The Iberian Lynx Experience

As a member of the European Union, Spain is in the Euro.

The easiest option is to head to a cash machine once you’ve touched down in Spain to withdraw funds. There are ATMs in most of the major towns including Seville and Cordoba so access shouldn’t be a problem just take note of the advice below when it comes to withdrawing and bear in mind that you typically won’t be able to take out more than €250 a day. Alternatively, you can exchange currency at a bank. If you’d like to change money at a bank then do make sure you go in the mornings as local banks are often closed during the afternoon.

If you want to get hold of euros beforehand, head to an exchange bureau in the UK when the euro is readily available. You can also purchase currency online and collect it from your local post office or even have it delivered straight to your door. Ordering currency online with the Post Office is commission-free and available for next day delivery. Obviously the more you buy the better rate you’ll receive. 

Most major credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted throughout Andalucia however it can be a good idea to have cash on you just in case. As a general rule though you should have no problem using your card to pay for drinks or dinner. It is always advisable to inform your bank that you’re travelling abroad in order to avoid the frustration of having your card blocked.

As a general rule, you’ll be able to have a good lunch for around £10 a head and will pay around £15 a head for a nice evening meal. Naturally, the type of establishment you choose to eat in and what you order will dictate the cost of your meals. Be aware that ordering imported drinks can cause your bill to sky-rocket so drinking local wines, beers or spirits is advisable (besides, sampling the local products is what you’re here for!). We reckon around £200 for meals, drinks and snacks for two people is plenty. Please note that these are rough estimates and you can always choose to spend more or less depending on your budget and preferences.

Tipping in Andalucia is by no means compulsory and Spaniards are fairly relaxed about tipping etiquette, however it is customary in restaurants as service is not typically included. If it isn’t do leave an appropriate tip relative to the standard of service you’ve received (typically up to 10%). Do as the Spaniards do and leave some small change on the bar in cafes. It is also commonplace to round up fares in a taxi to the nearest euro.

One of the great things about Andalucia is that the forecast is almost always sunny, even in winter! There’s still around 5-6 hours of sunshine throughout the winter season and despite the temperatures being cooler than through the summer months they are certainly much warmer than other parts of Europe. The average temperatures are between 11°C and 12°C from December to February, while highs can reach between 15°C and 17°C. 

You can always contact the UTP team on +44 207 101 4061 or info@untravelledpaths.com. Before you travel, you will also receive a personalised itinerary with the contact details of the local manager in Romania should there be any problems. Your guide will be on hand throughout the trip as well, so you're in safe hands.

Our digital booklet, which you will receive before travel, contains all the information you need about optional activities. Simply drop us an email letting us know what you'd like to do during your trip, and we'll take care of the rest. Please note that the payment for the optional activities will be taken locally in cash.

The water is safe to drink throughout Spain however we always recommend sticking to bottled water which is widely available just in case - an upset tummy is never ideal!

Despite Andalucian winters being mild in comparison to those back home, you will be spending a fair amount of time in the Sierra de
Andujar nature reserve spotting lynx and wildlife where standing still is common and weather conditions can be changeable. It is always best to err on the side of caution so preparing for cold weather is preferable even if the weather ends up being mild and dry. To maximize lynx spotting you’ll want to remain as inconspicuous as possible so dark-coloured clothing is key. Think black, navy blue and dark green attire. Aside from standard autumn/winter clothing for exploring Seville and Cordoba, we
recommend packing the following:
• Layers of warm, dark-coloured clothing
• A woolen fleece or warm jumper for wildlife watching in the early morning and during the evenings when temperatures drop
• A waterproof to protect against any wind or rain
• Warm and comfortable shoes such as a pair of trainers or walking boots
• Scarf, hat and gloves 

As with all wildlife, there is never a guarantee, but we will ensure you will be venturing inside the National Park a couple of times in order to maximize your chances. Spotting lynx can be something of a challenge but sightings over the winter period are high in the Sierra de Andujar nature reserve so with some patience, a little luck and the expert help of our wildlife specialists you have every possibility of seeing this majestic creature. 

Yes! You will be with a wildlife expert at all times and observing from a safe distance. As its survival is highly dependant on wild rabbits, its main focus will be on them, not on you.