Things To Do
in Kuusamo
Kuusamo, Finland is a beautiful town located in the northern part of the country. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, Kuusamo is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as skiing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The town is also home to the Ruka ski resort, which attracts visitors from around the world.
With its charming wooden houses and proximity to national parks, Kuusamo provides a serene and picturesque setting for those looking to experience the beauty of Finnish Lapland.
- "Moikka" - Hi
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - You're welcome
- "Yhteystiedot" - Contact information
- "Näkemiin" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Oulanka National Park. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and walking trails that showcase Finland's beautiful nature.
After lunch, head to the Kuusamo Zoo to discover local wildlife and learn about conservation efforts. It's a fun way to spend time with family or friends.
Wind down with a traditional Finnish dinner at a local restaurant. Savor the flavors of reindeer and fresh fish while enjoying the cozy atmosphere.
Begin your winter experience with snowshoeing in the morning sun. The peaceful trails provide a chance to soak up the serene beauty.
Try your hand at ice fishing on one of the frozen lakes. This unique activity allows you to connect with nature and perhaps catch your dinner.
Relax in a sauna to unwind after a busy day. It's a perfect way to experience a piece of Finnish culture while enjoying the view of snow-covered landscapes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and mountains.
- Excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching.
- Rich cultural heritage with local Sami culture and traditions.
- Low population density providing a peaceful and relaxing environment.
- Close-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Cold and long winters may not be appealing to everyone.
- Limited access to major urban amenities and services.
- Potentially fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living due to remote location.
- Limited shopping and entertainment options.
Best Activities in Kuusamo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the numerous trails in the Oulanka National Park, which offer breathtaking views of waterfalls, rivers, and the unique Taiga forest.
Enjoy fishing in the crystal-clear lakes and rivers around Kuusamo, with opportunities to catch trout and salmon.
Experience the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting on the Kitka River, suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers.
During the winter months, take advantage of the extensive network of cross-country skiing trails that wind through picturesque scenery.
Explore the winter landscapes at a slower pace with snowshoeing, which allows you to traverse deep snow with ease.
Join guided tours to observe diverse wildlife, including bears, moose, and various bird species in their natural habitats.
Spend a night under the stars at designated camping areas in the national parks to enjoy nature and the serene environment.
Ride on scenic biking trails that showcase the stunning landscape of Kuusamo, suitable for both mountain biking and leisurely rides.
Participate in photography tours to capture the stunning scenery, wildlife, and the Northern Lights during the darker months.
Experience the traditional Finnish lifestyle by enjoying a sauna followed by a refreshing dip in icy waters, popular among locals.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kuusamo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kuusamo
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding nature and good photo opportunities.
Scenic views of unspoiled wilderness and great photo spots for nature enthusiasts.
Features stunning landscapes with gorges, rapids, and old-growth forests, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Food in Kuusamo
Kuusamo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Finnish pasty filled with a mix of barley, rye, potatoes, and meat, often served with lingonberry jam. Can be found at local bakeries and markets like Kuusamo Market Hall.
Must-Try!
Fried vendace (a type of whitefish) typically served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce. Recommended to try at local restaurants like Ravintola RukaTonttu.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh local produce, berries, baked goods, and traditional Finnish delicacies. Visitors can sample street food like muikku, savoury pancakes, and smoked fish snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kuusamo, people have a deep respect for nature, which is integral to the local culture. When visiting, it is important to follow local guidelines for outdoor activities and to minimize your environmental impact.
Finnish culture values politeness and a certain level of reserve in public interactions. It is advisable to be courteous, avoid loud conversations, and respect personal space when engaging with locals.
The sauna is a significant aspect of Finnish life. When invited to a sauna, it's customary to be respectful, follow the etiquette of the group, and understand that nudity is generally accepted in public saunas among same-gender groups.
Safety
Tipping in Kuusamo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kuusamo, Finland, tipping is generally not obligatory and is considered a bonus for good service. It is more common in tourist areas, where visitors might leave small tips (typically rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% of the total) in restaurants and cafes. In bars, rounding off the tab is also appreciated. Service charges are often included in bills at restaurants, meaning tips are not necessary but can be left if desired.
Payment practices in Kuusamo align with those across Finland. Most establishments accept major credit and debit cards, with contactless payments being widely accepted. Cash is becoming less common, but it is still used in some smaller shops and markets. Travelers should check if establishments accept international cards and may benefit from having some cash on hand for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. The landscape is covered in snow, and the region offers opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights.
Spring brings longer days and opportunities for activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography as the snow begins to melt. It's a good time to witness the transition from winter to spring in the Finnish wilderness.
The summer months offer a chance to experience the midnight sun, go hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. It's also a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the national parks and lakes in the area.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Kuusamo as the foliage changes color, offering stunning landscapes for hiking and photography. It's also a good time for berry and mushroom picking and enjoying the cosiness of the season.
Kuusamo at Night
Hiking in Kuusamo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Oulanka National Park is known for its stunning river canyons and diverse wildlife. It offers a variety of trails, including the famous Karhunkierros Trail, which is a 160-kilometer long hiking route.
Riisitunturi National Park features rolling fells and panoramic views, particularly beautiful in winter when it is covered in snow. It has designated trails and is popular for both summer and winter hiking.
This extensive national park offers numerous hiking opportunities with marked trails and stunning natural landscapes, including unique fell formations and clear lakes.
The Rukajärvi Trail provides a unique hiking experience combining cultural history and beautiful nature, passing through the scenic areas around Ruka.
Located in the heart of Kuusamo, this park offers several trails that highlight the area's beautiful forests, lakes, and wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Kuusamo by plane.
Oulu Airport is the main airport serving the city of Oulu, Finland. It is approximately 200 kilometers from Kuusamo and offers international and domestic flights.
Rovaniemi Airport is located in Rovaniemi, Finland, and is roughly 200 kilometers from Kuusamo. It serves as a gateway to the Arctic, offering both international and domestic air services.
Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is the main international airport in Finland, located in Vantaa, near Helsinki. It is approximately 800 kilometers from Kuusamo and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Kemi-Tornio Airport is located near Kemi, Finland, about 160 kilometers from Kuusamo. It offers flights mainly to domestic destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kuusamo, comprising a significant portion of the population.
An indigenous ethnic group living in northern Finland, including areas around Kuusamo.
A minority group that has historical ties to the region, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Kuusamo.
A smaller demographic present in Kuusamo, primarily due to historical migration patterns.
Includes various immigrant groups and expatriates from different countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Kuusamo is well-known for its extensive cross-country skiing trails and hosts various competitions in this sport.
Alpine skiing is popular in Kuusamo, particularly with the Ruka Ski Resort offering slopes for all skill levels.
The Ruka Ski Resort is also a popular destination for snowboarding, featuring various parks and halfpipes.
During the summer months, hiking is a favored activity with numerous trails showcasing the area's natural beauty.
The lakes and rivers in Kuusamo offer excellent fishing opportunities, attracting both locals and tourists.
The region's icy conditions in winter make it a unique location for ice climbing enthusiasts.
Biathlon, combining cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, is practiced in Kuusamo, with local competitions being popular.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuusamo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Kuusamo offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, often featuring forest mushrooms, root vegetables, and locally sourced dairy products. Notable options include mushroom risottos, hearty salads, and berry-based desserts.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find various gluten-free options at local eateries, such as gluten-free bread, pasta, and locally inspired dishes like smoked reindeer with roasted vegetables.