Finnish Wilderness Week

Our trip starts at Basecamp Oulanka, a complex of cosy wooden buildings in a remote, unspoiled location overlooking Juuma Lake and backing into Oulanka National Park. There will be a welcome briefing this evening, in which you can meet the group and ask any questions you might have (D).

In the morning, we are provided with all the equipment needed for a week of activities in Arctic conditions. Strapping on a pair of snowshoes, we head straight into Oulanka National Park where we are taught the necessary skills for this activity. Our route (approximately 2hr 30min) takes us through forests and along the Kitka River, passing an old flour mill adjacent to the dramatic Myllykoski rapids. After lunch, we can do some further exploration on snowshoes (self-guided) of the surrounding area or relax in the sauna or hot tub (B/L/D).

Today we experience the Scandinavian-born sport of cross-country skiing. By the lake, our instructor will literally walk us through the basics. There may be a few tumbles to begin, but this is half the fun in the soft snow. After becoming more confident, we head 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 (B/L/D).

After breakfast, we take a bus transfer to a husky farm on the edge of Riisitunturi National Park, where we meet our dogsledding guide. The day begins with learning how to ride the sled and the importance of caring for the huskies correctly. We then head into the woods where our dog teams are ready to take us on our 6mi (10km) mushing adventure. Our route follows a gently undulating forest trail into the wilderness. Travelling two per sled, you can really appreciate the serenity of this snow-laden landscape. We have lunch at the husky farm and the afternoon is free to experience some of the optional activities Basecamp has to offer.

This evening, we head out for nighttime snowshoeing, in search of the Northern Lights (B/L/D).

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' for more. Due to operational reasons, the bookings for activities in Ruka need to be made by Tuesday (B/D).

Today we are taught the ancient art of quinzee building. Provided shovels and spades, we create a mound of snow, which is later hollowed out to make sleeping quarters (two to three 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 (B/L/D).

Today we have a free day with several options to make the most of the magical wilderness of Finland. Available activities include unguided cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, dogsledding or snowmobile safaris. As a farewell celebration, we have a wonderful four-course dinner back at Basecamp (B/L/D).

The trip ends after breakfast and we begin our return journey home (B).