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Winter Sibillini II

Two days of nature photography in the heart of the Sibillini, in the most spectacular period to observe the Apennine chamois.

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Winter Sibillini II

Days

21-22 Novembre 2026

Max participants

10 participants

Price

 149,00

279€
239€

4 Spots Left

Destination

Sibillini Mountains National Park — in the heart of the Apennine chamois' mating season

Between November and December, the Sibillini Mountains offer one of the most fascinating moments of the year: the breeding season of the Apennine chamois, a period when males are extremely active and territorial, offering dynamic and unique scenes for wildlife photography.

The Sibillini Mountains National Park, Between Umbria and Marche, is a place of extraordinary biodiversity that extends for over 71,000 hectares of valleys, rocky ridges and high-altitude environments. More than 150 species of birds, including the golden eagle, and a great variety of mammals: deer, roe deer, wolves, wild boars, foxes, wild cats and of course the chamois, the undisputed king of these mountains.

In recent years, nature has reclaimed many rural areas thanks to the abandonment of some areas after earthquakes. This has allowed wildlife to roam freely, creating wild and vibrant landscapes.
Our workshop also supports the rebirth of local communities, guardians of a unique territory and a culture deeply tied to the mountains.

Dates and participants

Duration

2 Days and 1 Night

Dates

21-22 Novembre 2026

Number of participants

10 participants

Activity details

Overnight stay and meals

Hotel not included in the price

Photographic activities

Difficulty

🟡 Medium

Preparation and equipment

Excursions with a difference in altitude of up to 300m may be planned, therefore good physical condition and fitness is required.

Modality

Traveling photography

Costs and Tour leader

Tour leader

Sharon Vanadia

Starting from

279€
239€

Payment

€149 deposit upon registration and balance 60 days before departure

Learn more about your experience

Two immersive days of nature photography with professional photographers

This two-day workshop takes place during the most spectacular time to observe the Apennine chamois In the middle of the breeding season, when the park experiences a unique intensity and the social dynamics of the packs become a true spectacle worth capturing on camera. You'll experience it side by side with two professional photographers, profound experts on the territory and fauna of the Sibillini, who will guide you step by step in understanding the environment and animal behavior.

During the outings, you'll learn to interpret natural light, predict wildlife movements, and navigate mountain trails with an ethical and respectful approach. Photographic techniques will be applied directly in the field through targeted treks, close-up observations, and time dedicated to creating authentic images consistent with professional nature photography.

Alongside the travelling sessions you will also experience a special camouflage stakeout session, designed to discreetly and silently bring you closer to other animals in the park. It will be a special opportunity to understand the importance of waiting, camouflage, and reading nature's signals, fundamental elements of every nature photographer's work.

The aim of the workshop is to offer you a complete experience that combines photography, biology, observation, local knowledge, and environmental awareness. You'll return home with new technical skills, a deeper understanding of animal behavior, and a greater command of nature through your images.

Scheduled Activities

Trekking through the Sibillini valleys, targeted sessions and camouflaged hides in the heart of the Apennine chamois' love territory.

The workshop activities will be entirely dedicated to field photography, following the rhythms of light and wildlife. At dawn and dusk, we will travel along the paths of the most evocative valleys of the Sibillini Mountains, embarking on targeted treks in search of the Apennine chamois during the most intense and spectacular time of the year. During the mating season, the herds are particularly active: males confront each other, chase females, and engage in dynamic behavior that makes every encounter extremely photogenic. We'll walk in silence along scenic ridges and open slopes, observing the interactions between the animals and always approaching them ethically and respectfully. In many situations, it will be possible to find ourselves excellent distances for photography, thanks to knowledge of the territory and the typical behavior of the species during this period.

Alongside trekking and itinerant sessions, we will also experience a camouflage stakeout experience, dedicated to exploring the behavior of other animals in the park in a more discreet and camouflaged way. During this time, we will carefully position ourselves in a favorable area, using tarps and light camouflage to increase our chances of observing species such as foxes, roe deer, diurnal birds of prey, and other small Apennine fauna. It will be a valuable opportunity to understand how to exploit camouflage, interpret the sounds of the forest, and manage anticipation—one of the most authentic and fascinating aspects of nature photography.

Each outing will be a continuous learning process: you'll learn to interpret terrain morphology, predict animal movements, choose the best vantage point, and manage natural light in the rapidly changing conditions of the mountain environment. We'll show you how to construct effective images even in unpredictable situations, how to work with depth of field at close range, and how to create narrative coherence in shots taken during action scenes or moments of animal interaction.

A midday is expected in the central hours of the second day complete post-production lesson, designed to best enhance images obtained in the field. Together, we'll analyze light management, color balance, noise reduction, sharpness, and file preparation for print and web. It will also be an opportunity to explore the image selection process and understand the workflow adopted by professional nature photographers.

The heart of the workshop is to offer you an immersive and educational experience, which combines trekking, observation, camouflaged hides, and mindful photography. You will learn to read the environment, to move through nature while respecting its balance, and to create images capable of authentically narrating the wild life of the Sibillini during their most magical period.

Porta due amici – Offerta Speciale

For this workshop we have activated a truly unmissable promotion. Booking three participants together, each member will receive an immediate discount of €50, for a total of €150 overall reduction on registration.

Simply complete the booking by entering 3 participants:
Once the order is received, our team will automatically recalculate the total and will notify you of the updated balance amount to be paid 60 days before the event.

A perfect opportunity to share the experience with friends or colleagues and access a benefit dedicated only to groups.

Detailed plan

Find out how the days will unfold and which activities make up the experience

21 Novembre

Our experience will begin to Castel Sant'Angelo on the Nera around the 10:00 in the morning, with the group meeting and initial introductions. After meeting the photographers who will accompany you throughout the workshop, we will immediately get into the heart of the matter with a theoretical lesson dedicated to foundations of nature photographyWe will delve into the history and unique features of the Sibillini Mountains Park, the biology of the Apennine chamois and other species present, field ethics, approach techniques, and the basics of composition and visual communication applied to nature.

Once the first explanations are concluded we will take a short moment for a light lunch, so we're ready for the most anticipated part of the day. In the early afternoon, we'll head towards the high-altitude trails that lead to the kingdom of the Apennine chamois, preparing our gear and backpacks before the hike.

The climb will be a simple trekking suitable for everyone, between 4 and 5 km with an elevation gain of 200 to 400 meters. The pace will be leisurely, designed to allow each participant to reach their destination at their own pace and without any rush. During the walk, we will already begin to observe the surrounding environment, because in these valleys, it is not uncommon sightings of deer, roe deer and birds of preyWith a bit of luck we will be able to glimpse golden eagles in flight and, on the luckiest days, let ourselves be surprised by the elusive passages of the Apennine wolf or of the wild cat, both present in the park and sometimes active in the areas frequented by chamois.

Once we reach the panoramic area chosen for the session, we will dedicate the afternoon to field photography, following the chamois in the height of the mating season. Here, interactions become more energetic and fascinating: males patrolling the territory, sudden chases, moments of challenge, and social dynamics that provide some of the most authentic images of Apennine fauna. Thanks to the conformation of the terrain and our knowledge of the area, it will often be possible to witness the scenes from optimal distances, always in full respect of the animals and the park rules.

We'll stay at altitude until sunset, taking advantage of the softest and most evocative light of the day, and then return to the hotel as the sun gives way to the first shadows of evening. After a refreshing shower, the experience will continue in the classroom with a complete post-production course, led by a professional photographer. Together, we'll analyze the shots taken that afternoon, working on lighting, colors, contrast, sharpness, noise reduction, and file preparation for print or web. Each step will be clearly demonstrated and replicable, allowing each participant to maximize their photographs.

The evening will continue with a group dinner based on typical local products At the partner accommodation, it's the perfect time to share the day's memories, compare photos, and enjoy the village's welcoming atmosphere. Then, spend the night, ready to set off the next day with renewed energy.

November 22nd

The second day will begin before dawn, when the first lights slowly light up the Sibillini valley floors. We will reach by car some areas particularly favorable for observation, where we will dedicate ourselves to a targeted stakeout to increase the chances of spotting the park's large mammals. This time of day is often full of activity: deer can move along the edges of the woods, roe deer cross the clearings still bathed in blue light, foxes are active and with a bit of luck we can spot even the most elusive movements of the Apennine wolf or of the wild cat, both present in the Sibillini ecosystem.

During the observation we will talk about the biology and ecology of the species we'll encounter, analyzing their habits, herd structure, land management, and the role they play in the natural balance of this protected area. It will be a unique opportunity to understand how to read the landscape and interpret wildlife signals, essential skills for every nature photographer.

After the morning session we will take a break for a free lunch, useful for recharging your batteries and reorganizing your equipment in preparation for the last excursion of the workshop.

In the afternoon we will move again towards the highest altitudes of the park for a second excursion dedicated to the Apennine chamois, choosing a different location than the previous day. Alternating areas will allow us to experience different environments and maximize our chances of spotting during the height of the mating season. This excursion will also be peaceful and accessible, with plenty of time to reach the designated area at our own pace. Once at altitude, we'll dedicate ourselves to observation and photography until the last light of the afternoon, taking advantage of the unique charm of the final hours of the day.

We will conclude the workshop with the final greetings, leaving room for questions, impressions, and final discussions on the images captured during the two days. It's the perfect time to consolidate what we've learned and wrap up an intense and emotionally charged experience together.

To ensure the best possible outcome, The program may be subject to small changes based on weather conditions, the fauna present or to further optimize the photographic and naturalistic experience..

Recommended Accommodation

Discounted overnight stay at the Dal Navigante Hotel Restaurant – Castel Sant'Angelo sul Nera

For those who wish to stay overnight near the operational areas, the Dal Navigante Hotel Restaurant, with whom we have been collaborating for years. We can book a room on your behalf, with treatment of half board.

Dedicated rates for participants:

  • €65 per night – Shared double room, breakfast and dinner included

  • €75 per night – single room, breakfast and dinner included

The living room it is not included in the workshop fee and will be paid directly at the facility. Approximately 45 days before the start Our team will contact you to confirm your booking prior to the event, so you don't need to book on your own.

Tour leader. Find out who will accompany you on the tour

Sharon Vanadia

Born in Rome in 1994, she showed a strong sensitivity towards nature from a young age. Graduated in Biological Sciences and specialized in Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management, she became a professional photographer. He leads nature workshops and tours around the world, combining his passion for biology with nature photography. With years of experience in the field, she is followed internationally for her work and dedication to nature conservation.

What's included

Assistance from two professional nature photographers for the entire duration of the workshop
Discussions on basic and advanced nature photography techniques
Introductory lessons on the biology and ethology of the species present in the Park
Frontal post-production course dedicated to nature photography in the central hours of the day
3 photography sessions (1 sunrise and 2 sunsets)

What is not included

Overnight stay and meals
Transfers

Frequent questions

To participate in the workshop, just click on “Book Now” and follow the simple wizard. After entering your personal data, you will be asked to pay the deposit only, not the full amount. Once completed, your registration will be immediately registered.

Shortly after you will also receive a confirmation email, which will confirm the booking and provide all the necessary details.
The final balance will be requested at a later time, according to the methods indicated at the top of the page, generally 60 days before departure.

Discounted overnight stay at the Dal Navigante Hotel Restaurant – Castel Sant'Angelo sul Nera

For those who wish to stay overnight near the operational areas, the Dal Navigante Hotel Restaurant, with whom we have been collaborating for years. We can book a room on your behalf, with treatment of half board.

Dedicated rates for participants:

  • €65 per night – Shared double room, breakfast and dinner included

  • €75 per night – single room, breakfast and dinner included

The living room it is not included in the workshop fee and will be paid directly at the facility. Approximately 45 days before the start Our team will contact you to confirm your booking prior to the event, so you don't need to book on your own.

Se necessitate di particolari richieste legate all’alimentazione, accompagnatori non partecipanti al workshop o notti extra, sarà sufficiente comunicarle al nostro team quando verrete contattati per programmare il soggiorno.

There sighting distance of the chamois can vary greatly, from a few meters up to several dozen. For this reason we recommend the use of lenses that reach at least 400 mm, ideal for covering most situations on the field. bright optics They are particularly useful during sightings at dawn and dusk, when the light is softer but less intense.

If you have them, the teleconverters can be invaluable for more distant sightings, while in closer situations shorter lenses such as a 70–200 mm or even a wide angle to better include the surrounding environment.

For the stalking session we strongly recommend bringing a photographic head and a tripod, tools that allow you to minimize movements and blend in better while waiting.
If you don't have a suitable tripod or head, contact us without problems: together we will find the solution that best suits your needs.

Temperatures may vary between -5°C and 20°C, so we recommend dressing in layers with technical and comfortable clothing, suitable for excursions in harsh and humid environments. The planned excursions will last between an hour and an hour and a half, covering distances of 3–6 km with an average difference in altitude of approximately 350 meters.

It is ideal to equip yourself with waterproof and breathable clothing, a technical jacket, thermal clothing, warm sweatshirts, hat, gloves and waterproof shoes to best face all activities.
In case of rain or snow, we recommend bringing a rain cover to protect both your camera gear and your backpack.

For stakeout activities, a 3D camouflage kitIf you need assistance or information, you can contact the organization.

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.

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Winter Sibillini II

279€
239€

4 Spots Left