About us 

For centuries, bears have held a special place in the human psyche - as neighbors, enigmatic beings, and powerful teachers. Ursus Expeditions strives to strengthen this connection through immersive firsthand experiences. Our belief is that witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitats transforms one's understanding of both bears and the broader natural world.

Through intimately-designed tours to remote wilderness regions, Ursus Expeditions provides clients with the unique opportunity to observe and learn about the world's eight bear species. We hope to break away common misconceptions about bears, and replace them with a solid foundation of scientific knowledge. Clients not only discover how to coexist with and understand bears on a deeper level, but also gain a profound appreciation for the intricate ecosystems they call home.

Education lies at the heart of Ursus Expeditions' ethos. We understand that knowledge fosters respect, which in turn fuels preservation. In addition to delivering awe-inspiring bear encounters, we place a strong emphasis on educating clients about the ecology, natural history, and local culture of the regions they visit.

Ursus Expeditions doesn't stop at education alone; we are unwaveringly committed to making a tangible impact. We work hand in hand with non-profit organizations and local ecotourism groups to support bear habitats, uplift local communities, and contribute to the well-being of bear populations across our travel destinations. Our approach to "watchable wildlife" is firmly rooted in ethics, ensuring that wildlife is observed and photographed without causing any harm or disruption.

In the end, Ursus Expeditions aspires to leave a lasting imprint, not only by fostering a deeper understanding of these incredible creatures but also by instilling a sense of responsibility towards conservation and the preservation of our planet's precious natural treasures.

My name is Kevin Andrews, and I am a native of Northern California. driven by an unyielding love for the great outdoors. My life story is a testament to my unwavering dedication to the wild and a deep connection with the natural world.

From a young age, my heart was captivated by the beauty of nature. My childhood was spent navigating the rugged landscapes of Northern California, where I cultivated a profound affection for the wilderness. These early years laid the foundation for a calling that would shape the course of my life.

All changed on a fateful journey to Yellowstone National Park that marked a pivotal turning point in my life. Amidst the pristine wilderness of Yellowstone, I experienced a profound awakening. It was here, surrounded by the wonders of nature, that I felt a calling—a calling to dedicate my life to the exploration and conservation of one of the world's most elusive and iconic creatures: bears.

With unshakable resolve, I redirected the trajectory of my life to immerse myself fully in the great outdoors and the study of wildlife. My passion propelled me into the role of a dedicated guide within Yellowstone and other renowned national parks, especially in the Yellowstone and Tetons region where bears take center stage.

This newfound purpose also ignited an audacious mission within me—to encounter and photograph all eight bear species across the globe, in their natural habitats. My mission has a dual purpose: to contribute actively to the conservation endeavors of these magnificent animals and to educate people about the vital role bears play in the delicate tapestry of our planet's ecosystems.

Since that transformative journey to Yellowstone, my life has been an unswerving dedication to bears and their conservation. I continually seek innovative ways to raise awareness and, as a guide, work to protect these awe-inspiring creatures and the natural sanctuaries they inhabit.

“Together, we can make a tangible difference for the bears of our planet and inspire a new generation to hold dear and safeguard the wonders of the natural world.”


Frequently asked questions

  • Between planning the trip and hopping on a plane to head back home, you can always expect adventure in between! We go where the bears are, and with different species spread out in various ecosystems across the world, this will look very different from place to place. Some trips will be based from a vehicle, some will be more hiking intensive. Some locations will be wet and rainy while others may be humid and sunny.

    Rest assured, we will prepare you with all of the essentials to meet your needs for each unique itinerary. Weeks before your trip begins, we will send you a pre-trip packing checklist as well as expectations for the climate, culture, cuisine, and day-to-day activities. We even offer assistance with booking flights if you are new to traveling or simply want the convenience! As always, feel free to email us if you have any questions or concerns.

  • Bears are one of the most charismatic, endearing animals in the world, and you are undoubtedly going to want to bring your camera to capture these encounters! Depending on the location, we may be photographing bears from 500+ yards or as close as 50. It is recommended that you bring both a telephoto and wide-angle lens so you have both situations covered. A tripod is also useful for stabilizing photos and essential if you wish to capture video. Other smaller gear features we suggest bringing include spare batteries, battery chargers, lens cleaners, and potentially rain covers.

  • Bears are individuals just like us. They will have good and bad days, varying degrees of tolerance toward humans, and different personal space bubbles. This is why we will allow you to walk on foot around bears on some trips, while others will be based in a vehicle. We as trip leaders have years of experience spending time around bears and reading their body language. We will never approach bears if it impedes their natural behavior or causes them discomfort. These ethics are paramount on every trip, regardless of trip length, weather, group size, or mode of transportation. More often than not, if we are respectful and show that we are not a threat, wildlife will come to us!