Snowshoeing in Finland
Experience Overview
In the heart of the Finnish wilderness is the beautiful Oulanka National Park, a vast expanse of snow-laden pine trees, frozen lakes and waterfalls. There is no better way to explore this stunning setting in Finland than by strapping on a pair of snowshoes and heading out to break new trails. In the company of our expert leader, we take varied day tours in the surrounding area, including a visit to the spectacular Riisitunturi National Park.
Profile
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Basecamp Oulanka) — No previous experience necessary — Reasonable level of fitness required
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Basecamp Oulanka) — No previous experience necessary — Reasonable level of fitness required
Trip For You
This trip is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It involves snowshoeing over flat or undulating terrain. There are no big drops and very steep terrain is rare. No snowshoeing experience is necessary; however, a good level of fitness is required as we climb to viewpoints. Expect to be snowshoeing between three and six hours a day at a moderate pace. Variables such as snow depth can (and do) affect this.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, five lunches and seven dinners are included.
The food at Basecamp is a delicious range of local produce (Finnish food) all prepared on site by the in-house chef. Starters consist of a salad buffet with three or four different choices. The main courses consist of chicken, salmon and wild game such as elk. Dessert consists of lingonberries, blueberries and cloudberries that have often been picked by the chef. These berries are served with a selection of quark kurd, cream, ice cream, cakes and pancakes. Lunch normally consists of a hot soup with elk, salmon or vegetarian options.
Transportation
Transfer to and from the airport is by heated minibus or taxi. All other transport is as per the itinerary.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Basecamp Oulanka, Myllykoskentie 30, 93900 Kuusamo, Finland
Phone: +358 40 0509741
Recommended arrival time: Check-in is from 4pm. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Kuusamo Airport (KAO)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 45 to 60 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
In the regions close to the Arctic Circle, temperatures during the season range from -30C (-22F) to 5C (41F). December will normally be the coldest (usually below -20C/-4F), but the temperatures rise as the days lengthen, and early April can see temperatures around -10C to 5C (14F to 41F). Recent years have seen massive fluctuations in the space of a few weeks with lows of -40C (-40F) and highs of 7C (45F) just a few days apart.
If the thought of such temperatures scares you, think again. When dressed in the Arctic clothing provided, with insulated boots, woolly hat and large mittens, -20C (-4F) can actually feel very pleasant. The Arctic cold is a dry cold, there is usually no wind and, remember, we will keep you active.
Daylight hours
At extreme latitudes, the days shorten and lengthen much faster. So while in midwinter (December/January) the sun remains just below the horizon, by April there are more daylight hours than in the UK, and the midnight sun is only a matter of weeks away. Even in midwinter it is not dark, as the sun is just above the horizon and there is plenty of light reflected off the snow.
Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are visible from September to late April on most clear nights at latitudes close to and above the Arctic Circle. They can be seen further south but will be less spectacular and less frequent. Solar activity is greater around the equinoxes (September and April), and at lower latitudes this can be the best time to see them. Inside the Arctic Circle, they tend to be just as good in any winter month, and on a seven-night trip you would be unlucky not to see the Northern Lights at all.
Spending Money
You should allow some euros for drinks with meals and at the bar; however, it is also possible to have a tab (associated to your room) and pay for your purchases at the end of the week using your credit card or cash. Please note, they accept Visa, Eurocard and Mastercard locally.
Optional excursions
There are several extra excursions available in the area: exact prices and details will be confirmed locally, but the following provides a guide to what is normally available. As some of the excursions can be very popular, we strongly suggest you prebook them with the Basecamp staff at your earliest convenience. Please note, these excursions require a minimum number of four participants and in some there will also be non-Exodus clients booked on.
— Downhill skiing or snowboarding: Starting from €85 (equipment and ski pass) — Ice karting: €65 per person (minimum height: 4ft 11in/150cm) — Introduction to cross-country skiing: €75 per person — Sauna joga: €40 per person — Sauna joga, private session: €200 group. Maximum of five people — Ice climbing: €185 per person — Ice fishing: €75 per person — Reindeer farm visit: €95 per person — Half-day husky safari: €225 per person — Snowmobile safari. Approximately a 90-minute scenic safari around Ruka using four-stroke snowmobiles:
— €105 per person (two per machine) — €140 (solo use) — €50 per child when sitting in sled. The child price is valid only when sitting in sledge pulled by the guide.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus, however, most of our clients wish to give a tip to their guides in appreciation of their help and friendliness. This, of course, is in no way compulsory and depends on the service received. If you feel you would like to leave a tip, as a guide we would suggest a total of approximately €15 for the leader and €10 for the staff at Basecamp.
Highlights
— Break new trails on a snowshoeing adventure in Finland’s remote north — Journey through a winter wonderland: frozen lakes, waterfalls and fjells — Take riverside trails to experience the wild landscape of Oulanka National Park — Discover snow-laden ‘monster’ trees in Riisitunturi National Park — Warm up in the sauna and outdoor hot tub at our welcoming accommodation
Trip Details
Product Code: 4410
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: tinerary.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: CFO
Starts: Oulanka, Finland
Finishes: Oulanka, Finland
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
— All breakfasts, five lunches and seven dinners — All accommodation (see below) — All transport and listed activities — Local tour leaders throughout — Snowshoes and polesAccommodation
Basecamp OulankaOverlooking Juuma Lake and the national park after which it was named, Basecamp Oulanka is our welcoming home in the remote Finnish wilderness. The magical complex comprises a series of wooden structures: the twin rooms are split across two separate buildings, while a third building houses a restaurant and bar with a log fire, plus a sauna and outdoor hot tub. Built in 1998 with sustainability in mind, the complex is heated using special wood pellets for fuel. It is also a member of The Long Run Foundation, which comes with a commitment to building a ‘sustainable future through a balance of conservation, community, culture and commerce’. Worth knowing Multiple Exodus trips run at Basecamp Oulanka concurrently and you might share the room with a member of a different group.There are Exodus family groups at Basecamp during school holidays
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4,655 ($582 /day)
Itinerary
Our trip starts at Basecamp Oulanka, a complex of cosy wooden buildings in a remote location overlooking Juuma Lake and backing into Oulanka National Park.
In the morning, we are provided with all the equipment needed for a week of snowshoeing. We then head onto the frozen Juuma Lake for an easy walk to get used to our new form of transport. Our route leads us through snow-caked trees and along the Kitka River, passing an old flour mill by the Myllykoski rapids. The afternoon is free for a self-guided snowshoeing trip or just to relax at Basecamp in the sauna or hot tub.
Today's walk begins over a long suspension bridge that hangs across the Niskakoski rapids. We then head to the pristine frozen lake of Jyravajarvi where we can experience snowshoeing in total silence. This brings us to Pyöreälampi, where we stop for a snack. After the rest, we walk across a secluded area to Linnakallio Castle Rocks, a beautiful wall of rock isolated on the riverbanks. Then we pass Jyrävä, the biggest waterfall in the national park, and the Aallokko rapids. Along the path, you can also admire beautiful lichens hanging from the trees. On our return to Basecamp, we cross a second suspension bridge over the Myllykoski rapids.
We transfer to the neighbouring Riisitunturi National Park. Although geographically they are not far apart, the differences between the two national parks are evident. What makes this area so special is the incredible effect the heavy snow has on the trees as you climb higher into the clearings of the fjell. They’re twisted, bent and covered in thick white powder, appearing like hundreds of snow creatures. This memorable walk then culminates in a hike to the top of the fjell for a fantastic view of this wonderful alien landscape.
We spend the day at the popular ski resort of Ruka. Your guide will take care of transfers and can book activities for you. Group transfers are included only to the designated areas and are scheduled at specific times; check at reception before booking your activities. Downhill skiing and snowmobile safaris are available. See Optional Excursions in the Trip Notes for more. Please note, due to operational reasons, bookings for activities in Ruka need to be made by Tuesday.
Today is the longest day of snowshoeing as we head deep into Oulanka National Park. Our guide takes us along the Little Bear Trail, which encompasses some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. It takes us to the south side of the Kitka River and then up to the Kallioportti viewpoint, where we survey the vast snowy landscape. On return to Basecamp, we head over another suspension bridge in Harrisuvanto before taking a well-earned rest in the sauna or hot tub.
Today we have several options to make the most of the magical Finland wilderness. Some of the activities available are: an introduction to cross-country skiing and unguided snowshoeing and dogsledding. As a farewell celebration, we enjoy a four-course farewell dinner at Basecamp.
The trip ends at Basecamp Oulanka (which may feel a bit like home by now) and we begin our return journey.
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Deborah Gibson-Smith - Traveled, March 2023
Something a little different Never having done snowshoeing before we were not sure how easy it would be but if you can walk you can snowshoe! It was a wonderful novel way of exploring the woodlands around the basecamp with plenty of time to chill in the sauna at the end of the afternoon. Most Inspirational Moment There were no particular highlights but the scenary was lovely Thoughts on Group Leader Anton was a very good tour leader and gave us some interesting insights into the local nature and reindeer herders. Advice for Potential Travellers They really do provide all the clothes you need to snowshoe so it would be possible to travel on hand luggage only.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2023
Eric Fleming - Traveled, January 2019
Snowshoeing from Basecamp in Oulanka National Park 5 days very easy snowshoeing over well walked trails. The optional trips were good in particular the hire of a snowmobile in Ruka plus the short dog sledding experience at the Arctic Circle. Accommodation was basic but found that the underfloor heating in the bedroom section was not up to it as the room temperature dropped to +10 with warmest being +14. Would have rated it as Excellent if there had been more chance to walk in virgin snow instead of keeping to previously walked trails. Also lack of fresh fruit at Basecamp. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing local men using fishing nets below ice on frozen lake...a rare chance to see them. The heavily snowed forests and the peace and quiet. Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the frozen lake a few minutes walk down from Basecamp locale Thoughts on Group Leader Else our Finnish guide was excellent throughout, friendly, informative, caring and thoughtful. Advice for Potential Travellers Ensure you hydrate sufficiently with warm drinks during outings. Basecamp food was good but is completely lacking in supply of fruit such as apples, oranges or bananas. I’d advise people to take dried fruit with them. Suggestions Snowshoeing follows well walked trails and does not deviate much in unwalked snow. If you like walking in new snow then you may be disappointed?
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/03/2019
Nicholas Hooke - Traveled, February 2017
Delightful trip to a peaceful place The remote forests of Finland are a very peaceful place, and tramping through them in snowshoes is an ideal way to immerse yourself in their tranquillity. The trees are laden with snow and you cannot hear a thing. It feels like a scene from The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – you half expect to come across a lamppost and a fawn. The centre is well run, and the guides are absolute enthusiasts and keen to pass one their passion for the trees and the wildlife. At night the stars are bright, and the Northern Lights make an eerie appearance. All in all, a magical place. The UK seems very busy when you get home. Most Inspirational Moment The completely monochromatic appearance of the trees, lakes and snow on cloudy days. Rolling in the snow after the sauna Thoughts on Group Leader Heli was lovely - she had real enthusiasm for the environment. I have never before hugged a tree, but now know we need to say thank you to them! She was also very organised and kept a subtle eye on all the party, to make sure no one got left behind or had difficulty. Advice for Potential Travellers Trust the gear provided - we did take our own base layers, socks and buff - but that was all you needed. Their gear was all fine - 3 layers for top and bottom / gloves and mitts / hat / backpack / torch etc.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/09/2017
Stella Zealand - Traveled, March 2016
Snowshoeing in Finland This was an excellent holiday at the cosy and warm Oulanka Basecamp. We were provided with clothing that kept us toasty and boots that were very comfortable. The food was locally sourced as much as possible, tasty and filling. Overall, I cannot fault this holiday. Most Inspirational Moment There are many - lunch at a camp fire, the peace out on the fjell, dog sledding, and meeting a friendly group of people. All wonderful! Thoughts on Group Leader Tessa Kokkonen was a brilliant leader. She gave us info about Finland, it's history, and about the wildlife. Tessa was full of enthusiasm, helpful and had a great sense of humour. Nothing was too much trouble for her. Excellent! Advice for Potential Travellers The outdoor clothing provided is very good so save the space in your cases. Suggestions First winter activity holiday I have been on and it has given me the bug to do another.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2016
Sally Ann Nortcliffe - Traveled, February 2016
Snow shoeing in finland this was a great week in the finnish wilderness at a very comfortable lodge with great food, the clothing we got was great quality and kept us warm. there was a huge range of things to do dog sleding , night snow shoeing which was quite an experience and sauna yoga to mention a few. Most Inspirational Moment going to the fairy land like riisitunturin kansallispuisto national park with the most amazing snowy trees and great lake views Thoughts on Group Leader one of the best i have had - effiencent , polite ,nothing was too much trouble and he was very enthusisatic Advice for Potential Travellers do go , it was a lovely trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/09/2016
Deborah French - Traveled, February 2016
Snowshoeing in Finland A relaxing week spent in glorious Finland. If you like snow to feature in a holiday then you cannot beat Finland. The people are lovely, the venues calm and relaxing and the activities can be as full on as you want them to be. This trip can be very relaxing and had less guided walks than I had anticipated but you can participate in many optional extras or take as many unguided walks as you like. If that doesn’t appeal then sit and relax by the fire and eat plentiful and delicious food. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the northern lights four times in one week. Thoughts on Group Leader Martti was a charming host and a great advert for Finland. He clearly shares the ecological ethos of Basecamp Oulanka. Advice for Potential Travellers If you want a very active week be prepared to take unguided walks or optional extras. Don't forget your driving licence if you want to snowmobile. Suggestions Don't stress about buying special cold weather kit. They will provide everything and it is well laundered. If you realy want to take your own stuff, base layers are all you need.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2016
Deborah Gibson-Smith - Traveled, February 2023
Something a little different Never having done snowshoeing before we were not sure how easy it would be but if you can walk you can snowshoe! It was a wonderful novel way of exploring the woodlands around the basecamp with plenty of time to chill in the sauna at the end of the afternoon. Most Inspirational Moment There were no particular highlights but the scenary was lovely Thoughts on Group Leader Anton was a very good tour leader and gave us some interesting insights into the local nature and reindeer herders. Advice for Potential Travellers They really do provide all the clothes you need to snowshoe so it would be possible to travel on hand luggage only.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2023
Eric Fleming - Traveled, January 2019
Snowshoeing from Basecamp in Oulanka National Park 5 days very easy snowshoeing over well walked trails. The optional trips were good in particular the hire of a snowmobile in Ruka plus the short dog sledding experience at the Arctic Circle. Accommodation was basic but found that the underfloor heating in the bedroom section was not up to it as the room temperature dropped to +10 with warmest being +14. Would have rated it as Excellent if there had been more chance to walk in virgin snow instead of keeping to previously walked trails. Also lack of fresh fruit at Basecamp. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing local men using fishing nets below ice on frozen lake...a rare chance to see them. The heavily snowed forests and the peace and quiet. Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the frozen lake a few minutes walk down from Basecamp locale Thoughts on Group Leader Else our Finnish guide was excellent throughout, friendly, informative, caring and thoughtful. Advice for Potential Travellers Ensure you hydrate sufficiently with warm drinks during outings. Basecamp food was good but is completely lacking in supply of fruit such as apples, oranges or bananas. I’d advise people to take dried fruit with them. Suggestions Snowshoeing follows well walked trails and does not deviate much in unwalked snow. If you like walking in new snow then you may be disappointed?
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/03/2019
Nicholas Hooke - Traveled, February 2017
Delightful trip to a peaceful place The remote forests of Finland are a very peaceful place, and tramping through them in snowshoes is an ideal way to immerse yourself in their tranquillity. The trees are laden with snow and you cannot hear a thing. It feels like a scene from The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – you half expect to come across a lamppost and a fawn. The centre is well run, and the guides are absolute enthusiasts and keen to pass one their passion for the trees and the wildlife. At night the stars are bright, and the Northern Lights make an eerie appearance. All in all, a magical place. The UK seems very busy when you get home. Most Inspirational Moment The completely monochromatic appearance of the trees, lakes and snow on cloudy days. Rolling in the snow after the sauna Thoughts on Group Leader Heli was lovely - she had real enthusiasm for the environment. I have never before hugged a tree, but now know we need to say thank you to them! She was also very organised and kept a subtle eye on all the party, to make sure no one got left behind or had difficulty. Advice for Potential Travellers Trust the gear provided - we did take our own base layers, socks and buff - but that was all you needed. Their gear was all fine - 3 layers for top and bottom / gloves and mitts / hat / backpack / torch etc.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2017
Stella Zealand - Traveled, March 2016
Snowshoeing in Finland This was an excellent holiday at the cosy and warm Oulanka Basecamp. We were provided with clothing that kept us toasty and boots that were very comfortable. The food was locally sourced as much as possible, tasty and filling. Overall, I cannot fault this holiday. Most Inspirational Moment There are many - lunch at a camp fire, the peace out on the fjell, dog sledding, and meeting a friendly group of people. All wonderful! Thoughts on Group Leader Tessa Kokkonen was a brilliant leader. She gave us info about Finland, it's history, and about the wildlife. Tessa was full of enthusiasm, helpful and had a great sense of humour. Nothing was too much trouble for her. Excellent! Advice for Potential Travellers The outdoor clothing provided is very good so save the space in your cases. Suggestions First winter activity holiday I have been on and it has given me the bug to do another.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/05/2016
Sally Ann Nortcliffe - Traveled, February 2016
Snow shoeing in finland this was a great week in the finnish wilderness at a very comfortable lodge with great food, the clothing we got was great quality and kept us warm. there was a huge range of things to do dog sleding , night snow shoeing which was quite an experience and sauna yoga to mention a few. Most Inspirational Moment going to the fairy land like riisitunturin kansallispuisto national park with the most amazing snowy trees and great lake views Thoughts on Group Leader one of the best i have had - effiencent , polite ,nothing was too much trouble and he was very enthusisatic Advice for Potential Travellers do go , it was a lovely trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/18/2016
Deborah French - Traveled, February 2016
Snowshoeing in Finland A relaxing week spent in glorious Finland. If you like snow to feature in a holiday then you cannot beat Finland. The people are lovely, the venues calm and relaxing and the activities can be as full on as you want them to be. This trip can be very relaxing and had less guided walks than I had anticipated but you can participate in many optional extras or take as many unguided walks as you like. If that doesn’t appeal then sit and relax by the fire and eat plentiful and delicious food. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the northern lights four times in one week. Thoughts on Group Leader Martti was a charming host and a great advert for Finland. He clearly shares the ecological ethos of Basecamp Oulanka. Advice for Potential Travellers If you want a very active week be prepared to take unguided walks or optional extras. Don't forget your driving licence if you want to snowmobile. Suggestions Don't stress about buying special cold weather kit. They will provide everything and it is well laundered. If you realy want to take your own stuff, base layers are all you need.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/22/2016
David Newman - Traveled, January 2015
Snowshoeing in Finland Wonderful base in beautiful part of the world. Excellent facilities and equipment provided. Superb guides. Delicious locally sourced and home-cooked food. Most Inspirational Moment My wife nearly stepping on a huge male capercaillie sheltering in the deep snow - flew off with loud wing beats - not sure who was more startled! Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent; wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm and gentle encouragement Advice for Potential Travellers If you like the big outdoors, want a change from the standard ski-type winter holiday, why not try this. Suggestions Would be interested in a visit at other times of the year; such an idyllic place.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2015
Anonymous - Traveled, January 2014
SNOWSHOEING IN FINLAND Another fantastic Exodus trip. 7 great days at a very special location with a lovely group of people. I was a bit concerned about how I would cope with the very low temperatures but need not have worried because the gear provided keeps you warm and cosy. Snowshoeing is great fun and I would recommend this trip to anybody who loves being out in spectacular scenery. Most Inspirational Moment Every day was special but if I had to choose I would go for the visit to Riisitunturi National Park. We were blessed with blue skies and sunshine. It was like arriving in Narnia! Thoughts on Group Leader Bjorn was a great leader, friendly and sociable around the Group and very knowledgeable and passionate about Finland and its traditions. All the staff at Base Camp Oulanka were extremely helpful and friendly. Advice for Potential Travellers Go for it and have a wonderful experience
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/19/2014
Anonymous - Traveled, January 2013
SNOWSHOEING IN FINLAND superb holiday. Fantastic scenery, lots of well organised, enjoyable activities, good accomodation, great leader, loads of good food ?? Most Inspirational Moment Scenery was really fantastic but the enthusiasm of our leader was probably the most inspiring aspect of the trip. Thoughts on Group Leader she was really good. Friendly, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, cheery and chatty. Advice for Potential Travellers Try everything on offer. We tried snow mobiling, husky sledging, x country skiing and ice climbing and would recommend them all. Suggestions Elk stew was delicious.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/19/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, January 2013
SNOWSHOEING IN FINLAND A fantastic trip, wonderful experiences, great food and great people. Most Inspirational Moment At least three inspirational moments: 1) Seeing a fantastic show of Northern Lights night after night.2) Spending a morning driving a husky sledge and then snowshoeing in the wonderful Riisitunturi National Park in the aftrenoon.3) Driving a skidoo through the Finnish wilderness. Thoughts on Group Leader Meiju was a wonderful leader; friendly, knowledgeable and always with a smile on her face. Advice for Potential Travellers Exodus provide all the cold weather gear you need, so you can pack light. Make sure you do both the husky and skidoo "optionals". They are both great. Suggestions The place we stayed was fantastic; I loved the big communal dining room / bar that we shared with the other group. Food was great and overall atmosphere really welcoming. Overall a superb trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/29/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, July 2012
SNOWSHOEING IN FINLAND a wonderful trip exploring the snowy landscape of 2 of the national parks. A very warm welcome from our lead Eki and all the team at the basecamp. Most Inspirational Moment Gently walking through the amazing snowy landscapes, especially in Riisitunturi National Park.Learning how to snowshoe, with expert tuition from Eki, so we were all upright and confident going uphill and downhill in just a few hours. Then snoeshoeing (or sliding) down the powdery slopes. Thoughts on Group Leader excellent, enthusiastic and very skilled in sharing his enjoyment of the landscape, wildlife and park. Advice for Potential Travellers Equipment provided is good - just bring thermals, socks and extra hat. A neck or buff is useful as it's easy to take off when you warm up. It was cold when we were there, minus 30s, but the layers really do work.There is more information on the basecamp webpage and facebook - some good videos. Suggestions This was a great introduction to snowshoeing and the lakes and rivers of the area.A great group and leader made this a fun trip.Very tasty food!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/09/2012
Anonymous - Traveled, January 2012
SNOWSHOEING IN FINLAND A wonderful trip which I loved from beginning to end. Amazing scenery in a beautiful country. I’ve finally discovered a winter activity I can really enjoy and if you like the great outdoors I can’t recommend this trip enough. Most Inspirational Moment Dog sledging was a real joy and snow shoeing through Riisitunturi National Park was quite literally out of this world. Spending the night sleeping out in an igloo was a real challenge but certainly worth the effort. Thoughts on Group Leader Eki (Erkki Ollila) was a real gem. His enthusiasm for his local area was contagious - he found something "new" around every corner. A great guide who really brought the day's excursions to life for us. Advice for Potential Travellers Evenings are long in basecamp which as yet does not have a lounge area. Time is spent sitting on hard, wooden chairs - not very relaxing. This was the only downside to this trip - don't let it put you off but be prepared. Husky sledging trip is very expensive but I wouldn't have missed it. Suggestions Just had one of the best weeks holidays of my life - give it a try and enjoy
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/02/2012
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