What if you could make WILDER simply by taking a ?

i Toernooiveld 1 6525 ED Nijmegen The Netherlands [email protected] www.europeansafaricompany.com www.facebook.com/europeansafaricompany

© 2019 Text: Simon Collier, Aukje van Gerven © 2019 Photographs: Bruno D’Amicis, Staffan Widstrand, Nino Salkic, Fernando Romeao, Juan Carlos Munoz, Carl-Johan Utsi, Visit GoodPlace, The European Safari Company is an initiative Marjan Atnark, Cornelia Dörr, Florian Möllers, Uist Forest Retreat, of Rewilding Europe to support the SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, Linden Tree Retreat&Ranch, Yellow Snow development of nature-based economies Husky safaris, Sorbyn Lodge, Gutshof Stolpe, Am Peenetal, in the regions where we work, and beyond. Abenteuer Flusslandschaft, Boavista Eco-Luxury House, Gabi Tours The ESC is part of Rewilding Europe B.V., Cover photo: Bogdan Comanescu a limited liability company that is established Editor: Daniel Allen for this purpose, and which is fully owned by Graphic design: Kristjan Jung the Rewilding Europe charitable foundation. European Safari Company

Born from a desire to show people the beauty and drama of DESTINATIONS Rewilding Europe’s operational areas, the European Safari OF THE EUROPEAN Company specialises in experiential nature-based . While SAFARI COMPANY the word “safari” has long been synonymous with , we offer SWEDISH equally wild adventures right here in Europe, from the frozen Arctic LAPLAND page 14 north, to the sweeping forests of eastern Europe, to the rugged coast of the Mediterranean.

We offer unique experiences that directly support wild nature and comeback in some of Europe’s most special places. Places that often suffer from rural depopulation, land abandonment and economic downturn, where rewilding can breath new life and SCOTLAND page 30 prosperity into these landscapes. ODER DELTA page 6 Travellers with the European Safari Company not only experience some of Europe’s finest nature, but directly learn about and contribute to rewilding and support local communities. Dedicated page 34 SOUTHERN VELEBIT CARPATHIANS levies from each booking support rewilding initiatives, while local MOUNTAINS page 26 page 18 nature-based businesses benefit from income, job creation and developmental support from Rewilding Europe. CENTRAL RHODOPE WESTERN APENNINES MOUNTAINS IBERIA page 2 page 10 page 22 Central Apennines Bears, and beautiful landscapes in ’s wild heart

ITALY

Living in Europe, nature is often much closer With a heavy reliance on local nature, many than we think. Less than two hours’ drive from residents practice “transhumance” sheep the cafes and colonnades of Rome is a land farming, beekeeping and fruit or nut farming. that is both wild and wondrous. With craggy peaks topping out at nearly 3000 meters, It is this unique combination of nature and ancient beach forests inhabited by bears, culture that makes the Central Apennines wolves and wild boar, and skies patrolled by a thrilling destination ripe for exploration. golden eagles and griffon vultures, the Central Experiences offered by the European Safari Apennines truly are Italy’s “wild heart”. Company focus not only on wildlife and nature, but also on local people who still live Boasting several world class national and work amongst bears and wolves. parks, the Central Apennines are a nature lover’s playground. A complex system of REWILDING EFFORTS mountain ridges and vast tablelands, this There are currently around 60 Marsican great topographic knot is the final refuge brown bears (including newborns) roaming of many animals and plants that were once the Central Apennines, making their situation widespread across all of Italy’s mountainous precarious. Today rewilding efforts focus on areas. These include the endemic Apennine the development of a number of “coexistence Chamois and the iconic Marsican brown bear. corridors”, which enable these animals to move safely between the area’s network Dotted with picturesque medieval towns of national parks and nature reserves, and villages, the Central Apennine region diversifying genetics and boosting bear is also home to a captivating local culture. numbers.

2 3 E X P LO R E THE CENTRAL APENNINES

During this four-day, privately guided experience you will witness the intimate relationship between wild nature and local communities. This is a really good way to understand the beneficial impact of rewilding, and the importance of using wildlife corridors to connect protected areas, thereby supporting the comeback of iconic species such as the Marsican brown bear.

The wild and dramatic landscape here is home to chamois, deer, wolves and golden eagles, as well as the rare Marsican brown bear. In addition to wildlife, you will encounter the region’s ever hospitable people and their colourful and authentic culture.

Led by highly skilled nature , and sustained by some of the finest local food and wine, a journey into the Central Apennines is truly is an exploration of Italy’s “wild heart”.

4 EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Wildlife and tracking Secluded mountain settings 4 nights / 5 days all inclusive 2+ guests Privately guided 2345 euros per person, sharing

5 Oder Delta Journey through the Amazon of the North

GERMANY / POLAND

Located on the Baltic coast of Poland nature - now discoverable on foot or by and Germany, the exciting Oder Delta is solar boat and canoe. The immense a unique and wild region boasting a rich natural value of the area can be seen in the mosaic of terrestrial, marine and freshwater fact that two-thirds of all land and water ecosystems. Like the Rhodope Mountains, are set aside for nature conservation and it is strategically located at one of Europe’s rewilding. great ecological crossroads. REWILDING EFFORTS The Oder Delta “big seven” charismatic As a result of ongoing rewilding actions – species – the white-tailed eagle, European carried out by Rewilding Oder Delta and a bison, beaver, elk, , Atlantic sturgeon range of other organisations – today wildlife and grey seal – are some of the main has begun to thrive in more natural densities attractions for guests. A new wilder in the Oder Delta, with uncontrolled natural landscape is beginning to take shape in the processes reshaping the environment. Much delta, with ever more diverse and abundant of the work of the Rewilding Oder Delta wildlife playing its ecological role with team has so far focused on restoring fish minimum human intervention. migration – with the presence of healthy fish populations vital to local food chains – as The flooding of former polders along well as developing nature-based and the Peene River on the German side has supporting wildlife comeback, and wetland created exciting stretches of new wild restoration.

6 7 E X P LO R E THE ODER DELTA

Travel the Oder Delta at your own pace, equipped with the best gear and backed by our comprehensive support. Two half-day into nature give you the best chance to experience the region’s amazing wildlife, both on foot and on water.

In the tranquility of the delta’s unspoiled nature you will come across storks, herons, white-tailed eagles, as well as otters and beavers (with luck!). The remains of Slavic castles, village churches and monasteries also wait to be discovered.

EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Accommodation for two nights Guided tour through Anklam Stadbruch Canoeing and sunrise boat tour Spring to autumn 2 - 8 people Two half-day excursions From 940 euros per person

8 9 Rhodope Mountains Wild nature and active pursuits at the crossroads of Europe

BULGARIA

The Rhodope Mountains are an active Based on such rich natural resources, nature lover's dream. A strategic nature-based tourism is now on the rise in location at the crossroads of Europe the Rhodope Mountains. With enthusiastic and Asia, coupled with the influence of hikers and birding fanatics pioneering the Mediterranean and a low human the area's tourism experiences, offerings population density, mean the area's now include a range of welcoming guest stunning landscapes and diverse habitats houses, homestays and upmarket B&Bs. are a birdwatcher's paradise. REWILDING EFFORTS The entire region is a Bulgarian stronghold While the sight of a soaring squadron of for the wolf, golden jackal, souslik and otter, vultures is one of Europe’s great natural while the brown bear has begun to return in spectacles, today these magnificent birds recent years, with bear watching becoming are threatened across much of the continent. an increasingly popular activity. Focusing on the Rhodope Mountains rewilding area in Bulgaria, as well as a section This natural hotspot is also a great of the Rhodope Mountains in northern , destination for , biking and kayaking. the Rewilding Rhodopes foundation and The opportunity to combine outdoor partners are working to support the recovery activities with birdwatching, nature and further expansion of the black and griffon photography and animal tracking, all set vulture populations, mainly by improving against the backdrop of a hospitable local natural prey availability, and by reducing culture and rich cuisine, make this an epic mortality through factors such as poaching, eastern European travel destination. poisoning and collisons with power lines.

10 11 SEVEN DAYS IN THE RHODOPES

Enjoy a fantastic range of experiences as you explore this magical region with a personal . With a focus on the area's wildlife-rich wilderness, activities include hiking, kayaking, bird watching and wildlife photography, complemented by great local food and comfortable accommodation.

EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Accommodation for six nights Fully guided Includes all activities and meals April - October 2 - 6 people From 1450 euros per person, subject to numbers

12 13 Swedish Lapland Take a voyage through Europe’s Alaska

SWEDEN

Fascinating indigenous culture. World-class Sami communities have been living here for river fishing. Close-up encounters with millennia, navigating the pristine landscapes brown bear, moose and wolverine. Nights with their migrating reindeer herds. Ever out under the Northern Lights. Log cabins, hospitable, today they offer visitors a warm saunas and warming shots of aquavit. If welcome and an opportunity to learn about this sounds like the holiday of a lifetime, a very different way of life. you might want to consider the north of Sweden for your next . Swedish Lapland is a captivating destination regardless of the season. Here For lovers of the great outdoors, it’s hard on the edge of northern Europe, going wild to think of a more enticing European is always an unforgettable experience. destination than Swedish Lapland. One of the continent’s last true wildernesses – REWILDING EFFORTS frequently referred to as “Europe’s Alaska” Criss-crossed by countless waterways, – this unique region is characterized by Swedish Lapland is defined as much by great swathes of pine, spruce and fir, berry- its rivers and lakes as it is by its sprawling carpeted tundra, whitewater rivers teeming forests. Working in collaboration with local with salmon, and rustic lakeside villages. fishing associations, Rewilding Sweden In winter the entire frozen landscape is is now working to boost fish migration, washed by the ethereal light of the aurora through activities such as spawning ground borealis, while iconic species such as restoration and the removal of artificial Arctic fox, European beaver, Eurasian obstacles. It is also exploring new nature- otter, wolverine and golden eagle take the based business opportunities, providing opportunity to raise young in the summer support to enterprises involved in catch and months. release fishing and wildlife watching.

14 15 HUSKY SLEDDING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND

During this four-day adventure you will experience Lapland in its truest form. You will go on a two-day dogsledding trip where you will sleep in a basic but comfortable wilderness cabin. You can enjoy being totally disconnected from everyday life and experience the very basics of being active in nature, team spirit with their own dog team, a crackling fire, quality time with friends and family, and delicious food together with the sled team and their friendly huskies.

To be out with the dogs in winter is a truly surreal experience. Travel through a white wonderland, witness the strength and the joy of the huskies, and learn everything about them.

The other nights you will sleep in Sörbyn Lodge, where you will enjoy local hospitality and a visit to the Sami people. We are located one hour north of the city of Luleå, meaning you can enjoy the combination of great accessibility and adventures in a remote wilderness.

16 EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Mushing and sledding through nature Wonderful wildlife and dramatic landscapes December - mid April, dependent on snow Intrepid and exclusive experiences Four-day experiences start from 1925 euros per person Included: warm gear for husky sledding, three nights at Sörbyn Lodge including breakfast and dinner, one night in a wilderness cabin with the huskies, a Sami visit, and transfers

17 Velebit Mountains Revel in the beauty of the Balkans

CROATIA

Imagine starting the day gliding over the a mountain bike or in a 4x4. New wildlife clear waters of the Adriatic in search of watching hides offer travellers the chance rare dolphins, lunching on a turquoise sea, to see some of the remote mountain and then venturing into rugged mountains animals like bear, wolf, deer or wild boar in search of brown bears at sunset. Your in their natural environment. Travel here day of adventure finishes around a camp and discover some of ’s most fire, sharing stories and enjoying local beautiful, undiscovered and fascinating hospitality and cuisine. This is all possible areas. in Croatia’s Velebit Mountains. REWILDING EFFORTS Stretching from the edge of the Adriatic The 145-kilometre long Velebit massif is Sea to peaks of 1750 metres, the stunning one of the most biodiverse areas in the Velebit region is covered by beech and pine Balkans with a range of unique habitats. forests, underground canyons, caves and With many areas of this beautiful region waterfalls. These habitats are home to some now characterised by land abandonment, of Europe’s most rare and elusive wildlife, rural exodus and fading cultural tradition, including Balkan chamois, red deer, brown Rewilding Europe is working with local bear, wolf and . Over 100 bird species partners to transform these challenges will keep most enthusiasts happy too, into opportunities. This has seen the including golden eagles, peregrine falcon, establishment of the 17,000-hectare Velebit capercaillie and white-backed woodpecker. Nature Reserve, where rewilding is offering a fresh approach to wildlife management Explore the Velebit’s vast landscapes on and underpinning the development of a local foot or horseback, by boat or kayak, on nature-based economy.

18 19 BACK TO NATURE IN THE BALKANS

A four-night bespoke guided experience through the Velebit mountains, both on horseback and on foot. This is a unique exploration of the area, its wildlife and the impact of rewilding.

Take days out to explore the area on horseback, enjoying delicious local cuisine and hospitality while discovering the area and its captivating wild nature. Comfortable accommodation, all your activities and expert hosting are provided within a ranch-style setting. All this is rounded off by an opportunity to see bears from a photography hide in the mountains.

EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Delicious food in Megi’ Michelin recommended Privately guided on horseback and by foot Support rewilding through bear tourism May - October (bear watching included) Nov - April (wildlife and wolf tracking included) Local logistics, accommodation, meals included From 1450 euros per person, sharing 4 nights / 5 days guided throughout A bespoke travel experience at Linden Tree

20 21 Western Iberia Experience the compelling Côa Valley

PORTUGAL

Located between the Douro River to species of wild horse and are grazing along the 200-kilometre Grande Route, the north and the Serra da Malcata in freely in the Faia Brava Nature Reserve. on foot, by mountain bike or even on the south, Portugal’s Côa Valley is a Quite recently and for the first time Iberian horseback. We can tailor your itinerary spectacular mix of riverine gorges, oak wolves were spotted here, and it is hoped based on your interests, with your ideal forests, rocky heathlands and former the Iberian lynx will soon be reintroduced. combination of wildlife and culture, using cropland returning to nature. New expert guides and staying in handpicked sustainable travel here combines the Complementing this incredible wildlife, accommodation. New and unique safari- finest natural and cultural experiences in Western Iberia also has a rich human style accommodation in Star Camp in the area, supporting local people and new heritage. The Prehistoric Rock Art Sites Faia Brava and Miles Away fly camp bring independent nature reserves. in the Côa Valley are a UNESCO World you closer to nature in remote, dramatic Heritage Site, with thousands of animal, settings. Western Iberia is home to griffon and human and abstract figures carved into Egyptian vultures, golden and Bonelli’s rock faces, some of which date back over REWILDING EFFORTS eagles, and endangered species such 20,000 years. Together they make up the Focusing on the Greater Côa Valley, these are as black vulture, Spanish imperial eagle largest open-air collection of prehistory exciting times for rewilding in Western Iberia, and black stork. The rabbit is perhaps the art in Europe. All this is complemented with new funding allowing efforts to be scaled most important mammal species, a vital by delicious local cuisine and some of up from the beginning of 2019. Rewilding source of prey not only for the birds but Portugal’s finest wines, sourced from the Europe is working with local partners to also for carnivores such as mongoose, renowned Douro Valley. shape the valley through the development of civets, martens, polecats and elusive wild a 120,000-hectare wildlife corridor, restoring cats. Rabbits rely larger on herbivores to There are many ways to discover Western natural processes and trophic chains, clear large shrubs and are making Iberia, from a relaxing long weekend to encouraging wildlife combeack and driving a welcomed comeback together with a journey through the entire Côa Valley the development of nature-based tourism.

22 23 P O R T U G A L INSIDE AND OUT

Spend your first few nights at the exquisite Casa da Cisterna , built in amongst the old ruins of Castelo Rodrigo. This magical is owned and run by a passionate local family who have steeped history in the area and a strong tie to nature spanning back decades. The quaint hotel offers very comfortable en suite rooms, delicious in-house dining and an amazing view from the infinity pool.

Explore the nearby nature reserve of Faia Brava, under the guidance of Fernando Romao – guide and wildlife photographer. A 4x4 safari, picnic lunch and vulture hide experience are all highlights in the area during the day, and as the sun sets a dramatic backdrop of stars set the scene for a visit to the ancient rock engravings and art in the Côa Valley.

A private tour to a famed local vineyard will fill evoke fascination in this famous port region, before you dine out under the stars at the one-of- a-kind Fly Camp, overlooking the dramatic Côa and Douro rivers. The setting is enhanced by a five-course meal with wine pairing, before you rest your head in this traditional, “Hemingway-style” camp. .

With all these adventures under your belt, a day exploring the city of Porto. Dinner out on the town before getting ready to head back to reality.

24 EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Back to nature Luxury, cuisine and culture People and diversity May - October Ideal for couples or small groups Sense of adventure in the summer Five nights start from 1425 euros per person, sharing Includes all accommodation, four dinners, all breakfasts, wine tastings, 4x4 safari and photo experience, Fly Camp and privately guided activities

25 Southern Carpathians On the trail of bewitching bovines

ROMANIA

Along the southern end of ’s with a local guide, before spending each REWILDING EFFORTS arcing Carpathian Mountains, some of the night sitting around the campfire listing to Once widespread across Europe, wild continent’s largest wilderness landscapes ancient ales and legends. European bison were driven to extinction in the are the perfect setting for a true European early twentieth century by and habitat safari, boasting diverse wildlife, memorable Now a rewilding stronghold, this area loss. Starting in 2014, the ongoing Rewilding experiences and the chance to connect has seen over 100 bison returned to the Europe / WWF Romania bison reintroduction with nature. Rugged mountain chains, wild – free to roam the Țarcu Mountains. programme is the largest ever attempted in mixed forest and beautiful rivers provide If wildlife tracking isn’t the only activity the Southern Carpathians, where bison had a magnificent playground for intrepid on your wish list, the area also has great previously been absent for 200 years. From travellers. hiking, and photographic a socio-economic perspective, the goal of opportunities. Rewilding Europe and WWF Romania is to Plopu Valley – near the village of Armenis use wild nature – with a particular focus – represents the border between wild Local communities have developed small on the reintroduced bison – to promote nature and the cultivated lands of local tourism offerings over the last few years, the development of Southern Carpathian communities. Plopu is frequented by bears and now these are flourishing. Every communities. This will lead to a large, in search of the spring harvest, as well guest travelling to the region helps these interconnected wild landscape across several as bison grazing in the meadows. Track small community businesses and directly protected areas and their corridors, with the free-roaming bison and other wildlife supports rewilding. European bison as the flagship species.

26 27 BISON, BEARS AND BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES

At the southern end of Romania’s arcing Carpathian Mountains some of Europe’s largest wilderness landscapes are now being created. This is the perfect place to experience a true European safari, with rugged landscapes, fast flowing rivers, diverse wildlife experiences and the opportunity to really connect with nature. Led by expert guides, bison tracking experiences will give you a unique insight into the behaviour and ecological importance of these magnificent creatures.

Since 2013, Rewilding Europe, WWF Romania and the local association AMZA have been working together in the Southern Carpathians rewilding area to bring the European bison back into the wild. The first bison releases took place in 2014 and 2015.

In June 2016, the third bison release took place, now part of the “LIFE Bison” project funded by the European Commission. During the next four years, annual releases of at least another 80 bison in total will take place in cooperation with the local community.

28 EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Hiking and tracking bison 4-night experience, including a sleep out Privately guided throughout Available on request 2 - 6 people Rates include all listed experiences, accommodation and guides Starting from 1,470 euros per person, sharing Hands on rewilding experience

29 Scotland Dramatic landscape waiting for rewilding

Rewilding is now on the rise in Scotland, In contrast to the mainland, heading off to with lands returning to nature and nature- the Outer Hebrides by ferry brings dramatic based tourism developing rapidly. Whether coastal and island landscapes. Exploring your interest stems from hiking and Uist will bring you closer to the raw beauty exploring the highlands, or venturing out of the area, its rich Gaelic culture and the onto the inner seas in search of dolphins, amazing wildlife to be seen and discovered. Scotland has it all. A rich heritage steeped Dolphin watching by kayak or boat, hiking in tradition and covering a vast array of trails and sea tours will fill your days and scenery, this cultural melting pot is waiting warm hospitality paired with delicious to be discovered. meals keep you coming back for more.

The Cairngorms National Park is one of REWILDING EFFORTS the most recognised and well-known While the activities of man have taken their parks to visit and explore, but there is toll, the rise of rewilding in Scotland now much more beneath Scotland’s surface offers hope that the wild nature for which the waiting to be discovered. Partnering with country is rightly renowned can be restored. SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, the European From Cairngorms Connect to the Coigach Safari Company is helping focus attention & Assynt Living Landscape initiative, today on special experience programmes, a growing number of inspirational rewilding guided and led to showcase the rewilding projects are demonstrating how rewilding can movement. benefit both people and wildlife.

30 31 UIST ISLAND EXPERIENCE

A three-night stay for two at Uist Forest Retreat, exploring the dramatic island landscapes, including an outing in search of otters. Hiking, beautiful coast lines and amazing seafood on your doorstep. The retreat offers stunning self-catering accommodation on North Uist. The uniquely designed treehouse cabins are nestled amongst the forest with views out to long sandy beaches, Vallay Island and the hills of Harris in the distance. Relax by the wood burning stove or soak in the views from the freestanding bath. This is an ideal retreat for couples wishing to truly “get away from it all” and unwind in the exceptionally scenic landscape of the Outer Hebrides.

Both circular self-catering cabins are based on the prehistoric wheelhouse design of the Iron Age, the remains of which can be seen in many places throughout Uist. All the timber is UK sourced and the sedum roof a stonecrop and wildflower mix to create a little wildlife habitat. Both cabins are raised of the ground in the style of a treehouse, to leave the ground below untouched and to give the best opportunity to admire the unrivalled sea views along the coastline.

EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Magnificent views and setting Secluded forest setting, with a touch of class Amazing hospitality and location Open all year Only three treehouse cabins – ideal for couples / singles Off the grid (no internet!) Rates start from 685 euros for 2 people Three nights Includes an otter watching trip

32 33 Slovenia Discover Europe’s new green oasis

Nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Partnerships with forestry departments and other accommodations will suit varied Alps, Slovenia is a destination not to be and local associations are encouraging tastes and styles, but be sure to keep an eye missed. Known for its diverse summer and nature-based tourism development. In open for recognised green destinations. winter activities, the country is earning a the last few years extensive research by reputation as one of Europe’s newest and Discover Dinarics has been conducted to REWILDING EFFORTS finest green destinations. More than half of understand bear populations across both By adding Slovenia-based offerings to its this diverse country’s surface is forested, Slovenia and Croatia. growing portfolio, the European Safari providing a rich natural landscape ripe for Company is contributing to bear conservation exploration. With vast rivers and mountains, Slovenia’s and drive nature-based tourism development southern section is an undeniably in the country’s Kočevje region. While bears The people of Slovenia are warm and exciting destination. Combine mountain remain a heavily managed species in Europe, friendly. The development of nature- explorations with old forest hikes, wildlife the increase in bear numbers in Slovenia based tourism is a priority, encouraging watching with river and add in a is underpinning a new trend towards “bear communities to take a more sustainable stopover in the country’s capital – . tourism”, with the LIFE DINALP BEAR project path for both wild nature and people. (a member of Rewilding Rurope’s European Brown bears, wolves, lynx and many other Accessible from a number of surrounding Rewilding Network) working to change local dynamic species inhabit natural areas – airports, the best option is flying in directly mindsets and engaging stakeholders such with the onset of nature-based tourism to Ljubljana and after a short twenty- as local hunting associations, the forestry these key species are being accepted minute transfer, arrive in the capital. The industry and a range of European tourism more, fostering better human-wildlife well-developed city centre provides diverse partners in the planning and implementation relationships. tourism offerings. Great , apartments of a bear tourism model.

34 35 BEST OF SLOVENIA

Slovenia is one of the few European countries where three large carnivore species can be spotted in their natural habitat - brown bears, wolves and Eurasian lynx. Our partners developed this unique programme in collaboration with the Life DinAlp Bear project and the Biotechnical Faculty of the University of Ljubljana, according to standards and with the smallest possible impact on the environment, especially wildlife.

Day 1: In the morning you will arrive at Ljubljana Airport, and be transferred downtown. This medieval city is a must see, and in the afternoon, you will have a sightseeing tour with your guide, followed by dinner in the old castle overlooking the city. You will spend the night in a family owned hotel in a central location, where you will also enjoy a leisurely breakfast the next morning.

Day 2: The day’s adventure, which takes place in the region of Kočevska, includes parts of the Roška pešpot hiking trail. In the evening – in partnership with a local hunting association – a guided observation of bears will be organised at a hunting observatory. The best time to observe bears is late in the afternoon, just before dusk. Since bears follow more or less the same routine every day and are used to frequenting the area around the station, they almost always appear for visitors. Dinner is included in the package. This experience is part of an outreach and development program engaging local associations to develop a more sustainable partnership with nature.

Day 3: After a hearty breakfast, prepared with locally grown ingredients, you will trek the Roska Trail and possibly visit the Željna Caves, where people have been searching for shelter for over 20,000 years. After lunch, you are transported back to Ljubljana Airport where your experience ends.

36 EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW A chance to see bears in the wild Culture, wild nature and activities Fully guided by local experts May - August 2 - 8 people Includes listed meals and activities, local transfers and guides Starting from 1295 euros per person, sharing Tailored experiences or packages can be arranged DISCOVER THE WILD ON YOUR DOORSTEP

Every trip taken with the European Safari Company helps to raise awareness of wild nature in Europe, supports wildlife comeback, boosts nature-based tourism and enhances that essential connection between wildlife, wild places and people. Go wild and experience the wild heart of Europe!

www.europeansafaricompany.com

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