Wild Horses in Southern France
Wild Horses in Southern France
Peak Season:
May – June
Camargue Natural Park area in Southern France
Charter Length:
7 Days
6 Explorers
Expedition Overview
Camargue National Park, Southern France
The Camargue Natural Park area in southern France is made up of wetlands, natural lakes and marshes, and includes a large UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Herds of white horses live in semi-wild conditions in the marshy areas of the region, which is located in the Provence of Alpes Côte d’Azur.
The Camargue horse, officially recognized as a breed in 1978, is said to have lived in the region for thousands of years.
On the border of Gard, Hérault and Bouches du Rhône, halfway between Marseille and Montpellier, extends a country of lagoons, salt marshes, sand, water, vineyards, olive groves and medieval villages. The Camargue horse is an ancient breed of horse indigenous to the Camargue area in southern France. Although it is generally considered one of the oldest breeds of horses in the world, their origins remain relatively unknown. For centuries, possibly thousands of years, these small horses have lived wild in the harsh environment of the Camargue marshes and wetlands of the Rhône delta, which covers part of the departments of Gard and Bouches-du-Rhône. It is here they developed the stamina, hardiness and agility for which they are known today. Traditionally, they live in semi-feral conditions in the marshy land of the region. The Camargue horse is the traditional mount of the guardians, the Camargue “cowboys” in southern France.
Camargue horses galloping through water is a popular and romantic image of the region. Camargue horses and bulls coexist with a rich birdlife. This country between land and sea, where fresh water mixes with salt water, finds its unity in the Camargue cross.
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Expedition Leader
Amos Nachoum is a distinguished figure in wildlife and underwater photography, with a remarkable career spanning over four decades. His unique ability to blend exploration and artistry has captured the attention of audiences worldwide, with his work being prominently featured in esteemed publications such as National Geographic and The New York Times.
His talents have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year award, received twice in recognition of his unparalleled skill and commitment. Amos is the founder of Big Animals xpeditions, inviting adventurers to join him on extraordinary journeys to witness the majesty of wildlife in both marine and terrestrial environments.
His 2019 documentary, “Picture of His Life,” highlights his relentless pursuit of excellence and undying passion for wildlife photography. It chronicles his quest to photograph a swimming polar bear in the Canadian Arctic, showcasing his ability to connect with nature’s most magnificent creatures.
Joining Amos on an expedition transcends the ordinary adventure; it is a profound learning experience, an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of the natural world, under the guidance of a master photographer. His work serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving the planet’s incredible biodiversity. Amos Nachoum’s expeditions are a celebration of wildlife, a journey of discovery and appreciation, from the depths of the oceans to the far reaches of the mountains.
Location
Camargue Natural Park area in Southern France
Sample Itinerary
Day 1 – Arriving Marseilles France. When all arrive, I drive a van for us and gear and check in the hotel of your choice.
Days 2 – 6 – Five (5) days of photography masterclass early morning and late afternoon session – horses in the marsh and or along the beach.
Each session 90 minutes to 2 hours – time between filming sessions, I offer workshops in image processing and evaluation, presentation, and next assignment
Day 7 – drive to Marseilles, departure to your next destination.
Conditions
Previous Accommodations
Le Mango Fango
“Mangio Fango Hotel its charming decor to your dreams! The white farmhouse stands out against the deep blue sky. It shines in the heart of this land of passion, horizons and emotions where the spirit of the winds blows. Cradled by nature, enveloped in greenery, the 4-star Mangio Fango hotel invites you to travel… Relaxation, well-being, idleness, discovery.
Located 1 km from the center of Les Saintes Maries de la Mer, the Mangio Fango hotel opens the way to freedom. The immense beaches, the marshes, the great spaces, whisper in your ear…”
Included
- 5 days of two sessions per day (one in the am and second in the pm) with Free horses
- Accommodations
- Local expert, fixer and photographer
- All fees and permit
- Photography masterclass
- 6 Days of private Van service
Excluded
- International and domestic flights
- Meals
- Gratuities
- Tours which are not specified
- Photo equipment
- Water proof boots
- All items of a personal nature