Spanish ibex — Sierra de Gredos

About this spectacle

The Sierra de Gredos in central Spain is one of the best places in the world to watch the Iberian ibex (Capra pyrenaica). Rocky granite ridges and boulder-strewn slopes provide a dramatic backdrop as these sure-footed animals navigate vertiginous terrain with ease. During the autumn rut, dominant males clash horns in thunderous displays while competing for females, their curved horns silhouetted against the mountain sky. Outside the rut, small herds of females and youngsters are regularly spotted on open scree and grassy ledges. The air is sharp and clear at altitude, scented with wild thyme and scrub oak. Birds of prey, including golden eagle and griffon vulture, circle overhead, adding further wildlife spectacle to the scene. A visit rewards patience — scan the ridgelines with binoculars and ibex will almost certainly materialize from what looked like bare rock.

When to go

Oct — Nov

Getting there

Nearest airport: MAD. Nearest city: Ávila.

Booking options

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