Suomussalmi, Finland: Bear Watching and Photography Night — An Honest Look
If you’re dreaming of seeing a wild brown bear in its natural environment, this night-time bear watching tour in Finnish Kainuu might just be what you’re looking for. It’s not a typical wildlife safari—here, the focus is on staying still, observing quietly, and capturing some incredible photos of these majestic creatures in the dark. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it’s certainly an experience worth considering if you’re into nature, wildlife photography, or simply the thrill of spotting something wild and elusive.
What really appeals to us is the chance to see multiple bears in one night—sometimes even bear cubs born just months earlier. Plus, the expert guide accompanying you is a big plus, offering insights and making sure safety is always a priority. One thing that might give some pause is the cold overnight stay in a wooden hide, without running water or electricity, so it’s not for everyone. Still, if you’re comfortable in outdoor conditions and love a good adventure, this tour could be a highlight of your Finnish trip.
This experience is best suited for travelers who are adventurous, patient, and OK with spending a night outdoors. It’s a natural choice for wildlife lovers and photography enthusiasts but isn’t recommended for young children or those with respiratory issues or mobility challenges. Keep in mind, it’s a guided tour that requires preparation for weather and outdoor conditions. If that sounds like your kind of thing, read on for a full breakdown of what to expect.
Key Points
- Over 2000 wild brown bears inhabit Finnish forests, providing a solid chance for sightings.
- The overnight stay in a wooden hide allows close observation in a natural setting.
- Expert guides are present all night, sharing insights and ensuring safety.
- The tour often results in seeing several bears, with cubs possibly visible from late June onward.
- The experience includes light snacks and beverages during the night.
- It’s not suitable for children under 10 or those with certain health conditions, emphasizing the outdoor, rustic nature of the experience.
The Experience in Detail
Starting Out: A Short Drive and Forest Walk
Your journey begins at Martinselkonen Wilds Centre around 4 pm, where you’ll hop into a company car for about two hours from Kuusamo or Kajaani airports. Once there, a brief walk through a forest trail takes you to the actual wooden hides—these are your front-row seats to wildlife in action. Each hide accommodates up to 12 people, with individual seats and handy photography holes for snapping photos without disturbing the bears. The walk might be muddy if the weather’s wet, so good shoes are a must.
The Wooden Hide: Comfort and Practicalities
Once inside, you’ll find a surprisingly cozy setup. There are bunk beds with sleeping bags for those who want to catch some rest, and an eco toilet nearby. No electricity or running water; it’s truly wilderness living. During the night, you can expect coffee, tea, hot chocolate, sandwiches, and biscuits—small comforts that help you stay warm and alert during those long hours. The guide stays with you, sharing knowledge about the bears, their habits, and the forest environment, which enriches the experience and keeps you engaged.
Nighttime: Watching Wild Bears Unfold
The real magic happens after sunset. Finnish summers can be chilly, even at night, so dressing warmly in layered outdoor clothing is essential. The guide’s presence provides reassurance, and their expertise increases your chances of witnessing several bears—a memorable sight. The guide also updates you on what’s seen and helps with photography, so you’re not left guessing about what’s out there.
Late June and Beyond: The Chance of Cubs
If you’re visiting from late June onward, you might just catch sight of bear cubs, born in the previous winter. It’s a special season, as the young cubs are often seen venturing near their mothers, adding a delightful dimension to your observation. The tour typically ends around 7 am, with plenty of fresh memories to take home.
The Value of This Tour
Is it worth the price? When considering the cost—covering your overnight stay, expert guide, snacks, and transportation—it’s a unique, immersive wildlife experience. For wildlife and photography lovers, the chance to see bears in their natural habitat is priceless. Also, the guided element ensures safety and increases your chances of sightings, which is invaluable in such a challenging environment.
The appeal lies in the simplicity and authenticity of the experience. No flashy safari vehicles or artificial setups—just you, a small group, and the Finnish wilderness. The rustic hide may not be luxurious, but it’s functional, designed to bring you as close as possible to the bears without disturbing them.
One consideration is the outdoor nature of the tour. It’s a long night without electricity, so come prepared. The weather can be unpredictable, and mosquitoes may be present in June and July, so insect repellent and suitable clothing are recommended. The tour is not suitable for children under 10, which makes sense given the nocturnal, outdoor setting.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This bear-watching night in Finland is perfect for those who crave authentic wildlife encounters and don’t mind roughing it a little. If you’re comfortable spending a night outdoors, enjoy photography, or just want to see bears in the wild, this is a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a quiet, immersive experience and are okay with the rustic conditions.
On the flip side, if you prefer comfort, have health issues, or are traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. The tour offers a genuine chance to connect with nature but requires patience, some preparation, and a love for the outdoors.
Suomussalmi, Finland: Bear Watching and photography night
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 years old, mainly due to the outdoor overnight setting and the nature of the experience.
How many bears can I expect to see?
Typically, several bears are seen during one night, and there’s a good chance to catch sight of bear cubs from late June onward.
What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate outdoor clothing. Finnish nights can be surprisingly cold, even in summer, so layering is key. Waterproof shoes are recommended if it’s muddy.
Are there any facilities in the hide?
No, there’s no running water or electricity. The hide has bunk beds with sleeping bags and a dry eco toilet nearby.
What snacks are included?
Expect coffee, tea, hot chocolate, sandwiches, cookies, and drinking water during your stay.
What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 15 hours, starting at 4 pm and ending around 7:30 am the next morning.
Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, the guide services are available in English and Finnish.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Martinselkonen Wilds Centre and ends back there after the overnight stay.
In the end, if you’re looking for an authentic Finnish wilderness experience and the chance to see bears in their natural habitat, this tour offers a memorable, if rustic, adventure. It’s particularly suited for those who value nature, photography, and a bit of adventure over luxury. Just be sure to prepare accordingly, and you’ll likely walk away with stories—and photos—that you’ll cherish for years.
You can check availability for your dates here:
