Things To Do
in Kuusamo
Kuusamo sits in northern Finland where boreal forests, pristine lakes, and clean air define the landscape. It is the gateway to the Ruka-Kuusamo region, a year‑round playground for skiing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The nearby Oulanka and Riisitunturi areas offer dramatic scenery, from river gorges to snow-blanketed birch forests.
In winter the town feels calm and magical, while summer brings long days for outdoor adventures and berry-picking delights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Kuusamo Airport and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a hearty Finnish breakfast featuring local ingredients. Prepare for your adventures by checking your gear and planning your itinerary.
Explore the quaint town of Kuusamo, where you can visit local shops and markets. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cozy cafe, sampling traditional Finnish dishes. Capture stunning photographs of the surrounding landscapes and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
As dusk falls, head to a nearby spot for your first glimpse of the Northern Lights, if the season permits. Enjoy a traditional Finnish dinner at a local restaurant, savoring flavors inspired by the region. Wrap up your evening by unwinding at your accommodation or taking a calm walk under the starlit sky.
Join a guided wildlife safari to explore the remote areas around Kuusamo. Rise early and enjoy a nutritious breakfast, energizing you for a day of adventure. Look out for majestic animals such as moose, bears, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Continue your safari, navigating through lush forests and scenic valleys. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, making the experience even more memorable. Capture the tranquil beauty of the Finnish landscapes through your lens as you encounter diverse wildlife.
Return to Kuusamo and unwind with a captivating evening spent at a traditional Finnish sauna. Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local game meat, prepared with seasonal ingredients. Reflect on your day's adventure while soaking in the serene ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🥗Mid-range restaurant dinner for two | $50-90 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (mid-range) | $90-150 per night |
| 🚗Local transportation (bus/taxi per ride) | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to vast wilderness and national parks
- Year‑round outdoor activities (skiing, hiking, aurora viewing)
- High-quality healthcare and safety standards
- Friendly locals and strong regional hospitality
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Weather can be extreme and travel can be challenging in winter
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Anteeksi" - Excuse me / sorry
- "Paljonko tämä maksaa?" - How much is this?
- "Missä on vessa?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Puhutteko englantia?" - Do you speak English?
- "Voitteko suositella jotain paikallista?" - Can you recommend something local?
- "Autan mielelläni" - I am happy to help
Places to Visit in Kuusamo
Visit one of these nice places.
A dynamic river gorge with powerful cascades and dramatic rock formations, especially striking at sunrise and in autumn light.
Iconic snow-blanketed spruce forests and towering frost-laden trees; a photographer’s dream in winter and golden hours in autumn.
Panoramic views over the Ruka area, with forests and lakes below; great for sunrise shots and sunset silhouettes.
Food in Kuusamo
Kuusamo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked reindeer dish typically served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries; a northern specialty found in many establishments around Ruka and Kuusamo.
Must-Try!
Creamy salmon soup with potatoes and dill, a comforting staple at lakeside and countryside restaurants.
A seasonal dessert featuring wild blueberries; widely available in cafes and bakeries in summer.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal open-air market with berries, fish, bread, and local crafts; a great place to sample regional snacks in summer.
Seasonal stalls offering fresh berries and forest treats; a good stop during berry-picking season.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Finns value modesty and punctuality; keep noise level down in public places and respect personal space. Simple greetings like 'terve' (hello) go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Kuusamo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Finland; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service in restaurants is appreciated but not expected.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is accepted but less common in small shops. Mobile payments are common in many places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with the midnight sun in June–July; bugs can be abundant near still waters, so bring repellent and lightweight layers for variable weather.
Vibrant fall colors; cooler temperatures and crisp air make for great outdoor photography and hiking.
Snowy landscapes and long nights offer aurora viewing; be prepared for very cold temperatures and ice on roads.
Rivers swell with snowmelt; landscapes begin to green up, with occasional late-season snow in higher elevations.
Kuusamo at Night
Hiking in Kuusamo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic long-distance hike in Oulanka National Park with river views, cascades, and varied terrain.
Forest loops famous for birch and spruce trees wearing frost in winter and vibrant colors in autumn.
Shorter loops around Kuusamo suitable for family outings and easy day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Kuusamo by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights and seasonal international services; convenient for quick access to Kuusamo and Ruka.
Major northern Finland hub with connections to Helsinki and international destinations; about a 3–4 hour drive to Kuusamo.
Larger airport with frequent connections to Helsinki and beyond; typically a longer drive or transfer to Kuusamo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority Finnish residents with a small Swedish-speaking minority; the population skews older in some areas and the community is tight-knit.
Year-round visitors drawn to nature, winter sports, and northern lights; seasonal influx peaks in winter and late summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely practiced around Ruka and Kuusamo with extensive groomed trails.
Popular winter pursuit across frozen lakes and forests, often offered by local operators.
Karhunkierros and Riisitunturi trails draw outdoor enthusiasts in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuusamo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose mushroom dishes, berry-forward desserts, dairy or plant-based soups; many places can tailor meals upon request.
Opt for vegetable-forward dishes, rye bread with spreads, berries, and soups labeled vegan; communicate dietary needs to staff.