8 days | 22 Feb 2025 - 01 Mar 2025

Mammal tour to Estonia: in the footsteps of the lynx – I

The Eurasian lynx, one of the most difficult European mammals to observe, is the protagonist of this adventurous nature tour. During a sophisticated search we hope to meet this special cat. And as we track down this rare mammal, other animals may pass muster. The conditions just before the onset of spring are particularly favorable: hungry predators actively search for food. There are hardly any people in the area and last but not least: there is no hunting. Apart from us, armed with optical material!

We stay in an idyllic location, deep in the home of the Eurasian Lynx. During our scouting tour as well as during our 2024 tours, Mark had numerous sightings  of four to five different individuals, this in only ten days. World class that we now want to share with you!

Early spring is a good time for birds. Be ready for woodpeckers, hazel grouse, whitetailed eagles, pygmy-, tengmalm’s and Ural owls. We also devote some time to observe the active beavers at their castles and there is a chance that we will see otters. Binoculars and cameras ready?

Rock & roll with specialized guides

Mark Kaptein guides this adventurous mammal tour, a seasoned bird expert who found his second passion for mammals. He is extremely well informed about the animals that can be expected and ensures maximum nature experience!

He is supported by a local researcher who knows the region inside out. A true expert, who, together with the STARLING guide, knows how to thoroughly tackle the search for this imaginative cat.

It will be a journey with a high rock & roll element: slogging through the snow, looking for lynx prints, nighttime spotlight excursions, long walks,… Completely tailored to true adventurers!

What makes this nature tour to Estonia so special?

  • STARLING provides a carefree trip by arranging everything for you in advance: excursions and local guides, accommodation, transport and meals where necessary.
  • You will stay in a beautiful area where the Eurasian lynx feels at home, and experience the fantastic Estonian forests, full of diversity, with all your senses.
Group tours
Nature
Adventurous tours
Mammal tours
Wildlife tours

Get to know your tour guide

Mark is a passionate naturalist and born tour guide, who will teach you how to track animals with great enthusiasm. He is an experienced traveler and tracker (professional track finder) with a trained eye, who enjoys sharing his knowledge with others. Do you want to get the most out of your trip? Then he is the perfect guide!
More about Mark
Interested?
Why guide Mark goes the extra mile
according to travellers Els and Hans

The guide was absolutely great! Mark is a master in his field: he has a lot of knowledge of predators and can therefore assess situations very well, perseverance, infectious enthusiasm and is not just about ‘seeing’ wildlife, but about the experience. That’s how we like it! Also a big “10” for atmosphere, conviviality and attention to the group.

Is this nature tour to Estonia something for you?

  • You are looking forward to a carefree trip that is completely planned in advance, so that you can focus 100% on experiencing nature.
  • You are fond of nature and especially mammals.
  • Cold, adventure and – if necessary – sitting still for a long time do not deter you, because you are determined to see lynx and other unique animal species.
  • You are an experienced nature traveler in good physical condition.
Experience
Beginner
Expert
Comfort
Basic
Luxurious
Condition
Easy
Heavy
Photography Level
Nature Level
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Planning is key

Itinerary & Locations

The tour schedule is flexible and dependent on the weather, local conditions and observations.
22/02
Departure city - Talinn and drive to the accommodation

Arrival in Talinn. From there a transfer will be provided and you will drive to the ‘middle of nowhere’ with our local driver.

23/02 - 28/02
The quest for the Eurasian Lynx

We focus on the lynx, but also make targeted excursions to spot other target species. Elk, wild boar, red deer, otters, beavers, foxes, … are all possible here.

01/03
Return trip to Tallinn and flight back to your home city

After an adventurous week you will be taken back to the airport for the return flight.

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Accommodation, transport and food

You will stay in a standard typical accommodation of Estonia. The rooms are well maintained.

Our group with a guide travels in a 9-seater van. Every day we travel to one of the lynx’s pre-mapped territories. We also cover a lot on foot.

Food is standard but well presented.

Flights are not included in the price. For guaranteed departures, we look for flights that are suitable. You can choose to book the flights through us or book them yourself. Count on 300 – 500 euros per person round trip.

Climate and clothing

January-March is the lynx’s breeding season. This makes the cats extra active (calling and marking territory). Moreover, we can expect fresh snow during this period, which makes it easier to follow their trail.

It’s still winter, so be prepared for very cold, freezing temperatures. With a bit of luck, the sun will occasionally shine through, causing temperatures to sometimes rise above freezing.

Warm clothing with different layers for winter conditions is recommended. Sturdy waterproof footwear is a must.

Everything for the lynx!

During the exploration of the area we walk through forests full of obstacles: uprooted and fallen trees, frosty or frozen canals and swamps, … A good physical condition is certainly required to participate in this tour.

We cover distances of three to seven kilometers both in the morning and in the afternoon.

We also apply the ‘sit-and-wait’ method from a high seat. Sitting still for long periods of time requires patience and discipline.

8 days | 22 Feb 2025 - 01 Mar 2025

Mammal tour to Estonia: in the footsteps of the lynx – I

Travelers: Min 5 - Max 6
Included
  • insurance guarantee fund
  • specialized local guides
  • tips for local collaborators (horeca, hotel,...)
  • enthousiast guiding by STARLING tour guide(s)
  • all transport at site
  • all nights
  • all meals
  • all excursions and entrance tickets for parks
  • all drinking water
Excluded
  • travel insurance and cancellation insurance (available for purchase through us)
  • personal expenses
  • international flights and airport taxes
  • tips for local collaborators (horeca, hotel,...)
  • alcoholic beverages and soda
Features
Tour Language
Dutch
Options
Single Room
+ 295 euro per person
2245 euro
Price per person
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Something not clear?

Just ask!