I have just completed my second trip with them. My first was the June Hide Photography in Hungary which was staggeringly good. Bee Eaters, Hoopoe, Rollers. Red Footed Falcon so close that the challenge wasn't to get a photo, but an action photo. You are "locked" in the hide with a glass screen between you and the birds allowing fantastic photo opportunities. Need 300 to 600 lens although a 100-300 zoom would also do well. You are picked up at the airport (you can fly to Budapest and have a 2.5 hour drive to near Debrecen or you can fly Luton to Debrecen with Wizz Air and have a 30 minute drive. Each day is an early start - usually 5am breakfast, leave at 5:30 and in hide by 615 latest. Hides are comfortable but basic with chairs, water and a portable toilet if you are not allowed to leave the hide (part of the licence for the hide to operate in a National park). In winter, a gas fired heater keeps the hide warm. Usually, hides are positioned well for best light for photography. You are provided with a packed lunch. Pick up is usually 5ish and on return to base a hot cooked meal is provided. Most people then go to bed about 8 ready for the next day! Usually 6-8 people in each group.
My second trip was in early December 2015 for the White Tailed Eagles, The variety of birds was not as great in winter BUT you do see plenty of eagles which is what the tour is for! Similar hours/process as before. Unfortunately, we did not have a sunny day and so could only really manage good static shots and some average flight shots. Too slow a shutter speed meant quick burst of action couldn't be frozen and higher shutter speeds meant lots of ISO noise. On this trip, Saker were using an "Eco Lodge" operated by an affiliated contact which provided excellent new, clean facilities (but no TV if you need it on such a trip?). Meals were provided in a detached building and was ofe xcellent home-cooked quality. Wi Fi available in all rooms.
I would go back gain and fully intend to! No association with Saker other than as a customer.
Email me at
[email protected] if you need more info.
Michael.