
Ruka Safaris
Ruka Safaris is your gateway to the nature, seasons and stories of Northern Finland and Lapland. From quiet winter landscapes to bright summer nights, we create experiences that bring you closer to the spirit of the Arctic. Our own production of activities ensures authenticity and quality in everything we offer, from guided winter adventures to gentle summer explorations.
Whether you are travelling on your own, with family or as part of a group, we design moments that stay with you. Snowshoe walks, husky rides, northern lights evenings, canoe trips, forest trails and lakeside experiences are just some of the ways to discover the beauty of Ruka-Kuusamo.
For companies and incentive groups, our DMC services add seamless planning and local expertise to create programmes shaped by nature, culture and northern hospitality.
Here, every season invites you to slow down, connect and feel the North in its purest form.
Destination Management Company
Ruka Safaris provides dedicated DMC services for travellers, companies and incentive groups seeking meaningful and well-crafted experiences in the North. With deep roots in the region and decades of expertise, we design personalised programmes that showcase the best of Kuusamo and Lapland, from pristine nature and seasonal highlights to warm northern hospitality.
As a producer of our own activities, we offer full control over quality, safety and creativity. This allows us to craft seamless itineraries for individuals, leisure groups and incentive programmes, combining guided adventures, local culture, tailored meals and unique venues.
Whether you need a complete programme or selected services, our team is here to create memorable journeys that feel authentic, effortless and truly connected to the spirit of the Arctic.
Winter Activities
Winter transforms Kuusamo into a peaceful white wilderness, inviting you to explore nature in its calmest form. With Ruka Safaris you can experience the season through snowshoe walks in quiet forests, energising snowmobile adventures, husky rides across frozen lakes and memorable encounters with reindeer herders. As daylight fades, the northern lights often appear above the treetops, creating evenings filled with Arctic magic. Whether you seek gentle moments outdoors or full winter adventures, every experience connects you with the beauty and stillness of the North.
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Summer Activities
Summer in Kuusamo reveals a brighter side of the North. With Ruka Safaris you can enjoy calm lake excursions, canoeing under long northern days and peaceful hikes through old forests filled with wildlife and summer scents. The warm season is perfect for gentle family adventures, refreshing swims and exploring the region’s scenic routes by bike or on foot. Whether you prefer quiet moments by the water or active days outdoors, summer experiences invite you to enjoy nature at its most open and luminous.
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Our Signature Experiences
What makes our journeys truly northern
Ruka Safaris creates experiences that reflect the nature, culture and rhythm of Northern Finland. With decades of local expertise and our own production of activities, we ensure authenticity, quality and safety in everything we do. From winter adventures to summer explorations, every programme is crafted with care, local knowledge and a genuine connection to the region.
A commitment to nature and our community
Our work is shaped by respect for Kuusamo’s wilderness and the people who call it home. We operate responsibly, support local suppliers and follow sustainable principles in all activities, from wildlife encounters to daily operations. This commitment allows us to offer experiences that are meaningful, responsible and rooted in the values of the North.
FAQ
The meeting point for all Ruka Safaris activities is the Safari House at the scheduled time indicated in your booking confirmation. Please arrive at the time informed at the booking confirmation to allow time for check in and equipment fitting.
Ruka Safaris provides all the necessary equipment to fully enjoy the adventures in both winter and summer. In winter, this includes thermal overalls, boots, gloves, helmets and any specific safety equipment required for each activity. In summer, all technical equipment related to the activity is included, such as helmets, life jackets or fishing gear when applicable.
To drive a snowmobile, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving license that is valid in Europe. A category A or B driving license is sufficient. The original driving license must be presented before the activity.
Yes, children can participate under specific conditions. Children up to 11 years old travel in a sleigh pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. Children aged 12 or older pay the adult price and can travel on the snowmobile as a passenger, provided they are at least 140 cm tall. For safety reasons, children under 140 cm must travel in the sleigh no matter their age.
No previous experience is required for most activities. Our professional guides provide full instructions and safety briefings before every tour. All activities are designed to be accessible for beginners while still being enjoyable for more experienced participants.
We recommend wearing comfortable layers under the thermal suit, including a warm base layer, mid layer and thick socks (preferably woolen socks). Avoid overly very tight clothing and cotton fabrics. The thermal equipment provided by Ruka Safaris will keep you warm in normal winter conditions.
Most activities operate in a wide range of weather conditions. However, safety always comes first. In case of extreme weather or unsafe conditions, activities may be rescheduled, modified or cancelled. Guests will always be informed as early as possible.
Yes, many of our activities are suitable for beginners and families with children. We also offer more adventurous options for those looking for a higher level of excitement. If you are unsure which activity is best for you, our team will be happy to advise.
Transportation is included when clearly stated in the activity description. Some activities start directly from the Safari House, while others include pick up from selected accommodation points in Ruka area. All transport details are always provided in the booking confirmation.
Cancellation conditions vary depending on the activity and season. The exact cancellation policy is always specified in the activity description and in your booking confirmation.
Yes, most activities can also be arranged as private tours upon request. Private tours offer more flexibility and a personalized experience. Please contact us in advance for availability and pricing.
How to Get to Ruka Safaris
Ruka Safaris is located just a few hundred meters walking distance from Iisakki Village, in the heart of the Ruka and Kuusamo area, one of the most popular outdoor destinations in northern Finland and the gateway to Lapland. All guests staying at Iisakki Village have direct access to all Ruka Safaris activities, making it easy to enjoy unforgettable experiences surrounded by pristine forests, lakes and fells.
By Airplane
The nearest airport is Kuusamo (KAO), with daily flights from Helsinki. From Kuusamo Airport it is about 25 km / 30 min by car or taxi to Iisakki Village via Ruka.
You can also arrive via Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) and Oulu Airport (OUL). The drive from Rovaniemi to Ruka is roughly 200 km / 2 h 30 min, and from Oulu to Ruka about 240 km / 3 h.
Car rentals and prebooked transfers are available at all airports, and we can help arrange transfer service on request.
By Train
The nearest train stations are in Oulu, Rovaniemi and Kemijärvi, all with daily connections from Helsinki. From there you continue by bus or rental car towards Kuusamo and Ruka.
You can choose an overnight train for a relaxed journey, or travel by day and enjoy the changing northern landscapes.
However, you can also take advantage of the overnight train, arriving early in the morning in Rovaniemi — perfect for making the most of the full day ahead.
If you arrive via Rovaniemi, you can easily plan a stop at Santa Claus Village before continuing your trip to Iisakki Village, a great way to start your Lapland adventure.
By Car
Reaching Ruka Safaris by car is easy and very scenic, with well maintained roads leading you through the forests and lakes of the Kuusamo region. Whether you arrive from nearby towns or from southern Finland, driving is a comfortable and flexible way to reach us all year round
From Kuusamo it is about 25 km / 30 min to Ruka and Lake Rukajärvi.
From Helsinki the distance is a little over 800 km, usually driven in one long day or combined with an overnight stop on the way north.
All driving times are approximate and may vary depending on traffic, weather and road conditions, especially during the winter season. Free parking is available close to the Safarihouse. If you need help planning your route or advice for winter driving, our team will be happy to assist you.