Tour Overview:
We welcome you to join us on this unforgettable summer wildlife adventure in the heart of eastern Finland’s ancient forests, where you’ll have the rare privilege of observing wild brown bear cubs in their natural environment. July offers some of the finest opportunities to witness these playful young bears as they explore under the careful watch of their mothers. This extraordinary journey takes you to one of the premier bear-watching locations on the planet - featured in the renowned BBC Planet Earth series, narrated by Sir David Attenborough.
With long midsummer days and the enchanting glow of the Nordic summer, conditions are ideal for both photography and wildlife observation. Beyond brown bears and their cubs, there's a strong chance of encountering other iconic forest species, including wolverines, white-tailed eagles, and possibly even wolves. This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone with a deep appreciation for nature and remote wilderness.
In addition to cubs, this region of Finland boasts one of the highest densities of Brown Bears anywhere in Finland. As such, guests can expect to photograph a wide range of individuals, including large adult males and other impressive bears in their natural habitat. Each evening, we’ll venture by vehicle to carefully positioned hides, where you'll settle in for a night of exciting observation, witnessing touching moments of bear family life. It’s an experience that promises to stay with you forever.
Group Size: 8 people total
Dates: July 15th - 21st 2026
*** ONLY 4 PLACES REMAINING ***
Tour location: Finland
Tour cost: £1,750
Cost Includes:
✅ Transfers between Oulu airport and our basecamp
✅ Unlimited guidance from a professional nature photographer for the entire duration of the tour
✅ All meals at basecamp; breakfast, lunch and dinner
✅ Bear viewing hide fees
✅ Accommodation
Cost excludes:
❌ Internatinal Airline Flights
❌ Travel Insurance
Meet The Guide
-
KYLE MOORE
Kyle Moore is a multi-award-winning nature photographer and wildlife guide based in the UK. Renowned for his work with bears across the globe, Kyle has documented species in some of the planet’s most remote and rugged environments, from the Alaskan wilderness and Canada’s Arctic tundra in pursuit of Polar Bears, to the dense boreal forests of Finland in pursuit of the elusive European Brown Bear. His powerful imagery and deep understanding of wildlife have led to collaborations with national tourism boards, major broadcasters including the BBC, and, most recently, a global campaign for Samsung promoting their latest mobile phone technology. Kyle’s photographs are represented by some of the world’s leading photographic stock agencies and are widely published in international media.
Base Camp
During your stay, you'll be based in a charming, family-run guesthouse nestled amidst the serene Finnish wilderness. The accommodation offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with comfortable en-suite rooms and traditional Finnish hospitality.
Each room is tastefully decorated in a rustic Nordic style, providing a cosy retreat after your evening in the hides. Wake up to the tranquil sounds of nature and enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients - perfect for fuelling your days of exploration and wildlife watching.
Daily Itinerary
-
We will arrive on an afternoon flight via Helsinki, where you will be met by your guide. A transfer by bus will follow, taking us to our chosen basecamp where we will be based for the duration of the tour. Dinner is prepared for our arrival. After dinner the guide will deliver a short presentation detailing the week ahead. Our first night will be spent resting in our accommodation, after a day of traveling.
-
Breakfast will be served early on, followed by a period of free time to spend as you wish. BearPhoto guides will offer optional daytime photographic opportunities including passerine birds and red squirrels. Feel free to explore the surrounding area, during the day as you wish. Dinner will be provided shortly after an optional presentation in the afternoon, at around 3:00pm. Your guides will lead you to your chosen hides for the night at 4:00pm. Sandwiches, flasks (tea/coffee) and bottled water will be provided for each individual whilst in the hide. Following a short drive and 1km walk to the hides, it is simply a case of getting set up, comfortable and waiting for the first Bears to appear. Each hide is equipped with basic beds and toilet facility. The following morning you will be escorted from your hides by the guides at 7:00am, followed by the short walk back to base camp where breakfast will be waiting. The following days and hide nights will all run in a similar pattern.
-
This is the final day of the trip, and upon leaving the hides at 7:00 a.m. you will be guided back to basecamp one final time for breakfast. We will have just enough time for a shower and any last minute packing that may be required before our minibus arrives to transfer us back to the airport for our flights home.
Frequent Questions
-
FITNESS LEVEL EASY
While the tour does not involve extensive physical activity, a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Accessing the bear-watching hides typically requires a short walk from the vehicle, which may include navigating uneven forest trails, soft ground, and occasional steep inclines or descents. Participants should be comfortable walking up to 1 km while carrying personal gear (such as a camera or daypack). Good balance and sturdy footwear are essential, as conditions can be slippery or muddy depending on the weather.
-
To make the most of your bear photography experience in Finland, we recommend bringing the following equipment:
Camera Gear:
A DSLR or mirrorless camera
Telephoto lens (ideally 300mm to 600mm) – bears are often at a close distance, however a longer lens allows for close-up shots without disturbing them.
Spare batteries and memory cards – you'll be in the hide for several hours with no charging facilities.
Tripod hide or beanbag. The hides have platforms or ledges where you can steady your camera.
Clothing & Accessories:
Dark or muted clothing – to reduce visibility through the hide windows.
Snacks and water – you'll be in the hide for around 4 hours, and no facilities are available.
Optional but helpful:
Binoculars for spotting.
Remember to pack light but be prepared – once you're in the hide, you won't be able to leave until the session is over.
-
Absolutely! We’re happy to cater to all dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and any allergies or specific preferences. We just ask that you let us know in advance so we can ensure everything is prepared to suit your needs.
HOW TO BOOk
To secure your place on this tour, please follow the link below and complete your booking through our secure online portal. Alternatively, we accept manual bookings via email, with deposits made by BACS. Please note, bookings are only confirmed once a £300 deposit per person has been received. Make sure you have carefully read all relevant tour itineraries and terms of business before booking.
Have a Question About This Tour?
We’re here to help! If you have any questions about this tour, including availability, itinerary, special requests, or anything else, please complete the contact form. One of our team members will get back to you as soon as possible. We look forward to helping you plan your perfect adventure!