Finnish Wilderness Week

Our trip starts at Basecamp Oulanka, a complex of cozy wooden buildings

located in a remote, unspoiled location overlooking the Juuma lake and

backing into Oulanka National Park.

In the morning we are provided with all of the equipment needed for a week of

activities in arctic conditions. Strapping on a pair of snowshoes we head

straight out into Oulanka National Park where we are taught the necessary

skills for this activity. Our route today will take us through forests and

along the Kitka River, passing an old flour mill that sits adjacent to the

dramatic Myllykoski rapids (approx 2½ hours). After lunch, there will be a

chance to do some further exploration on snowshoes (self-guided) of the

surrounding area or relax in the sauna or hot tub.

Today we experience the Scandinavian-born sport of cross-country skiing.

Heading down to the nearby JuumaLake, our instructor will literally walk us

through the basics of how to cross-country ski. There may be a few tumbles to

start with, but in the soft snow, this is half the fun! After becoming more

confident on the skis we then head out onto the lake, gliding through the

untouched snow. During your stay at Basecamp, there is the option of further

unguided skiing in the area during your free time. Alternatively, you might

wish to try kick sledging; a metal frame sled you can use on your own and

venture out around Basecamp.

After breakfast, we take a bus transfer to the husky farm on the edge of the

Riisintunturi National Park where we meet up with our dogsledding guide. The

day begins with tuition on how to ride on the sled and the importance of

caring for the huskies correctly. We then head off into the woods where our

teams of dogs eagerly await our arrival, ready to take us on our 10km mushing

adventure. Our route follows a gently undulating forested trail into the

wilderness. Travelling two per sled, you are able to really appreciate the

serenity of this snow-laden landscape.  Today we will have lunch at the

husky farm. The afternoon is free to experience some of the optional

activities that Basecamp has to offer such as ice climbing (min 4 persons).

This evening we head out for nighttime snowshoeing, in search of the Northern

Lights. 

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, it is

advisable to check at reception before making your activities

booking.  Downhill skiing and snowmobile safaris are available. See the

'Optional excursions' section below. Please note that due to operational

reasons, the bookings for activities in Ruka need to be made by Tuesday. 

Today we are taught the ancient art of quinzee building. Provided shovels and

spades and in groups of four, we create a mound of snow, which is later

hollowed out to make sleeping quarters (2-3 persons per quinzee). You have

the option of sleeping in your construction, but the lodge is just a short

walk away if you prefer the warmth of your room.

Today we have a free day with several options on offer to make the most of

the magical Finland Wilderness. Some of the activities available include

unguided cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, dogsledding or snowmobile

safaris. As a farewell celebration, we have the option of eating dinner

around a campfire on the edge of the National Park.

The trip ends at Basecamp Oulanka. Those on the group flight transfer to

Kuusamo and fly to London.