The polar bug (as I like to call it) took a pretty big bite of me last year in September when we drove up the Demspter Highway in Northern Canada, all the way up to the Arctic Ocean. The lure of boreal forests and wilderness was too much to ignore and, in that, Finland became the next destination. Although it is more known for the northern lights and extreme winters, visiting during this period was not a possibility and summer would have to suffice.
Very long days and cool temperatures was something I was particularly looking forward to, especially given that I would be going during the hottest month of the Middle Eastern summer. Two flights and a vehicle pick up several hours later allowed the freedom that I was so desperately craving to begin. Finland is simple in its beauty. Lots of trees, no rubbish anywhere, lakes galore and vast wilderness. I knew I was going to like it here.
With all the trees and wilderness came a good assortment of wildlife and photographic opportunities. Caribou were abundant as was the European birdlife, allowing me to finally be able to tick the Western Capercaillie off my bucket list. Slow drives and midnight sunsets made for a very easy going and enjoyable road trip down to base camp. I could only imagine how different it would look during the peak of winter.
And then I thought of the bears…….and how close we had actually got to them. To finally see an apex predator up close and personal was one of the most humbling experiences I have ever had. This was the peak of my trip and I doubt it will ever be beaten.
Safe travels and happy shooting,
Rob Gubiani