Savonlinna’s evening photography tour on Lake Saimaa promises a captivating experience for wildlife and photography enthusiasts. Limited to just six participants, this guided excursion offers a unique opportunity to observe the endangered Saimaa ringed seals and various waterbirds in their natural habitat. With expert guidance from a local photographer, you’ll receive valuable tips and enjoy the serene environment of Savonlinna’s National Urban Park. As the golden hour approaches, you’ll have a chance to capture stunning landscapes that may leave you eager to explore further.
Good To Know
- This 3-hour guided evening excursion on Lake Saimaa focuses on observing the endangered Saimaa ringed seals and offers photography opportunities.
- The tour is led by a local photographer and provides tips to enhance photography skills, with ample chances for landscape photography.
- The meeting point is at the pier in Savonlinna’s National Urban Park, with included transportation to the prime viewing locations in the Saimaa archipelago.
- The tour is suitable for participants aged 12 and above, and participants are advised to bring warm clothing and a camera.
- Important regulations include no smoking, alcohol, or drugs, and no littering to preserve the ecosystem.
Tour Overview
The Evening Photography Tour on Lake Saimaa is a 3-hour guided excursion that takes participants to the Saimaa archipelago.
Priced at €180 per person, the small group tour is limited to 6 participants and conducted in English.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour offers a reserve now, pay later option.
Guests will have opportunities to photograph the stunning landscapes and observe the endangered Saimaa ringed seals as well as other wildlife like ospreys and waterbirds.
The tour starts from the pier in Savonlinna’s National Urban Park, with transportation to the meeting point included.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Savonlinna.
Wildlife Observation
One of the key highlights of the Evening Photography Tour on Lake Saimaa is the opportunity to observe the elusive Saimaa ringed seals, one of the world’s most endangered seal populations.
With an estimated population of around 430 individuals as of June 2022, these seals can be spotted resting, digesting food, and socializing in the Saimaa archipelago.
Along With the seals, participants may also catch glimpses of ospreys and various waterbirds, providing ample opportunities for wildlife photography.
The tour is designed to allow observation of the animals without disturbing them, ensuring a responsible and sustainable experience for both the participants and the local wildlife.
Photography Experience
During the Evening Photography Tour on Lake Saimaa, participants can capture the beauty of the wildlife and landscapes with the guidance of a local photographer.
The tour offers several photography opportunities:
- Discover the best observation areas in the Saimaa archipelago to frame stunning shots.
- Receive photography tips from the knowledgeable guide to improve your skills.
- Enjoy abundant chances for landscape photography, capturing the serene lake, surrounding forests, and historic Olavinlinna castle.
With the small group size, the tour ensures personalized attention and ample time to hone your photography techniques while immersed in the natural splendor of the Saimaa region.
Savonlinna National Urban Park
Nestled within the Saimaa archipelago, the Savonlinna National Urban Park covers a vast 7,700 hectares around the iconic Olavinlinna castle.
This expansive protected area offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region. Visitors can discover picturesque landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the historical significance of the area.
The park’s meeting point is conveniently located at the pier, and transportation to this location is included in the tour. Participants will have the chance to enjoy the serene environment and capture stunning photographs under the guidance of a local expert.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyMeeting Point and Transportation
The tour meeting point is conveniently located at the pier in Savonlinna.
Transportation to the meeting point is included, ensuring a seamless start to the evening photography tour.
Participants can look forward to:
- A short, comfortable journey to the prime viewing locations in the Saimaa archipelago
- Arriving at the best spots to observe the elusive Saimaa ringed seals and other wildlife
- Capturing the stunning landscapes and serene waterways of the National Urban Park during the golden hour
With the transportation details taken care of, participants can focus on seeing the photography experience and enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Saimaa.
Age Restrictions
Is the Evening Photography Tour on Lake Saimaa suitable for children? No, this tour is not recommended for children under 12 years old. The tour focuses on wildlife observation and photography, which may not be engaging for younger participants. Plus, the tour takes place in the evening, which could be challenging for children. For the best experience, the tour is limited to adults and adolescents aged 12 and above.
| Age Restrictions | |
|---|---|
| Suitable for | 12 years and above |
| Not Suitable for | Under 12 years old |
| Reason | Wildlife observation |
| Evening schedule |
What to Bring
For the Evening Photography Tour on Lake Saimaa, participants should bring along a few essential items.
First and foremost, warm clothing is a must, as the temperatures can drop in the evening.
Plus, a camera – whether it’s a DSLR, mirrorless, or even a smartphone – is essential for capturing the stunning wildlife and landscapes.
Lastly, be sure to bring comfortable footwear, as the tour may involve some walking on uneven terrain.
- Warm clothing
- Camera
- Comfortable footwear
Important Regulations
Participants must follow a few important regulations during the Evening Photography Tour on Lake Saimaa. Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited, and littering is not allowed. The tour is not suitable for children under 12 years old. To ensure the safety and comfort of all participants, as well as the preservation of the delicate ecosystem, the tour guides will provide clear instructions on how to observe the wildlife without disturbing them.
| Prohibited Activities | Allowed Attire |
|---|---|
| Smoking | Warm clothing |
| Alcohol | Camera |
| Drugs | |
| Littering |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Photos Can I Expect to Take During the Tour?
The number of photos participants can expect to take during the tour varies depending on their photography skills and the wildlife activity. However, the guide provides tips to help maximize photo opportunities throughout the 3-hour experience.
What Types of Cameras Are Recommended for This Tour?
The tour welcomes a variety of cameras, from DSLRs to compact point-and-shoot models. Mirrorless cameras are also suitable. Photographers should bring a zoom lens for capturing wildlife and landscapes. Tripods can be helpful but are not required.
Are There Any Restrictions on Using Tripods or Other Equipment?
The tour allows the use of tripods and other photography equipment, but participants are encouraged to avoid disturbing the wildlife. Guests should check with the guide about any specific restrictions or recommendations for their gear.
Can I Request Specific Wildlife or Landscape Shots From the Guide?
Participants can request specific wildlife or landscape shots from the guide. The guide will provide photography tips and help locate the best observation areas to capture the desired shots during the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the tour offers an option to extend the duration for an additional fee. Guests can discuss this with the guide upon arrival and arrange for a longer excursion if desired.
Sum Up
The Savonlinna Evening Photography Tour on Lake Saimaa offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning landscapes and observe endangered Saimaa ringed seals during the golden hour. With expert guidance and a small group size, participants can enjoy the serene environment of Savonlinna’s National Urban Park while learning valuable photography tips. This captivating tour is a must-experience for wildlife and photography enthusiasts visiting the region.
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