Meet reindeer and huskies, warm up in a sauna, and keep an eye on the sky for the Northern Lights. Along the Pohjola Route, Arctic moments come easy — and unforgettable memories follow.
Once-in-a-lifetime Arctic experiences along the Pohjola route
Meet the reindeer of the North
Reindeer are at the heart of northern life – and along the Pohjola Route, meeting them is a relaxed, family-friendly way to experience the North.
In Yli-Ii, Oulu, Jussilan Reindeer Farm offers an engaging and hands-on farm visit where visitors can learn about reindeer and their semi-wild way of life. Guests can feed and touch the reindeer, take photos, hear fascinating facts and stories, and—depending on the season—enjoy a sleigh ride or a forest walk with the animals. The experience also includes a short introduction to throwing a traditional suopunki, and time to relax by an open fire with hot drinks and snacks available by order.
Less than an hour from Oulu, Poro-Panuma Reindeer Farm in Pudasjärvi welcomes visitors to a traditional, family-run farm where reindeer live semi-wild lives. Most of the year they roam freely in the forests, returning to the farm for winter. A visit here is calm, educational, and perfect for all ages.
In the Syöte area, Pytky Ranch combines reindeer encounters with outdoor fun. Set by Lake Naamankajärvi and close to Syöte National Park, it’s easy to reach in any season. Meet reindeer in winter, enjoy nature year-round, and warm up by the fireplace at Pytky Café with coffee and pastries.
For an effortless reindeer experience right in the city, Nallikari Safaris in Oulu offers visits to a local reindeer farm, sleigh rides, feeding the herd, and cozy moments by the fire – an easy win for families and first-time Arctic explorers alike.
Husky safaris in the Arctic wilderness
In the Syöte area, Syötteen Eräpalvelut offers husky safaris of varying lengths, suitable for both first-timers and adventure seekers. After learning how to handle a husky sled, guests set off into the quiet winter landscape, gliding through forests and over frozen terrain. Short safaris provide a taste of mushing, while longer routes and full-day tours offer deeper immersion into the wilderness. Each experience includes time to learn about the huskies’ lives and enjoy warm drinks by the fire after the ride.
Further south in Pudasjärvi, Amarok Sport Adventure welcomes visitors with its team of 64 huskies for authentic dog sledding experiences in pristine northern nature.
Traditional sleigh rides with Finnhorses
Step back in time on a sleigh ride pulled by a Finnish horse. Wrapped in warm blankets, you can relax and listen to the rhythmic sound of hooves and sleigh bells—just as people did centuries ago, when horses were the primary means of transport in the North.
In Ranua, Finnhorse sleigh rides and Northern Lights safaris offer a calm and atmospheric way to experience winter. During mid-winter, visitors may also witness the magical “Blue Moment,” when the snowy landscape is bathed in soft blue light.
Wildlife encounters: Polar bears in Ranua
At Ranua Wildlife Park, visitors can meet Arctic animals living in spacious, natural enclosures. The park is especially famous for its polar bears, offering a rare chance to see these magnificent animals up close while learning about Arctic wildlife and conservation.
Northern lights experiences
The Pohjola Route offers exceptional opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, with its dark skies, wide-open landscapes, and effortless access to unspoiled nature.
In Oulu, photographers and travelers alike can join Aurora photo tours with Salamapaja, focusing on capturing the Northern Lights against coastal and winter scenery.
For guided Aurora hunting on foot or snowshoes, several local operators offer expert-led tours, including Majakka Outdoors, Lappis, Nallikari Safaris, Go Arctic, and e-Coach. These tours take guests away from city lights to maximize the chances of seeing the aurora while enjoying peaceful nighttime nature.
At Hotel Iso-Syöte, Northern Lights safaris take place in the serene fell landscapes far from light pollution. Guests can choose between snowshoe hikes, walking tours during snow-free seasons, or adventurous snowmobile safaris through forests and open bogs. All tours are led by experienced local guides, with warm winter clothing and equipment included.
In Ranua Resort, Aurora experiences combine adventure and comfort. Join a snowmobile safari through snowy forests and across frozen lakes while scanning the Arctic sky for the Northern Lights. During snowless periods, Aurora hunting is done by car. Guided snowshoe tours offer a slower-paced alternative, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the stillness of the Arctic night.
Sauna the Finnish way
In Finland, there are more saunas than cars — about 3.3 million of them for a population of 5.6 million! That says a lot about how deeply sauna culture runs here. It’s not just a place to wash; it’s where life slows down, thoughts untangle, and quiet moments become sacred.
In Oulu, sauna culture meets creativity and nature. Visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as floating sauna rafts, where the gentle movement of the river and peaceful surroundings add an extra layer of calm to the traditional sauna ritual. Read more about sauna experiences in Oulu here.
Along the Pohjola Route, sauna relaxation is never far away. Many hotels along the route offer sauna-equipped rooms or separate sauna facilities, making it easy for travelers to unwind after a day on the road. Whether it’s a private evening sauna or a shared moment of warmth, the journey through northern Finland is always complemented by this essential part of Finnish life.
Sauna experiences along the Pohjola routeFor thrill seekers: Downhill skiing on the Pohjola Route
Ruskotunturi is the closest ski resort to Oulu, located just a few kilometres from the city centre. Designed for everyday skiing, it’s easy to reach without long planning or travel. The resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all ages and skill levels, offering slopes, snow parks, a children’s area and family-friendly winter fun.
For bigger slopes and fell scenery, head to Syöte, home to Iso-Syöte and Pikku-Syöte ski resorts. Located less than two hours from Oulu, Syöte offers varied runs, scenic landscapes and a wide range of winter experiences for skiers of all levels.
Once-in-a-lifetime adventure: Arctic cruise and ice floating
Step into a true Arctic adventure with the legendary Icebreaker Sampo — an experience you simply can’t have anywhere else in the world. Cruising across the frozen sea in Kemi, Finland, this iconic icebreaker offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of the Arctic.
Operating from 19 December 2025 to 6 April 2026, the Sampo Icebreaker Cruise lets you walk on the frozen sea, explore the massive vessel on a guided tour, and take part in the unforgettable ice floating experience. Wearing a specially designed survival suit, you’ll float safely in icy waters while surrounded by drifting ice — a moment that truly defines Arctic travel. The 3.5-hour morning cruise includes ice floating, walking on ice, a welcome drink, a diploma, and access to the SnowCastle exhibitions. The 4-hour afternoon cruise also features a lunch buffet on board, making the experience even more complete.
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Making of Individual Spice Mix
Lainesauna saunaboat rental at the port Mon-Thu
A day in the Stone Age
Day Trip to the Wildlife Park Ranua Zoo
Go Arctic group activities - Traditional tar olympics
Snowboard / Ski Experience Under the Candle Trees
Northern Sleigh Ride: Frozen River & Sea Experience
Katkavaara Nature Path and Caves from Kemi
Trail biking experience in the Syöte National Park
Go Arctic activities - Arctic ice fishing experience
Skinbased skiing trip in Syöte National Park
Kuntokeidas Vesipekka Indoor Swimming and Sport Centre
Yoga Class
Arctic Sea Ice Camp (private)
Rusko Bike Park
Rantakylä Recreational Area in Liminka
Arctic Icebreaker Sampo Cruise by Snowmobiles
Art Moment of Mrs. Santa Claus Finland
Go Arctic Events - Theme parties
Oulu Delta Kayaking Safari (public)
Minivan Trip to Turkansaari Open Air Museum
Arctic Wolf & Auroras
A versatile holiday trip and dog sledding adventure in Pudasjärvi.
Paintball Areena
Arctic Spa
Searching for the Aurora Borealis by Car
Icebreaker Arktis Cruise from Kemi
Ranua Resort - Happiness from Finnish Nature
Oulu Delta Kayaking Safari (Private)
Recreation days for organizations in Sanginjoki and Rokua - Naturest
Sunrise/sunset snowmobile safari
Visiting at Reindeer Farm in Ii
Canoeing, Paddling and Kayaking routes in Ii
Inhouse Derby
ChocoTasting
Forest Experience by Snowmobiles
City Train Potnapekka
South Lapland Winter Experience
Liminka Disc Golf Course
Guided Walking Tour in the Old Town Raahe
ChocoSomnia Factory Tour & Tasting
Job Shadowing in a School or Kindergarten
Snowshoe rental in Rokua
Team Path in Liminka Bay Resort
Lännentila Farm - Experience the Finnish Countryside Atmosphere
Guided Standup Paddle Boarding Trip to the Ii river and Bothnian Bay
Adventure into the Goahti, Syöte National Park
Guided Walking Tours in Oulu
Relaxing Floating in Floating Pod
The Blue Pine Cottage – Sauna in the Tranquility of the Countryside
Nature Tour with Snowshoes
On The Traces Of The Ice Age - The Oulujoki River Valley
Midnight sun golf
Kylmäniemi Beach
Ancient survival skills: Red ochre painting
Hanhilampi Wilderness Camp
Arctic Sea Snowshoe Experience (private)
Reindeer Farm Experience (private)
Sightseeing ride - Iso-Syöte Express
Cultural and historical route Ruustinna
Guided Bike Tour from Nallikari to Oulu City Center
Pyhäluoto Beach
Go Arctic Activities - Reindeer Farm Visit
The BREATH of Hailuoto - sound relaxation
Oulu Climbing Center
Building a Snow Igloo from Kemi
Ski Resort Pikku-Syöte
Guided Tour in Old Liminka
Ice-Fishing Safari with Snowmobiles
Paddling on the Oulujoki river delta and at sea
Husky Safaris in Ranua
Annala Discgolf Park
Adventure Game: Live the Nature
Study Programme
Fatbike rental in Rokua in winter
Discover the Hidden Gems of Liminka – Cycling Tour Through Nature, Culture & History
Rent a large fenced forest area for your private recreational use
Flatland Route touring cycle route
Guided walking & cycling tours in Liminka and in Oulu area
Visit Family Farm Near the Ranua Zoo.
Traditional lakeside sauna
Traditional Games
Reindeer safari
Private booking at Reenis
e-Fatbike Safari with Campfire Meal
Markkuu nature trail 10 km – Home to the cute little wren
Go Arctic activities - Archery Competition
Snowmobile wilderness safari
SnowCastle Winter Park
Snowmobile Safari by Night
Snowshoe Trip for Searching Arctic Animals from Kemi
Fatbike rental in Rokua
Boat trip to a lovely historic island
Ranua Resort - Midnight Sun Guided Tour in the Wildlife Park
Karsikkolampi smoke sauna
Visit to the Home of Huskies
Children’s Traffic Park
Guided tours at Kempele
Go Arctic activities - SNOWSHOE TRIP
The reflecting pools of Oulu
Go Arctic - Guided bus tours in Oulu and neighbouring municipalities
Go Arctic Events - Dinner with the ghosts of Oulu
Spirits of Hearth and Home - Tonttu in Finnish Folklore
Husky Safari and Excursion on the Farm
Sliding snowshoes rental in Rokua
Hot Air Balloon Flight for group 4-12pax
Ice fishing
Relaxing Neurosonic Moment at Tirsanurkka
Guided standup paddleboarding trip to the Ii river and Bothnian Bay
Go Arctic activities - Snowshoe / gliding snowshoe trip in Koiteli
Children's Birthday Party by Boat, Fishing
Rowing Boat Experience
Snow Adventure Day from Kemi
Oula Kitchen & Bar
Traditional hut experience - lunch by fire
Trip to Arctic Circle, Santa Claus’ Village, Santa’s Reindeer and Elf's Farm Yard from Kemi
Gym at KIDE Hotel
Northern Finland food experience
Winter Weekly Programme
Murto Pumptrack
Rokua Spa
Sauna ticket for public sauna
Mustan Sauna and Winter Swimming Experience
Active Cast Fishing with a Professional Fisherman in Ii
Oulu Tourist Information
Relaxing Forest Mind trip in Syöte National Park
Paintball
Day Spa
Sightseeing helicopter flight in the Oulu area
Go Arctic group activities - Inhouse Derby
Guided bus tours in Liminka and neighbouring municipalities
Arctic Sea Snowshoe Experience (public)
Fatbike Tour in Oulu
Snowshoe safari
Reindeer farm visit and sleigh ride
Craft Upcycle Workshop
Jive to the Five with the Huskies
Go Arctic activities - White water swimming in Koiteli
The Swimming Area at Markkuu Shooting Range
Ranua Resort - 1 hour Snowmobile Safari for Whole Family
Private sauna experience
All Syöte's activities from Syöte Booking Centre
Sightseeing Bus Tour (in Finnish)
Frozen Sea to Forest Experience (private)
Merilä Manor View Sauna
Accessible Fishing and Boating Trip in Ii
Pastures of the Hailuoto
Float 60min
A Relaxed Group Tour into Culture and Nature
Naturetour by Snowshoes
Go Arctic group activities - Kurvisen karsinnat
Private meeting with Santa Claus
Gym & Group Activities
Oulu Winter Village
Public sauna experience
Winter Forest Adventure in the Dark
Bowling
Arctic Sea Ice Fishing (private)
Traditional Winter Fish Trap (private)
Oulu Zipline
Kiikku Garden Grill / Moonlight BBQ
On the Traces of the Ice Age - Lake Oulujärvi
On The Traces Of The Ice Age - Ridges Of Rokua
Discover Tyrnävä’s Disc Golf Courses
Guided Mountain Biking tours from Pikku-Syöte
Private Guided Tour from Oulu to the Jussila Reindeer Farm in Ii
Go Arctic group activities - The Head of Tribe
Local Food Visit
Private event: Wine and Fashion
Fan of Hailuoto
Summer activities for groups
Deep Healing Sound Journey: Singing Bowl Therapy & Gentle Movement
Educational Learning Programmes in Rokua UNESCO Global Geopark
Rautiperä Sports Area
Ranua Resort - Walking trip in Finnish Nature
Winter activities for groups
Guided Ice Swimming Experience – Dive Into Nordic Well-Being
Frozen Sea Fatbike Experience
Go Arctic activities - Rubber raft polo game
Oulu Cultural Bike Tour Spring
Iisi-areena indoor sport center
Kindergarten Visit
Ranua Resort - Wilderness Snowmobile Safari
Long Reindeer Safari from Kemi
Snowshoeing trip in Syöte National Park
Ancient survival skills: Canoeing
Sight-Skiing
Go Arctic group activities - Traditional games
Archery Competition
Artic Northern Lights Camp
Go Arctic activities - Guided tour in Oulu by bike
Empowering Photography
Relax & Reconnect in Pure Finnish Nature
Oulu Cultural Bike Tour (public)
Ranua Resort - Searching Aurora Borealis by Snowmobile
Arctic Sea Bike Experience (public)
Traditional tar olympics
Traditional Net Fishing Trip in Ii and Lunch
Pampering Relaxation (1-2 persons)
Arctic Day at the Sea Best Seller
Puikkari swimming hall
PikePadel outdoor padelcourts
Canoeing in arctic wilderness
Expert Session / Workshop on Education
Jakkukylä suspension bridge and Purusaari
Bronze-casting course
Icebreaker Sampo cruise with transfer from Kemi
Guided Tour from Oulu to the Rokua National Park with a private guide
Ghosts and Curiosities Walking Tour in the Old Town Raahe
Hunting for Aurora Borealis by Car
SEES SCENT LAB
Exit Oulu Escape Rooms
Leo's Kempele
Authentic ice fishing on a frozen lake in the pure nature of Rokua
Go Arctic group activities - Team Path in Liminka
Vihkosaari beach and recreation area
Aurora Hunting Safari in Oulu (private)
Local crafts, wildherbs and baking
Oulu Quickly Walking Tour
Children's Rokua day trip
Bay of Bothnia by Kayak in Oulu
Go Arctic activities - Craft upcycle workshop
Icebreaker Arktis Cruise from Haparanda and Tornio
Three National Parks Summer Adventure
The Silence´s Voice - Transformative Winter snow experience + storytelling
Guided summer safaris at Syöte
Winter Olympics
Icebreaker Arktis Cruise from Rovaniemi
Traditional Icefishing at Oulu
Merilä Manor Saunas
Artic Sea Ice Fishing
Family-friendly boat fishing trip in Ii
Go Arctic group activities - Winter Olympics
Love by the Iijoki River – An Audio Story Trail Along the Shores of Ii
Through time and food - Culinary and cultural workshop
Shearching Northern Light with Finnhorse
Go Arctic - Guided walking tours in Oulu and in Oulu area
Rejuvenating Day Retreat by the Sea
Ranua Resort - Safaris
Pytky Ranch reindeer services
Nature-Based Experienses in the Finnish forests and Forest Rangers House - Naturest
Arctic Northern Lights Camp (private)
Stone Age race of tribes
Natureyoga
Ice Fishing Trip by Snowmobiles
Heptathlon
Lännentila farmyard with animals
All Inclusive Fishing Day in Ii
Under the Northern Night Sky - Guided Walk in the Dark
Ancient survival skills: Stone grinding
Day Trip to Hailuoto Island (private)
Winter Activities in Ranua
Go Arctic Events - Performers and hosts to your events
Winter Wonderland by skinbased skis at Oulu
Riding treks with charming Icelandic Horses in Oulu!
Island Hopping at Raahe Archipelago
Alpacafarm visit and walk in forest - Hanging out with alpacas in finnish nature!
Sliding snowshoe safari in the nature of Rokua
Work wellbeing day
Cruise on Lainesauna saunaferryboat
Sauna experience on a frozen lake + ice swimming
Snowshoeing safari in the nature of Rokua hunting northern lights
Nature & Wellness House Peukaloinen
Arkadia Reindeer Farm Visit and Reindeer Sledge Drive
Brain Relief® -Contact Therapy
The Bronze-casting Work Demonstration
Mini-golf course
Guided tour to the Eight Seasons of Birds' Year -exhibition in Liminka Bay
Ranua Resort - Guided Tour at the Wildlife Park
The Head of Tribe
The CHARM of Hailuoto - moment of experience
Raahe Archipelago Cruises
City Bikes
Bay of Bothnia by SUP (Stand Up Paddling) in Oulu
Winter Forest Adventure in Oulu
Mikonkari Beach
Sunrise Snowmobile Safari
Husky sledding crash course
Minivan Trip to Hailuoto
Go Arctic activities - Fatbike trip in Liminka
Akupuncture and energy healing treatments
Finnhorse Sledge Ride
Go Arctic group activities - Amazing Oulu - City adventure
Icebreaker Sampo Cruise from Rovaniemi
Nature Power from a forest in Rokua - Naturest Oy
Raahentienoo Golf Course
Ranua Resort - Aurora Nights Snowshoeing
Rock The City Oulu - Adventure Game
Suutarinjärvi Swimming Area
Winter Nature Snowshoe Safari (private)
Easy Family-friendly Ice Fishing Trip to the Sea in Ii
Snow shoeing in the forest by Taiga Resort
Iso-Syöte Bike Park
Forest Experience on Snowmobiles
Husky Spin
Snowmobile Safari in the Forest from Kemi
School Visit
Meeting services
Lappis Water Park Oulu
OVERNIGHT SKI HIKE
Day Trip to Santa Claus Village and Arctic Circle from Kemi
Oulu Reindeers & Christmas Trees (public)
Team Activity: Voltti's Games Oulu
Ice fishing with huskies
Ancient survival skills: Archery
Geocaching in Liminka
SnowExperience365 Indoor Exhibition
Go Arctic group activities - Heptathlon
Go fishing in Oulu around the year
The Captain’s Sauna – an Unforgettable Experience at The Trade House of Lang
Varvi Beach
Farm of Hailuoto
Oulu loves biking
The Five Senses of Christmas - A Delicious Storytelling Evening
Guided Tours in Raahe
Guided Mushroom Trip in Syöte area
Oulu Delta SUP Boarding Safari (Private)
Go Arctic activities - City canoeing day or night
Snowbus Winter Excursion in Raahe Archipelago
Fatbike Tour in Syöte National Park
Guided Tour in Alakestilä Botanical Garden, Liminka
Narrated Escape Room of Pitojen Helmi
Snowmobile and sleigh trip on frozen sea after sunset in the Baltic Sea off Ii
Liminka Bay: Guided visit to birdtower
Snowshoeing through the Rokua National Park
Canoeing Trip in Syöte
The SHINE of Hailuoto - Natural cosmetics
Forest Nature School in Sanginjoki - Naturest Oy
Raahe Theatre
Relaxing 2 Persons Floating in same Floating Pod
Go Arctic Events - Theme parties
Visit Ranua Arctic Wildlife Park from Kemi
The SLIDE of Hailuoto - sliding snowshoe trip
Experience Life at Trade House of Lang
Splash-tastic water activities in Oulu
Syöte husky safaris
Minute Challenge Team Activity -Oulu
Lainesauna saunaboat rental at the port Fri-Sat
Moose Safari from Kemi
Winter experiences in Rokua - Naturest Oy
New Year Celebration by Finnish Traditions and Northern Lights (Kemi)
Visit to a reindeer farm in Ii
Voltti´s Music Quiz, Oulu
Husky Kennel visits and safaris in Ranua
Mountain biking and hiking route - Köykkyrin retkireitistö
Farm Olympics - Team Racing Oulu
Aurora Hunt
Night Safari on Snowmobiles
Hop On - Hop Off Cruise in Raahe Archipelago
Tauvo Beach and Small-craft Harbour
Autumn Colors Tour in Oulu (private)
Sleigh ride to Raahe archipelago's icebergs
City Lights Burbot Ice Fishing (private)
Northern lights hunting by car in Syöte
TRADITIONAL SMOKE SAUNA & ICE SWIMMING
Visit a Husky Farm and Husky Safari from Kemi
Go Arctic group activities - Koiteli Team Path
Fishing trips
Iso-Syöte Snow World
THE HUT EXPERIENCE
Soundbath relaxation
Winter cycling by fatbikes at Oulu
Arctic Sea Snowshoe Experience
Guided fishing trip
Icebreaker Sampo Cruise from Haparanda and Tornio
Rock The City Oulu
Go Arctic - Events Services
Icebreaker Sampo Cruise from Kemi
Northern Lights Snowmobile Sleigh Ride from Kemi
The MASTERS of Hailuoto - all inclusive service
Northern Lights Aurora Tour from Kemi
Snowshoe Trip for Ice Fishing from Kemi
Summer Activities in Ranua
Boreal Bird & Wildlife Photographing Tour
Go Arctic activities - Stories from Oulu
Reindeer Farm Experience
Massage
Minivan Trip to Koiteli Rapids
Go Arctic activities - Air guitar workshop or Air guitar show
Northern Lights Snowmobile Driving Safari in Kemi
Arctic Edu-Tech - Workshops and experiences in Oulu area
Sauna Experience
Oulu Cultural Bike Tour Autumn
Amusement Park Vauhtipuisto
Icebreaker Sampo Cruise from Kemi
Troll fishing safari - 4 hours
Go Arctic activities - Canoeing trip at river Oulujoki or Kiiminkijoki
Winter experiences in Sanginjoki - Naturest Oy
Traditional Net Fishing Trip in Ii
Experience the wonders of the Finnish nature
Guided Winter Swimming
Lumijärvi Beach
Go Arctic activities - Northern Lights
Evening Campfire at the Island
Geocaching in Ii
Kierikki: Guided tours
Troll fishing safari - 8 hours
Pikkulahti Beach
Forest Nature School in Rokua - Naturest Oy
SuperPark Oulu
Kirkkojärvi Beach
A guided cross-country bicycle excursion in Rokua Geopark
Himmeli workshop – Raahen Taitopaja
Miniburger tasting
Adventure course for Kids
Olkijoki Beach
The WHISPER of Hailuoto - performance art
Guided Sail Training Experience for Groups and Teams
Oulu Delta Kayaking Safari
Ranua Resort - Snowmobile Safari and Ice-Fishing
Arctic Sea Ice Fishing (public)
Illinsaari disc golf course
Horseback riding
Ranua Resort - Searching Aurora Borealis by Car
Arctic Sauna & Ice Swimming (private)
Midnight Sun Special from Kemi
Icetrek to Kemi History
Oulun Torisauna
Enjoy a fun and unforgettable day with quality horse activities in the countryside
Single ticket to Reenis creative gym
Ranua Resort - 2 hour Snowmobile Safari
Ice Fishig on the Gulf of Bothnia
Polar nights dinner at Liminka Bay
Varessäikkä Beach and Small-craft Harbour
Arctic Northern Lights Camp (public)
Bike Park guidance lesson
Oulu Culinary Experience
Snowshoeing Week in South Lapland
Arctic Ice Fishing Experience
Oulu Cultural Bike Tour (private)
Wintery Bait Fishing for Northern Pike in Ii
Ski Resort Iso-Syöte