PhD Ecologist · 8 Years Researching Wolves · 5-Day Immersive Tours
Discover Białowieża Forest
With the Scientists Who Call It Home
Join a Tour
Five days exploring the old-growth forest with scientists who research it
Secrets of the Old-Growth Seminar
A cross between a wildlife tour and a field course. Track wolves, survey camera traps, explore beaver meadows, and walk through forests where few people ever go.
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About Your Guide
A biologist living in Europe's last primeval forest
I'm Tom, a PhD ecologist based in the Białowieża Forest in eastern Poland. I moved here to study how wolves shape ecosystems — and never left. My current research explores how wolves and humans influence beaver impacts on trees.
Half Polish, half British, I grew up near Snowdonia in Wales — a landscape denuded of trees where you'd struggle to see anything wilder than a squirrel. In Białowieża, wolves, bison and moose canter through gardens. This wildlife was once common across all of Europe. As scientists who study this forest, we aim to share its secrets while exploring woods where few people ever go.
What our clients say
We spent four days with Tom discovering Bialowieza Forest and couldn't be more satisfied. Tom has extensive knowledge of the history of the forest, its ecosystems and mammals, especially wolves and beavers. As a photography collective we had specific requirements for our trip and Tom has perfectly alligned his program with our wishes.
Split Collective
Photography collective, Netherlands
Tom took our group of students on a guided tour through a part of the Bialowieza Forest. It was one of the highlights of our trip to the Bialowieza Region. Tom is truly an expert in his field and was able to interconnect aspects of politics, wildlife and economics which was just perfect for us.
Nina Mirza
Hans-Böckler Foundation, Germany
I hired Tom for a private tour of the Białowieża Forest last summer (2024) to deepen my understanding of the forest for a book I am writing on intergeneration trauma, and with the desire to learn as much as possible about this particular forest from an expert — its history, its ecological systems, its wildlife (especially wolves) and conservation issues. Tom was able to tailor the tour to fit my needs beautifully, and to provide additional information that I did not even know I needed! Tom's deep knowledge and love for the forest combined with his easy-going personality created the perfect way to connect with the forest on a deeper level. I highly recommend Tom's tour of Białowieża Forest. It is a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the intricate workings of an old-growth forest, with an experience is both deeply educational and awe-inspiring.
Stephanie J. Ryan
Professor of Art, California State University, Fresno
I spent a great time visiting the Bialowieża area with Tom on the Secrets of the Old Growth Tour in May 2026. The organisation, food, accommodation and knowledge were all excellent. Highly recommended for an in-depth understanding of the forest, the wildlife and the history of management
Ann
Scotland
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Bialowieza. The place itself is fantastic: beautiful and packed full of interesting flora and fauna. Tom and his fellow guides' expertise brings it all to life - putting what you see in an ecosystem context. Their enthusiasm for forest in inspiring and they give you a great understanding of how the different animals and plants relate and affect each other and of the influence of human activity on different parts of the landscape. On the logistical side, Tom was a welcoming and easy-going host. All arrangements went smoothly, the guest house was clean and comfortable, the company was good and the food was delicious.
Jestyn
UK/Switzerland
The primeval forests of Białowieża unfolded before our group under the expert guidance of Tom Diserens. His 5-day tour was a deep dive into rewilding efforts for several major species, including wolf, beaver and bison. Tom and his colleagues led hikes into different areas of the forest, showcasing conservation initiatives, as well as the effects of climate change and other human impacts on the forest. Tom is a thoughtful host and is well able to link the extensive history of the region to current day conditions and ongoing research in the forest.
Anne Sundermann
USA/Ireland
This was a fantastic way to experience the most renowned forest in Europe and was a great way to feel the magic but also learn about its ecology. We saw amazing wildlife and the forest walks didn't disappoint while the hospitality was excellent at all times. Tom has incredible cultural as well as scientific knowledge so I came away feeling we had the best guide leading us through this very special place.
Pádraic Fogarty
Ecologist, Ireland
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