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Discover Estonia, a somewhat hidden European gem for photographers. This seven-day photography adventure takes you deep into the country’s forests, wetlands, and quiet coastlines at the height of spring activity. Guided by award-winning naturalist and photographer Marko Poolamets, you’ll combine hide sessions, landscape shoots, and exploratory walks in some of Estonia’s most wildlife-rich environments; places where brown bears emerge from the shadows, cranes dance on misty bog meadows, and the first warm light of day filters through untouched forest.
May is an exceptional time to photograph wildlife here. Birds are displaying and nesting, mammals are active after winter, and the subdued spring light stays low and soft for hours. From intimate encounters with elk, beavers, and raccoon dogs to coastal seals and the drama of white-tailed eagles overhead, this tour offers a rare level of variety in a single week. Along the way, raised bogs and waterfalls provide striking opportunities for landscape photography, and you’ll end with a relaxed cultural finale – camera in hand – in the medieval old town of Tallinn.
With small group sizes and thoughtful guidance throughout, this tour is designed for photographers who appreciate a variety of photographic subjects, and the chance to explore Estonia’s wilderness at its most vibrant.
May 16 - 22, 2026
May 15 - 21, 2027
May 16 - 22, 2026
May 15 - 21, 2027
At the current exchange rate. Please note final quote might vary slightly
2026: $3495
2027: $3795
Accommodation & meals (apart from day 7 evening meal and on day 1 breakfast.)
Hide access
Airport transfers & transport during trip
Activities on the itinerary
Photographic guidance
Flights
Travel insurance
Day 7 evening meal and day 1 breakfast
Marko Poolamets
Marko is an award-winning Estonian wildlife photographer, nature videographer, and experienced photographic guide. He has been leading nature and photography tours across Estonia since 2009, combining deep field knowledge with a calm, supportive teaching style. A passionate naturalist and skilled birder, Marko has a particular talent for reading behaviour—anticipating when a bear might appear at a forest clearing or when cranes are about to take flight. His work spans wildlife, birds, and the subtle details of northern landscapes, and he enjoys helping photographers capture not just an image, but a story. Marko’s approach is patient, thoughtful, and always rooted in respect for wildlife. Whether you’re in a hide waiting for bears or exploring misty bogs at sunrise, he ensures that every moment in the field is both productive and inspiring.
Estonia offers outstanding wildlife diversity in spring. You may photograph brown bears, elk, beavers, raccoon dogs, red squirrels, seals, and a wide range of wetland and forest birds including cranes, black grouse, capercaillie, ruffs, woodpeckers, and white-tailed eagles. While wildlife is always unpredictable, May provides excellent activity and light.
Very likely. The overnight hide in Alutaguse is located in one of Europe’s most reliable regions for bear photography. Although sightings can’t be guaranteed, the hide is positioned in a high-activity area and has an excellent track record.
Not at all. This tour suits all skill levels, from beginners who want to learn, to experienced photographers building a portfolio. Your guide, Marko, provides support in the field with composition, settings, and preparing for specific wildlife behaviour.
A telephoto lens (300–500mm or equivalent) is ideal for wildlife. A wider lens (16–35mm / 24–70mm) works well for landscapes, and a tripod is recommended for low-light conditions and hide photography. A detailed gear list will be provided upon booking.
Several sessions during the week, including a full day in a forest hide and one overnight bear photography session. Smaller, specialised hides are also used for cranes, waders, and ruffs. This allows for close, undisturbed wildlife experiences.
Most photography locations are easily accessible. Some mornings include short walks to bird leks or along boardwalks across raised bogs, but the terrain is generally gentle. You don’t need to be extremely fit, just comfortable spending several hours outdoors.
Expect mild temperatures (10–18°C / 50–64°F) with long daylight hours and soft, low light. Layers are key, as mornings can be cool, especially in bogs or hides, but daytime is comfortable.
Yes. On the final day, you’ll enjoy a guided photography walk in Tallinn’s medieval Old Town—perfect for street, architecture, and detail photography before your onward travel.
Our photo tours and safaris will take you to the right place, at the right time, to get that epic shot. You'll be guided by a professional photographer, who will help you take your photography to the next level, and we keep our trips exclusive by traveling in small groups. Whether it's in Kenya's sprawling savannahs, Yellowstone's snowy interior, or the jungles of India, your journey will be filled with photography magic.
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