Suomussalmi, Finland: Bear Watching and photography night

Imagine spending a night in the Finnish wilderness, quietly observing some of Europe’s most majestic animals—brown bears—in their natural surroundings. This bear watching tour in Suomussalmi offers an authentic glimpse into the life of these elusive creatures, all from the comfort of a specially designed wooden hide. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll get a rare opportunity to witness bears feeding, resting, and perhaps even playing with their cubs, all while capturing some great photos.

What we really love about this experience is its focus on authenticity and safety. Unlike trying to spot bears while hiking, which is often a gamble, the designated hides at a known feeding area significantly increase your chances of a sighting. Plus, the guides are seasoned professionals who make the entire night both educational and enjoyable. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that this experience is quite long—about 15 hours in total—so it’s best suited for those who genuinely love outdoor adventures and can handle being in the wild overnight.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those curious about wildlife who are comfortable spending a night outdoors without electricity or running water. It’s not suitable for young children under 10, or travelers with mobility or respiratory issues. If you’re prepared for a dark, chilly night and the possibility of seeing bears in action, this could be a highlight of your Finnish adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife experience in a natural habitat with expert guidance
• High chances of seeing multiple bears and even cubs from a safe, comfortable hide
• Overnight stay in a wooden hide with sleeping bags, bunk beds, and eco toilet facilities
• Photograph bears at close range through individual holes in the hide
• Starts at 4 pm with a short transfer from Martinselkonen Wilds Centre
• Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers, but not for young children or those with certain health issues

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Start: A Short Drive and Forest Walk

Your adventure kicks off around 4 pm at the Martinselkonen Wilds Centre, located about two hours from Kuusamo and Kajaani airports. From there, a quick car transfer whisks you to the starting point for the forest walk. The walk itself isn’t long—just enough to get you into the right mindset for the night ahead—and takes you along a forest trail to the hides. It’s a simple but immersive way to begin your journey into the wild.

The Wooden Hide Experience

Once at the hide, you’ll find a cozy, purpose-built wooden structure designed for up to 12 guests. Each person gets their own seat with a small photography hole, allowing you to capture photos without disturbing the bears. The design prioritizes safety and comfort—there are bunk beds for sleeping, plenty of blankets and sleeping bags, and a dry eco toilet nearby. It’s a straightforward setup but ideal for spending a night immersed in nature.

What’s in Store During the Night

The guide, who is present throughout the night, plays a key role in making the experience memorable. They’ll share insights about the bears and help you interpret what’s happening outside. During the night, you can indulge in hot drinks, sandwiches, and biscuits—a simple but appreciated way to stay warm and alert.

And then, the real magic begins. Over the years, the guides report seeing several bears during a typical night, including bears and sometimes bear cubs born in winter—often visible from late June onward. The experience is not just about watching but about observing bears in their natural feeding and resting behaviors—a rare opportunity to see wild animals up close.

Morning and Departure

After a night of quiet anticipation, you’ll leave the hide shortly after 7 am, with your camera roll full of photos and your mind full of new wildlife stories. The short drive back to the starting point ensures you’re back at your vehicle in time for a fresh start to your day.

What You Need to Know

Practicalities and Comfort

• Clothing: Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate outdoor gear. Finnish summers can go from warm to cold quickly, especially at night, so layers are key. Waterproof shoes are recommended since the trail can be muddy during rainy days.
• Wildlife and insect protection: June and July can bring mosquitoes, so covering exposed skin and using repellent is advisable.
• Facilities: No running water or electricity in the hide, so plan accordingly. The eco toilet nearby is functional but basic.
• Safety: The guide is always there to ensure safety, and smoking or alcohol is strictly forbidden during the night.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about 15 hours, starting at 4 pm and ending around 7:30 am the next day. It’s suitable for groups of up to 12 people, ensuring an intimate wildlife experience without large crowds. The maximum comfort comes from having a dedicated seat and individual photography holes.

Cost and Value

While the tour’s price isn’t specified here, the included elements—overnight stay, guide services, snacks, and use of sleeping bags—add value, especially considering the rare chance to photograph wild bears overnight. The experience’s authenticity and focus on wildlife observation make it a worthwhile investment for nature lovers.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

Based on reviews, guides like Jari and Sari are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. They provide not only safety but also engaging stories about the bears’ behavior and habitat. Guests have commented on how seeing bear cubs—especially during late June and July—is a highlight, as it adds a level of cuteness and wonder.

Many travelers mention the importance of preparing for the cold and the mud, especially if rain is forecast. A tip from seasoned visitors is to bring a good camera with a zoom lens and a headlamp or flashlight for the walk back in the dark.

Final Thoughts

This bear watching tour in Suomussalmi offers an unrivaled chance to see Finnish wildlife in their natural environment. The combination of a comfortable hide, expert guides, and the thrill of possibly spotting bears and their cubs makes it a standout experience for anyone keen on nature photography or wildlife observation.

It balances adventure with comfort, making it accessible for those willing to spend a night outdoors. It’s especially perfect if you value authenticity and a close-up look at bears in the wild, without the risks or unpredictability of hiking into bear territory yourself.

Ideal for adventure-minded travelers, photography fans, and wildlife enthusiasts, this tour promises a memorable night under the stars—filled with the sights and sounds of the Finnish forest.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins around 4 pm with a short drive and ends after about 15 hours, returning to the meeting point around 7:30 am.

Is prior experience needed for photography?
While not explicitly required, bringing a camera with a zoom lens can help you capture better photos of the bears. The hide’s individual holes are designed to facilitate photography.

Can I see bear cubs?
Yes, especially from late June onwards, there is a good chance of seeing bear cubs born earlier that winter.

What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable, layered outdoor clothing suitable for Finnish summer nights. Waterproof shoes are recommended, and bring warm layers due to possible cold and mosquitoes.

Are there facilities at the hide?
There are no running water or electrical outlets, but a dry eco toilet is available nearby. You’ll also find sleeping bags and blankets inside the hide.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 due to the outdoor overnight setting and safety considerations.

What is included in the price?
The overnight stay in the hide, guide services in English, short transfer, snacks, and use of sleeping bags are included.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the use of eco toilets and minimal environmental impact during the stay highlight its eco-friendly approach.

How accessible is the activity?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with respiratory issues, as the terrain can be muddy and the environment challenging.

This night in Finnish bear country promises a rare chance to see some of Europe’s most elusive animals, all while enjoying the tranquility of the forest. Prepare well, keep your camera ready, and you might leave with stories—and photos—that will last a lifetime.