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Barcelona, Spain (BCN) / Santiago de Compostela, Spain (SCQ)
10 Days/9 Nights
Level 2 - What's This?
Up To 10 Guests
Exclusively for 2026: Total Solar Eclipse - Experience the rare and awe-inspiring Total Solar Eclipse on August 12, 2026, from a carefully scouted location along Spain's stunning northern coastline.
Astrophotography Haven: Explore the Montsec Starlight Reserve, one of Europe’s darkest skies, perfect for capturing constellations, the Milky Way, and breathtaking nightscapes.
Pamplona and San Sebastián: Walk the historic streets of Pamplona and photograph the sweeping ocean views, lush green hills, and golden beaches of San Sebastián from Monte Urgull.
Costa da Morte's Rugged Beauty: Photograph the dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and picturesque lighthouses of the “Coast of Death” in Galicia.
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime journey that merges breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and the awe-inspiring magic of the 2026 total solar eclipse! This exclusive photography expedition will whisk you away to the heart of Spain, starting in vibrant Barcelona and meandering through the mystical Montsec Starlight Reserve, charming San Sebastián, and the dramatic coastline of Galicia. Over ten immersive days, you'll be guided through picturesque villages, stunning coastlines, and rugged cliffs, all while honing your photography skills under expert guidance. The highlight? Capturing the total solar eclipse from a carefully scouted location along the beautiful coastline of Northern Spain, creating a moment you'll treasure forever.
Your trip begins in the vibrant city of Barcelona, the cultural heartbeat of Catalonia. With its blend of historic architecture, bustling streets, and Mediterranean charm, the city offers endless inspiration. Following an evening welcome dinner to meet your fellow travelers, you'll embark on a scenic transfer to Montsec, home to Europe’s darkest skies and a designated Starlight Reserve. Here, under a canopy of brilliant stars, you’ll dive into astrophotography like never before, capturing constellations and the Milky Way in all their glory.
From Montsec, the adventure continues through the historic streets of Pamplona before reaching the coastal jewel of San Sebastián. Perched along the Bay of Biscay, this city is a paradise for photographers, with sweeping ocean views, lush green hills, and charming streets bursting with life. From the panoramic vantage point of Monte Urgull, you'll frame shots of San Sebastián's golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant cityscape below, creating images that tell a story with every click.
As you move west along Spain's northern coast, prepare for the highlight of the trip: the total solar eclipse. With carefully scouted locations along the coastline, you’ll have the perfect backdrop to capture this awe-inspiring phenomenon. Whether you’re documenting the changing light on the rugged coastline or the eerie beauty of totality itself, this experience will undoubtedly be the pinnacle of the journey and a moment you'll treasure forever.
But the magic doesn’t stop there! The dramatic "Costa da Morte" (Coast of Death) awaits, with its rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and historic lighthouses that seem plucked from another era. Finally, the trip concludes in the historic city of Santiago de Compostela, where the ancient cathedral and cobblestone streets offer a grand finale for your photography. This isn't just a tour—it’s an artistic pilgrimage through the heart of Spain, blending stunning visuals, cultural richness, and celestial wonder into an experience you’ll never forget.
What is a Total Solar Eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely covers the sun, casting a shadow over the Earth and plunging the day into darkness. This extraordinary phenomenon reveals the sun's corona, a stunning halo of light visible only during totality. The 2026 eclipse offers a unique opportunity to capture this celestial event in Spain.
Secure Your Spot for This Exclusive Workshop
Spaces for this exclusive workshop are limited, and our special departures for past solar eclipses have sold out within hours of announcement. Our small group sizes ensure personalized attention and immersive experiences, while our comfortable accommodations and convenient transportation guarantee a seamless travel experience. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible adventure with Backcountry Journeys!
All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
All transportation during the workshop
All lodging during the workshop
All permits and park fees
Professional photography guiding and instruction
Gratuity for service staff
International flights
Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
Lodging outside workshop dates
Alcoholic beverages
Souvenirs and personal items
Gratuity for photography guide(s). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities
Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1: Arrival in Barcelona (B,L,D)
Welcome to Spain! The adventure begins as you touch down in the bustling city of Barcelona. Take some time to settle into your hotel and adjust to the new time zone. In the evening, join your group for a welcome dinner, where you’ll meet fellow photography enthusiasts and tour guides. This is your chance to get inspired and review the exciting itinerary ahead while enjoying exquisite Catalan cuisine.
Day 2: Into the Montsec Starlight Reserve (B,L,D)
Today, you’ll transfer to the Aragon area, home to the Montsec Starlight Reserve, where the skies are among the clearest in Europe. Your rural hotel sits amid rugged landscapes, offering both comfort and access to unparalleled photographic opportunities. By day, capture the dramatic cliffs and wildlife of Mont-rebei Gorge, and by night, let the unpolluted skies dazzle your lens with brilliant constellations and the Milky Way.
Day 3: More Montsec Magic (B,L,D)
Spend another day immersed in the Montsec Reserve’s untouched beauty. As the morning light hits the landscape, perfect your nature and wildlife photography. In the evening, venture out to photograph the sunset as it paints the cliffs and gorges in warm hues. Once night falls, experiment with long exposures to capture the star-studded skies—an astrophotographer's paradise.
Day 4: Pamplona to San Sebastián (B,L,D)
A journey to San Sebastián takes you through the historic city of Pamplona. Here, you’ll walk a portion of the St. James Way, snapping shots of this pilgrim trail and the city’s timeless streets. After lunch, continue to San Sebastián and ascend Monte Urgull for panoramic views of the city and Bay of Biscay. Framed by dramatic cliffs, this location offers countless opportunities for landscape and cityscape photography.
Day 5: Avilés & Northern Coast (B,L,D)
Travel along Spain’s northern coast to Avilés, stopping for lunch en route and scouting the prime spots for the next day’s total eclipse. The rugged coastline offers a diverse canvas of textures, from craggy cliffs to rolling waves, perfect for honing your composition skills. Spend the evening planning your eclipse shots with expert guidance, ensuring you’re ready to capture every magical moment.
Day 6: Eclipse Day (B,L,D)
The big day is here! Rise early and head to your carefully scouted location to set up your gear. With plenty of time to adjust settings and take test shots, you’ll be ready when the sky transforms during the total solar eclipse. The fleeting drama of darkness descending over the landscape will make for unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime photos. Afterward, share your excitement and best shots with the group.
Day 7: Costa da Morte’s Dramatic Coastline (B,L,D)
Today, you’ll explore the Costa da Morte, or “Coast of Death,” a hauntingly beautiful stretch of Galicia known for its crashing waves, towering cliffs, and historic lighthouses. These elements create a perfect backdrop for dramatic seascapes and moody landscape photography. Let the wild Atlantic inspire your creativity as you frame the interplay of sea and sky.
Day 8: A Coruña’s Coastal Charm (B,L,D)
In the historic city of A Coruña, you’ll find a treasure trove of photographic opportunities, from its striking coastal views to its architectural wonders. Wander the city’s streets and capture scenes that tell a story—from bustling plazas to the timeless elegance of the Tower of Hercules, the oldest working lighthouse in the world.
Day 9: Santiago de Compostela (B,L,D)
Your journey concludes in Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the Way of St. James. This historic city offers a rich tapestry of scenes, from its stunning cathedral to its quaint cobbled streets. Celebrate your photographic successes with a farewell dinner, sharing your favorite shots and memories with the group.
Day 10: Farewell, Spain (B)
After breakfast, bid farewell to your companions and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Though the trip ends here, the unforgettable images and experiences you’ve collected will continue to inspire your photography for years to come.
This is a Level 2 trip. We will be walking on cobblestoned streets in historic city centers in addition to taking photographs from roads and trails near our vans. We might hike through fields or take unpaved trails to get optimal vantage points for the eclipse. Total mileage can vary, but expect to walk up to 6 miles per day.
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.