Explore a remote region of eastern Finland, abundant in a diverse array of fauna and flora, on this guided hiking expedition. Enjoy cosy, Finnish hospitality, atmospheric saunas, and the occasional invigorating dip in the lake.
- Hike on Ärjä Island & enjoy panoramic views over Lake Oulujärvi
- Discover Finland's largest prehistoric rock paintings
- Stay in cosy log cabins & enjoy traditional campfire lunches
- Walk around Julma-Ölkky, Finland's largest canyon lake
Throughout this 8-day expedition, enjoy accessible to moderately challenging treks commencing from the pristine sandy beaches adjacent to Lake Oulujärvi, and progressing through the serene woodlands and aquatic landscapes encompassing Hossa National Park and the Kylmäluoma Hiking Area. You'll encounter reindeer herds, observe ancient rock art formations, partake in conventional outdoor meals prepared beside crackling fires, and experience the restorative benefits of genuine Finnish sauna facilities.
Situated beyond the reach of tourists, this excursion provides an excellent introduction to Finland's unspoiled natural environment, rich cultural heritage, and distinctive outdoor lifestyle.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrive in Kajaani
Enjoy a relaxed evening in Kajaani’s delightful lakeside setting while preparing for your walking adventure that begins tomorrow.
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Day 2: Walking Tour of Kajaani
Today, explore Kajaani on a walking tour — enjoy spectacular vistas over Lake Oulujärvi, Finland's fifth-largest lake towards Ärjä Island.
Walking distance: 10 km
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Day 3: Walk Ärjä Island & Lake Oulujärvi
Today’s walk begins with a 15-minute boat ride to Ärjä Island, a hiking destination famous for its long sandy beaches and high sand dunes. Enjoy a unique trekking experience.
Walking distance: 10 km | Ascent: 30 m | Descent: 30 m
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Day 4: Meet the Reindeer & the Musical Forest
Today we leave Kajaani and travel 200 kilometres north to the Kylmäluoma Hiking Area. Our first stop is a reindeer farm, where you’ll meet these semi-wild arctic animals, feed them, and learn more about them, followed by a walk through the unique Musical Forest in the heart of the Finnish pine woodland, typical of the region.
Walking distance: 4 km
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Day 5: Walk the Kylmäluoma Hiking Area
Today’s hike takes us through peaceful pine forests and along lake shores, where we will learn more about the fauna and flora of the region.
Walking distance: 16 km | Ascent: 80 m | Descent: 80 m
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Day 6: Hossa National Park
After a short transfer to Hossa National Park, we’ll hike to the Värikallio Cliffs to see ancient shamanistic rock paintings dating back around 4,000 years.
Walking distance: 16 km | Ascent: 120 m | Descent: 120 m
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Day 7: Julma-Ölkky Canyon Lake
Following a transfer to Julma-Ölkky, Finland's largest canyon lake, the hike follows a trail around the lake, passing cliffs rising up to 50 metres above the water.
Walking distance: 10 km | Ascent: 280 m | Descent: 280 m
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Day 8: Departure From Kuusamo
After breakfast you will be transferred back to Kuusamo Airport for your flight home.
Price and Other Information
- Duration and price excluding international flights: 8 days from £1,549 per person
- Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 8 days from £1,995 per person
- Single room supplement: From £495
- Walking grade: Easy to Moderate
- Guiding: Guided Group
- Max alt: Low
- Group size: 1-14
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When to go: View Dates & Prices
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Route map:
View map 
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What’s included
- Hotels x 3 nights, log cabins x 4 nights
- 7 breakfasts, 5 picnic lunches, 5 dinners
Next Steps
| Year | Starts | Ends | Price From (Exc. Flights) | Holiday Status | Options |
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All prices are per person.
All our guided group trips can be taken as a private guided itinerary, tailored to dates within the holiday's ‘when to go’ range. Please contact us to discuss your plans. * Available: this holiday is available to book. ** Guaranteed: this holiday is available to book and is guaranteed to run. *** Fully Booked: if your preferred holiday is full we may be able to offer you a private departure or tailor a holiday to suit your requirements, contact us for more details. |
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| 2027 | 22 May | 29 May | £1,549 | Available* | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | 31 Jul | 7 Aug | £1,549 | Available* | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | 14 Aug | 21 Aug | £1,549 | Available* | Book or Enquire |
| 2027 | 28 Aug | 4 Sep | £1,549 | Available* | Book or Enquire |
If you can’t see the holiday or departure date that you are looking for please contact us. We may be in the process of finalising further departures and are often able to arrange a holiday for you according to your own requirements.
