Northern Finland Winter Week – Huskies, Reindeer, Northern Lights & Arctic Coast

Northern Lights over Frozen Sea Camp Image: Nallikari Safaris

Experience the highlights of Northern Finland in winter on a carefully designed one-way journey from Kuusamo to Oulu. This itinerary combines snowy forests, authentic Arctic traditions, unique accommodation and coastal winter landscapes.

Begin in Ruka-Kuusamo, where a husky sledding adventure introduces you to one of Finland’s most iconic winter experiences. Continue to Ukkohalla for an overnight stay in a spectacular Sky Cabin Glass Suite and then travel via Rokua UNESCO Global Geopark, where a guided snowshoe walk reveals landscapes shaped by the last Ice Age. The journey concludes in Oulu, where visitors discover Arctic culture at Aurora Revelare, meet reindeer at a local farm and spend an evening around the fire at the Arctic Northern Lights Camp in Nallikari.

Day 1 – Arrival in Kuusamo & Transfer to Ruka

Arrival at Kuusamo Airport and transfer to Ruka.

Surrounded by snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and Arctic wilderness, Ruka is one of Finland’s premier winter destinations. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a walk through the compact village or simply settle in and enjoy the winter atmosphere.

Day 2 – Husky Sledding Experience & Northern Lights Chase

After breakfast, transfer to a local husky farm for an unforgettable winter experience.

Meet the eager sled dogs and learn about their daily life before setting off on a guided 5 km husky sledding excursion through snowy forests surrounding Ruka. After the safari, enjoy time at the kennel and hear stories about training and working with Arctic sled dogs.

Return to Ruka and enjoy free time in the afternoon.

In the evening, join a guided Northern Lights Chase by bus. Accompanied by an experienced guide, travel away from populated areas to locations offering the best possible chances of observing the Aurora Borealis. During the excursion, your guide will share information about Arctic nature, local life and the science and folklore behind the Northern Lights. If weather conditions are favourable, guests may witness the Northern Lights dancing across the northern sky. The exact route is adapted according to current weather and aurora forecasts.

Day 3 – Ruka to Ukkohalla

After breakfast, depart for Ukkohalla in the Kainuu region.

Ukkohalla Arctic Sky Cabins Image: Kainuu Arctic Lakeland

Known for its peaceful winter scenery, frozen lakes and forested hill landscapes, Ukkohalla offers a quieter side of Arctic Finland. Upon arrival, check in to a unique Sky Cabin Glass Suite, perched on top of Ukkohalla hill and offering panoramic views over the snowy wilderness. The Sky Cabins are located at the top of Ukkohalla and feature large windows and a skylight for enjoying the surrounding landscape.

The stay includes entrance to Sauna World & Spa, where several saunas and pool facilities provide the perfect way to relax after a winter day outdoors.

Day 4 – Rokua UNESCO Global Geopark & Oulu

After breakfast, continue west towards Rokua UNESCO Global Geopark.

Snowshoeing in Rokua Geopark

Upon arrival, enjoy a guided snowshoeing excursion through snow-covered pine forests and unique Ice Age landscapes. Rokua is known for its geological formations, kettle lakes and ancient dunes that were created by the last continental glacier.

Following the walk, lunch is served in a traditional Finnish kota hut, offering a warm and authentic wilderness experience.

In the afternoon, continue to Oulu and check in to your hotel.

Day 5 – Discover Oulu, Aurora Revelare & Arctic Northern Lights Camp

After breakfast, meet your guide for an introduction to Oulu.

Enjoy a guided city tour before visiting Aurora Revelare, an exhibition focusing on the science, stories and beauty of the Northern Lights. The exhibition has already been featured in your internal winter Oulu itineraries as a key cultural attraction.

In the evening, head to the coast for the Arctic Northern Lights Camp experience in Nallikari. Guests change into winter clothing before gathering around a campfire in a heated tent while enjoying hot drinks and listening to stories about northern winter nature and the aurora. Depending on weather and viewing conditions, participants may have the opportunity to see the Northern Lights above the frozen sea.

Day 6 – Reindeer Farm Experience

After breakfast, enjoy a visit to a local reindeer farm near Oulu.

Meet and feed the reindeer, learn about local traditions and hear stories about reindeer herding and life in the North. Depending on snow conditions, visitors may enjoy a short reindeer sleigh ride or a walk with the animals. Warm drinks and pastries are typically enjoyed during the experience. The programme combines northern nature, culture and local hospitality.

The afternoon is free for shopping, independent exploration or optional winter activities.

Day 7 – Departure from Oulu

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to Oulu Airport for departure.

This itinerary is available from from late December to end of March.

This small group tour is priced from 1695€ per person and includes:

  • Pohjolan Matka transfers and driver as described
  • 2 night’s accommodation in Ruka incl. half board
  • 5km husky sledding excursion
  • Northern Lights chase by bus
  • 1 night’s accommodation in Ukkohalla Sky Cabin incl. half board
  • Entrance to Sauna World and Spa
  • Visit to Rokua Geopark with a guided snowshoe walk and soup lunch in a traditional Kota hut
  • 3 night’s accommodation in Oulu incl. half board
  • Guided tour of Oulu by bus
  • Entrance and guided tour at Tiima Aurora Revelare exhibition
  • Reindeer Farm Experience
  • Arctic Northern Lights Camp experience (2 hours)