Finland Family Winter Adventure
Experience Overview
For a winter trip with a difference, Oulanka is always a popular destination for families. On this fun-filled trip in Finland, the whole clan will enjoy a host of exciting activities and wholesome home-cooked food. We set out to explore the beautiful wilderness on snowshoes, cross-country skis, dogsled and reindeer sleigh. Better yet, our ecofriendly base is at the edge of Oulanka National Park in a truly spectacular setting with the very best conditions for seeing the Northern Lights, nature’s most spectacular light show.
Profile
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Basecamp Oulanka) — Five days of mixed activities — Group normally 6 to 18, plus leaders — All Arctic winter equipment and clothing provided
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Basecamp Oulanka) — Five days of mixed activities — Group normally 6 to 18, plus leaders — All Arctic winter equipment and clothing provided
Trip For You
This trip is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings, visit the Activity Level Guidelines page.
Though this trip has been designed for nine to 12-year-olds, it’s also suitable for 13 to 16-year-olds. Our Family trips are aimed at children in the primary age group, so if your child is in the secondary age group, they may find it a little easier. If you have queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.
This is a mixed-activity week for families with a good selection of guided activities and free time for independent activities or relaxation. None of the activities require previous experience but the exposure to cold weather can be quite tiring. The free time provides the opportunity to tailor the trip to your preferences.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, five lunches and seven evening meals are included.
The food at Basecamp is a delicious range of local produce prepared by the in-house chef. Starters consist of a salad buffet with three to four choices. The main courses consist of wild game such as elk, chicken and salmon. There is also vegetarian food. Dessert consists of lingonberries, blueberries and cloudberries, often picked by the chef. It is refreshing to know that what is viewed as superfoods in our supermarkets grows locally to Basecamp. These are served with a selection of quark curd, cream, ice cream, cakes and pancakes. Lunch normally consists of hot soup with elk, salmon or a vegetarian option.
Transportation
A private minibus is used for all transfers.
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
Close to the Arctic Circle, temperatures during the season range from -30C to 5C (-22F to 41F). December will normally be the coldest time (usually below -20C/-4F), but the temperatures rise as the days lengthen and early April sees 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, then 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 (Aurora Borealis): 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
Optional excursions
There are several extra excursions available; exact prices and details will be confirmed locally, but the following provides a guide. Some excursions are very popular, so we strongly suggest you prebook them with the staff at Basecamp at your earliest convenience. Please note these excursions require a minimum number of four participants. There will also be non-Exodus clients on some of these excursions.
— Downhill skiing: From €80 (equipment and ski pass) — Ice fishing: €75 per adult and €40 per child (four to 12 years old) — Ice karting: €65 per person (minimum height: 4ft 11in/1.5m) — Ice climbing: €185 per person (minimum age: 12) — Snowmobile safari (90-minute scenic safari around Ruka using ecofriendly 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.
Important note on snowmobiling: All drivers must be over 17; at least 4ft 6in (140cm) tall; and have a valid (car) driving licence which must be carried with you while driving. You will be liable to pay for any damage to snowmobiles up to the excess on the insurance policy, which is approximately €1,000 per machine. You will be asked to sign a form agreeing to the above. This means that, in the unlikely event you damage a snowmobile in a major way, you will only be charged the excess and not the full cost of repair. Snowmobiles are not for everyone and can be difficult to master; however, damage is very rare if the drivers are alert and considerate.
On Saturdays, if you wish to snowmobile or downhill ski, a return transfer to Ruka is €120.
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
— Go beyond the Arctic Circle for a family-friendly adventure in Sápmi’s wild winter wonderland — Learn the basics of snowshoeing on a gentle walk past frozen rapids and the Kitkajoki River — Get to grips with cross-country skiing under the guidance of an instructor — Make friends with a pack of huskies on a dog-sledding adventure through the snow — Look to the vast sky for a nightly chance to witness the Northern Lights
Trip Details
Product Code: 4412
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: ransfers.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: FVB
Starts: Oulanka, Finland
Finishes: Oulanka, Finland
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts, five lunches and seven dinners — All accommodation (see below) — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Arrival and departure transfersAccommodation
Basecamp OulankaOverlooking Lake Juuma 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.A family of four will be allocated a large room at the time of booking; please let your sales representative know at the time of booking if you want to upgrade to one double room and one twin room (subject to availability).Most family trips occur during peak season and we sometimes have little control over where you are put. You need to come prepared for this.While we do our very best to ensure families are roomed close together, we can’t guarantee this.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4,655 ($582 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to the wintery wilds of Finland. We typically have our welcome briefing during dinner, discussing the week ahead and getting an introduction to Basecamp Oulanka and the area we will soon explore.
After sorting out your equipment for a week in Arctic conditions, we explore Oulanka National Park with a gentle half-day snowshoe walk past frozen rapids and following the Kitkajoki River. The afternoon is free for further snowshoeing or enjoying a warm sauna or hot tub. Alternatively, you might wish to try kick sledging, a metal-frame sled you can use on your own or with your children and venture around Basecamp.
This morning, we head to a husky farm on the edge of the neighbouring Riisitunturi National Park. We start with tuition on how to ride and drive the sled and the importance of caring for the huskies correctly. We then continue into the woods where our dog teams eagerly await our arrival, ready to take us on our 6mi (10km) mushing adventure. With the adults driving and the children sitting in the sled, we appreciate the serenity of this snow-laden landscape.
Experience the Scandinavian-born sport of cross-country skiing. Heading down to the nearby Juuma Lake, we learn the basics of cross-country skiing from our instructor. There may be a few tumbles in the soft snow to start, but this is half the fun. After building confidence on the skis, we head onto the lake, gliding through the fresh powder. Keep hold of your skis because we have further opportunities to test out our skills in the afternoon.
In the morning, we visit a reindeer farm and museum where everyone can ride a reindeer-pulled sleigh. The visit finishes with hot drinks and reindeer sausages around an open fire. We spend the rest of 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; it is advisable to check at reception before making your activities booking. Downhill skiing and snowmobile safaris are available. Please note, the bookings for activities in Ruka need to be made by Tuesday due to operational reasons.
This morning, we can sleep in and start the day at a more relaxed pace. To kick off the afternoon, we see about making a fire and cooking our own pancakes for lunch. In the afternoon, we are busy with snow games supervised by the Basecamp guides. Here, children can learn how to build a snow fort followed by hot chocolate and doughnuts. Families can also have a go at making a snow sculpture, among other activities.
Today is left free to spend as you like. Options include unguided cross-country skiing and snowshoeing with all the Basecamp facilities at your disposal and many accessible roads to explore. Otherwise, join in one of the several optional activities available: downhill skiing or snowmobile safaris at nearby Ruka (transport and skiing not included) or a walking trip to nearby Jyrävä waterfall with snacks and hot drinks by a campfire. Alternatively, unguided cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or kick sledging can keep you entertained. We then have our farewell dinner at Basecamp.
The trip ends after breakfast. Say goodbye to Basecamp Oulanka, which may feel like a second home by now, before your return journey home.
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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
Curnow Bascombe - Traveled, March 2018
A wonderful winter adventure...! An awesome holiday that found the balance between being a holiday and an adventure. There was enough inclusive activities, both guide-lead and self-lead, to keep us busy with something everyday. For those who wanted to bolster their holiday with extras, then there were plenty to do so with. Accommodation was great. Food was good and the staff went above and beyond. Most Inspirational Moment We walked the Little Bear trial which was stunning as the season was on the turn between winter and spring gave a beautiful insight into both. And, of course, the Husky day was simply awesome. Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader was friendly, funny, knowledgeable and went above and beyond to cater for all of us. He made our trip even more enjoyable. Advice for Potential Travellers Visit :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/26/2018
Kevin nicholson - Traveled, December 2017
Winter Wonderland Expectations were high for this trip and I have to say they were met and exceeded. Never been away at Christmas before or done the skiing this – so we were nervous beforehand. The week was great – just the right level of activity – something new every day, with enough time to go off independently and practice snow showing or cross country skiing. Christmas Day was very different from being at home but no less special – standing on a frozen lake watching for signs of the northern lights is no something we would do at home. Kids 10, 15 and 17 all enjoyed it- Husky Dog ride being a highlight. Most Inspirational Moment Out in -27 stood on the back of sledge being pulled by 6 dogs through such an amazing landscape, as the sun just managed to break the horizon. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent - the whole team at Basecamp were excellent Advice for Potential Travellers No need to bring much at all - provided equipment was excellent and we only had to return it a few hours before we left. There was plenty of food at meal times - so no real need to take extra. On the free day we did the little bear walk - trail lunch was enough to get us round - no real need for extras. Kit dries out quickly on the heated floors. The walk from the airport gate to the plane was cold so don't forget to wrap up for that bit. Stop and listen often - and see how quiet things can be.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/17/2018
Sylvia Butler-Jones - Traveled, March 2017
Brilliant I am a grandmother of 56 who went on this trip with my 7 year old grandson. It was brilliant, my grandson played in the snow all day when not on other activities. He build his own igloo, sledged and generally messed about in the snow. It is a really safe environment for children and he was never bored. Any optional excursions that he was a bit young for (snowmobiling) they catered for him by coming up with a safe alternative without us having to miss the activity i.e. The main man pulled a sledge behind his snowmobile which was safe for my grandson and also fun for him and this allowed me to take part in the snowmobiling (which was great). Most Inspirational Moment The area is beautiful Thoughts on Group Leader She was lovely and so helpful Advice for Potential Travellers Take a scarf, it does not say to but you will need one Suggestions Just that I would highly recommend this trip to people with families, especially with little boys of about 7
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2017
Susan Head - Traveled, January 2016
Finnish Winter Adventure An incredible trip, a real winter wonderland for adults & children alike! Most Inspirational Moment Basecamp Oulanka in the sunshine, seeing the Northern Lights, being surrounded by magical trees on the slopes in Ruka or out on the sleds with the Huskies. Thoughts on Group Leader Jukka our group leader was encouraging, informative, friendly & had a great sense of humour. He put us all at ease & had us attempting all the activities in a relaxed manner which meant we got the most out of everything we attempted! Advice for Potential Travellers Don't hesitate-book it! This is a trip for everyone of any age. If I went again I would take skis/snowboard as the nearby slopes at Ruka were quiet & scenic. The clothing provided at basecamp is of excellent quality & you really do not need to pack anything yourself. Suggestions We booked this trip in a family group; the youngest was 14 years old & the oldest 77. Everybody was able to participate in all the activities in the itinerary & even some of the optional extras on top!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/19/2016
Fiona Murphy - Traveled, January 2016
Fun, Fun, Fun in Finnish Wilderness! Arriving in Oulanka to a meal of Elk and quark We slept in cosy lodges, peaceful in the dark We snowshoed through the forest, skied across a lake And tired to build a quiincee – really quite a lark! The food was simply splendid, the huskie drive a treat, Attempts to scale the ice wall, really quite a feat Basecamp staff were brilliant, the wilderness sublime This trip is one I’d be very happy to repeat! Most Inspirational Moment Snow shoeing through magnificent snowy wilderness Thoughts on Group Leader Superb! Advice for Potential Travellers The clothing and equipment supplied is more than adequate no need to take any snow gear unless you have enormous feet!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/03/2016
Amy Cooke - Traveled, March 2015
Finnish Winter Adenture It was great fun and interesting and I had a fabulous time. My guide was really nice and fun and I liked all of the activities. The days were packed with just the right amount of activities to do, and also with some free time to do what you like; most of the free time I got I spent with my mum and my friends. Most Inspirational Moment The most inspirational moment on my trip was learning downhill skiing which I had never done before. It is now one of my favourite sports and I hope to do it again! Thoughts on Group Leader Annika was very nice and got involved with the group. She was really easy to get on with and made everyone laugh and have a good time. Advice for Potential Travellers Yes don't over pack, its all provided! Suggestions No
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2015
Penny Dimond - Traveled, March 2015
A wonderful winter family adventure An action packed snowy adventure enjoyed by mum, dad and 2 boys (11 and 8) in the stunning Finish countryside. This holiday gave us the opportunity to try shoe shoeing, cross country skiing, ice climbing, sledging, building snow homes, downhill skiing, exploring the countryside with huskies, learning about reindeer farming and sledging, in a wonderful environment with home cooked tasty food, new friends and a sauna and hot tub to relax in. Seeing the Northern Lights twice was a real bonus too. Most Inspirational Moment Driving the husky sleigh into the magical national park. We felt like we were in Narnia Thoughts on Group Leader Tessa and the whole team at Basecamp were inspirational. Tessa was an excellent leader, passionate about conserving the environment she lives and works in and her enthusiasm, experience, clarity and humour helped create a really positive experience for the group. Advice for Potential Travellers Take snacks or food if you don't want to have lunch or buy extra food at base camp - there isn't an easy local alternative. also - make sure you budget for optional activities - the cost of these can add up quite quickly, but when you are there you will want to do them. Suggestions Relax and enjoy every moment
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/19/2015
Anonymous - Traveled, January 2014
FINNISH WINTER ADVENTURE - FAMILY HOLIDAY This was action packed but relaxing too. It was a great mix of organised activities and independence. We learnt some new skills and then had time to practice and explore. Being active in the dark was a particular novelty with the help of head torches. Most Inspirational Moment The setting of Oulanka National Park is breathtaking. The landscape is monocrome - our bright coloured clothes the only colour in the black and while wilderness. The sound of the husky dogs barking - so eager to be off is unforgettable. Then whooosh we were off - very fast. Thoughts on Group Leader The staff were relaxed and friendly. They couldn't do enough for us. We really appreciated how relaxed they were about us changing our equipment for dry or additional. Advice for Potential Travellers You lucky things. Don't worry about warm clothes - just base layers for adults will be all you need as everything is provided. Although I was pleased to have brought my welly bobs for walking between our room and the dining hall. I bought the blueberry syrup from reception and it is delicous and a lovely souvenir. Don't be too disappointed if you don't see the Northern lights - we were pleased not to have such cold weather which usually comes with clear skies. Suggestions The food is great and plenty of games provided in the dining hall although good to bring some of your own too.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/13/2014
Anonymous - Traveled, January 2013
FINNISH WINTER ADVENTURE - FAMILY HOLIDAY Fantastic Most Inspirational Moment The dog sledding day. Thoughts on Group Leader Great Advice for Potential Travellers Do the all day dog safari
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, February 2011
FINNISH WINTER ADVENTURE - FAMILY HOLIDAY Lots of snow, lots of ice, lots of trees, lots of fun! Most Inspirational Moment The Husky trip was our agreed favourite, sledding through the snow covered forest .The afternoon when the leader took the children to play games in the snow was the next favourite with my daughter , and for me as I got the chance for a beautiful walk in the forestThe food (freshly prepared each day) was the best I have ever had on an exodus holiday. Thoughts on Group Leader Our leader Hanna was, in the words of my daughter "amazing" She ( and the rest of the team) were so friendly and accommodating. We travelled independantly and arrived late due to a flight delay and the team could not have been more helpful rearranging activities so that we would not miss out. Advice for Potential Travellers The temperatures can be difficult for children to deal with ( we experienced -32c) take lots of disposable hand and feet warmers to help keep feet and hands cosy. All the gear they gave us was excellent, and I hardly used my own clothes at all. Suggestions If you want to experience the snowy wilderness, but appreciate a warm fire and a cold beer at the end of the day this is the place to go.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/02/2011
Helen Corbin - Traveled, January 2024
A fabulous week A wonderful week of activities. Most Inspirational Moment There were too many to narrow it down - dog sledding was great for everyone (old and young alike), snow shoeing in the forest finding out the creatures that had created which foot prints, sledging, meeting the baby reindeer, playing in the snow with the family, amazing scenery, meeting other families ... and so so much more Thoughts on Group Leader Tuomas was very friendly and great with the whole family. He was very observant, communicated well and told us so much about FInnish nature, whilst looking after us on our trip. Advice for Potential Travellers The clothes they provided were perfect and enough to keep us warm in under minus 30 degrees ! Suggestions The food was delicious each meal and everyone was catered for. There was always plenty to eat and no one ever went hungry!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/08/2024
Isobel Garside - Traveled, December 2023
Don’t understand what you want here Some days could have had longer scheduled activities especially cross country skiing and snowshoeing – could make more of this aspect and explore further/more Most Inspirational Moment Husky trip Dinner outside by camp fire Thoughts on Group Leader Local Basecamp team absolutely superb! Advice for Potential Travellers No
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/18/2019
Alan Twomey - Traveled, December 2018
Astounding! Astounding holiday. Spend a week in the stunningly beautiful Finnish wilderness. Beauty, snow, fun – it’s why you go on holiday. Romantic and magical. Our 6 year old, and all the kids that were there, loved it. Drive huskies, feed and be pulled by Raindeer, snowmobile across frozen lakes, XC ski, build igloos (and sleep in it under the stars if you want!), explore a beautiful valley and park, and sleep soundly after a suana, hot tub and beer. I ran around it a few times in -15, the routes are clearly laid out, the running is safe and you’ll never forget it! Most Inspirational Moment Running through the forest at -15 in snow fall and winter sun Thoughts on Group Leader Good guy Advice for Potential Travellers You only need the clothes you arrive in and some underwear and socks, and sweatpants If you like running, bring trainers (no need for special off road ones) Bring plenty of evening entertainment! Suggestions Pillows weren’t good enough, better quality and more of them would be good
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/05/2019
Kerrie Starbuck - Traveled, December 2018
Fabulous Finland We had a great time on our Finnish adventure and felt like we were well looked after and entertained the entire time. The scenery and activities were amazing and we’d highly recommend this trip to families of all ages. Most Inspirational Moment Meeting huskies and reindeer, and snow-shoeing through some truly breath-taking forests. Thoughts on Group Leader James catered well to the group and kept us informed at all times. Advice for Potential Travellers Take hand/foot warmers - the supplied equipment is suitable, but sometimes you just need a little extra. Suggestions Trip of a lifetime - do it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/04/2019
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