This tour is organized in collaboration with NatureTalks and is exclusively for Dutch-speaking participants

Price

Click here or the Nature Talks logo below to view availability and pricing (max. 6 persons)

Guides

Stefan Gerrits & Stijn Smits

Tour description

Northern Finland and Varanger, Norway, form one of the most dramatic and wildlife-rich regions in all of Scandinavia. Winter and early spring are particularly spectacular: the frozen tundra glitters under snow, and hundreds of thousands of seabirds return to their Arctic breeding grounds. Our journey begins in Ivalo, Finland, where we search for northern specialties such as Pine Grosbeak, Arctic Redpoll, Siberian Tit, Siberian Jay, and Willow Grouse against the backdrop of pristine winter forests.

From there, we head north to the legendary Varangerfjord. Few places breathe wildlife photography like this Arctic coastline. At the bird cliffs of Hornøya, tens of thousands of Common and Brünnich’s Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes, and the iconic Atlantic Puffin gather, an unforgettable spectacle, especially when photographed against snow and ice. Overhead, White-tailed Eagles and even the elusive Gyrfalcon may patrol the skies.

On the water, we’ll use a well-positioned low-angle floating hide to photograph Long-tailed Ducks and all three eider species, Common-, King-, and Steller’s Eider, in their brilliant breeding plumage. On land, we’ll seek out Mountain Hares (both day and night), Reindeer, Rock Ptarmigan, and more, all set against Varanger’s colorful fishing villages and stark Arctic landscapes.

And when night falls, we’ll keep watch for the dancing Northern Lights above the Varanger sky, an unforgettable finale to a truly Arctic adventure.

Are you ready for all of this? Let nature lead the way on this once-in-a-lifetime photography journey.

Key experiences

1. Mountain Hares by night

   One of the absolute highlights of this trip is photographing Mountain Hares in their natural Arctic environment, under the cover of darkness. From specially positioned hides, we’ll have the chance to capture these remarkable animals up close. Their white winter coats stand out beautifully against the snowy backdrop, creating truly unique images. And if fresh snow is falling and the wind is blowing, conditions can turn into something truly spectacular for photography. To make things even more exciting, there are also good chances of encountering the elusive Arctic Fox. Of course, this is wild nature, so nothing is guaranteed, but the chances of special encounters are very good.
   

   

   
   

2. Hornøya bird island, a seabird paradise

   Few places breathe wildlife photography like Hornøya. This small island off the coast of Vardø is home to tens of thousands of seabirds in early spring. Puffins, Common Guillemots, Brünnich’s Guillemots, Razorbills, and Kittiwakes crowd the cliffs, while Gyrfalcons and White-tailed Eagles frequently patrol overhead. Shags and, with some luck, even the rare Ivory Gull can also make an appearance. We’ll try to visit this unique island at least twice to experience and photograph the energy and diversity of Arctic birdlife.

   

   
   

3. Willow Grouse in a spectacular Arctic setting

One of the most unique aspects of this journey is the opportunity to photograph Willow Grouse in their pristine Arctic habitat, a feature not offered by other tours. Dressed in pure white winter plumage, these birds almost disappear into the snow-covered landscape, perfectly adapted to their frozen world. Spotting and photographing them amidst the silence of the tundra is both a challenge and a reward, offering truly special images. As with all wildlife, sightings can never be guaranteed, but the chances are usually good.

Program overview

Below you will find a general itinerary for the trip. Please note that the program is subject to change depending on weather conditions. Wildlife behaviour, especially in winter, will largely determine the specific photographic opportunities and daily priorities. While sightings can never be guaranteed, we remain flexible and adjust the schedule whenever a good tip or unique situation arises.

In addition, access to Hornøya Island depends entirely on sea and weather conditions. For this reason, we plan our stay in the area with enough flexibility to choose the most favorable days for the boat crossing. This way, we maximize the chances of experiencing and photographing the island’s spectacular seabird colonies under safe and optimal conditions.

No matter the circumstances, the trip is designed with multiple options each day to ensure an exceptional and rewarding photographic experience.

Day 1: Airport pickup & transfer

Upon arrival at Ivalo Airport, you will be welcomed by your tour leaders, Stefan and Stijn. From the airport, we transfer to our accommodation in the Ivalo area, using two spacious vehicles that will serve us throughout the trip and ensure comfort and flexibility. In the evening, we gather for a group dinner, review the itinerary, and consider any new photographic opportunities that may arise.

Day 2: Willow Grouse and Arctic forest birds

We begin before sunrise to make the most of the soft Arctic light as we search for Willow Grouse in their striking white winter plumage. After breakfast, we continue our efforts, giving ourselves the best chance to capture these iconic birds. If needed, we’ll dedicate more time after lunch to photograph them until we are fully satisfied. Later in the afternoon, we travel on to Kaamanen, where we will also look for northern specialties such as Pine Grosbeak, Siberian Tit, Siberian Jay, and Arctic Redpoll.

Day 3: From forest birds to Arctic fjords

An early breakfast, followed by another photography session in Kaamanen to target Pine Grosbeaks, Siberian Jays, and Arctic Redpolls. After lunch, we travel north towards Båtsfjord in Varanger, Norway. On the way we stop to capture Arctic landscapes, and we’ll keep a close watch along the Tana River delta, a favourite habitat of the Northern Hawk Owl. Arrival at our accommodation in Båtsfjord and dinner.

Days 4 and 5: Floating hide and fjord photography

A short walk brings us to the harbor of Båtsfjord, where we step into a specially positioned floating hide. From this unique low-angle perspective, we’ll photograph King Eider, Steller’s Eider, Common Eider, and Long-tailed Duck right at water level. Breakfast is brought directly to the hide, allowing us to stay focused on our subjects throughout the 6-hour session. Later, we head out by RIB boat for additional opportunities to capture eiders further out in the fjord. In the afternoon, we explore and photograph colorful, timeworn fishing villages set against the dramatic Arctic coastline. After these full days, we return to our accommodation for dinner, and if the skies are clear, we’ll watch for the Northern Lights.

Days 6: Coastal birds, Reindeer & Mountain Hares

After an early breakfast, we begin our drive to Vardø, stopping at various points along the way. At Ekkerøy we target Purple Sandpipers and Kittiwakes in the exposed tidal landscapes. Along the road, Reindeer are frequently encountered, and near Vadsø we have the chance to photograph Mountain Hares in their white winter coats. We continue to our hotel in Vardø, enjoy dinner, and in the evening the first group rotates into the hides for nocturnal Mountain Hare photography.

Days 7 and 8: Hornøya, the grand finale

Hornøya is the grand finale, the ultimate Arctic spectacle. The moment you step onto this small island, the world explodes with life: tens of thousands of seabirds fill the air, their calls echoing off the snow-dusted cliffs. Common and Brünnich’s Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes, Shags, and, of course, the charismatic Puffins crowd every ledge. In the snow, Puffins clash and fight for territory, creating scenes as dramatic as they are photogenic. Overhead, White-tailed Eagles and Gyrfalcons may add tension to the chaos, patrolling the skies in search of prey. It is wild, raw, and unforgettable, a true Arctic “big bang”, the grand finale, that will leave you breathless. In the evening, groups two and three rotate into the hides for their nocturnal Mountain Hare photography sessions, a perfect counterpoint to the explosive energy of Hornøya.

Day 9: Return to Ivalo

After breakfast, we begin our return journey to Ivalo. On the way, we make short stops to photograph Pine Grosbeaks, Arctic Redpolls, Siberian Jays, and Siberian Tits one more time. We continue to Ivalo Airport for departure flights back home.

General Travel Information

Participant Meeting

Before the trip, we will organize an online participant meeting so you can get to know your fellow travelers and ask any questions about the trip.

Maximum group size

You can book this trip individually or with your own group. The group size is a maximum of 6 people excluding the guides.

Guidance

Depending on your place of departure, you will either travel alone or with a group to Ivalo, Finland. From there, you will travel to your accommodation.

Accommodation

We will stay in four (sometimes five) different hotels along our route. The trip is based on half board (breakfast and dinner included). Lunch is usually enjoyed on the go or at a photography location, and we will also make regular stops at supermarkets to purchase supplies for lunch. In Finland, our hotels are located in a beautiful forest environment, close to the wildlife we’ll be photographing. In Norway, we stay near the harbors, right at the heart of the seabird and coastal action, ensuring we are always close to the best opportunities.

Passport and Visa

You must have a valid ID card or passport. These must remain valid throughout your stay. A visa is not required for Finland and Norway.

Extra costs

This trip can be booked directly through the Nature Talks website. Information about pricing, availability, and single room supplements can be found there. Please note that single rooms are limited.

• 1 person in a shared double room

  If you book this option, you'll share your room with someone of the same gender. The room will have separate beds. If no one of the same gender is available, you'll need to pay the supplement for a single room.

• 2 people in a double room

  This option is perfect for couples or friends traveling together. You can indicate in the booking notes whether you'd like a double bed or two separate beds.

• 1 person in a single room

  This option provides you with your own room, with a supplement for single use. If you are in a double or triple room alone, the same supplement applies.

Materials

We are happy to provide advice on which equipment and other necessities you should bring. Of course, you are free to make your own choices, but always be mindful of the maximum allowed weight for your flight.

Flight and Transportation

You will book the flights yourself, and they are not included in the price. However, we will provide you with ample notice before departure regarding the best flights to book, and we will inform the hotel of your estimated arrival time.

Health and Difficulty

Finland and Norway do not have any specific health risks different from those in countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany or any other Western country. If you do wish to have more information, we recommend consulting the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before your departure to stay informed about the latest developments in the country.

Remember to bring any necessary medication with you.

Difficulty: medium

During the hikes to the sights, we may have to walk through deep snow, which can be intensive. There may also be some steep climbs, but these are rarely longer than 15 to 20 minutes. The days, especially in Finland, can be very cold, even down to -25°C.

Terms and Conditions

What if I need to cancel my trip?

In the event of cancellation, you must inform us as soon as possible. As we also incur cancellation costs from our partners, we will have to pass these on to you according to the schedule below, which is also indicated in the terms and conditions and the travel information provided to you. You can always contact your cancellation insurance provider.

Cancellation fee timelines

• 5 to 3 months before departure: 25% of the total trip cost

• 3 to 2 months before departure: 50% of the total trip cost

• 2 to 1 month before departure: 80% of the total trip cost

• Less than 1 month before departure: 100% of the total trip cost

Extraordinary circumstances

In the event of trip cancellation by the local organization due to exceptional and unforeseen circumstances, such as extreme weather conditions, death, conflicts, or airline disruptions, no refunds will be provided for those reasons. You can always consult your travel insurance provider for assistance.