Finnish Wildlife Weekend

Day 1
Start Hotel Kalevala.

Day 2
Today we will travel 25km south of Kuhmo to the placid setting of Lake Venejarvi, where we immerse ourselves into nature by the use of open tandem canoes. This form of transport allows us a unique insight into one of the most fascinating residents of the lake, the beaver. Beaver activity is quite frequent on this lake so we may be able to edge right up to some of their constructions such as dams and beaver lodges, and with any luck spot the architect of all of this work as well. If you do not spot the beaver on the move you may alternatively be able to hear it warning the others of your prescence by loudly slapping its tail on the surface of the water. After time on the lake you will return to the hotel to relax and enjoy the hotels' many facilities.

Day 3
After breakfast we take a short walk (700m) to the Petola Nature Centre, for a guided tour of their exhibition 'predators on the prowl' - a permenant exhibition with detailed information on the Finnish predators, such as bears, wolves, wolverines and lynx. We will then check out of the hotel and travel even deeper into Eastern Finland, close to the Russian border, to the Boreal Wildlife Centre. Here we will meet local filmmaker Kari Kemppainen who will give us a talk about the fascinating wildlife in the region and show us some of his breathtaking photographs, before heading of for your night in the bear hide. During your stay at the bear hide you will be provided with sandwiches and refreshments to keep you going through the night. At this time of year there is between twelve and sixteen hours of direct sunlight and two or four hours of twighlight, so remember to bring a good camera as this site offers excellent photographic opportunities.

Day 4
After a night in the bear hide breakfast is provided. There is a short time to relax before your transfer back to the hotel.