8 days | 28 Feb 2026 - 07 Mar 2026

Mammal trip to Estonia: on the trail of the lynx

The Eurasian lynx, one of the most enigmatic European mammals to observe, is the protagonist of this nature adventure trip. During a sophisticated search, we hope to meet this special cat. And while tracking down this rare mammal, other animals may pass by. Conditions just before the start of spring are particularly favourable: hungry predators are actively searching for food. There are hardly any people in the area and last but not least: there is no hunting. But we do, armed with optical equipment!

We stay in an idyllic location, home to the iconic Eurasian lynx. On our past trips (a dozen by now), all our groups had 100% success with an average of five sightings of three to five different lynx in a good week’s time. World-class that we now want to share with you!

Early spring is a good time for birds. Get ready for woodpeckers, hazel grouse, bald eagles, pygmy, rough-legged and Ural owl. We also make time to observe active beavers at their lodges and there is a chance of seeing otters. Binoculars and cameras ready?

Rock & roll with our skilled leaders

Mark Kaptein guides this adventurous mammal trip, a seasoned ornithologist who also has a passion for mammals. He is extremely knowledgeable about the species to be expected and ensures a maximum nature experience!

The tour company is reinforced by a local researcher who knows the region like the back of his hand. A true connoisseur, who together with the STARLING guide knows how to thoroughly tackle the search for this imaginative cat.

It will be a trip with a high rock & roll content: slogging through the snow, looking for lynx tracks, night excursions to spotlight, long walks, … Totally tailor-made for true adventurers!

What makes this nature tour to Estonia so special?

  • STARLING ensures 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.
Nature group tours
Nature

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 traveller and tracker (professional tracker) with a trained eye, who likes to share his knowledge with others. Do you want to get the most out of your trip? Then this is the perfect guide!
More about Mark
Interested?
Why is leader Mark so successful?
according to participants Els andHans

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

Is this nature tour to Estonia something for you?

  • You are looking for a carefree trip that is completely planned in advance, so that you can focus 100% on experiencing nature.
  • You love nature and mammals in particular.
  • Cold, adventure and – if necessary – sitting still for a long time do not scare you, because you are determined to see lynxes and other unique animal species.
  • You are an experienced nature traveler with a 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.
07/03
Brussels/Amsterdam - Talinn and drive to our accommodation

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

08/03 - 13/03
In search of 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, red foxes, … are all possible here.

14/03
Drive back to Tallinn and flight back to Brussels/Amsterdam

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

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Accommodation, transport and flights

You will stay in a standard, typical Estonian accommodation. The rooms are all tidy.

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

Food is standard but prepared with care.

Flights are not included in the price. With guaranteed departure we look for flights that are suitable. You can choose to book the flights through us or book them yourself. Expect to pay 300 – 500 euros per person there and back.

Climate and clothing

January-March is the height of the lynx breeding season. As a result, the cats are extra active (calling and marking their territory). In addition, we can expect fresh snow during this period, which makes it easier to follow their tracks.

It is still winter, so be prepared for very cold freezing temperatures. With a bit of luck, the sun will come out now and then, so that temperatures sometimes rise above freezing.

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

All for the lynx!

During the exploration of the area, we walk through forests full of obstacles: uprooted and fallen trees, frozen or not frozen canals and swamps, … A good physical condition is definitely required to make this trip.

Both during the morning and the afternoon, we cover distances of three to seven kilometers.

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

8 days | 28 Feb 2026 - 07 Mar 2026

Mammal trip to Estonia: on the trail of the lynx

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
+ 270 euro per person
2375 euro
Price per person
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Something not clear?

Just ask!