Kuusamo Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and adventurous activities of Kuusamo with our comprehensive travel guide. Find detailed information on places to visit, hiking routes, food, accommodation, and more. Plan your trip with our recommendations and tips.


Introduction to Kuusamo

Kuusamo is a picturesque town in Northern Finland, known for its natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and adventurous activities. It is located in the Kainuu and Eastern Oulu region, near the Russian border.

Kuusamo’s landscape is dominated by forests, lakes, and hills, making it a perfect destination for hikers, skiers, and nature enthusiasts. The town has a rich cultural heritage, including museums and historical sites that showcase the local way of life. Kuusamo is also renowned for its traditional food and drink selections, featuring the indigenous flavors of the region.

List of Places to Visit in Kuusamo

If you are planning a trip to Kuusamo, here are some of the top attractions worth exploring:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kuusamo has a rich cultural heritage that you can explore by visiting the following museums and historical sites:

  • Rukatunturi Ski Museum- features the history of skiing in Kuusamo and its significance to the town’s identity.
  • Kuusamo Log Church Museum- showcases the traditional Finnish architecture of wooden buildings and religious history of Kuusamo.
  • Jatkankynttila Museum- highlights the rich history and significance of candle making in Kuusamo.

Natural Attractions of Kuusamo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kuusamo’s natural beauty is the main attraction for many visitors. From scenic views to outdoor activities, Kuusamo has it all:

  • Oulanka National Park- offers hiking, canoeing, and winter sports opportunities in a breathtaking natural environment.
  • Ruka Ski Resort- one of the most popular ski resorts in Finland, with over 34 slopes for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
  • Riisitunturi National Park- a perfect place for hiking, with stunning views of forests and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kuusamo

Kuusamo is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails showcasing the region’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Kuusamo:

  • Karhunkierros Trail- a 80 km-long hiking trail that runs through Oulanka National Park, featuring stunning waterfalls and rapids.
  • Pieni Karhunkierros Trail- a shorter version of Karhunkierros trail, covering 12 km with scenic views and varied terrain.
  • Ruka Peak Trail- a moderate-level hiking trail that leads to the summit of Ruka, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Kuusamo: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Kuusamo offers various adventurous and relaxing activities:

  • Dog Sledding- a thrilling experience to explore the wilderness by riding on a sled pulled by huskies.
  • Fishing- Kuusamo is home to many lakes and rivers, with abundant fish species for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Sauna and Spa- indulge in the Finnish tradition of relaxing in a hot sauna and enjoy spa treatments to rejuvenate your body and mind.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kuusamo

If you have a week to spare, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your stay in Kuusamo:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Rukatunturi Ski Museum, Kuusamo Log Church Museum, and Jatkankynttila Museum.
Day 2 Hike the Karhunkierros Trail and explore the stunning Oulanka National Park.
Day 3 Go skiing or snowboarding at Ruka Ski Resort and try your hand at ice fishing.
Day 4 Take part in a husky dog sled tour and try traditional Finnish food at a local restaurant.
Day 5 Relax in a sauna and enjoy a spa treatment at Ruka Spa Resort.
Day 6 Hike the Ruka Peak Trail for breathtaking views of Kuusamo.
Day 7 Visit Riisitunturi National Park and try your hand at snowshoeing and tobogganing.

Food and Drink Scene of Kuusamo

Kuusamo’s food and drink scene is a unique blend of traditional Finnish flavors and local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Karjalanpaisti- a traditional beef stew made with root vegetables.
  • Savulohi- smoked salmon, a popular dish in Finland.
  • Sienipiirakka- mushroom pie, a staple dish in Kuusamo.

Local Beverages

  • Sahti- a traditional Finnish beer made with juniper berries and malted barley.
  • Leipajuoma- a non-alcoholic beverage made from rye bread, sugar, and water.

Where to Stay in Kuusamo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kuusamo offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Ruka Ski Resort- a 4-star resort with private cottages and a variety of outdoor activities.
  • Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki- features a tropical pool complex with water slides and saunas.
  • Ollilan Lomamajat- offers comfortable cabins by the lake with stunning views.

What to Buy in Kuusamo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kuusamo is renowned for its traditional handicrafts, unique souvenirs, and local products. Here are some recommendations:

  • Kuksa- a traditional wooden cup that is a staple of Finnish culture.
  • Sisu Candy- a type of Finnish candy made with strong licorice flavor.
  • Handicrafts- local artisans offer handmade traditional textiles, pottery, and woodwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Kuusamo

Kuusamo’s culture is closely tied to the outdoors, with a deep appreciation for nature and traditional Finnish customs. Respect for nature is an essential value in Kuusamo, and visitors are expected to follow local traditions and etiquettes.

Best Time to Visit Kuusamo

Kuusamo is a year-round destination, offering different experiences in each season. Summer is ideal for hiking and water activities, while winter is perfect for skiing and winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kuusamo

Do:

  • Respect the environment and follow the Leave No Trace principles while hiking.
  • Try traditional Finnish food and beverages, including reindeer meat and Karelian pies.
  • Take part in local traditions and festivals, such as the Ruka Ski Marathon.

Don’t:

  • Litter the environment or harm endangered animal species like the Siberian flying squirrel.
  • Wear shoes indoors, as it’s a tradition to leave your shoes at the door in Finnish homes.
  • Get too close to wild animals, such as bears or wolves.

Safety and Health

Kuusamo is a safe destination, but it is always advisable to take precautions while exploring the outdoors. Here are some tips:

Safety in Kuusamo

  • Follow all safety guidelines while skiing or participating in water activities.
  • Leave your itinerary with someone, and carry a map or GPS device while hiking.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions and sudden changes.

Health in Kuusamo

  • Make sure you have comprehensive medical insurance before traveling to Finland.
  • Seek medical attention immediately in case of an emergency.
  • Use insect repellants and take precautions against ticks while hiking in the forest.

Getting to Kuusamo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kuusamo is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.

Airports Near Kuusamo

  • Kuusamo Airport- located only 6 km from the town center and has regular flights from Helsinki.

Bus Stations Near Kuusamo

  • Kuusamo Bus Station- offers regular bus services to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

  • Car Rental- rental cars are available at Kuusamo Airport or town center.
  • Train- the closest train station is in Oulu, located 188 km away from Kuusamo.

How to Get Around in Kuusamo

Public transportation is not very frequent in Kuusamo, so renting a car or bike is advisable. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Kuusamo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kuusamo is surrounded by many beautiful places worth exploring, including:

  • Oulu- a vibrant city known for its cultural festivals and natural beauty.
  • Rovaniemi- the capital of Lapland, famous for its Santa Claus Village and reindeer farms.
  • Helsinki- the capital city of Finland, with an abundance of cultural and historical landmarks.

Conclusion

Kuusamo is an excellent travel destination for those looking to explore the outdoors, local culture, and traditional food and drink. With our comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip to Kuusamo with ease and make the most of your stay. Remember to follow local customs and etiquettes, stay safe and enjoy your trip to Kuusamo.

Myllykoski rapids of Kitkajoki, Oulanka National Park Myllykoski rapids of Kitkajoki, Oulanka National Park National road 20 in winter National road 20 in winter Local history museum Local history museum View from Ristikallio in Oulanka National Park. Ice left in late May. View from Ristikallio in Oulanka National Park. Ice left in late May. Kuusamo market square Kuusamo market square