Activities: Cultural Exploration , Family , Miscellaneous , Snow Sports
Snowmobiling in the wildernessSnowshoeing and dogsledding Enjoy a reindeer ride
Discover the beautiful wilderness of Finnish Lapland on snowshoes, cross-country skis and snowmobiles. Our wilderness base located at the edge of the Oulanka National Park is a truly spectacular setting for this fun-filled winter holiday, designed to introduce you and your family to some of the most popular Nordic activities. There is a chance to meet the indigenous Sami people of Finland, and take a trip on a traditional reindeer-pulled sleigh. A highlight of the week will certainly be time on the husky farm, playing with the puppies, before heading out on a dogsled ride through forests and across frozen lakes. If you’re lucky, and the night sky is clear, you might even catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights.National Geogrpahic - Verlyn Klinkenborg writes about Oulanka National Park (June 2009).
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1Start Basecamp Oulanka.
Day 2
Free morning to try sledging around the areas of Basecamp, or enjoy a game of football or hockey in the deep snow. All games equipment is available free of charge from the front desk. After lunch, we head off for the husky safari. We start with an 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. Adults drive, with children sitting in the sled.
Day 3
FGentle half-day snowshoe walk in the 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 4
Free morning or optional ice climbing next to the Basecamp. See extra expenses section for more details. After lunch we visit the reindeer farm and museum. The Sami people will perform a traditional ceremony and afterwards we can enjoy hot drinks around an open fire. Everyone will have the chance to ride on a reindeer sleigh, and try lasso throwing.
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
Morning cross-country ski lesson. We learn to use the skis following easy tracks, with gentle uphill and downhill slopes and playing games in the snow. Free use of skis after the lesson. Afternoon is spent in the children's snow park which is supervised by Basecamp guides. Follow the 'adventure track' made of snow which leads to a teepee where hot drinks and pancakes are served. Families can also have a go at making an ice sculpture.
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. There is possibility for ice climbing for all ages. 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
End Basecamp Oulanka.
Departure Dates
27/12/2009
14/02/2010
28/03/2010
05/04/2010
19/12/2010
26/12/2010
20/02/2011
10/04/2011
Prices
20/12/2009: £1099
27/12/2009: £1099
14/02/2010: £949
28/03/2010: £949
05/04/2010: £1049
19/12/2010: £1099
26/12/2010: £1099
20/02/2011: £999
10/04/2011: £1099
Important Notes:
Child must be aged 5 to 15 at time of departure.All prices based on family of 3 or 4 (adults or children) sharing a room; supplement for single or twin occupancy GBP100 per room (adult or child).
Prices displayed are based on the lowest season base price and assume double occupancy. Prices may or may not include administrative fees, taxes, meals, airfare (where applicable) and Single Supplements. Cancellation penalties, blackout dates and other restrictions may apply.
Trip Information
Flights from Heathrow to Kuusamo via Helsinki with Finnair Transport 45 mins by minibus/taxi.
Accommodation
7 nights at Basecamp Oulanka. Our 'wilderness camp' is a lovely complex of wooden buildings providing comfortable and cosy accommodation in a stunning location overlooking a lake and backing on to the Oulanka National Park. All rooms are moderately-sized family rooms comprising a bathroom, twin beds for the adults and a mezzanine floor for up to two children.
Food
Breakfast and dinners included throughout.
Group Size and Age
Min. 4, max. 20, plus instructors as required.
