidance ! They both are not only fantastic photographers, but also wonderful tour leaders ! I would go on any tour with them as it is well worth every single penny spent ! Thank you for everything from the bottom of my heart Sharon and Michele and see you very soon on another of your tours ! All the best ! JoeFrancesca Baravelli02/12/2023Ho partecipato al workshop Winter sibillini con Jonathan e Michele, è stato tutto emozionante, divertente e professionale. Due giorni fuori dalla realtà immersi in un contesto paesaggistico unico nel suo genere. Assolutamente da consigliare a tutti gli amanti della natura e della fotografia naturalistica!Valutazione complessiva Google 5.0 su 5, in base a 148 recensioni
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