FINNISH WILDERNESS WEEK

Day 1
Fly from Gatwick to Kuusamo, transfer to Basecamp Oulanka (approx 45 mins).

Day 2
Snowshoe hike in Oulanka National Park past frozen waterfalls and following the Kitkajoki River. Late lunch back at base, and free afternoon for further snowshoeing, sauna or hot-tub.

Day 3
Cross-country skiing. 3 hours instruction on the trails right by the hotel. Keep the skis for the afternoon for further unguided skiing.

Day 4
Half-day with huskies and a dogsledding safari. The morning starts with explanation about the huskies and how to harness them, followed by training with sleds. We then take a 10km tour driving our own sled and dog-team. One option for the afternoon is an ice-climbing session (min 4 persons).

Day 5
Free day in Ruka, transfers are included. Downhill skiing and snowmobile safaris are available. See ‘Extra Expenses’ section in the trip notes.

Day 6
Igloo building in teams of four. Issued with shovels and spades we create a mound of snow, which is later hollowed out to make sleeping quarters (2-3 persons per igloo). 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.

Day 7
Free day. Options include unguided cross-country skiing and snowshoeing; downhill skiing at nearby Ruka (transport and skiing not included); or further dogsledding and snowmobile safaris. As a farewell celebration, we have the option of eating dinner around a campfire, or in a tepee (Kota) on the edge of the National Park.

Day 8
Short guided visit to the famous mill by the Kitka River and Myllykoski Rapids. Transfer to Kuusamo, fly to London.