In summary
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Sports
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Duration11 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationFinland / Hossa
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions2046 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
An extraordinary canoe trip combining nature and adventure in Finnish Lapland, on the edge of the Arctic Circle and the Russian border. Lovers of wide-open spaces, ancient forests, and outdoor activities, this trip to northeastern Finland is for you! We'll discover typical regional activities: canoeing and paddling on the Hossanjoki River with campfire camping , hiking and mountain biking in Hossa Wildlife Park, brown bear watching , and dog sledding like the trappers of yesteryear. After these action-packed days, we'll enjoy the long summer evenings and spectacular sunsets, perhaps with a swim in the lakes or relaxing in traditional Finnish saunas.
The highlights
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Long summer days in a stunning natural setting
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A variety of activities: canoeing, hiking, mountain biking, dog hiking
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An expert guide to the region
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Photos
NADIA - verified review - august 2024
NADIA - verified review - august 2024
NADIA - verified review - august 2024
Sport
Level
Summer multi-activity
For those who engage in sports activities once or twice a week. You want to discover your limits and push past them, yet you do not necessarily possess an advanced technical background.
In figures
Autre
- Average duration/day: 5h
Management
During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Languages spoken:
French
French
Supervisor
Supervisor
Based in Hossa National Park for many years, our partner guarantees a successful active travel experience, thanks to our guides and logistical infrastructure. During your trip, you will be accompanied by our French-speaking guides, fully committed to helping you discover unique places in the heart of nature. For the bear watching option, you will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide. The lodge in Hossa is also run by a French-speaking team. This is a participatory trip where you will be asked to share in common activities such as preparing meals during multi-day excursions or taking care of your equipment.
Program
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Flight Paris / Kuusamo or Oulu
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
A member of our team will meet you at Kuusamo or Oulu airport. Transfer by vehicle to the village of Hossa, at the entrance to the national park (approximately 1 hour from Kuusamo and 3 hours from Oulu). Check-in at the guesthouse and dinner on site.Day 1 -
Hiking to Julma Ölkky Canyon Lake
- Activity Autre
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, after a short transfer, we'll hike to Julma Ölkky Canyon Lake. It's the largest of Finland's three canyon lakes. A suspension bridge spans the lake, offering a breathtaking view of this majestic landscape. Other surprises await you, but we won't reveal everything in advance... This area of the park is the perfect setting to make the most of this day of discovery and immersion in nature. Lunch will be a picnic by the campfire. This spectacular walk overlooking the gorge promises an exciting start to your trip! We'll return to the lodge at the end of the day, and we suggest you learn more about the lynx. It's the second largest predator in Scandinavia. While elusive, its presence has already been recorded in the park; who knows, you might be lucky! A theoretical presentation with visuals will introduce you to the ecology of this iconic mammal.Day 2 -
Canoeing through Hossa Park
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Embark on an extraordinary 4-day canoe adventure, camping by the campfire on the riverbank each evening. A total immersion where the landscape unfolds gently to the rhythm of the current and the strokes of your paddle. An opportunity to discover one of the last remaining pristine natural areas in Europe. We begin our descent of the river from the north of the park to observe the rock paintings of Värikallio. We will cross numerous lakes on our way to the Laukkujärvi cabin. We then leave Lapland and enter the vast forests of Karelia, where the populations of brown bears and moose are higher. Many birds will also be present along this route, allowing us an ornithological approach to this aquatic trek. Our canoe journey continues through the large lakes. Paddling along the banks will allow us to encounter wildlife or simply relax and enjoy the passing time. The evenings are punctuated by setting up camp on the riverbanks and gathering Arctic berries, mushrooms, or trout fishing (depending on the season) to enhance our evening meal. We spend the nights in tents. The final leg of our journey takes us past numerous small lakes to reach the lodge and the comforts of home.Days 3 to 6 -
Free day
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
For this free day, you'll be spoiled for choice! Depending on your preferences, swim in the lakes, go fishing, or relax in the sauna. Hiking or mountain biking in the park are also options (numerous trails are marked). Equipment (mountain bikes, canoes) is available for rent, and it's also possible to do these activities with your guide (subject to availability). You can also discover our team of sled dogs (guided option available). Your guide will explain how the kennel works and introduce you to our four-legged companions, each more endearing than the last. Expect a flurry of cuddles!Day 7 -
Cani-hiking in Hossa Park
- Activity Autre
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A new activity awaits us today: cani-hiking! This age-old method of travel has been revived. Used by Nordic peoples for transportation, primarily in the summer, it's now the perfect opportunity to create a special bond with our canine companions. Connected to your dog with a harness and a special leash to benefit from its pulling power, you can explore the park's trails with complete freedom. It's also a chance for us to showcase our retired sled dogs: one of them might even join you! It's an opportunity for them to show us that despite their age, they still have plenty of energy and the desire to accompany you on your exploration of the surrounding nature! Saying goodbye will undoubtedly be difficult!Day 8 -
Free day and brown bear watching
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, enjoy your time and activities at your own pace: mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing by the lake... The choice is yours! If you haven't yet had the chance to visit our kennel, now's your chance (subject to guide availability). Equipment (mountain bikes, canoes) is available for rent or for guided day trips (subject to availability). In the late afternoon, we invite you to learn more about the lord of the taiga: the bear. Join us for a presentation on the ecology of this species. For those interested, it's possible to continue this exploration by joining a brown bear watching excursion (optional). This involves a short transfer by vehicle south through the boreal forest to reach an area bordering Russia. This region boasts the highest proportion of bears in Europe. The viewing opportunities are excellent, but patience is required to get close to this iconic animal. The evening is spent in a hide at a specially designed observation post. Return to the lodge is at the end of the evening. Please note that bear watching is no longer possible from mid-August (the start of hunting season).Day 9 -
Mountain biking through the Taiga
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Mountain biking is another way to enjoy Hossa National Park. This mountain biking day takes us along the ridges and past translucent lakes. The route is varied and accessible. Wild and breathtaking landscapes unfold before us in this fun activity, perfectly suited to this environment.Day 10 -
Back to France
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
It's time to leave, with memories filling our heads! Transfer to Kuusamo or Oulu airport then flight to Paris.Day 11
Note
The itinerary is provided as a guide and may be modified for reasons of safety, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. Our experience in the field will guide us in choosing the best solution.
Note: Kuusamo Airport is closed from July 17th to August 15th. During this period, you will depart from or arrive at Oulu Airport.
***
66°Nord is a member of the Altaï group, a network of local nature and adventure agencies operating in 30 countries. To offer you a greater number of guaranteed departures, this trip is also offered by other companies within the Altaï group: Norwide, our local agency; Atalante, the trekking specialist; and Huwans, the adventure travel specialist.
Accommodation
- Days 1 to 10
Our base camp is located in Hossa National Park , 100 km from the nearest town and shop. We are far removed from major tourist centers like Rovaniemi, Ivalo, and Kitila. No Santa Claus Village here!
Hossa has 23 inhabitants, mostly reindeer herders. There are more bears than people! We live here self-sufficiently! We work closely with the park management organization. During your stay, opportunities to meet the local population are rare; you might encounter some ice fishermen or, in the spring, Finnish cross-country skiers. In any case, you'll appreciate the presence of the Finns on our team!
Our hostel was completely renovated in 2017. It consists of 5 eco-chalets and 8 traditional chalets.
Access
Departure
Aéroports de Paris
Day 1
End of stay
Aéroports de Paris
Day 11
Would you like to travel on other dates?
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Price details
The price includes
- Flights Paris / Kuusamo or Oulu / Paris and airport taxes.
- Local transfers
- Accommodation as mentioned in the program
- Full board except for the meals not included in the program
- Supervision by a French guide
- Loan of camping equipment (tent, mattress, sleeping bag)
The price does not include
- Potential airfare surcharges: The prices shown are based, in particular, on certain booking classes with the airlines serving this destination. It is possible that the designated class may no longer be available at the time of booking, in which case we may have to adjust the price of the trip with a surcharge.
- For arrivals at an airport other than Kuusamo, a transfer will be arranged at your expense for €100 per person.
- Drinks and personal expenses
- A deposit will be required via a pre-authorization on your bank card for equipment loaned on site (mountain bikes, canoes, etc.).
- Any rentals or guided activities during free days
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (
For example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return date. Consider visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to take into account any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (
For example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return date. Consider visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to take into account any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Camping equipment provided:
- 3-person tent for 2 people.
- Mattress.
- Sleeping bag.
- Waterproof bag for canoeing.
Equipment to bring
- Sleeping bag liner for nights in a cabin or bivouac.
- High-protection sunglasses.
- Toiletries: choose biodegradable products if possible.
- Sunscreen.
- Mosquito repellent (it is possible to find some on site, as well as head nets).
- 1 water bottle (1 liter minimum).
- 1 headlamp (optional, especially during the period of permanent daylight).
- Cycling shorts (optional but good for comfort).
- 1 small pouch (preferably waterproof) to put your money in.
- Pocket knife (to be put in checked baggage).
- Sleep mask (optional).
- Earplugs (optional).
Clothing to bring
- 1 sun hat or cap.
- 1 scarf.
- T-shirts (1 for 2 or 3 days of walking). Avoid cotton, which takes a very long time to dry; opt for short-sleeved t-shirts.
- 1 undershirt or long-sleeved shirt.
- 1 fleece jacket or 1 wool sweater (especially in the evening for camping trips).
- 1 pair of shorts or bermudas.
- 1 pair of trekking trousers.
- 1 pair of comfortable trousers for the evening.
- 1 waterproof and breathable Gore-tex style jacket.
- Underwear.
- Hiking socks (1 pair for 2 to 3 days of hiking). Avoid "tennis" type socks (cotton), which take a very long time to dry and have a high risk of blisters; opt for those made of Coolmax or wool.
- 1 pair of hiking boots that provide good ankle support and are waterproof (Vibram-type sole). Remember to
Break in new shoes and re-break in those that have remained in the closet, otherwise watch out for blisters!
- 1 pair of casual shoes for the evening and/or a pair of sandals.
- 1 pair of neoprene canoe booties (or an old pair of sneakers).
- Swimsuit and towel for the sauna.
They traveled with us
Discover the authentic experiences of our travelers
5/5
(5 reviews)
Reviews displayed in reverse chronological order
N
NADIA
- 39 ans
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
august 2024
In a couple
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
Translated from French
The trip met our expectations. The Norwid team and our guide were dynamic and shared their passion with us. For sports enthusiasts, I highly recommend this trip!
J
Jean François
- 37 ans
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
july 2024
In a couple
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
Translated from French
Published on 29/07/2024
A superb trip exploring the Finnish lakes. Special thanks to our guide, Marie.
D
Dominique
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
september 2023
In a group
100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.
Translated from French
Published on 02/10/2023
Many unforeseen events almost caused this trip to fail; even if the planets weren't aligned for me, Iceland remains a wonderful destination.
Its success is also its drawback; the beauty of an island is its isolation. Travel as a commercial product makes its assets accessible, but let us stray from the usual paths; splendors are hidden everywhere.
Decathlon Travel Partner
The Alexia team
4.9/5
(16 reviews)
• 17 stays
Based in the heart of Hossa National Park for over 15 years, our local partner specializes in Finnish forests. Their close-knit team of around twenty passionate individuals welcomes travelers for immersive experiences in Lapland. With expert, hand-picked polar guides, they offer multi-activity trips: dog sledding, canoeing, skiing, or trekking. This invaluable on-the-ground expertise allows you to explore pristine wilderness with complete peace of mind.
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