Suomussalmi, a remote town in eastern Finland, offers a captivating opportunity for nature enthusiasts. Here, a 15-hour bear watching and photography night excursion allows visitors to enjoy the enchanting Finnish wilderness. With a high likelihood of spotting over 2,000 wild brown bears, including adorable cubs during late summer, this guided adventure promises unforgettable moments. Guests will experience the tranquility of the forest, enjoy basic amenities in comfortable hides, and capture stunning photographs, all while fostering an appreciation for bear conservation in their natural habitat. As the sun dips below the horizon, the true magic of this extraordinary encounter begins to unfold.
Good To Know
- Opportunity to observe over 2,000 wild brown bears in their natural habitat during a 15-hour excursion in Suomussalmi, Finland.
- High likelihood of seeing multiple bears, including bear cubs, with expert guidance and from wooden hides equipped with photography holes.
- Activity fosters appreciation for bear conservation and provides an immersive experience in the tranquil Finnish forest environment.
- Strict safety guidelines and participant restrictions to ensure comfort and well-being of all attendees.
- Appropriate warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and mosquito repellent recommended for a comfortable night-time experience.
Activity Overview
The article introduces a bear watching and photography night excursion in Suomussalmi, Finland.
The 15-hour activity costs from $177.79 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Participants can opt for the reserve now and pay later option.
The experience allows visitors to observe over 2,000 wild brown bears in their natural habitat with an expert guide.
The night is spent in wooden hides at the bears’ feeding area, providing a chance to see several bears, including bear cubs from late June onwards.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kainuu.
Wildlife Experience
Over 2,000 wild brown bears roam the Finnish forests, providing an extraordinary opportunity for visitors to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Accompanied by an expert guide, participants in the bear watching tour have a high chance of spotting several bears, including bear cubs from late June onwards. The experience takes place in wooden hides situated at the bears’ feeding area, allowing for close observation of the animals’ behavior and movements.
| Observation | Likelihood |
|---|---|
| Seeing multiple bears | High |
| Seeing bear cubs | Good chance from late June |
| Observing natural behavior | Excellent |
This immersive wildlife experience offers a unique chance to witness the bears in their untamed environment, fostering a deeper appreciation for these remarkable animals and the importance of their conservation.
Excursion Details
Participants start the bear watching excursion at 16:00 from the Martinselkonen Wilds Centre, located at Pirttivaarantie 131 in Suomussalmi.
After a short drive, they embark on a forest trail walk to reach the wooden hides. The hides accommodate 12 persons each, offering a seat and a photography hole to observe the bears comfortably.
The amenities include:
- Bunk beds and sleeping bags for overnight stays.
- A dry eco toilet for convenience.
- Light snacks like coffee, tea, sandwiches, and biscuits.
An expert guide accompanies the group throughout the night, ensuring safety and providing information about the bears and their behavior.
Safety and Guidelines
An expert guide is present throughout the night for the safety and information of the participants.
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is required, as Finnish summers can be cold. Warm attire is recommended.
The path to the hide may be muddy, so appropriate footwear is advised.
Mosquito repellent is allowed, but covering clothing provides the best protection.
There are no amenities such as running water or electricity in the hides.
Smoking, alcohol, and drug use are prohibited.
The activity isn’t suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, or individuals with respiratory issues or colds.
Participants should check availability and select dates before booking.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyParticipant Restrictions
The bear watching activity in Suomussalmi, Finland isn’t suitable for everyone. Certain participant restrictions apply to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees.
First, the activity isn’t recommended for children under 10 years old, as the prolonged hours in the wooden hides may be challenging for younger participants.
Plus, individuals with respiratory issues or colds are advised against joining, as the confined space and potential cold weather could exacerbate their condition.
Finally, wheelchair users may face difficulties navigating the forest trail and accessing the hides.
It’s crucial to carefully review these restrictions before booking to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.
Preparing for the Expedition
Preparing for the expedition requires thorough planning and attention to detail. Dressing appropriately is crucial, as Finnish summers can be surprisingly chilly. Layering clothing and wearing weatherproof, sturdy footwear are recommended. Plus, bringing mosquito repellent is essential to ward off these persistent insects. To ensure a comfortable experience, the hides are equipped with basic amenities like bunk beds and sleeping bags, but visitors should still pack any personal items they may need.
| Clothing | Footwear | Accessories |
|---|---|---|
| Warm layers | Weatherproof boots | Mosquito repellent |
| Weatherproof jacket | Sturdy hiking shoes | Personal items |
| Gloves and hat | – | – |
What to Expect During the Night
Once visitors have equipped themselves for the conditions, they’ll embark on a short drive followed by a forest trail walk to reach the wooden hides.
Within the hides, they’ll experience:
- The tranquility of the Finnish forest, interrupted only by the occasional rustling of leaves and the distant calls of wildlife.
- The thrill of spotting the majestic brown bears as they forage, play, and interact in their natural habitat, often with the possibility of seeing bear cubs.
- The opportunity to capture stunning photographs of these magnificent creatures, thanks to the strategically placed photography holes in the hides.
The expert guide’s presence ensures the safety and informative nature of the experience throughout the night.
Additional Information
Visitors’ safety takes precedence throughout the experience. An expert guide accompanies the group at all times to ensure their wellbeing and provide valuable information about the bears and their habitat.
Appropriate attire is essential, as Finnish summers can be chilly, and the path to the hide may be muddy. Mosquito repellent is allowed, but the best protection is covering up.
The hides are basic, with no running water or electricity, and smoking, alcohol, and drug use are strictly prohibited.
This activity isn’t suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, or those with respiratory issues or colds.
It’s recommended to check availability and select participants and dates before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to See Bear Cubs?
The best time to see bear cubs is typically from late June onwards, when they emerge from their dens with their mothers. This offers a good chance to observe the adorable cubs in their natural habitat.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Yes, participants can bring their own camera equipment for the bear watching and photography excursion. The event description notes that the hides have photography holes to accommodate guests’ photography needs.
Is There Any Compensation for Poor Bear Sightings?
There is no compensation offered for poor bear sightings. The experience depends on natural wildlife behavior, and the tour operator can’t guarantee any specific number or type of bear encounters. Guests should manage their expectations accordingly.
Can I Leave the Hide for Any Reason During the Night?
The participants are generally expected to remain in the hide throughout the night for the best wildlife viewing experience. However, if an urgent need arises, they can leave briefly with the guide’s permission and assistance.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Excursion?
There is no option to extend the duration of the excursion. The night-time bear watching experience lasts 15 hours as stated, and participants must remain in the wooden hide throughout this period.
Sum Up
Suomussalmi’s bear watching and photography night excursion offers a unique opportunity to witness the captivating Finnish wilderness. Guided by experts, participants can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, capturing stunning photographs and gaining a deeper appreciation for bear conservation. With a high chance of spotting over 2,000 wild brown bears, including adorable cubs, this 15-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
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