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Summer 2025

WATER ACTIVITIES

Make a splash in the wild waters of Ruka this summer

Book your Water Activities

Water Adventures on the Edge of Lapland

Summer in Ruka, at the gateway to Lapland, offers endless opportunities to enjoy its wild rivers and crystal-clear lakes. Surrounded by vast forests and Arctic nature, our water activities let you experience both adventure and tranquility in an unforgettable setting. A full world of water activities in Ruka!

Family Fun and Relaxation

For calm and meditative moments, try river floating—a peaceful drift along scenic forest landscapes. If you prefer a hands-on experience, stand-up paddleboarding or evening canoeing on Lake Rukajärvi lets you explore at your own pace, with magical reflections of the midnight sun shimmering on the water.

Families often choose our private rafting tours, where safety, teamwork, and fun come first. Even the youngest adventurers can join under the guidance of our experienced local instructors.

Adventure and Energy

For thrill-seekers, rafting through the national park is a must. Together you’ll paddle rapids, cheer through wild turns, and discover the untamed side of Ruka’s waterways.

Want to combine learning and leisure? Join our fishing school with canoes—you’ll practice basic paddling, cast your first line, and maybe catch your own Arctic fish, all with the support of friendly guides.

Why Choose Water Activities in Ruka

Whether you’re floating in silence or conquering rapids, water activities in Ruka offer something for every traveler. Each experience connects you with Finnish summer nature, just on the edge of Lapland, leaving you with stories, smiles, and a deeper bond with the Arctic outdoors.

Explore Finland’s National Parks with Respect

Many of our adventures take place in the stunning protected areas around Ruka, including Oulanka National Park, the Valtavaara–Pyhävaara Nature Reserve, and Riisitunturi National Park. These landscapes are part of Finland’s 41 national parks, created to protect nature and share its beauty with visitors.

Our guides will not only lead you safely through these Arctic environments, but also share how to enjoy them responsibly. By following their advice, you’ll connect more deeply with Lapland’s wild nature while helping preserve it for the future.

Information about our programs

When and where to book
We recommend booking your program well in advance. For the open Weekly Programs intended for holidaymakers, registration is required by 3:00 PM the day before, either by phone, email or through our online store. Please note that places are limited for each activity. For private departures, we will provide a custom quote for your group. The price depends on the group size and the content of the program. Request a quote by phone or email – we are happy to tailor an offer according to your wishes.
Where do we start?
Our guides will meet you at the Safari House in Ruka (address: Onkerniementie 12), at Iisakki Village in Rukajärvi, or at another agreed location. After getting equipped, transportation takes place either in your own vehicle or with Ruka Safaris’ transport.
Equipment
We will provide all necessary equipment for the activity. In winter, this typically includes a snowmobile overall, boots, gloves, and a hat or helmet. In summer, for example, rafting gear includes rainwear, rubber boots, life jackets and helmets. We recommend wearing your own sporty clothing under the gear. For hiking programs, sturdy shoes are highly recommended. We are happy to provide additional advice on what to wear.
Driving motor vehicles
Driving a snowmobile under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited. All vehicles are road-legal and require at least a T-class driver’s license. Our routes include public roads and official snowmobile trails.
Children and pregnant participants
Each program description includes the minimum age requirement. For example, in snowmobile programs, the minimum age for children is 5 or 8 years, depending on the activity. Passengers on snowmobiles must be at least 140 cm tall to ensure their feet can safely reach the footrests. The family rafting adventure requires a minimum age of 5 years, while the adventure on larger rapids requires participants to be 18 or older. The minimum age for SUP boarding is 12 years. Pregnant participants are not advised to join rapid floating or husky sled rides. They cannot participate in snowmobile or whitewater rafting programs due to vibration and exhaust emissions, which may pose risks to the unborn baby.
Meals
Meal inclusions are specified in each program description. Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions no later than the day before your program.
Insurance
Ruka Experiences Oy / Ruka Safaris holds liability insurance covering you and your group in case of accidents. This covers damages caused by possible negligence on our part. However, we recommend that you also take out personal travel insurance for the duration of your trip. All snowmobiles are fully insured. In case of damage, the deductible is €1000 per vehicle. This must be paid in full immediately after the program. The deductible is personal and only applies to one program or safari.
Payment methods
We accept cash, debit and credit cards (Visa, Visa Electron, MasterCard, Maestro, and Amex). Please note: we charge for the number of participants confirmed in advance. If the group is larger than reported, we will charge according to the actual number of participants.
Cancellations
Please check the cancellation policy in the product description for each weekly program. Group programs have separate terms and conditions, which will be provided when you request a quote.