A photo safari is an unique experience for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, where participants can explore and capture the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of Saaremaa under the guidance of a tour leader.
Nature through the camera lens
Photographer Karl Jakob Toplaan started nature photography at just 13 years old. His passion for nature and photography was strong from an early age. Over time, he has achieved impressive results with his images, repeatedly earning awards in Estonia’s largest nature photography competition, Nature Photo of the Year. His stunning nature photos from Saaremaa have caught the attention of both – the jury and nature enthusiasts.
Karl Jakob Toplaan has proven himself as a talented and dedicated photographer, capable of capturing the beauty and mystery of nature through his camera lens. He also shares his experiences with anyone interested in nature and wildlife, guiding nature enthusiasts to photo hides and wildlife observation tours.
“When I first started photography, all the birds and animals of Saaremaa were equally exciting to me. Ever since childhood, I have loved the sea, lakes and all other bodies of water. Over time, I became increasingly fascinated by waterbirds. The most mysterious and interesting of them seemed to be the grey heron and for a long time, my biggest dream was to capture it in all its beauty.
“Year after year, however, I have felt a stronger desire to photograph species that an ordinary person rarely encounters or has never seen at all. This way, I can tell stories about Saaremaa’s extraordinary nature through my pictures. To really get my adrenaline pumping, I would love to one day photograph large predators like the wolf and the lynx—animals I haven’t even had the chance to see yet.”
Who is worth capturing?
Saaremaa, Muhu and the smaller islands are a true natural treasure, where every corner hides a new and enchanting discovery. The islands’ diverse landscapes, coastal meadows and dense reed beds provide a habitat for many species. Here, you can find both majestic birds and mysterious forest dwellers. Whether you are an experienced nature explorer or just beginning your journey as a nature enthusiast, Saaremaa offers countless breathtaking moments.
In the autumn, the floodplains of the islands become home to red deer with impressive antlers, whose mating season brings intense clashes between rival stags. While wandering along Saaremaa’s coastline, you may also spot the white-tailed eagle, the king of Estonia’s birds, with a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters. If you spend some time on the shore and keep your eyes open, you might witness this giant bird soaring through the sky. The islands are also home to grey seals, which prefer to inhabit smaller islets and are often seen by fishermen and ornithologists.
Saaremaa’s dense reed beds are home to the rare bearded reedling, a bird few have encountered as it thrives in thick reeds. If you manage to spot this exotic-looking bird, you’re in for a pleasant surprise—their acrobatic skills while foraging are truly impressive. Everyone knows that Saaremaa and junipers go hand in hand, but fewer people are aware that its coastal meadows are also home to the redshank. This noisy wader, known for its loud alarm calls, is a frequent sight in Saaremaa’s coastal grasslands. Another charming inhabitant of Saaremaa is the common tern, a bird that chooses a lifelong partner and expresses its affection through “kisses.” These fascinating species are just a small part of the natural wonders that make Saaremaa so unique.
