Book Flights to Kuusamo (KAO)

Ensconced idyllically in the fells of Finnish Lapland, Kuusamo is always an excellent holiday destination, whether you visit when the temperature is –20°C or +20°C. It is a popular choice for fans of spending time in the great outdoors and partaking in a wide range of activities. Learn more about what to expect from your trip with this Finnair travel guide to Kuusamo.

Sights in Kuusamo

At Ruka Ski Resort, you’ll find well-groomed runs aplenty, even in early spring. Ruka’s ski season lasts over 200 days, making it one of the longest in Europe. Both downhill and cross-country skiing can be enjoyed here, and the winters also offer exciting activities like husky-pulled sleigh rides, snowmobiling, reindeer-pulled sleigh rides, sledging, ice fishing and long hikes with snow shoes. The area has an ice rink too. During the summer season, you can experience the thrills and spills of white-water rafting on foaming rapids, or hike to your heart’s content in the starkly beautiful countryside in one of the magnificent national parks in Oulanka, Riisitunturi and Hossa, or even Paanajärvi in Russia. Hike the splendid Karhunkierros, one of Finland’s most-loved trails. The main trail spans 80 kilometres (50 miles), but shorter routes can also be followed. The dramatic wilderness is home to some of the country’s rarest animals, including bears, wolves and wolverines. Other summertime activities include canoeing, fishing, cycling, camping and nature-spotting.

Kuusamo House provides the main cultural events in the area, with a small collection of art and regular performances. Even more art can be found at the Kaamos Gallery, and the Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Centre is a world-class exhibition of local photography. There are two museums worth visiting when in town: The Museum of Kuusamo and another located in the old Kirkkoketo School. Stop by Kuusamo Church to snap a picture and take children to the Angry Birds Activity Park. If you travel to Kuusamo between mid-May and the end of July, you can also enjoy the midnight sun. The Northern Lights are usually visible between August and April.

Things to See and Do Near Kuusamo

• Kuusamon Tropiikki Spa – Relax and unwind after a long day of skiing with a blissful spa experience. Massages, a sauna, an indoor pool, yoga classes and facial treatments are a few of the options available here.
• Oulanka National Park Visitor Center – This is the best place for obtaining information about the national park and planning your outdoor adventures.
• Iisakki’s Winter Village – Sitting on the shores of Lake Rukajärvi, this village is constructed each year from snow. The igloos, restaurant and theatre are certainly worth visiting.

Shopping in Kuusamo

Most local shops in Kuusamo specialise in handmade crafts from the area, and you’ll also find stores that sell outdoor equipment and clothing.

• Aste Brandstore Ruka – This store sells a range of clothing for both leisure and sports.
• Elmo Sport Kuusamo – A selection of outdoor clothing and equipment can be found here.
• Riipisen Riista – A great place to source a wide range of local handicrafts, gifts and souvenirs.
• Ateljee Taitoneula – If you’re looking for interesting home items with a local touch, the diverse products here are sure to please.
• Kuusamon Uistin – This famous spoon factory also has an onsite store.

Food and Drink

• Poronkäristys – A Lappish speciality available in Kuusamo, this dish consists of sautéed reindeer.
• Leipäjuusto – This is a type of cheese that is produced locally. Because of the sound it makes when chewing, the cheese is also sometimes referred to as “Finnish Squeaky Cheese”.

Transport in Kuusamo

The main centres are easy to get around on foot, but transportation is needed for exploring the surrounding areas. Although many people have a car to facilitate their adventures, there is also useful public transportation in Kuusamo that serves most places of interest.

• Buses – Local buses connect Ruka with the airport all throughout the year. Do note, though, that these buses do not travel through Kuusamo town. In the winter months, buses connect Kuusamo and Ruko; most years there are free ski shuttle services. Buses also connect with the Karhunkierros Trail, Juuma and Oulanka Visitor Centre.
• Taxis – Taxis in Kuusamo are not difficult to arrange. If you call for a taxi then the company might group you with others going in the same direction, helping to cut the costs of the fare.