Bear hides

Meet the king of the forest, the bear, and the playful wolverine on snow in Kuusamo during your spring bird photography sessions!

Bears wake up from hibernation in April and gradually start moving around the photography site, where we will also spend our evenings during the spring. Wolverines occasionally roam the area, offering a chance to photograph them as well. White-tailed eagles and ravens are also frequent visitors to the site.

Information about the hides

Hides: A total of 2 hides.
Capacity: 8 people.

Equipment:

One photography hole per photographer. If all holes are not occupied or reserved, multiple holes may be used.
Cameras are mounted on the photographer’s own gimbals or video heads, which are attached to the shooting platform with a bolt. Note: Tripods cannot be used.
Bean bags can also be used.
Each hide is equipped with gas heaters.
A dry toilet is available.

Photography season:

Bear photography is available only in spring, from April 20 to May 20.
If you are interested in photographing bears later in the summer, please inquire about availability.

Photography duration: 4 – 6 hours

Location:

A 45-minute drive (50 km) from Kuusamo city center.
From the parking area, there is a 100-meter walk to the hides along a snowmobile-tracked path.

Price: 150€ per photographer per day (includes guide services).

Good to know (FAQ)

More information

Is the hide exclusively for me?

At our bear photography location, we have only two hides available, so there may be other photographers in the hide as well. If you prefer a private hide or an exclusive session for your group, this can be arranged for an additional fee. You can also mention your hide preference when booking, and we will do our best to arrange it.

When is photography possible?

We photograph bears only during the spring bird season, from April 20 to May 20. If you are interested in photographing bears at another time, feel free to ask us about availability.

How long does a photography session last?

A session lasts 4–6 hours. You will enter the hide in the afternoon, typically between 1:00 and 4:00 PM, and leave in the evening around 8:00 PM, depending on animal activity. If needed, it is also possible to stay overnight in the hide.

What gear do I need in the hide?

In April and May, temperatures can still be below freezing, so warm winter boots and clothing are recommended. A video head (or gimbal, etc.) and snacks are also good to bring along.

What is the distance to the birds and animals, and what lens and equipment should I bring?

Animals and birds typically move at a distance of 20–50 meters from the hides, sometimes even farther.

Recommended lenses: