Rovaniemi: Riisitunturi National Park Day Trip with Lunch

If you’re heading to Rovaniemi and craving a genuine Arctic adventure, this guided day trip to Riisitunturi National Park might just be the highlight of your trip. It promises a scenic journey through snow-laden forests, uniquely shaped snowy trees, and a taste of authentic Lapland wilderness. We love that this experience combines the thrill of outdoor exploration with cultural insights and cozy campfire moments.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts around 9 hours, which requires a good amount of time commitment, but the varied scenery and expert guidance make it worthwhile. If you’re someone who appreciates small group sizes, knowledgeable guides, and stunning winter landscapes, this trip suits nature lovers and photography enthusiasts best.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic scenery with snow-covered trees resembling marshmallows
• Expert-guided hikes with options like snowshoeing for added adventure
• Small group sizes for personalized attention and a more intimate experience
• Cultural insights with campfire snacks, fire-making demonstrations, and local stories
• Value for money considering transportation, equipment, and expert guidance included
• Ideal for those aged 12 and over with moderate fitness levels and a love for nature

Exploring Riisitunturi National Park: A Visual Feast

Riisitunturi National Park is about 150 kilometers east of Rovaniemi, situated in the hilly terrains of Finnish Lapland. Famous for its spectacular winter scenes, the park draws visitors from around the world eager to see its snow-laden spruce trees that look like giant puffy marshmallows. During winter, the weight of snow and ice causes these trees to bend and curl, creating a surreal, fairytale-like landscape.

Our guides—experienced locals such as Eneko, Atanas, and Gigi—are passionate about sharing their wilderness knowledge. They know where the best views are and how to teach you about the native flora and fauna. Their insights turn a simple hike into an educational adventure, making every stop engaging and informative.

The Journey Begins: From Rovaniemi to Wilderness

The tour kicks off with a morning pickup from your accommodation or from the designated office in Rovaniemi. The two-hour drive through the Arctic wilderness itself is a highlight, offering glimpses of snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and open, windswept plains. The landscape feels untouched, and you’ll quickly realize why Finland’s winter scenery is so revered.

If you’re lucky, your guide might share stories about how the snow load on trees can reach up to four tonnes, and how these giants survive such weight. Photographers will appreciate the opportunity to capture the magnificent snowy trees and panoramic views along the way.

The Hike: Snowshoeing and Scenic Stops

Once at Riisitunturi, a 4-kilometer hike awaits. The trail is considered manageable for most fitness levels, but the addition of snowshoes, which are often included, makes for a more adventurous trek. As you walk, expect to see snow-covered spruce forests and possibly spot wildlife signs—perhaps footprints or birds resilient enough to brave the cold.

Reviewers rave about the stunning visuals: “Loads of snow and amazing walk via tiger forest,” one said. Another guest noted that even late in the season, the fresh snow made their walk memorable. Your guide will stop frequently for photos and explanations, ensuring you don’t miss any of the best viewpoints.

Wildlife and Nature: What You’ll Learn

The guides excel at pointing out signs of Arctic life. You might learn how local animals survive in winter or how the trees adapt to the snow load. One guest highlighted how guide Atanas “knew the landscape very well and made everyone feel safe,” describing how educational and engaging the experience was.

Campfire and Lunch: Embracing Lapland Traditions

A key part of this tour is the break around the open fire, where you’ll enjoy hot drinks, biscuits, and a typical Finnish campfire snack. This isn’t just about warming up; it’s a chance to learn how locals build fires without matches or lighters, using flint & steel and natural materials—a skill that adds to the authenticity.

Guests have raved about the atmosphere, with one reviewer saying, “Toma lights the fire and invites us to tea and sausages.” The relaxed setting around the fire, combined with the stunning scenery, makes for a memorable bonding experience.

The Lunch and Final Stops

After the fire, your guide shares stories about Lapland’s way of life, answering questions about Arctic living and wildlife. The lunch break offers a chance to relax, take in the scenery, and absorb the peacefulness of this winter wonderland.

You’ll return to Rovaniemi around 5 p.m., feeling refreshed and inspired by the Arctic’s raw beauty.

The Experience: What We Think

This tour offers genuine value, especially when considering what’s included—transport, high-quality winter gear, a knowledgeable guide, and an authentic experience. The small group size (max 8 people) ensures personalized attention, which many guests appreciate, especially compared to larger, less personal tours.

Reviewers consistently mention how guides like Eneko and Gigi go above and beyond to share their passion, making the trip more than just a hike. One guest recalls: “He taught us so much about the wildlife and nature that was in the park.” The emphasis on safety, comfort, and education makes this a well-rounded experience.

The price of $216 per person is competitive for a full-day guided adventure that combines transportation, gear, wildlife insights, and delicious snacks. For those looking to maximize their Arctic experience without the hassle of planning logistics, this tour offers excellent value.

Practical Tips for Participants

Make sure to dress warmly, as temperatures in winter can plummet below -20°C. The tour provides equipment and professional winter clothing, but layering up is always advisable. Bringing water is recommended, especially if you plan to hike snowshoe-style.

This experience is not suitable for children under 12, or for those with serious medical conditions. The walk involves moderate activity, and the cold weather can be intense.

Final Thoughts

This Riisitunturi National Park day trip from Rovaniemi strikes a great balance between outdoor adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. You’ll come away with stunning photos, new knowledge about Arctic flora and fauna, and a deeper appreciation for the resilience of nature in extreme conditions.

The small-group format, combined with expert guides and authentic experiences like fire-making and winter hiking, makes it clear why travelers rate it at 4.8 out of 5. It’s especially suited for nature lovers, photography buffs, and anyone wanting a true taste of Lapland’s winter magic.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the variety of sights and stories makes it well worth the time. And, if you’re lucky with weather, the snow-covered trees and peaceful silence will leave you with memories that last long after you leave.

FAQs

Is transportation from Rovaniemi included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if your accommodation is outside the city center. Otherwise, you’ll be asked to walk to their office in Rovakatu 24.

What should I wear for the tour?
The tour provides equipment and professional winter clothing, but bringing layered warm clothes and water is recommended to stay comfortable in sub-zero temperatures.

How long is the hike?
The hike covers approximately 4 kilometers within Riisitunturi National Park, a manageable distance for most participants, especially with snowshoes if needed.

Can I join with children?
This experience is not suitable for children under 12 years old, mainly because of the physical activity involved and cold weather conditions.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of expert guides, authentic fire-making experience, stunning snowy landscapes, and small group sizes creates a memorable Arctic adventure.

Is this tour suitable for those with medical conditions?
Participants with heart problems or serious medical conditions should consider their health before joining, as walking and cold exposure are involved.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning if your travel dates change.

This day trip to Riisitunturi National Park offers a real taste of Lapland’s winter charm—think snowy forests, expert storytelling, and Finnish campfire warmth—all packed into one memorable 9-hour adventure. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a unique Arctic experience, it’s a journey worth considering.