Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural wonders of Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area in Northern Finland with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area is a vast, pristine wilderness located in Finnish Lapland, in Northern Finland. Covering over 142 square kilometers, the area boasts rugged landscapes, ancient forests, and clear lakes. Here you can experience untouched nature, a rich cultural heritage, and traditional Finnish hospitality.

Whether you want to hike through the wilderness, discover the local culture, or just relax in the tranquility of nature, Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sámi Museum Siida: The museum showcases the life and culture of the Sámi people, the indigenous inhabitants of Lapland.
  • Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church: A historic wooden church that dates back to the 17th century and is still in use today.

Natural Attractions of Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Saariselkä Fell: The highest point in the area, offering spectacular panoramic views of the wilderness.
  • Kaunispää Hill: Another great viewpoint that can be accessed by a chairlift.
  • Kiilopää Fell: A popular hiking destination with well-marked trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area is a paradise for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Halti Fell Trail: A challenging 55 km hike that leads to the highest peak in Finland.
  • Karhunjuomalampi Trail: A moderate 8 km day hike that takes you through beautiful forest scenery.
  • Urho Kekkonen National Park Trails: A network of trails that offer a variety of difficulty levels and distances.

Best Things to Do in Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area: Activities and Tours

  • Aurora Borealis Watching: Experience the magic of the Northern Lights in the clear skies of Lapland.
  • Reindeer Safari: Learn about the local reindeer herding culture, and enjoy a peaceful sled ride through the wilderness.
  • Snowmobiling: Explore the wilderness on a snowmobile tour, and experience the thrill of speed on the open trails.

Week-Long Itinerary for Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

Day 1: Explore Saariselkä and visit the Sámi Museum Siida.

Day 2: Hike to the top of Saariselkä Fell and enjoy the stunning views.

Day 3: Take a reindeer safari and learn about the local culture.

Day 4: Snowmobile to the remote wilderness hut and spend the night sleeping in a traditional Finnish cabin or igloo.

Day 5: Visit Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church and enjoy a guided tour of the surrounding area.

Day 6: Hike the Karhunjuomalampi Trail and have a picnic in the beautiful forest.

Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby Inari and explore the town and its museums.

Food and Drink Scene of Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

Must-Try Dishes

  • Reindeer Meat: A local delicacy that is served in many different ways, such as reindeer stew or smoked reindeer.
  • Sautéed Gill: A traditional Finnish fish dish made with arctic char, a locally caught fish.
  • Rössypottu: A hearty stew made with potatoes and meat, perfect for a cold winter day.

Local Beverages

  • Cloudberry Wine: A sweet, fruity wine made from locally grown cloudberries.
  • Lapin Kulta: A popular Finnish beer that is brewed in Lapland.

Where to Stay in Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Wilderness Hotel Muotka: A cozy hotel with private cabins surrounded by nature.
  • Northern Lights Ranch: A unique hotel that offers igloo accommodations in the winter and luxury tents in the summer.
  • Hostel Siellä Jossain: An affordable hostel located in the town of Saariselkä.

What to Buy in Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sámi Handicrafts: Authentic traditional handicrafts made by the Sámi people, such as jewelry, clothing, and accessories.
  • Lingonberry Jam: A sweet and tart jam made from locally grown lingonberries.
  • Kuksa: A traditional Finnish wooden cup that is perfect for enjoying a hot beverage on a cold day.

Local Culture and Customs of Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

The Sámi people have a rich cultural heritage that is still present today in the local community. Traditional reindeer herding and fishing remain important parts of the local economy, and Sámi handicrafts continue to be popular souvenirs. Visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

The best time to visit Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area is in the winter months from December to March, when you can enjoy the snow-covered landscapes and Northern Lights. However, the area is also beautiful in the summer months from June to August, when the forests are lush and green, and the Midnight Sun provides long daylight hours.

Do’s and Don’ts of Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

Do:

  • Respect nature and stay on marked trails.
  • Dress in warm clothing layers and wear appropriate footwear.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Harm the environment by littering.
  • Disturb the local wildlife.
  • Ignore weather warnings or go on adventures unprepared.

Safety and Health

Safety in Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

  • Always inform someone of your itinerary before leaving.
  • Carry a map and adequate food and water supplies.
  • Be aware of the risk of hypothermia and frostbite in winter.

Health in Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

  • The area is generally safe and has good hygiene standards.
  • Tap water is safe to drink.
  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance in the summer months, so bring insect repellent.

Getting to Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

  • Ivalo Airport: The closest airport to the area, located 30 km away.

Bus Stations Near Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

  • Saariselkä Bus Station: Served by buses from cities such as Rovaniemi and Helsinki.

Other Options

  • Car rental: A good option for those who want to explore the area at their own pace.
  • Taxi: Available throughout the area, but can be expensive.

How to Get Around in Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area

The best way to get around Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area is on foot or by bike. The area has well-marked and maintained trails for hiking and biking. For longer distances, taxis or car rental may be necessary.

Where to Go Next from Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Inari: A nearby town with a rich Sámi culture and a museum dedicated to the indigenous people of Lapland.
  • Urho Kekkonen National Park: A larger national park located nearby with a wider range of trails and landscapes.

Conclusion

Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area is a unique destination that offers visitors the chance to experience a pristine wilderness, learn about a rich cultural heritage, and enjoy traditional Finnish hospitality. Whether you come in winter or summer, there’s always something to see and do in this beautiful part of Northern Finland.

View across a valley towards Rássejohčohkka, photographer close to the tree line View across a valley towards Rássejohčohkka, photographer close to the tree line View from Ávžegašoaivi to forested valleys and hills. View from Ávžegašoaivi to forested valleys and hills. The vegetation is surprisingly lush at some spots. The vegetation is surprisingly lush at some spots. The former post route is easy to follow on the fell heath in summer, less so at some lowland stretches. The former post route is easy to follow on the fell heath in summer, less so at some lowland stretches. Lake in the Stuorrâävži canyon, fell birch on the less steep slopes Lake in the Stuorrâävži canyon, fell birch on the less steep slopes Peltojärvi seen from Peltoaivi Peltojärvi seen from Peltoaivi Kuárvikozzâ seen from the north-east Kuárvikozzâ seen from the north-east Potable water is seldom an issue in the valleys. Potable water is seldom an issue in the valleys. Camping wild below the treeline Camping wild below the treeline