In summary
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Sports
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Duration8 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationFinland / Hossa
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions153.61 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Immerse yourself in an authentic and intense adventure journey in one of Europe's last great wilderness areas: Hossa National Park, Finland. Here, far from tourist crowds and "classic" tours, embark on a 100% nature-focused, active, and immersive experience in a pristine Nordic environment.
Each day of this multi-activity adventure is a new discovery: driving a dog sled team, snowmobile thrills across the vast white expanse, snowshoeing off the beaten track, or cani-hiking with our faithful four-legged companions… So many opportunities to fully experience the unique atmosphere of the Great North.
As night falls, be amazed by the spectacle of the Northern Lights, a magical moment in the Finnish sky. Throughout the week, return each evening to the warm comfort of your accommodation, complete with a sauna and views of the frozen lake.
This trip is for those who dream of raw nature, varied activities and unique sensations, far from mass tourism, a true immersion in the Nordic spirit, to experience the Finnish winter intensely, differently and in a small group.
So, ready to set off to discover the Far North and create unforgettable memories?
The highlights
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All the unmissable experiences of the Far North combined in one trip
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Comfort and relaxation after the adventure: a welcoming hostel, sauna and Norwegian bath
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Exploring the wild landscapes of Hossa National Park, far from the crowds
Photos
Sport
Level
Winter multi-activity
The expert's opinion
Features of the stay
This trip offers approximately 5 hours of activities per day, requiring no technical difficulty, and is suitable for anyone who loves adventure, nature, and the outdoors. No prior experience is necessary. The program is based around a central hub, with a different activity each day and the comfort of the hostel in the evening.
Good acclimatization to the cold is essential: temperatures can drop as low as -30°C and some days can be more physically demanding. Cold weather gear is provided.
Physical level
These activities are accessible even without being a seasoned athlete. All you need is an enjoyment of walking in the snow for a few hours. Light preparation (regular walking before setting off) is recommended, as snowshoeing requires more effort.
Sled dogs
Participants travel in pairs on a sled, driving a team of 6 to 10 dogs. The group is limited to 10 people and led by a musher. Children aged 12 and over, and taller than 1.40m, can take turns driving with an adult; younger children ride as passengers. The course is progressive and suitable for beginners.
Snowmobile
The activity is done in pairs per snowmobile. Children over 1.40m tall can be passengers. After a briefing, the route winds through forests and across frozen lakes, without any technical difficulties. A deposit is required. Driving is reserved for adults holding a valid driver's license.
Suitable for ages 10 and up.
In figures
Dog sledding ride
- Average duration/day: 2h30
Dog hiking
- Average duration/day: 5h
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 5h
Management
Based in Hossa National Park for many years, our local agency Norwide guarantees a successful active travel experience, thanks to the expertise of our guides and our logistical infrastructure. During your stay, you will be accompanied by French-speaking guides, fully dedicated to helping you discover unusual activities and places in the heart of nature.
The Hossa hostel is also run by a predominantly French-speaking team, ensuring a warm welcome tailored to your needs.
Program
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Heading towards Northern Finland – Arrival in Hossa
- Transportation Minibus - 01h - 85km
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
This is the big departure for our Lapland adventure! We are heading north and landing in Kuusamo or Oulu.
Upon arrival, our local team warmly welcomes us at the airport before accompanying us to our hostel, nestled at the gates of Hossa National Park (approximately 1 hour from Kuusamo, 3 hours from Oulu).
Once settled in, it was time for a first convivial dinner at the inn, to mark the beginning of our immersion in the Far North.
Day 1 -
Dog sledding (2 people per team)
- Activity Dog sledding ride
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Time for our first big adventure! We get to know the mushers and their dogs before the presentation of our dog teams. Working in pairs, we take turns driving throughout the day.
After an introduction on a frozen lake, we set off across pristine lakes and forest trails. The gliding, the speed, the bond with the dogs, and the silence of nature create an experience that is as intense as it is moving.
At midday, we enjoyed a picnic around a campfire in the heart of nature, before hitting the road again and returning to the inn in the late afternoon. Only the crunch of skates on the snow and the dogs' breathing disturbed the absolute calm of this white world… an unforgettable moment.
Day 2 -
Snowmobile tour (2 people per snowmobile)
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
An iconic mode of transport in Nordic countries, the snowmobile offers us a true sense of freedom. Two per machine, we follow our guide far from civilization, in the heart of wild, snow-covered landscapes.
The route presents no technical difficulties, and everyone can take turns driving. Children, depending on their age and height (minimum 1.40m), can ride on the back of their parents' snowmobile to fully enjoy the experience.
Lunch by the fire with grilled meats and invigorating Lappish soup, before continuing the exploration of the taiga.
Note: Snowmobile rental requires presentation of the original driver's license (photocopies not accepted).
Day 3 -
Dog hiking in Hossa National Park
- Activity Dog hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We set off for a day of exploration in the heart of Hossa National Park, between frozen lakes and snowy forests, accompanied by our sled dogs.
Once used by Nordic peoples as a means of transportation, cani-hiking is practiced here on snowshoes. Connected to a dog by a harness and a towline, we move forward together in the snow, carried by its infectious energy. It's hard not to succumb to the charm of these loyal companions!
For this activity, we team up with retired dogs: too old to pull sleds, but still full of energy. Since there are fewer dogs than participants, a rotation system is in place: generally, one dog accompanies two people.
The dog's pulling makes walking smoother and transforms the hike into an experience of lightness and connection. A picnic around the fire punctuates this magical day before continuing the adventure.
Day 4 -
Introduction to the trapper lifestyle
- Activity Bushcraft
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we delve into the trappers' way of life and learn to observe our environment with a naturalist's eye. It's the perfect opportunity to learn essential survival techniques for any polar explorer.
Accompanied by our guide, we'll discover how to track animals and master survival techniques, both ancient and modern. We'll try our hand at lighting a fire with a flint and steel, chopping wood, cooking over a wood fire, navigating with a map, and even try ice fishing. Weather permitting, we'll also learn how to build an igloo.
We then visit the kennel, where nearly 250 dogs await us, always eager to share their enthusiasm. It's an opportunity to discover their daily lives, their training, and to spend a special moment filled with petting, laughter, and camaraderie.
Each guide shares their own methods and secrets, shaping the day according to their passions and our curiosities. An intense and enriching day of learning, allowing you to become, for a day, a true expert on the Finnish taiga!
Day 5 -
Snowshoeing on the Sepiniemi peninsula
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
With snowshoes on our feet, we set off to explore the Sepiniemi peninsula. Our guide, an Arctic specialist, reveals the secrets of this wild and unspoiled territory.
We are venturing off the beaten track through varied and spectacular landscapes.
At noon, a meal around the fire… and this time, whose turn is it to light the fire?
Day 6 -
Free day (options to choose from)
- Activity Snowshoes
- Activity Dog sledding ride
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Depending on your mood, indulge in a relaxing moment during a typical Finnish sauna session, or experience the invigorating sensation of a Norwegian bath followed by a plunge into the cool waters of the lake.
For the more athletic, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the park's many marked trails awaits; the local team will be happy to recommend the most scenic routes. Equipment is available for rent.
It is also possible to participate in activities led by a guide (subject to availability, prices to be checked directly with the hostel).
The day ends with a delicious traditional meal from the herders: Karestus, reindeer stir-fry with cranberries, for a complete immersion in local flavors.
Day 7 -
Back to France
- Transportation Minibus - 01h - 85km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Last morning in Finland. Transfer to Kuusamo airport and return flight.
We leave with our hearts full of memories: the raw nature, the changing lights, the encounters with humans and animals, and that rare feeling of having lived a true adventure immersed in the Far North.
And why not come back in summer? When the snow melts, the lakes open up to canoes and the forest lights up under the midnight sun, Finland reveals a whole other kind of magic…When the snow melts, the lakes open up to be crossed by canoe and the forest is reborn under the midnight sun, Finland reveals a whole other kind of magic.
Day 8
Note
The itinerary provided is for guidance only. A detailed program will be given to you upon arrival. It may be adapted according to safety conditions, weather, or unforeseen circumstances to ensure the best possible experience.
Light and seasons
From December to February: this is the period of the polar night. The days are very short, but a soft and constant light persists, allowing you to fully enjoy activities.
From February onwards: the days gradually lengthen and daylight returns, offering magnificent contrasts on the snowy landscapes.
Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are natural phenomena as fascinating as they are unpredictable. Their appearance depends on solar activity and sky clarity, and therefore can never be guaranteed. In Hossa, they can be observed from the beginning of winter, when the nights are long and the sky perfectly clear, sometimes offering an unforgettable spectacle. Some activities may require the use of a headlamp.
Accommodation
Hossa's Inn:
The hostel has a main building with a bar-restaurant, a large terrace and a games area including billiards, board games and a jukebox.
Accommodation is assigned at the time of registration, according to your preferences and availability on site.
Ecolodges:
The ecolodges are modern double rooms, with the possibility of triple rooms upon request. They offer a lake view, a private bathroom, a terrace and storage space.
Traditional chalets (“mökki”):
The small, traditional chalets offer an immersive experience in Finnish culture. They feature a kitchenette, a bedroom, a bathroom, and a small private sauna. The terrace offers a lovely view of the lake.
Cottages in Hossan Lumo (400m):
The comfortable cottages at our partner accommodation, Hossan Lumo, offer one or more double, triple, or quadruple bedrooms to share, a private bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a sauna. These welcoming accommodations are perfect for families and groups of friends, ensuring a friendly and relaxing stay.
Single room option:
If you are travelling alone, you will initially be placed in a shared room with another participant. However, it is possible to book a single room for your entire stay, subject to availability and at an additional cost.
Access
Regular flights Paris - Kuusamo round trip with a stopover in Helsinki. Duration: approximately 5 hours without the stopover.
When all flights to Kuusamo are full, we offer alternatives at other airports in the region: Kajaani (approximately 2 hours' drive from our base) or Oulu (approximately 3.5 hours from our base).
Go to the starting point
Your flight journey
Your e-ticket will be available in your customer area 8 to 10 days before departure. Your login details and password will be sent to you upon registration.
To reach Finland, we mainly work with the scheduled airline Finnair, via Helsinki.
Luggage: 1 checked bag of 23 kg + 1 carry-on bag per person
Meals and drinks: not included on board, available for purchase
This information is provided for guidance purposes only and will be confirmed at the time of booking.
Price details
The price includes
- Flights Paris / Kuusamo / Paris or via Oulu
- Air taxes
- Airport transfers (subject to correspondence with the reference flight plans)
- Travel and activities as described in the program
- The accommodation as described
- Full board, except for meals indicated as free.
- Supervision by French-speaking tour guides, specialists in the destination
- Loan of cold weather equipment including a pair of cold weather boots, a cold weather jacket and a pair of over-mittens (please specify your height, weight and shoe size when registering)
- Loan of activity equipment, including: rackets, poles, etc.
The price does not include
- Child discount (ages 10-13): €90 (the child discount only applies when you book regular flights with us)
- The contribution to carbon neutrality
- Pre-delivery to Paris
- Meals indicated as free in the day-by-day
- Airport transfers, in cases where the arrival and departure times, airport or dates do not correspond to those of the group and program.
Options
- Single room supplement during the nights of your stay : CHF329.33 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
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.
⚠️ For this trip, you must also have a snowmobile driver's license.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Extreme cold weather boots (Sorel type), extreme cold weather jacket and mittens.
- For snowmobiling: helmet and balaclava
- For snowshoeing: poles and snowshoes
At the time of booking, you will be asked for your height, shoe size and weight in order to reserve the appropriate equipment in advance.
Equipment to bring
- Your snowmobile driver's license (remember to bring the original)
- Your credit card will be required for the equipment deposit (a photocopy of your credit card will be taken). The deposit is €50 per item provided and €2000 for the snowmobile.
- A towel for the saunas in the evening
- A personal first aid kit
- A lip balm
- A tube of sunscreen (useful from February onwards when the sun starts to get hot)
- Vaseline or moisturizing cream
- High-protection sunglasses or ski goggles
- A thermos of at least 1L (mandatory) to keep you warm during the day: you fill your thermos with hot water in the morning, the guide will provide you with what you need to make soups and hot drinks during the day.
- A headlamp, with spare batteries
Optional:
- A camera (be careful with batteries as they don't last long in the cold)
- A camera tripod for aurora borealis photography
- An external battery (to be placed in carry-on luggage)
- Earplugs
- A knife (to be put in checked baggage)
- Some hand warmers
Clothing to bring
Plan for a "3-layer" system:
For clothing, the layering method is best. This involves wearing several layers of clothing, the closest to the body allowing perspiration to evaporate easily. The other layers retain heat or protect the body from external conditions.
1/ The base layer (directly against the skin)
Complete warm underwear set (tights and long-sleeved top)
2/ The intermediate layer
A warm sweater or thick fleece.
3/ The outer layer
It protects you from the wind and snow. We recommend a Gore-Tex type jacket or a warm ski jacket.
- A warm jacket (warm ski jacket or down jacket) in addition to the one provided on site
- Ski pants
- Waterproof shoes or winter hiking or après-ski boots, in addition to those provided on site
- Slippers or light sneakers for the hostel
- Pairs of wool socks
- Warm sweaters or fleece jackets
- Underwear, both top and bottom. This is your first layer of insulation, so make sure it's good. Thin technical fibers, like Carline or Polartec, are very effective, warm, flexible, comfortable, and lightweight. They also dry very quickly.
- A pair of warm, waterproof mittens
- A pair of fleece or wool gloves
- A pair of glove liners
- A beanie
- A neck warmer or balaclava
- Nightwear
- A swimsuit to enjoy the saunas in the evening
Remember to keep your extremities (hands, feet, nose) well covered as they are very sensitive to the cold. These parts of the body cool down very quickly when inactive.
They traveled with us
They traveled with us
Fauve
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.
march 2026
In a group
Marie Noelle
- 55 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.
december 2025
In family
Emilie
- 41 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.
march 2025
In a group
Edith
- 47 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.
march 2025
In a couple
Nicolas
- 60 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.
march 2025
In a couple
Lucie
- 36 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.
february 2025
In a group
Aline
- 34 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.
february 2025
In a group
Olivia
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.
february 2025
In a group
Macha
- 56 ans
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february 2025
In a couple
Everything was well-oiled and organized. No downtime. We really enjoyed the participatory approach to the trip, the campfires at lunchtime, helping to prepare the dog teams, and pulling the pulkas. Truly a wonderful first experience. We even saw the Northern Lights!
Enora
- 47 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.
february 2025
In a couple
The Paulin team
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