From Gijón, Oviedo or Pola de Somiedo: Brown Bear Spotting — A Wild Adventure in Asturias
If you’re craving a rare chance to see wild brown bears roaming freely, this guided tour in Asturias offers a unique experience you won’t forget. Starting from Gijón, Oviedo, or Pola de Somiedo, this 6 to 8.5-hour adventure costs around $57 per person and is led by knowledgeable guides who know exactly where to look for these elusive animals.
What we love about this experience is the intimate nature of small groups—limiting to just nine participants—and the genuine opportunity to witness nature in action, rather than just hearing about it from a book or documentary. The chance to use a telescope and binoculars to watch a bear in its natural habitat is truly special, and the guides’ insights into Somiedo’s natural heritage add a layer of depth you won’t get elsewhere.
A small caveat is that this activity requires patience and the right weather conditions—if it’s too foggy or the bears are resting, spotting a bear can become more challenging. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy wildlife observation, natural landscapes, and don’t mind an early evening outing.
This tour is ideal for nature lovers, adventurers, and those simply curious about Asturias’ wildlife. Since children under 11 aren’t recommended, it’s better suited for teens and adults eager for a quiet, respectful encounter with nature.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Wild Brown Bear Viewing: An authentic chance to see bears in their natural environment in Somiedo National Park.
- Expert Guides: Guides are fully licensed and knowledgeable about local wildlife and natural history.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to nine participants, fostering a more personal and immersive experience.
- Equipment Provided: Binoculars and telescopes are included, making it easier to spot animals from afar.
- Timing Flexibility: The activity runs in the early evening, aligned with the bears’ activity patterns.
- Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 11, ensuring a respectful and concentrated environment for wildlife viewing.
Planning more time in Gijon? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Closer Look at the Brown Bear Spotting Tour
Asturias is famous for its rugged landscapes, lush forests, and surprisingly, for being one of the best places in Europe to see wild brown bears. This tour leverages the natural habitat of Ursus arktos—the brown bear—and takes you into Pola de Somiedo and surrounding areas, where these solitary giants roam.
What’s Included and How It Works
For $57 per person, you gain access to a fully licensed guide who will introduce you to the local natural heritage of Somiedo. Transportation is provided, so you won’t need to worry about navigating rugged roads or finding your way into the park. The tour also supplies binoculars and telescopes—essential tools when wildlife watching—making it easier to spot and observe bears from a safe and respectful distance.
The meeting point is flexible, depending on your booking choice, but it generally begins in Pola de Somiedo in the early evening. The tour lasts between 6 and 8.5 hours, with timing optimized to coincide with the bears’ peak activity periods. Since the activity ends around sunset, you get to see not just the bears but also the stunning Alpine landscapes of Asturias as the light fades.
The Itinerary and Experience
Your guide will start by giving an overview of the natural history of Somiedo, including the behaviors and habitats of Ursus arktos. We loved the way guides explained the ethology of the bears—their feeding habits, movement patterns, and clues to identifying their presence. This background enriches the experience, turning a simple wildlife spot into a mini-lesson on ecology and conservation.
Next, the group will move along various viewpoints depending on weather and animal activity. The guides are expert at reading signs of bear presence, such as tracks, scat, or even nearby paw prints. The anticipation builds as you settle into a designated viewing spot, binoculars and telescopes at the ready, scanning the forest for movement.
Many reviews mention that “watching a bear in the wild” is an awe-inspiring moment. One visitor noted, “We loved the up-close views through the telescope, and the patience of the guide was key. When we finally saw the bear, it was worth every minute.” It’s important to remember that, as with all wildlife watching, sightings depend on luck, weather, and animal behavior, but the guides’ expertise significantly increases your chances.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Natural Setting and Local Heritage
Beyond just spotting bears, this tour offers a window into the natural beauty and ecological importance of Somiedo. The park’s landscape is characterized by mountainous terrain, dense forests, and tranquil lakes. As you travel, guides often share stories about the park’s flora and fauna, and the ongoing efforts to preserve this biodiversity hotspot.
What Reviewers Say
The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on four reviews. One reviewer highlighted the “small group size,” which allowed for a more personal experience and easier communication with the guide. Another appreciated the knowledgeable guide, Juan, who made the wildlife come alive with his detailed explanations.
While some noted that seeing the bears isn’t guaranteed, the overall consensus is that the experience, regardless of a sighting, offers a meaningful connection to nature and conservation efforts in Asturias.
Practicalities and What to Bring
You’ll want to dress in layers—weather can change quickly in the mountains—and bring a passport or ID card for check-in. Food and drinks aren’t included or allowed during the activity, so plan accordingly, especially if you’re coming from afar.
The tour’s small group size ensures that everyone has a good view and can participate actively. It’s not suitable for children under 11, mainly because patience and quiet observation are required.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those wanting an authentic encounter with nature. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group tours and are comfortable with an evening outdoor activity. If you’re interested in learning about natural habitats and have a bit of patience, you’ll find this tour both educational and exhilarating.
However, if you’re mainly looking for a quick wildlife spotting trip or have limited mobility, this might not be the best fit. The success of sightings also depends heavily on weather and animal activity, so flexible expectations are wise.
Final Thoughts
The Brown Bear Spotting tour in Asturias offers a rare chance to see some of Europe’s most majestic wild animals. The combination of expert guides, small-group intimacy, and well-equipped viewing points makes it a compelling choice for adventurers willing to spend a few hours in search of these gentle giants.
While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the experience of being in Somiedo’s pristine landscapes and learning about the local ecosystem is valuable in itself. If you’re patient, respectful of nature, and eager for an authentic outdoor experience, this tour will likely be a highlight of your time in Asturias.
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who love animals, nature, and a good story about wildlife in its natural setting. It’s a unique experience that combines nature observation, education, and spectacular scenery—a memorable way to connect with Asturias’ wild side.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 6 and 8.5 hours, depending on availability and weather conditions.
What is the starting time?
Start times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking.
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from the meeting point is included in the tour price.
What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, dress in layers for mountain weather, and bring personal essentials. Food and drinks are not allowed during the activity.
Is it suitable for children?
No, this tour isn’t recommended for children under 11 due to the nature of wildlife observation and pacing.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What if I don’t see a bear?
Wildlife sightings depend on numerous factors, but guides are very skilled at finding signs of bears, and the experience of being in the park is rewarding in itself.
Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides operate in Spanish and English, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers from different backgrounds.
This guided brown bear spotting tour in Asturias promises a chance to witness some of Europe’s most iconic wildlife in their natural setting, making it a truly special addition to any nature-focused itinerary.
You can check availability for your dates here: