Finland in Winter: Golden Eagles and Winter Wonderland Landscapes

Waiting list

Join me on this 8-day wildlife and landscape photography tour to northern Finland to photograph the iconic golden eagle and mesmerising frozen 'tykky' landscape.

Date: Thu 29th Jan - Thu 5th Feb 2026

Price: £2,475.00

Deposit: £200.00

Group size: 6

Tutor / Guide: Robert Canis and Paavo Hamunen

Location: Kuusamo, Finland.

Duration: 7 nights

Cost includes: All transport within Finland including airport transfers. Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner. Single occupancy in private en-suite bedroom. No single supplement required. No discount for couples sharing.

Cost excludes: Flights. You will be advised which flights to purchase 6 months before tour commencement. Circa. £450. Alcoholic drinks at meal and leisure times and the occasional cafe stop. The possibility of an additional fee of approximately 40 EURO total for a visit to a nearby reindeer farm and 30 EURO snowshoe hire.

Accommodation:

For the duration of this tour, we will be staying in a beautifully renovated former school in a wonderfully peaceful location where everyone will have a private bedroom and bathroom. For full details, please see Accommodation in the main body.

Fitness level: Moderate. You must be of reasonable fitness and mobility, capable of walking up and down slopes (and snow-covered steps) in, potentially, very cold conditions. Should you suffer from serious knee, hip or age-related reduced mobility then you must advise me before booking so that I can judge whether or not I feel this tour is for you. This is as much for your benefit as it is for mine and the group as a whole.

Sunrise / Sunset: 09.00 / 15.30

Experience Level: Intermediate upwards. This is a tour and not a workshop where the emphasis is on getting you to amazing locations at the best time of the day. Paavo and I will, however, always be on hand to offer any advice you may require.

Equipment needed: A full checklist will be given 3 months before the tour but the following will give you an idea. Wide-angle through to telephoto, backup camera and tripod. A lens in the region of 400mm will be required for the eagles and smaller birds with, possibly, a 1.4 / 2x tele-converter. It might be worth hiring such a lens though this is not essential, especially if you have a fairly high (30 MP and above) resolution camera where you can crop later in post-production.

Waiting list

Join me on this 8-day wildlife and landscape photography tour to northern Finland to photograph the iconic golden eagle and mesmerising frozen 'tykky' landscape. Led by two hugely experienced nature photographers and with eleven years of refinements, this, we believe, is the ultimate Finland in Winter photography experience - anywhere! Don't miss out on what promises to be a trip of a lifetime!

Mid-winter in Finland is a very special experience. Silence, deep snow, golden eagles and unending views of snow-laden tree-covered fells leading all the way into Russia combine to make this a photography experience like no other.

For the duration of the tour, we will be based 65 ° North (just outside the Arctic Circle) in the extensive upland region of Kuusamo. Characterised by its rugged terrain of canyons, rapids, lakes and high fells, Kuusamo has been a Mecca for Finnish nature photographers for more than 30 years. Indeed, I've been regularly visiting, myself, since the late 1990s! My co-guide and friend of more than 25 years is professional nature photographer, Paavo Hamunen. Having lived most of his life in this area and with a wealth of contacts at his disposal, there really is no one better qualified to escort us, safely, into the Finnish wilds!

TYKKY: FROZEN FORESTS OF THE NORTH
Due to the proximity to the Baltic, freezing temperatures, altitude and extreme snowfall, each year fell-top trees take on frozen, mysterious shapes known by the Finns as tykky. A sight-to-behold phenomenon, you will be escorted by a snowmobile to the top of Kuntivaara fell which lies just 1 km from the Russian border.

WATCH THE SNOWMOBILE RIDE

I really can't stress enough what an incredible experience this is. Similar in awe to Iceland's Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon, regardless of how many photos you may have previously seen, nothing quite prepares you for it! Certainly, myself and guests are always blown away by these Sentienels of the North!

And, conditions permitting, we may also visit another exceptional location for tykky which we will access on foot and, perhaps, take snowshoes enabling us to fully explore without the fear of disappearing up to our waists in the deep snow!

FULL MOON
Amongst other things, what makes this trip so special and unique (the only one of its kind) is that the dates have been chosen, specifically, to coincide with a full moon so should we be presented with clear skies, capturing a moon rising above a winter-wonderland landscape is very much a possibility.

As is the landscape illuminated, solely, by the light of the moon. A very special experience, indeed!

WILDLIFE
But, let's not forget, this is also a wildlife photography tour where, from large heated (and, trust me, they are very warm!) hides, we will photograph the iconic golden eagle. Unlike many other such hides in Scandinavia where you have to enter before daybreak; here, we can do so at 9am!

In the past, the eagles have arrived around 1pm and so, while waiting for the star attraction, we can busy ourselves with smaller visitors such as woodpeckers, red squirrels, tits and siberian jays enticed by the food placed a few metres in front of us.

HIGHLIGHTS
All-inclusive
Private en-suite bedrooms
Daily briefings
Tuition from two professional photographers
Small group size of just 6
4WD minibus transportation
Winter wonderland landscapes
Full-moon opportunities
Tykky: Frozen, snow-laden trees
Golden eagles from heated hides
Dipper and forest birds

To be confirmed nearer the time, we'll endeavour to visit a nearby traditional reindeer farm where portraits and action photos can be obtained. It's a wonderful experience and a great opportunity to get close to and photograph this iconic animal of the north.

We will, also, visit a river set in a beautiful landscape to photograph the numerous, and very confiding dippers that frequent this stretch of water. This is great fun where amazing pictures can be captured. In 2019 and 2023 we even photographed otters from a distance of fewer than 20 metres!

And, while there, should you wish to have a break from wildlife, wherever you look there are numerous intimate landscape opportunities.

Finally…
Thank you very much indeed for considering this tour and should you have any questions - however small or insignificant you think they might be - then do drop me a line. I’m here to help and provide you with an incredible experience!

Itinerary

Such is the unpredictability of the weather and subjects, that aside from the 'eagle' days the daily format will very much be of a fluid nature. Paavo and I will decide on a day-to-day basis thereby enabling us to make the most of the conditions. The following, however, will give you a rough idea as to what to expect.

Sunrise: 09.00
Sunset: 15.30

Don't let the short days concern you, we are so far north that twilight lasts for twice as long as it does in the UK making it possible to photograph from 07.30-17.00.

1. 29th. Arrive
2. 30th. Landscape
3. 31st. Eagles
4. 1st. Landscape
5. 2nd. Landscape
6. 3rd. Eagles
7. 4th. Landscape
8. 5th. Leave

Day 1 (29th)
Arrive at Kuusamo airport, then transfer to our accommodation; a journey of just 30 minutes. Our flight will most likely arrive quite late so we will get something substantial at Helsinki airport.

Day 2 (30th)
As you can see, days 2, 4, 5 and 7 have been reserved for landscapes which also include, dipper, tame siberian jay, a picturesque mill with a footbridge and rapids, and possibly a visit to a local reindeer farm The weather will dictate which day we take the snowmobile ride for tykky and will be decided upon while in Finland.

Day 3 (31st)
Following an early breakfast, we drive an hour to the eagle hides which are situated deep in the Finnish wilds, adjacent to the famous Oulanka National Park. Unlike other such hides in Finland and Scandinavia, there'll be no need to enter at dawn. The eagles have been visiting for more than 15 years and although wild and shy, they 'tolerate' the presence of photographers in return for a meal! The hides are spacious and heated - with a toilet - and while waiting for the eagles there will be the opportunity to photograph smaller birds such as siberian jay, woodpeckers and tits feeding just a few metres in front of us. With smiles, full memory cards and exhausted batteries, we will exit the hides at approximately 5pm and enjoy a walk back to the minibus through a Nania-esque forest. Dinner will be served at 7 but before then, should you wish, there is a sauna; a great way to unwind following a full day out.

Days 4 and 5 (1st & 2nd)
Landscape. As day 2.

Day 6 (3rd)
Eagle hide. As day 3.

Day 7 (4th)
Landscape

Day 8 (5th)
With our flight departing at 10.50, following breakfast, we depart for Kuusamo airport.

Accommodation & Meals

FAQ

How do I get there?
Connecting flights from London Heathrow to Kuusamo via Helsinki. Should you be travelling from an alternative airport, you must make sure you are on the same connecting flight to Kuusamo as the rest of the group.

What kind of temperatures should we expect?
Impossible to fully predict, but generally at this time of the year, temperatures are between -10 and -20; sometimes colder. But, it's important to mention that it's a very different kind of cold to, say, the UK. It's much dryer and so long as you dress appropriately, you'll be just fine. As the Finns say "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!"

Will there be snow?
Almost certainly! In fact, northern Finland is about the only European country where it is pretty much a certainty! Most years, they have between 50 and 100cm.

Do I need to be fit?
Although very little 'distance' walking is involved, it is important that you are of reasonable fitness (worth putting in some steps before the tour) and mobility and able to withstand spending quite long periods in cold conditions and walking through snow and on ice. Please contact me in advance to discuss this should you be unsure.

How much tuition will I receive?
Overseas trips are classed as Tours where the logistics are all taken care of and where the emphasis is on getting you to great locations at the best time of the day. Although these are generally less hands-on, you can be assured that I will be on hand to offer advice and encouragement. For example, upon arrival at a location, I will advise as to where I consider the most productive spots for photography and give suggestions on composition, lens selection and exposure. We will then disperse and immerse ourselves in the landscape, during which, I will intermittently approach each of you and see how you are getting on. This, over many years of running tours, I have found to be the most effective way since it allows everyone to grow and create their own style of images

Will there be critiques and tutorials?
No. There simply won't be time. Tours are quite different to workshops with the latter being much more hands-on and incorporating critiques and hands-on one-on-one tuition. However, during any downtime, I would be more than happy to look through your images giving whatever help and suggestions I can.

Testimonials

" My reason for contacting you is to congratulate you for organising a most memorable tour. I got so much out of it due to your ability to suggest the most effective ways of using our photographic equipment to obtain the best possible images. I was always impressed by your personal qualities and in dealing with us in different situations. You were always positive, cheerful, displaying concern for our welfare as well as using your considerable experience to ensure we got the best images in a range of locations. Consequently, it is not surprising that there is a constant demand for places on your photographic tours. I have enjoyed the company of many professional photographers in a range of locations across the world. I would wish to tell you that in my estimation that your are right at the top due to your effective leadership, management of clients, photographic expertise and your approachability".
Nick Nicholas

What a crackerjack of a week! Tons of snow, a blood moon, birds galore, some great landscapes and otters as a bonus. The blood moon was amazing even if difficult to photograph. All organised in your usual immaculate manner. The heated hides were very comfortable, especially having spent time outside in -31degrees! Many thanks to you and all of your local team. It made for a wonderful experience and I'm ready to go back!
David Barker

“Finland was a great trip with a variety of subjects to shoot. It was infectious the enjoyment when we saw some fantastic birdlife and landscape and the occasional mammal glimpsed such as a fleeting glimpse of the Moose. The guides who must have seen the images we came across numerous times were also just as excited as us, and went to great length to make sure we got to see and capture some great photographs. The company was good, and the sharing of experience and knowledge which added to the tour as well as Robs knowledge of Finland, and the impromptu camera clinics which Rob was invaluable at sorting out issues in a calm manner. Great place to stay and hospitality and food brilliant. The only down side was having to leave such a fantastic place to come home”.
Helen Kelly

“Well what can I say? Once again you have surpassed yourself!! Accommodation in a cosy log cabin in the forest set the scene for a fabulous few days of photography in the Kuusomo region of Finland and we were sustained by our hosts superb hearty traditional cuisine.....I have developed a liking for Reindeer and Elk! The schedule allowed plenty of opportunity for both landscape and wildlife photography and individuals had time to perfect their own style of photography in addition to having three professionals on hand to advise. Parvo and Ollie were excellent local guides and very generous in sharing their knowledge of the area, wildlife and photography skills. Highlights for me included good views of the pair of Golden Eagles, the Great Grey Owl, Crested tit ( not to mention a whole host of the smaller birds), Wolverine tracks, Ice sculptures and the heavily snow laden trees so typical of the area... oh and of course the snowmobile shuttle up to the Hides!. I have returned home having enjoyed the company of a great group and thrilled to have some 'keepers' amongst my many images. As always your clients' safety is paramount to you and your professionalism at all times makes any trip with you a truly amazing experience. The only dilemma is...where to next, Bob”?
Wendy Kennett

"Having just returned from my third trip to Finland with Rob, this tour was all I expected and more. Designed to coincide with the full moon and the eclipse, we experienced ‘real winter’ in January, with knee-deep snow and temperatures around -25c. We had the most gorgeous light, with the sun never far above the horizon. Rob is always ‘on hand’ with tips on camera settings and compositions, as well as keeping our safety in mind at all times. The tour was very well organized, with fabulous food, a large log cabin (with sauna) remotely tucked in the forest and surrounded by frozen snow-covered lakes. Transportation and guided trips were organised by Rob himself, Paavo and Olli, who are both locals and great photographers. We quickly became good friends. I thoroughly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to witness the Finnish scenery at its very best. Indeed I would love to return"!
Phil Drury

"The Finland trip with Robert was a truly special experience. A wonderful environment with knowledgeable and passionate local guides who enabled us to have some magical moments...and that is even before you take a photograph! Robert was an outstanding mentor throughout our time together. Very generous and supportive with his knowledge and advice, I learnt a lot and took some pictures I am delighted with as a consequence. We had a lot of fun too...a great trip Robert. Thank you”.
Gareth Williams

“The trip was very well organised from start to finish. The advice on camera equipment and what to take was extremely useful before the trip. During the tour we were constantly given information on camera settings and suggestions on how to improve. A trip made enjoyable by good support from Robert, Paavo and Olli, and meeting the other photographers. We will certainly join Robert's other workshops again”!
Marie-Laure Stone

"A thoroughly enjoyable trip into the wilderness of Finland. Perfectly organised, excellent accommodation and a simply stunning location. A big thank you to Rob, Olli and Paavo for all the support given and for making this trip so special. Plenty of photographic opportunities and lots of fun along the way. Highly recommended".
Roger Marks

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Workshop info

Thank you for dropping by and considering attending a workshop. I love nothing more than to pass on to others the knowledge I have gained over the last 30 years as a professional photographer and 15 as a workshop and tour leader. My group sizes are always small ensuring a fun and friendly group dynamic, lots of 'personal space' in which to photograph without too much fear of others getting in your way and as much tuition as you would like or feel that you need. I hope you can join me!

Although under the 'umbrella' of Workshops, please note there is a difference between the three types that I offer. To avoid any confusion, please see below.

Workshops

Those taking place in the UK are classed as Workshops where learning is the primary aim, and in the case of those which are multi-day residential, very often include image critique and post-processing sessions.

Tours

Overseas trips are classed as Tours where the logistics are all taken care of and where the emphasis is on getting you to great locations at the best time of the day. Since these may include hide photography and working in cold, windy conditions where one-on-one tuition isn't practical, these are less hands-on. However, prior to the hide session or upon arriving at a location, I will give advice and suggestions on composition, lens selection and exposure.

Creative Visions

Creative Visions is a new concept that I have designed to specifically nurture your artistic growth. They can take place in either the UK or abroad combining both workshop and tour principles. There will be critique and post-processing tutorials and, most importantly, you will be encouraged to go beyond the record and representational and instead produce more intimate creative interpretations.

Finland in Winter: Golden Eagles and Winter Wonderland Landscapes

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