Best Countries for Bear Watching

Grizzlies and black bears are pretty easy to come by on the North American continent, but you might have to go a little further to find some lesser-known species. If you’re a bear lover who wants to see some of these majestic beings up close and personal, here are the best places to find them.

Peru

Peru is home to the endangered Andean (or spectacled) bears. There are only an estimated 3,000 to 6,000 still in existence and the best way to view them is through a preservation company in the northern region of the country.

China

China is one of the few homes to the elusive panda bear, at least one where they can be found in the wild. Chengdu, in particular, is an excellent place to visit them in a natural habitat. There are numerous sanctuaries here that allow tours that help provide funding for preservation.

Canada

Traveling to Antarctica to see a polar bear isn’t quite realistic for most, but hopping up to Canada is certainly doable. Manitoba is home to these stunning beasts and the Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge is a wonderful place to stay if you want to see them in action.

Bulgaria

Europe has a large brown bear population, but your best chance as seeing them up close lies in Bulgaria. Its brown bear population is one of the biggest and most stable and there are numerous tour groups that can guide you safely through the terrain.

India

India is home to some of the world’s most unique and rare animals, including the Asian black bear. In the Valley of Flowers you’ll spot several of these rare creatures along with delights such as the snow leopard and blue sheep.