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Winter Activities in Ruka – Gateway to Lapland and the Arctic

Experience the Magical Finnish Winter with Us

Welcome to Ruka, on the edge of Lapland, where winter transforms the Arctic landscape into a playground of snow and adventure. Our winter activities in Ruka Lapland range from snowmobile safaris and husky rides to Northern Lights tours, snowshoeing, and traditional Finnish experiences. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline or peaceful moments in nature, unforgettable adventures await.

Surrounded by Arctic landscapes, Ruka offers snowy forests, frozen lakes, and fells that create the perfect setting for winter magic. From chasing auroras and gliding with huskies to relaxing in a Finnish sauna, every moment here turns into a lifelong memory.

Getting Ready for the Arctic Experience

We provide winter clothing for all activities. Please bring a warm thermal base layer and extra clothes to wear under the overalls.

Our Weekly Programs start from the Safari Centre (Onkerniementie 12) and return there at the end of the activity. Transfers are available from selected pick-up points, which you can choose when booking. Programs operate as open departures and require a minimum of four participants.

Choose and Book Your Snowmobile Adventure in Lapland

Snowmobiling is one of the most exciting ways to discover Ruka’s Arctic landscapes:

  • Snowmobile Introduction – perfect for beginners.

  • 40 km Safari with Lunch – ride deeper into Lapland’s wilderness.

  • 100 km Arctic Experience – a full-day safari across varied terrain.

  • Safari to a Reindeer Farm – combine adrenaline with cultural encounters.

Book your activity with the cutest Northern animals

Meet the iconic animals of Lapland and discover authentic Arctic traditions:

  • Husky Safaris – from short tasters to full-day sledding adventures.

  • Reindeer Experiences – feeding, sleigh rides, and visits to working reindeer farms.

    Every activity connects you with the culture and lifestyle of the North.

Book your adventures in Arctic nature

Explore untouched landscapes and enjoy outdoor adventures beyond the ski slopes:

  • Ice fishing trips on frozen lakes.

  • Snowshoe hikes to Riisitunturi, Oulanka National Park, and Valtavaara hill.

  • Guided fatbike safaris and cross-country ski basics.

  • Arctic River Floating – drift gently in icy waters while staying warm in a thermal suit.

Discover the Local life and Traditions

Complete your Arctic journey with authentic Lapland culture:

  • Lappish Wild Food Dinner – taste Arctic ingredients prepared in traditional style.

  • Sauna Tour – experience the Finnish sauna as locals have for centuries.

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.