Eastern Finland’s pristine wilderness offers extraordinary opportunities for overnight stays in rustic cabins, immersing visitors in the heart of the boreal forest and watching brown bears living in these forests. These bear hides provide an authentic Finnish nature experience, complete with traditional features and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. For nature enthusiasts seeking a unique experience in Finland, bear cabins represent the perfect balance between adventure and comfort. Martinselkonen specializes in providing these memorable wilderness experiences.

Can you stay overnight in a bear cabin in eastern Finland?

Absolutely! Overnight bear cabin stays are readily available throughout eastern Finland’s magnificent forests. There are different cabins for bear watchers and photographers. Bear cabins provide an authentic immersion into Finland’s natural environment, particularly in the unspoiled forests near the Russian border.

Martinselkonen offers comfortable room accommodate up to 29 guests, making them suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, or larger groups. Booking procedures are straightforward—reservations can be made directly through our website, with availability being highest when booked well in advance, especially during peak wildlife viewing seasons.

The bear cabins are strategically located to provide both comfort and optimal opportunities for wildlife observation. Many are situated near wilderness areas where bears and other wildlife frequent, creating unparalleled nature viewing experiences while ensuring visitor safety.

What amenities do bear cabins in eastern Finland offer?

Eastern Finnish bear cabins typically provide a thoughtful balance between rustic charm and essential comforts. These accommodations maintain traditional elements while ensuring guests have necessary amenities for a comfortable stay in the wilderness. Heating is provided only during spring time.

At Martinselkonen, bear cabins feature sleeping arrangements with sleeping bags. There is no electricity or running water. The hides has only dry eco toilet.

At Martinselkonen, overnight bear cabin stays generally 180 per person per night. During prime wildlife viewing seasons (late spring through early autumn), rates tend to be higher reflecting peak demand.

Most clients include to the bear package also accommodation and meal services. Many visitors find that booking comprehensive packages that include meals and guided activities offers the best overall value and most enriching experience.

When is the best time to book a bear cabin in eastern Finland?

Bear are hibernating during winter months and wake up when the snow starts to melt. The bear season is started with photographers in mid April and the tourist hides open in May. The season continues all the way to mid August when the nights are starting to be too dark for photography. Each season in eastern Finland offers distinct wilderness experiences, with optimal booking times depending on your specific interests. Late spring through early autumn (April-August) represents the prime season for wildlife observation.

Summer months (June-July) offer the magical midnight sun experience, with nearly constant daylight creating unique opportunities for extended nature exploration and photography.Autumn brings spectacular autumn colors.
Eastern Finland’s wilderness areas host remarkable biodiversity, with opportunities to observe some of Europe’s most impressive wildlife species. Brown bears represent the highlight for many visitors, with eastern Finland offering some of the continent’s best bear-viewing opportunities.

Birdwatchers can spot numerous species including the majestic golden eagle, capercaillie, black grouse, and various owls. The region’s wetlands attract diverse waterfowl, while its old-growth forests support specialized woodland birds rarely seen elsewhere in Europe. Best bird spotting time is in end of May – end of June.

Martinselkonen specializes in responsible wildlife viewing experiences, particularly for bear watching. Their purpose-built hides allow for safe, close observation of bears and other wildlife without disturbing natural behaviors. Professional guides ensure both safety and educational enrichment during wildlife encounters. For safe wildlife viewing, guests should follow all guide instructions, maintain appropriate distances, avoid loud noises, and never approach wildlife directly.

Safety considerations include staying inside the bear cabins during the excursions, carrying a charged mobile phone (though reception may be limited), and listening the instructions given by the guides. Martinselkonen prioritizes guest safety through thorough orientations and professional guidance.