FAQ in English
KARHU-KUUSAMO OY
What is the size of the observation building/cabin?
There are 5 separate observation buildings, ranging in size from 6 to 40 square meters.
Is it possible to have private observation building/cabin?
Yes, it is possible to have private building/cabin by arrangement (depending on bookings). For more information, please contact us at karhu@karhukuusamo.com.
What facilities are available in the observation buildings?
Each building has a dry toilet in a separate compartment. In the observation buildings with bunk beds, we provide matrasses, sleeping bags and pillows. In the smaller buildings, there are mattresses and sleeping bags. The largest building also has a gas stove and electronic charging facilities (solar power). There are also some binoculars for you to borrow.
Are the observation buildings accessible?
Our biggest observation building is accessible, and you can be driven by car at the entrance of the building if needed.
Can I bring my dog with me?
Dogs are not allowed in the observation buildings but can be left in the car or motorhome at the shady parking area nearby.
Can I access the site with a motorhome?
Yes, you can drive a motorhome to a parking area about 400 meters from the observation site. The parking area can accommodate up to 10 motorhomes. The nearest services for motorhomes are in Kuusamo, 43 km away. Please be aware that in spring, usually in early May, the dust road may be impacted by thawing.
Can I park overnight with a motorhome?
Yes, you can park your motorhome overnight in our parking area free of charge. Please note that there are no electrical hookups or other services available in the parking area.
Are beverages included in the price?
Beverages are not included. You are welcome to bring your own snacks, but we recommend avoiding strongly scented or “noisy” foods or packages. Please bring your own drinking water as there’s no tap water available in the cabins.
What photography equipment is available in the observation buildings?
Bean bags to support camera lens and a bench to put your camera (a tripod is not necessary).
The view from the hide faces north, which is ideal for summer photography.
The typical shooting distance is 20-70 meters.
You can also take photos with a smart phone, a separate camera is not necessary.
What kind of clothing do I need?
Dress according to the weather, ie in summer if it’s warm, shorts and a t-shirt are ok. From late June to early August there are more mosquitoes outside the cabins, so long-sleeved skirt and trousers are advisable. Sturdy boots or sneakers are good choices for footwear.
We recommend darker clothing to reduce reflections in the viewing glass.
There are usually not many mosquitoes inside the cabins, but you can bring a mosquito hat if needed.
Avoid perfumes and use odourless mosquito repellents if needed. Bears have an excellent sense of smell and they tend to avoid strong, strange scents.
How long is the bear watching activity?
Evening sessions start at 6 PM (earlier in autumn starting from late Aug when nights are darker) and last about 4 hours.
Overnight sessions start at 6 PM and continue until 8 AM the next morning.
The guide will leave with the evening guests and return in the morning to pick up the overnight guests.
