Frequently Asked Question

 
  • BearPhoto carefully selects our locations for the most reliable and productive viewing experience. On an average night, you can expect to see a variety of different bears as well as Wolverine. In exceptionally rare circumstances, there may be a ‘no show’, but in our experience it is most unlikely that this will last for more than one night. We state this as bears are wild free-roaming predators with home ranges spanning thousands of kilometers, and we cannot control their movements.

  • Equipment recommendations can be viewed in the trip itinerary, where we have compiled and handy 'checklist', along with additional recommendations on items to bring specifically to the chosen tour (seasonal items and suchlike). Trip itineraries can be requested via the dedicated tour listing page.

  • Due to the remote nature of our locations and accommodation space is limited. For this reason, same sex travelers will be paired wherever possible.

  • We will always do our best to ensure you have your own hide for each hide session, however during peak season, same sex travelers may be paired in hides.

  • Item descrSingle supplement accommodation can be arranged for an additional cost of £150 upon your request.iption

  • All BearPhoto tours include airport transfers, which would otherwise result in large additional expenses.

  • Yes. No extra expenses are required to purchase meals when attending our trips. Our meals include Breakfast and Dinner, and a lunch bag is provided during the hide night. Unlimited coffee, tea and juice is available throughout the day, as well as fresh fruit, small snacks and biscuits. You are welcome to bring any additional nibbles you may want for the hide nights.

  • Refunds of the travel package price are made in the case of cancellation 30 days or earlier before the start date of your tour. Please note however cancellations made after 30 days of the trip start date are completely non-refundable. All cancellation refunds exclude a non-refundable deposit payment fee, which in no circumstance can be refunded.

  • Yes. Both the restaurant (on site) and Accommodation building have access to Wi-Fi. Nearly all phone network providers can access 3G, in both the accommodation, and hide areas.

  • The trip fitness levels are ranked as either Easy, Moderate or Hard. Fitness details can be found on the dedicated tour pages. Our popular Finnish Bear trips are ranked as 'easy', and there is very little walking required in the accommodation area. You are required to walk for approximately 10/15 minutes to the hide area every evening. We will walk together leaving at the same time, and will all walk at a very comfortable pace. Similarly if required, we offer those who are uncomfortable with this short walk a drop-off, where you will be driven to the hide area and dropped meters from the hide. You will be stationary in the hides every night as you wait for the predators to emerge.

  • Our average group size on a trip will be approximately 10 people maintaining an exclusive and bespoke feel. The exact group size may vary between 6-10 participants.

  • Yes. Although BearPhoto is a specialist wildlife photography tour provider, we welcome travellers who wish to observe Bears while having the added benefits of our professional guidance and exclusive prices. This is an ideal way for wildlife enthusiasts to experience Bears in the wild, without the stress and hassle of making travel arrangements.

  • Absolutely! BearPhoto tours take place in some of the wildest locations in Europe and beyond, and so naturally there is always a wealth of wildlife on offer aside from our target bear species. Details of expected species can be read in the official tour itinerary, which can be requested via the dedicated tour listing page.

  • Yes. All dietary requirements can be catered for, and we will always ensure there are many options when it comes to meals. After booking, the BearPhoto team will contact you, where you can detail a list of your full dietary requirements to them.

  • The leading airline company for our required flights (Finnair) have very generous hand luggage allowances, and transporting photographic equipment is easy and stress-free. We recommended checking directly with Finnair for full details, however, the BearPhoto team are always happy to help with any travel concerns you may have.

  • The accommodation on our Finnish Bear tours is a rustic lodge surrounded by pristine taiga forest. It is graded as basic but has absolutely everything that is required for an extremely comfortable stay. It includes fully laundered single and double rooms, a living room area, a restaurant, showers, both electric and wood-fired sauna and Wi-Fi.

  • Our tours are focused towards photographers of all levels, from complete beginners to competent photographers with years of photographic experience. We cater to all skills and abilities, delivering our knowledge/expertise and a range of presentations tailored to the individuals who attend our trips.

  • Participants of any nationality and country are welcome on our trips but must be able to communicate in English. This allows us to deliver our guiding services to all in a comprehensive way everyone can follow.

  • Every hide is equipped with bunk beds, a foam mattress, pillow and seasonally suited sleeping bag for each participant. Our on site accommodation is clean and comfortable, and rooms are fully laundered. Same sex travellers will be paired in shared rooms wherever possible. Please contact the BearPhoto team if you would prefer to have a single room supplement, as this can be arranged at a slight additional cost. Most rooms are complete with ensuite facilities.

Have any additional questions? We're here to help - simply fill out the contact form below and a member of our team will respond to your questions ASAP.