New tour – The Reptiles & Amphibians of the Peloponnese Peninsula

Within Europe there is a standout place for its high diversity of reptile and amphibian species: the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. A superb 46 species of reptile and amphibian occur here, a tally unrivalled within Europe.

On this holiday we’ll join an expert herpetologist guide in search of Europe’s only boa, the Javelin Sand Boa, and in grasses littered with spring flowers we’ll discover the highly sought-after Nose-horned Viper. The Peloponnese is the only place within Europe where we can find the amazing African Chameleon and we’ll enjoy exciting diurnal and nocturnal excursions in search of them.

In Pylos Valley, with crystal-clear waters, blue lakes and a seemingly endless line of waterfalls, we’ll search for Greek specialities such as Greek Stream Frog. In beautiful mountains in the northern part of the peninsula we’ll search the wonderful landscapes here for one of Europe’s most colourful amphibians; the Fire Salamander. After the sun has set, we’ll be surrounded by a charming chorus of exquisite European Tree Frogs.

Chelonians (turtles, tortoises and terrapins) are numerous here and we’ll enjoy the chance to study them in terrestrial, freshwater and marine settings. On land we’ll scan stunning Stone Pine forests to find Hermann’s Tortoise and Marginated Tortoise. In tempting, glassy freshwater we’ll discover impressive populations of characterful Balkan Terrapins. A highlight for many will be the opportunity to find Loggerhead Turtles in some of the most beautiful seas in Europe; they are resident and frequently seen here.