Kuusamo is a treasure trove for travelers seeking authentic outdoor activities. Unlike many destinations that rely on historic sites or museums, Kuusamo offers a showcase of Finland’s wilderness at its very best. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, nature lover, or someone simply looking to relax in tranquil surroundings, Kuusamo has something to match your style. We’ve fallen for experiences like river rafting on the Ruka River for its family-friendly thrills, and bear watching overnight tours for a true wilderness encounter that’s hard to beat. These activities give you a chance to experience Kuusamo’s raw beauty firsthand, far from crowded tourist spots.
What makes Kuusamo stand out is its pristine natural landscapes—from rushing rivers and towering waterfalls to the chance to see brown bears in their natural habitat. The variety of tours reflects this, offering everything from scenic hikes and canoeing to unique Finnish traditions like sauna yoga. If you’re planning your trip, you’ll find options suitable for different interests and energy levels, with some tours like the Midnight Sun hike to Valtavaara perfect for those seeking peaceful, panoramic moments. Read on to see which experiences appeal most to your travel style.
1. From Ruka: River rafting fun for families
At number 1 on our list, this family-friendly river rafting adventure promises a memorable day on the water. It lasts about 3 hours and includes a safe, guided trip down the Ruka River, where you’ll tackle seven exciting rapids. The tour begins with a brief safety instruction, followed by about 50 minutes of rafting, then a break — perfect for snacks or picture-taking — before a second session of another 50-minute raft. The tour ends with convenient drop-off locations in Ruka, making logistics simple.
What makes this tour stand out is its mix of adventure and accessibility. It’s designed for families, so even younger children can enjoy paddling through the rapids while parents relax knowing safety is a priority. The guide’s emphasis on fun and safety makes it a top pick for those traveling with kids. The scenery along the river offers a lovely glimpse of northern Ostrobothnia’s lush surroundings, and the varied rapids will keep everyone engaged. With a perfect rating of 5 stars from three reviews, it’s clearly a favorite among families.
Bottom line: If you want a safe yet exhilarating outdoor activity that the whole family can enjoy, this river rafting tour scores high on fun and safety.
2. Kuusamo: Bear Watching Overnight Tour
Number 2 on our list is the ultimate wilderness experience—a bear watching overnight tour that takes you deep into Kuusamo’s untouched taiga. The tour lasts 14 hours, starting with a short walk to the wildlife viewing hide, where you’ll settle in for a long night of wildlife watching. The highlight: seeing wild brown bears in their natural habitat from a comfortable wooden hide. The tour is led by a professional guide who shares insights about bear behavior until 10 p.m., and there’s a bear guarantee: if you don’t see them, you can come back for free until you do.
What makes this tour special is the natural water environment where bears can swim, plus the chance to photograph eagles and other wildlife. The guides’ knowledge about bear behavior adds depth, making it an educational as well as exciting experience. Rated 5/5 by two reviewers, it’s a hit for wildlife enthusiasts and serious photographers. The company’s policy of a free revisit if bears aren’t seen adds confidence to the experience, especially given how elusive these animals can be.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a real wildlife adventure and don’t mind spending a night in the wilderness. It’s an unforgettable chance to observe Kuusamo’s iconic brown bears.
3. Finland: 7-Day Summer Trip with Helsinki and Lapland
Number 3 offers a comprehensive summer itinerary, perfect for anyone wanting to explore Finland’s diverse landscapes in one trip. Over 7 days, you visit Helsinki, then venture into Lapland, staying in a Glass Sea Villa to experience the Midnight Sun. Highlights include reindeer rides, lake adventures, gondola rides, and the chance to meet Santa Claus crossing the Arctic Circle—all within Finland’s stunning natural backdrop.
This tour’s strength is the balanced mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers. The guided tour of Lapland lasts 10 hours, giving you a taste of the region’s unique charm. For those interested in experiencing Finland’s summer wilderness, this trip offers good value considering the variety of activities included.
Rated 4.8/5 by numerous reviews, it’s a well-reviewed option for travelers wanting an in-depth Finnish adventure. Staying in a glass villa under the midnight sun combines comfort with authenticity, ensuring a memorable stay.
Bottom line: If you want a multi-day, all-encompassing journey that mixes nature, culture, and relaxation, this trip is an excellent choice.
4. From Ruka: River rafting through the National Park
Number 4 on the list is the challenging yet safe river rafting tour through Kuusamo’s national park. Lasting around 6 hours, it features rapids that include the Jyrävä waterfall and scenic stretches through pristine wilderness. The trip begins with a safety briefing, followed by about 4 hours of rafting, with a break halfway for snacks.
What makes this tour stand out is its adventurous spirit combined with the natural beauty of the park. It’s suited for those with some paddling experience or fitness, seeking a more intense outdoor experience. The tour’s reviews note the well-organized logistics and the opportunity to explore one of Finland’s most beautiful river systems. Drop-off points are conveniently located in several areas around Ruka, making it easy to fit into your day.
Bottom line: For a half-day burst of adventure in a stunning setting, this river rafting trip offers great value and an authentic taste of Finland’s wilderness.
5. Ruka: Midnight sun hike to Valtavaara
Number 5 is a relaxing yet scenic hike to the top of Valtavaara Hill, taking around 4 hours. This experience highlights the famous Finnish Midnight Sun, as you hike through lush forests to enjoy panoramic views of lakes and hills. Guides lead the way, sharing insights into the local flora and fauna, and you’ll take breaks to enjoy snacks and drinks in nature.
What makes this hike unique is the opportunity to experience the midnight sun during summer, making it perfect for those who want a peaceful, nature-focused activity. The moderate pace and the stunning scenery make it appropriate for most fitness levels. The reviews mention the serenity and beauty of the landscape, and the opportunity to breathe in the fresh northern air.
Bottom line: This hike is ideal for outdoor lovers seeking tranquil moments under the midnight sun, with the bonus of spectacular views from the summit.
6. Ruka: Sauna yoga – find yourself in silence
Number 6 combines relaxation and mindfulness with a unique twist: Sauna Yoga®. This 45-minute session takes place in a traditional Finnish sauna heated to about 50°C, where you’ll perform gentle yoga poses designed to enhance flexibility and promote relaxation. The experience is meditative, allowing you to unwind and connect with your body in a peaceful setting.
What makes this experience stand out is its blend of Finnish sauna tradition and mindful yoga, creating a calming atmosphere. It’s suitable for all levels, especially those looking to combine wellness with cultural experience. The reviews highlight the deep relaxation and the way the warm environment helps ease tension. It’s a perfect activity after a day of exploring or as a morning start.
Bottom line: For travelers interested in wellness, this sauna yoga session offers a tranquil, culturally authentic way to unwind.
7. Ruka: Summer evening canoeing on lake Rukajärvi
Number 7 offers a peaceful two-and-a-half-hour canoeing experience on Lake Rukajärvi, ideal for those seeking gentle outdoor activity in a serene setting. Guided by experts, you’ll learn paddling techniques and enjoy the quiet beauty of summer evenings in Finland.
What makes this tour appealing is the midnight canoeing option, giving you a chance to paddle under the long, fading light of summer nights. The tour is accessible for beginners and designed for relaxation rather than adventure. The reviews mention the tranquility of paddling on the lake and the opportunity to experience Finnish nature up close. Drop-off locations are conveniently spread around Ruka, making it easy to incorporate into your day.
Bottom line: Perfect for beginners seeking a calm, scenic activity that immerses you in Finnish lakeside beauty.
8. Ruka: SUP-boarding on lake Rukajärvi
Number 8 is the stand-up paddleboarding tour on Lake Rukajärvi. Lasting just 1.5 hours, it’s a great way to combine exercise with sightseeing. Instructors guide you through the basics, then you’ll enjoy a short tour around the lake, soaking up the scenic surroundings.
What makes this activity stand out is its accessibility—it’s suitable for beginners and offers a tranquil way to enjoy the wilderness. The calm waters and the lush forested backdrop make it a relaxing yet engaging experience. The reviews praise the friendly instructors and the chance to connect with nature while trying out a fun water sport.
Bottom line: For those looking to try SUP for the first time or just enjoy a peaceful paddle, this tour offers good value and a memorable experience.
9. Ruka: Daytime winter wonderland hike
Number 9 features a 3-hour snowshoe hike through snow-covered forests. Guided and suited for all levels, it’s an excellent way to see Kuusamo’s winter landscape up close. You’ll trek through pristine, quiet woods, feeling the true spirit of winter in Finland.
What makes this hike compelling is the tranquility and simplicity of snowshoeing in untouched snow, perfect for nature lovers. It’s recommended for those wanting an active yet relaxed winter experience. The reviews mention the beauty of snow-laden trees and the peacefulness of the surroundings as key highlights. Drop-off points are conveniently located around Ruka.
Bottom line: If you want to embrace the quiet beauty of winter and enjoy light physical activity, this snowshoe hike hits the spot.
10. Reindeer Hike in Kuusamo nature
Finally, number 10 offers a gentle reindeer hike lasting 3.5 hours. You’ll walk alongside reindeer on their natural pastures, learning about their role in local culture and stories from your guide. The experience ends with a visit to the farm shop, where you can browse local products.
What makes this tour appealing is its relaxed pace and the chance to interact with these iconic animals in their environment. It’s suitable for all ages and perfect for families or anyone curious about reindeer life. The single review praises it as a beautiful, authentic experience.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for those interested in reindeer and local traditions, offering an immersive and educational outdoor activity.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting from Kuusamo’s diverse offerings, consider your interests, fitness level, and the kind of experience you want. For thrill-seekers, the river rafting or rafting in the national park are excellent choices. Nature lovers should look into the midnight sun hike or reindeer hike. Those seeking relaxation might opt for sauna yoga or canoeing.
Budget-wise, shorter activities like SUP-boarding or snowshoeing offer great experiences without breaking the bank. Consider booking early, especially in summer and winter, when demand peaks. If you’re traveling with children, the family river rafting is especially recommended.
Final Thoughts
Kuusamo offers an impressive variety of tours and outdoor experiences catering to every interest. From adrenaline-pumping river adventures to peaceful midnight sun hikes, there’s something for all. For outdoor enthusiasts, the river rafting and national park rafting provide unforgettable thrills. Meanwhile, wildlife lovers will cherish the bear watching and reindeer hikes.
For a relaxing escape, the sauna yoga and lake paddling are perfect. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, these tours highlight Kuusamo’s unique natural beauty. We recommend booking well in advance, especially if you want to secure a spot during peak seasons. No matter your preference, Kuusamo’s outdoor activities promise authentic, memorable moments that will stay with you long after your trip ends.