The snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and peaceful wilderness of Ruka and Kuusamo provide a beautiful setting for outdoor activities throughout the winter. Ruka Safaris offers guided nature adventures for visitors who want to explore northern Finland beyond the ski slopes.
From snowshoeing through quiet forests to floating in an Arctic river, there are many ways to enjoy the winter landscapes of Kuusamo.
Snowshoeing is a wonderful way to explore the snowy forests and hills around Ruka. Our guided excursions take you through beautiful winter landscapes, with destinations such as Oulanka National Park, Valtavaara and Riisitunturi.
Along the way, local guides introduce you to the surrounding nature and the changing seasons of northern Finland.
For something different, try Arctic river floating. Wearing a specially designed thermal floating suit, you can drift along the water surrounded by snow-covered riverbanks.
Ice fishing offers a more traditional winter activity. Spend time on a frozen lake, learn the basics of ice fishing and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
For a more active experience, explore snowy forest trails on a guided electric fatbike safari. Wide tyres and electric assistance make these bikes suitable for riding in winter conditions.
Whether you prefer a peaceful outing or an active day outdoors, Ruka Safaris offers different ways to explore the winter landscapes of Ruka and Kuusamo.
Browse the activities below and choose the excursion that suits your interests and experience level.
Ruka and Kuusamo offer a wide range of winter activities surrounded by snowy forests and frozen lakes. Ruka Safaris offers guided snowshoeing excursions, Arctic river floating, ice fishing and electric fatbike safaris. There are options for both relaxed outings and more active adventures.
Ruka and Kuusamo offer a wide range of winter activities surrounded by snowy forests and frozen lakes. Ruka Safaris offers guided snowshoeing excursions, Arctic river floating, ice fishing and electric fatbike safaris. There are options for both relaxed outings and more active adventures.
Arctic river floating is a guided winter activity where participants float in a river wearing specially designed thermal floating suits. The suits help keep you insulated while you enjoy the surrounding snowy landscape from the water. Safety instructions are provided before entering the river.
Dress warmly in layers, including thermal underwear, insulating mid-layers, winter clothing, a hat, gloves and warm boots. Temperatures in Ruka can be very cold during winter. The equipment needed depends on the activity, and some tours provide special clothing or protective gear. Check the individual tour description before your excursion.
Ruka Safaris organises guided winter nature excursions in the Ruka and Kuusamo area. Depending on the activity, tours may explore snowy forests, frozen lakes, river landscapes or scenic destinations such as Oulanka National Park, Valtavaara and Riisitunturi. Meeting points and transportation arrangements vary by excursion.
