Rovaniemi: Riisitunturi National Park with Local Guide Timo

Explore Riisitunturi with a Local

Born in Posio, home to Riisitunturi National Park, Timo has explored these landscapes since childhood. Discover the park through local stories, knowledge and genuine Arctic hospitality.

Small Groups – More Personal

Smaller groups create a relaxed atmosphere, more flexibility and better opportunities to enjoy the scenery, ask questions and experience Lapland at a comfortable pace.

Authentic Lapland,
Not a Rush

This experience is designed around nature, not strict timetables. Take time to enjoy the famous snow-covered trees, peaceful wilderness and unforgettable views of Riisitunturi National Park.

WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY ABOUT THE TOUR WITH TIMO?

⭐ 4.9/5 by Guests from Around the World

Honestly .. this has been one of the best tours ever! Timo is not simply a guide.. He is the kind of wonderful person you hope to meet when you travel but rarely ever do. A true local with a vast cultural background, which I will definitely treasure! During the tour, he told me so many stories about the place, with all its secrets, traditions, and folklore. Honestly, I couldn't have asked for anything better! He took care of me, even before meeting me, and throughout the day he made sure everything was going well. He just made my day☺️ His passion for his work is evident from a mile away and I consider myself truly lucky. After this experience, I feel compelled to recommend everyone to book his tours.. trust me! Do you want to experience a wonderful adventure, discovering fairytale places, savoring Finnish delicacies, listening to life stories around the fire, and much, much more? Trust Timo! 5 stars are too few, if I could I would give more!✨️ Believe me, you won't regret it!

Antonella - United Kingdom

”The tour was absolutely fantastic and I can wholeheartedly recommend it. Timo is simply the best guide you could imagine. As a local, he provides incredibly valuable information about Finland and its history, nature and geography. We made an extra stop so that he could show us how tree trunks used to be transported by water in Finland. He takes his time and is very attentive to the needs of his customers. While walking through Riisitunturi National Park, Timo gave us lots of insights into the area and conjured up a delicious, totally authentic barbecue in a hut. The return journey was marked by a wonderful sunset and we were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights and even a comet. Here, too, he took the time and if possible, he stopped so that we could take a few pictures. It was an all-round perfect tour that I would recommend to anyone who really wants to discover Lapland. The photos taken were also excellent. You couldn't find a more passionate local guide.”

Stefanie – Germany

”It was a wonderful excursion, beautiful because you feel like you're in a fairy tale. My guide was Timo, a wonderful person who explained everything with great enthusiasm and knowledge. He's a fantastic and very thorough guide, making the place even more wonderful. I recommend it 100%, and with Timo as your guide, because he's sensational. Thank you so much, Timo 🙏🙏🙏, for giving me such a fantastic day in that spectacular and unique National Park.

Mª – Spain

Timo was a fantastic guide. The drive was long, but we chatted in English, which allowed us to get to know him better and learn more about Finnish customs and traditions. Riisitunturi is truly beautiful and pleasant. We had a wonderful time surrounded by a lunar landscape, sometimes shrouded in clouds. Timo even had time to take us to a very charming local ceramics factory. Thank you, Timo, for this wonderful experience and your kindness!

VINCENT RODRIGUEZ - France

READY TO EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF RIISITUNTURI?

Effortless Day – Everything Taken Care Of

From pickup and transportation to guiding and lunch, everything is arranged for you. You don’t need to worry about planning routes, driving in winter conditions, or finding the best spots – just relax and enjoy the day.

Perfect for Photos & Content Creation

Riisitunturi offers some of the most photogenic winter landscapes in Lapland, making this experience perfect for photography, social media content and unforgettable personal memories.

Your guide also captures professional photos throughout the day, so you can fully enjoy the experience while still receiving high-quality edited images afterwards through a personal download link.

Meet the Local Guide Timo & Experience the Tour

Get a real feeling for the experience before your adventure begins.

In this short video, Arctic Safari Guides founder and local guide Timo introduces the experience, the landscapes and the atmosphere of a day in Riisitunturi National Park.

You’ll see what makes this experience different — small groups, peaceful Arctic nature, carefully timed departures and authentic Lapland moments far away from crowded mass tourism.

Frequently asked questions

Why explore Riisitunturi with Local Guide Timo?

Riisitunturi is not just another destination for me. I was born in Posio, the municipality where Riisitunturi National Park is located, and I have explored these landscapes since childhood. During the tour, I share local stories, nature knowledge and personal insights that go beyond a standard sightseeing experience.

Do I need traction cleats or spikes?

No — you do not need to bring your own traction cleats or spikes.

Safety is very important to us, and we always carry ice cleats with us if we feel trail conditions require them. In most conditions at Riisitunturi National Park, normal winter boots are usually sufficient.

How difficult is the hike?

The hike is considered easy to moderate. There are some small hills and uneven terrain, but we take breaks and move at a comfortable pace.

Can I join if I have no previous hiking experience?

Yes. This experience is suitable for most visitors with a normal level of fitness. The pace is relaxed, and I adjust the day to the group whenever possible. Riisitunturi is about enjoying nature, not rushing through a hike.

What should I wear?

Warm winter clothing is essential. We recommend layered clothing, thermal base layers, gloves, a hat, and proper winter shoes. If needed, additional winter gear can be provided.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Absolutely. There is plenty of time for photography, and your guide can help you capture the best shots.

How cold does it get?

Temperatures typically range from around -5°C to -30°C in winter. Your guide Timo ensures the experience is safe and comfortable with breaks and warm-up opportunities..

How will we receive the photos taken by the guide?

Photos taken during the tour will be uploaded to a cloud service, and you will receive a download link after the trip.

How long is the drive to Riisitunturi?

The drive takes approximately 2 hours one way from Rovaniemi. The journey itself is scenic and part of the experience.

Why is your Riisitunturi tour slightly more expensive than others?

This experience is built around quality rather than volume. Groups are kept small, professional photos are included, and every tour is guided personally by Local Guide Timo. My goal is not to show you as many places as possible in one day — it's to help you truly experience Riisitunturi National Park.

Is lunch included?

Yes, a café-style lunch is included, along with hot drinks during the day.

Are there toilets available?

There are basic facilities available at certain points during the day, but not along the entire trail. Your guide will inform you about the best times to use them.

Are the trees always covered in snow?

We cannot guarantee this, as nature is always changing. The famous snow-covered “tykky” trees are common in winter, but conditions can vary depending on weather and wind. The landscape can change even within a single day.

Can I fly a drone during the tour?

Yes, but you are responsible for checking current regulations. As this is a national park, it’s important to respect both nature and other visitors.

Can I visit Riisitunturi on my own?

Yes, but winter driving conditions can be challenging. It’s also important to plan your trip carefully, as Riisitunturi is an Arctic environment where conditions can change quickly.

Can you walk anywhere in Riisitunturi National Park?

The purpose of Riisitunturi National Park is to protect a fragile Arctic environment. To minimize impact, we always stay on marked trails.

While snowshoeing allows more freedom in theory, I do not consider off-trail walking sustainable in this area. Unofficial paths are increasingly visible, which can damage the environment over time.

Who is responsible for maintaining Riisitunturi in winter?

The trails, parking area, and facilities are maintained by Metsähallitus (Forest governance of Finland), including firewood supply at designated campfire sites.

Are you part of the official Metsähallitus partnership program?

Yes. All tour operators must be part of this program. We pay a fee to Forest Government Metsähallitus, which allows us to use maintained routes and facilities responsibly.

How do you ensure sustainability in your tours?

I have lived most of my life in Lapland, so taking care of nature is a natural part of who I am.

Everything we bring into Riisitunturi National Park is also carried out. I follow a strict leave-no-trace approach, use bio-based tableware, and offer vegetarian meal options.

All tours stay on marked trails to protect the environment.

I also encourage guests to help keep the area clean, and I actively observe local wildlife. If I notice something unusual, I document it and share it with researchers at Arktikum.

During the tour, I share insights about Arctic nature and seasonal changes, helping guests better understand this unique environment.

Can I Join the Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Absolutely. Solo travellers are warmly welcome. Unlike many operators, I do not automatically cancel departures simply because only one guest has booked. If I can operate the tour safely and responsibly, I will do my best to make it happen.

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