Exploring the frozen landscapes of Finland through snowshoeing and ice fishing can be an exhilarating adventure. This guided tour offers a chance to take in the wintry wonderland, learning survival skills and savoring traditional Finnish snacks. Whether a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time snowshoer, the intimate small-group experience promises a personalized journey. With transportation and equipment provided, it’s a convenient way to discover the enchanting frozen world. However, the true allure of this tour lies in the opportunity to connect with nature and uncover the region’s unique cultural traditions.
Key Points
- This tour combines snowshoeing and ice fishing activities for an immersive outdoor experience in Finland.
- The tour includes transportation, winter equipment, and Finnish snacks/hot drinks, as well as survival and fire-making skills from a knowledgeable guide.
- The group size is capped at 8 for an intimate and personalized adventure, suitable for both seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and first-time snowshoers.
- Convenient pickup from hotel or tour office, with a flexible option to start the adventure and a straightforward cancellation policy.
- Exclusions, such as alcoholic drinks and lunch, keep the tour affordable while focusing on the core snowshoeing, ice fishing, and Finnish cultural aspects.
Tour Overview
This tour combines the thrilling activities of snowshoeing and ice fishing into a single excursion. It includes transportation, all necessary winter equipment, and tasty Finnish snacks and hot drinks to keep you fueled throughout the adventure.
Along the way, you’ll have the chance to pick up valuable survival and fire-making skills from the knowledgeable guide.
The group size is capped at 8 travelers to ensure an intimate and personalized experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time snowshoer, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to learn about the serene Finnish winter landscape and try your hand at age-old Arctic survival techniques.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The tour starts with convenient pickup from your hotel or meeting at the tour office. The pick-up time will be confirmed one day prior to the activity start.
There’s a €40 one-way surcharge for transfers to and from Apukka Resort. This ensures you’re transported to the snowshoeing and ice fishing site with ease.
The professional guide will handle all the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the winter activities.
Whether you need a ride from your accommodation or want to meet the group at the tour office, the tour provides flexible options to start your adventure. Just let the team know your preference, and they’ll have you covered.
Included in the Tour
The tour’s inclusive package covers a range of essential elements to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Travelers receive all necessary taxes, fees, and handling charges, as well as the specialized snowshoeing and ice fishing equipment needed for the activities.
To keep participants warm and comfortable, the tour provides professional winter clothing and boots. Plus, Finnish snacks and hot drinks are included throughout the day to fuel the adventure.
For those staying outside the city center, the tour also offers convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service.
The tour includes:
- Snowshoeing and ice fishing equipment
- Professional winter clothing and boots
- Finnish snacks and hot drinks
Exclusions From the Tour
While the tour includes a comprehensive package, there are a few exclusions travelers should be aware of.
Alcoholic drinks aren’t provided as part of the tour, and you will need to arrange their own lunch during the day’s activities. This allows more flexibility for individual preferences and dietary needs.
The focus of the tour is on the snowshoeing and ice fishing experiences, complemented by Finnish snacks and hot drinks. Travelers can plan to bring their own alcoholic beverages or purchase them separately if desired. Similarly, lunch isn’t included, giving people the freedom to choose their own midday meal.
These exclusions ensure the tour remains affordable while still delivering an immersive winter adventure.
Cancellation Policy
Moving on to the cancellation policy, travelers can expect a full refund if they cancel 24 hours or more before the start time. However, there’s no refund for cancellations less than 24 hours prior. This policy is subject to weather and minimum traveler conditions.
The cancellation policy has a few key points:
- Full refund for cancellations 24 hours or more before the tour.
- No refund for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
- Subject to weather and minimum number of travelers required for the tour to proceed.
This straightforward policy ensures fairness for both the tour operator and the travelers. Adhering to the cancellation guidelines is essential for a smooth experience.
Snowshoeing Activity
Typically, the snowshoeing segment of the tour begins with a brief tutorial on the proper use and fit of snowshoes.
Participants then set out on a scenic trek through the snowy wilderness, guided by an experienced instructor who shares insights about the local flora, fauna, and winter survival techniques.
The snowshoes allow the group to navigate the deep snow with ease, providing an opportunity to explore the winter landscape up close.
Along the way, the guide points out animal tracks and other natural features, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s rugged beauty.
Snowshoeing not only gets the heart rate up but also allows participants to disconnect from daily stresses and enjoy the serene, snow-covered surroundings.
Ice Fishing Experience
After the snowshoeing activity, the group makes its way to a frozen lake where they’ll try their hand at ice fishing.
The guide demonstrates how to set up the fishing equipment, including drilling holes through the thick ice to access the water below. Participants then take turns casting their lines, eagerly awaiting a bite from the elusive fish that inhabit the icy depths.
The guide offers tips and techniques to increase the chances of a successful catch, sharing local knowledge about the species commonly found in the area and the best locations to target them.
The ice fishing experience offers:
- A chance to learn traditional Finnish fishing methods
- An opportunity to connect with the winter landscape
- The thrill of reeling in a fresh catch from the frozen lake
Winter Survival Skills
The guide imparts valuable winter survival skills to the group, teaching them how to build a fire and construct a basic shelter using natural materials found in the snowy landscape.
They learn the importance of insulation, with techniques for creating makeshift blankets and tarps from evergreen branches and snow.
The group practices building a fire from scratch, using tinder, kindling, and carefully selected logs to sustain warmth in the freezing temperatures.
The guide emphasizes the need to conserve energy and stay hydrated, sharing tips on minimizing exertion and recognizing the early signs of hypothermia.
These essential wilderness skills equip the travelers with the knowledge to safely navigate and survive extreme winter conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?
The tour has a maximum group size of 8 travelers. This allows for a more personal and intimate experience during the snowshoeing and ice fishing activities.
Are Private Tours Available for Larger Groups?
Private tours can be arranged for larger groups, though the standard maximum group size is 8 participants. The tour operator can accommodate more travelers upon request, subject to availability and additional costs.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
The tour doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. However, the activities involved may not be suitable for young children. Customers should consider the physical abilities of all participants when booking the tour.
Are There Any Medical or Physical Fitness Requirements?
There are no specific medical or physical fitness requirements. However, participants should be able to comfortably walk in snow and handle cold weather conditions. Those with health concerns should consult the tour provider before booking.
Can Participants Expect to Catch and Keep Any Fish?
Participants can expect to try ice fishing during the tour, but they may not necessarily catch and keep any fish. The tour focuses on the experience of ice fishing, not guaranteeing a successful catch.
Recap
This snowshoeing and ice fishing tour in Finland provides an immersive winter experience.
Participants will enjoy outdoor activities, traditional Finnish snacks, and learn survival skills from a knowledgeable guide.
The small group size ensures a personalized adventure, suitable for both experienced enthusiasts and first-time snowshoers.
With transportation, equipment, and hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s a convenient and affordable way to explore the Finnish winter landscape.