Photo adventure in search of Pyrenean chamois
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration2 days
-
LevelIntermediate
-
DestinationVal d'Azun / Hautes-Pyrénées
-
AgeFrom the age of 18
-
CO₂-Emissions9.78 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIn a group
-
Languages
French
English
In a few words
A photographic adventure in search of Pyrenean chamois , a discreet yet emblematic species of the Pyrenees, is an unforgettable experience. You'll spend two days immersed in the magnificent scenery of the Pyrenees region, between cliffs, ridges, and vast plateaus— ideal terrain for photographing these animals . Accompanied by a guide specializing in the region and photography, you'll benefit from their expertise to capture magical moments in the heart of nature. At night, close to nature in a cabin or tent, you'll create lasting memories under a unique starry sky.
The highlights
-
An authentic adventure close to nature
-
Wildlife observation
-
Dinner and breakfast included
Photos
Anton - verified review - may 2025
Anton - verified review - may 2025
Anton - verified review - may 2025
Anton - verified review - may 2025
Anton - verified review - may 2025
Bruno - verified review - october 2024
Bruno - verified review - october 2024
Bruno - verified review - october 2024
Bruno - verified review - october 2024
Bruno - verified review - october 2024
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
You are able to walk for approximately 2 hours over a maximum of 500m of elevation gain.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 2h
- Average distance/day: 8 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 230 m
- Average daily descent: 230 m
- Maximum altitude: 1900 m
Management
French
English
Drawn by the curves of the Pyrenees, I embark on a new journey. The murmur of the mountain stream echoes at the foot of these giants. Time stands still, and my mind wanders. There is a place where seconds vanish: the mountains. Eden, where fragile life confronts the elements. Captivated by the light, I capture every moment. The seasons mark the ephemeral landscape. I admire the silhouettes of this wild world. My gaze lingers on this immensity. Eternally amazed, I contemplate the valley. – Hadrien Brasseur
Program
-
Ascent to the Vallée des Iards
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 10km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 5 km
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Negative elevation 10 m
- Maximum altitude 1900 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Meet at 9:00 AM in front of the Arrens-Marsous Tourist Office. You'll carpool to the neighboring valley, the starting point of the hike. The trail begins at the end of the valley and follows a pretty lake. Throughout the walk, the landscape changes between pastoral areas and old-growth forest. You'll have time for nature observations and photos, including your first sightings of chamois. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of nature, perfect for capturing scenes of wildlife. The day ends with arrival at the cabin for the night.
Day 1 -
Valley of the Chamois, then back
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 10km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 10 m
- Negative elevation 450 m
- Maximum altitude 1900 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After a restful night in the cabin, breakfast will be prepared for you. You can admire the chamois in the early morning. Depending on their location, a 200-meter ascent may be offered. Afterwards, you will enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of nature. The gradual descent back to the previous day's starting point will be punctuated by opportunities for nature observation and photography. The trip concludes in front of the Arrens-Marsous tourist office.
Day 2
Note
The guide reserves the right to modify this program for various reasons such as weather or physical conditions.
The elevation gain and walking time are estimates that may change depending on weather conditions and/or the pace of the participants.
Wildlife photography is a delicate subject. The primary objective of this adventure is the observation and discovery of animal species. It is very important to respect the animals and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
The animals are free and wild; sightings are random.
Accommodation
Depending on the weather, you will either sleep in an unguarded refuge (4 people max, designed for 8 people), or in a tent (2 people per tent).
Access
Appointment and end times may vary depending on several factors
Go to the starting point
There are shuttle buses to Argelès-Gazost. From there, you can take a connecting shuttle to Arrens-Marsous. If any participants are passing through the area, we could arrange carpooling to Arrens-Marsous.
Exit 12 of the A64 near Tarbes. Follow signs for Lourdes via the N21. Follow signs for Argelès-Gazost via the D821. Go through Argelès-Gazost via the D921B, then follow signs for Arrens-Marsous via the D918.
Price details
The price includes
- Dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2
- Overnight stay in an unguarded cabin
- Wildlife observation and discovery
- Photography training, tips and tricks
- Transportation to the starting point of the hike from the meeting point
- The tent if bivouac outside the cabin
- The tour is led by a professional nature photographer with a State Diploma in Mountaineering.
The price does not include
- The camera
- The telephoto lens
- Camping equipment (sleeping bag, mattress)
- Transportation to the initial meeting point
- The picnic on Day 1 and Day 2
Options
- Camping equipment rental : CHF22.87 / unit
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Tents
- Gas stove
- Popote
Equipment to bring
- Camera
- Zoom or fixed focal length camera lens (400mm)
- Battery(ies) charged
- A pair of high-top, waterproof hiking boots (preferably with a toe cap)
- Pair of hiking gaiters
- Backpack (50L to 70L)
- Pair of binoculars
- Large plastic bag to slip into your backpack to protect your belongings from the elements
- Rain cover to protect your backpack from the rain
- Sleeping bag, comfort temperature 0°C
- Sleeping bag sheet
- Pair of telescopic hiking poles
- Pair of good quality sunglasses (protection level 3)
- 1.5L water bottle or hydration bladder with drinking tube
- Plastic or aluminum cup with insulated handle
- Hiking cutlery and a folding pocket knife (Opinel type)
- Headlamp
- Survival blanket
Clothing to bring
- Hat, or cap
- Cap
- Neck warmer
- Pair of hiking gloves
- Short-sleeved T-shirt made of breathable material
- Long-sleeved thermal underwear made of breathable material (ideally merino wool)
- Thermal underwear such as tights (ideally made of merino wool)
- Change of clothes
- Fleece jacket
- Lightweight and compressible down jacket
- Waterproof windproof jacket
- Trekking trousers
- Waterproof trousers to brave the elements
- Underwear suitable for sports
- Two pairs of hiking socks
They traveled with us
MATTHIAS
- 25 ans
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
may 2026
In a group
Anton
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
may 2025
In a group
