Where can you see ibex in the Alps?
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The Alpine ibex (Capra ibex) is one of the most iconic animals of the mountains. Hunted to extinction in the 19th century, it has been successfully reintroduced and today numbers over 50,000 individuals in the Alps. As a mountain photographer, I have been fortunate enough to observe and photograph them in many mountain ranges. Here is my complete guide.
Why is the ibex so captivating?
With its ringed horns that can exceed 1 meter in males, its majestic silhouette on rocky ridges, and its Olympian calm when faced with photographers, the ibex is a dream subject. Unlike the chamois, which is much shyer, the ibex often allows approach within a few tens of meters—sometimes less.
Best places to see ibex
1. Vanoise National Park (Savoie)
Vanoise is home to the largest ibex population in France with over 2,000 individuals. This is where reintroduction began in 1963. The most favorable areas:
- Pralognan-la-Vanoise — around the Col de la Vanoise refuge, ibex are almost guaranteed in summer
- Champagny-en-Vanoise — Bellecôte slope, excellent visibility
- Val d'Isère / Tignes — Grande Motte and glacier sector
→ Discover mountain animal photo prints
2. Écrins National Park (Isère / Hautes-Alpes)
Second largest ibex reservoir in France. Recommended areas:
- Vallon du Fournel (L'Argentière-la-Bessée) — significant and accessible colony
- Vallon de la Pilatte — ibex are frequent on the moraines
- Vallouise sector — good observations at altitude
3. Belledonne Nature Reserve (Isère)
Less known but very productive. Ibex frequent the ridges between 2,000 and 2,800 m. Accessible from Chamrousse or Uriage.
4. Aravis Massif (Haute-Savoie)
The Aravis ibex population is expanding. They are regularly observed on the limestone cliffs between Pointe Percée and Col des Aravis, particularly above La Clusaz and Saint-Jean-de-Sixt.
→ Discover Aravis mountain range photo prints
5. Beaufortain Massif (Savoie)
Ibex are present on the heights of Beaufortain, particularly around Lake Roselend and the ridges overlooking Arêches-Beaufort.
→ Discover Beaufortain mountain range photo prints
6. Aiguilles Rouges (Haute-Savoie)
The Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve, facing Mont-Blanc, is an excellent spot. Ibex frequent the cliffs above Lac Blanc and Col des Montets. Very accessible from Chamonix.
→ Discover Mont-Blanc photo prints
7. Vercors (Drôme / Isère)
Reintroduced in the 1990s, the Vercors ibex population is thriving. It can be observed on the cliffs of Royans and around Mont Aiguille.
→ Discover Vercors mountain range photo prints
When to observe ibex?
- June – August: Males ascend to high altitudes (2,500 – 3,000 m). Best time to observe them in groups.
- November – December: The rut — males fight spectacularly. An exceptional moment for photography.
- Winter: They descend to lower altitudes and are easier to approach.
Photo tips for photographing ibex
- Equipment: A telephoto lens is essential. I use the Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 on my Nikon D850 — it allows me to keep a respectful distance while getting tight portraits.
- Approach: Slow movements, no noise, avoid direct eye contact.
- Light: Dawn and dusk offer warm light that enhances the coat and horns.
- Composition: Include the alpine landscape in the background — an ibex on a ridge with Mont-Blanc in the background tells a story.
- Patience: Settle in, wait. Ibex move slowly and often offer beautiful natural poses.
Respecting wild animals
- Never feed them
- Maintain a minimum distance of 50 meters
- Do not come between a female and her young
- Respect quiet zones in national parks
Capture the alpine wildlife
Discover my photographs of ibex and mountain animals printed on Alu Dibond:
