About
WildFauna has over 15 years of experience of arranging and guiding expeditions, previously we have also arrange expeditions under the name EcoWatch Wildlife Expeditions and still use the name. Instead of arranging expeditions to lots of different destinations we specialize on well planned unique expeditions to a limited number of locations. The expeditions are aimed especially towards those who are interested in photographing wildlife, often specific species. The trips are arranged to offer the best possible photo opportunities, we also offer guide service for professional photographers and filmmakers. Our trips are usually directed to remote and hard-to-reach places which require careful planning, equipment and knowledge to get to. With us you always travel in a small group so that the experience will be as personal and unique as possible and not disturbed by a big group.. Our strive is to always arrange our travels in a way that has the least negative impact on the environment and wildlife. We often sleep in tents (closer to nature) instead of exclusive lodges and hotels. The ambition is to also contribute to local conservation of the places and species visited as a tour operator.
Your tour leader/guide
Through my work as a biologist and guide, I have had the chance to experience many spectacular places and share unique moments with wildlife all over the world. There is nothing beating the feeling when you get to see that particular species of animal which you have long wanted to see in the wild, or when you get to witness special events in nature. I have had the privilege of gathering many fantastic memories - Working with orphaned bear cubs in Russia, as a biologist studying African wild dogs in Africa, studying magnificent colorful flocks of macaws flying over rainforests in Central America, watching wolves hunt reindeer on the tundra in Alaska - experiences which will bring memories and joy for the rest of my life.
Unfortunately, today many untouched areas and endangered species are threatened to disappear in the near future. As a travel operator and guide, the ambition is that the expeditions should also contribute in various ways of the conservation of endangered species and their habitats. Ecotourism can often, for example, contribute to conservation e.g. through direct and indirect income for local people at the visited locations, which creates a value to preserve these species and their habitat. An interest and awareness can also be created among those who travel, which can of course also contribute to an increased willingness to participate in conservation. The goal of WildFauna is also that a part of the profit should go into various conservation projects carried out within the visited locations. Anyone who accompanies WildFauna on a trip will not only have an unforgettable experience, but my hope is that the traveler will also indirectly contribute to the preservation of endangered species and their environment through their adventures.
My name is Christopher Wiken and I´m the founder and owner of WildFauna. I guide most of the tours WildFauna arrange. I have extensive experience as a tour/expedition leader. I have been working within tourism for about 30 years and been working as a wilderness guide in many places around the world. I mainly been focusing on the northern hemisphere and has also been working as as a sled dog tour guide for many years. I am a trained biologist and have worked within various field research projects. From an early age my interest in animals and nature has been my passion, my interest led me to start documenting what I experienced through photography. I’m a specialized bear guide and annually guide amateur photographers, professional photographers and nature enthusiasts photographing and experiencing bears.
