B. Merced NWR Tour, Mar. 4th-6th, 2026
$1,495
Join nature and wildlife photographer Donald Quintana on a 3-day photo safari of Merced National Wildlife Refuge. We will experience beautiful sunrises and sunsets with massive fly-ins and outs by Ross and Snow Geese, Sandhill Cranes and more shorebirds than you can imagine. I often refer to Merced NWR as Bosque del Apache lite. Bosque is the premiere Sandhill Crane and refuge experience in the United States. Often times though Bosque is so crowded with photographers, it can be difficult to get a good spot. Merced, on the other hand, is close by with world-class bird photography opportunities and it is much more personal and uncrowded. Same species, fewer people! Each tour will be limited to a maximum of 3 participants. This ensures a most comfortable experience without crowding
We will stay 2 nights in the nearby town of Los Banos, gateway to the San Luis National Wildlfie Refuge complex. We will leave Morro Bay early the first morning, have photographic opportunities that afternoon and evening, all day the next day, and the morning of the third day before heading back to Morro Bay. Each day will be filled with amazing opportunities to photograph shorebirds in the most beautiful settings.
• We will spend 3 fun and informative days in beautiful Merced National Wildlife Refuge photographing Lesser Sandhill Cranes, various species of geese and a myriad of shorebirds.
• You will have two 5 hour sessions per day of Donald’s instruction and guidance with a break for lunch in between sessions.
• Donald has been traveling to Merced NWR yearly for the last 5 years. His extensive knowledge of the reserve and local wildlife will help to put you at the best location with the best available light.
• Small groups ensure individual attention and better photographic opportunities
The cost for the tour is $1,495.00 Single room.
Discount for shared rooms available when applicable.