Vast oceans, temperate seas, dense forests, river deltas, and mountain strongholds – are all home to a rich flora and fauna. The diversity of Europe is reflected in our itineraries, and a new awareness of the preservation of nature in many European destinations has created some of the best wildlife-viewing opportunities to be had anywhere. European seas provide some of the world’s best whale and dolphin watching. Large numbers of Orcas gather for the winter Herring shoals in northern Norway, and the clear waters of the Azores provide a breeding ground for Sperm Whales although numerous other species can be seen including Fin, Blue and Orca Whales. Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is a prime location for Humpback, and Minke Whales, dolphins, puffins and other seabirds. Inland, the remote mountains of central Europe are still home to half Europe’s Brown Bear population and a third of its Wolf and Lynx populations. Further north in the icy sub-arctic regions you can experience a different and fascinating way of life alongside the native peoples and see how they co-exist with the wildlife around them on a dog-sledding or reindeer adventure. As you will see, our trips in Europe reflect the seasonal migration and habits of the animals and birds – and the best times for sightings. Highlights January • Dogs and reindeer sledding adventures begin and continue until mid-April. February • The start of wolf-tracking in Romania - March is also good although it is possible to track for much of the year. April • The whale-watching season in Iceland begins and runs until the end of October. • The best birdwatching in the Danube Delta begins and continues until the end of October. • The start of bear-watching in Bulgaria (until mid-November). May • Prime whale-watching season in the Azores begins now (it continues until the end of September). • The bear-watching season starts at the hides in Finland and Romania as the bears come out of hibernation. October • The start of the Orca watching season in northern Norway which lasts until mid-January. Climate The north Atlantic currents bring warm waters to the coastlines of northern Europe keeping the climate relatively mild and temperate year round. Further inland the continental climate means cold winters and hot summers. In the mountains and far north the snows will last until the spring, and nights can be cold even in summer months. In the Azores the climate is mild year round with sea breezes keeping the humidity down in the summer months. S E E U S O N T H E W E B AT wildlifeworldwide.com 17 Europe / Introduction Brown Bears Common Dolphins Courtesy of Mark Carwardine

18 F O R R E S E R V A T I O N S C A L L U S O N 0845 130 6982 Bears in Finland 4 days London to London Day 1. Depart London [D] Depart London for Kajaani via Helsinki. On arrival transfer to Martinselkonen Wilderness Lodge (approximately two hours drive) for the night in one of Europe’s premier Brown Bear localities. Once at the lodge, the rest of the day is free to explore. The lodge owners have established several walking trails and for birdwatchers, there is a nearby hide. The lodge itself is comfortable with all rooms being of a good size, with en-suite bathroom facilities and there is a relaxing communal dining area as well as both indoor and outdoor saunas! Days 2 & 3. Bear hide [B, L, D] In the afternoon you make your way to the hides on foot – it is a short walk of approximately one and a half kilometres. The hides occupy a fantastic location in a forest clearing and are ideal for great bear-viewing as well as the opportunity to take memorable photographs. The two hides take nine and six people, respectively, and there are plenty of comfortable chairs, as well as areas set aside for sleeping and a private bathroom. You spend the next two nights in the hide, before returning to the lodge. (Private hides may be available on request.) In addition to Brown Bears, you may also see Reindeer, Wolves, Wolverine, and interesting birdlife, with up to ten different owl species in the area. With long evenings at this time of the year, your time will be spent observing and photographing bears and other wildlife. Day 4. Homeward [B] Today you return to Martinselkonen Wilderness Lodge for a final sauna before transferring to Kajanni airport for the flight to London, via Helsinki. Cost per person: £850 Single supplement: £95 What is included: Flights, meals as indicated, transfers & guided activities Accommodation: Lodge & hide Departure dates: Daily, May to mid-August Spring & Summer Family of Brown Bears Wolf