The Nature & Wildlife of North Karelia, Finland

Embark on an Unforgettable Self-Guided Adventure in North Karelia! Discover Finland’s national landscapes, pristine nature, and unique cultural sites waiting just for you. The perfect blend of freedom and carefully planned experiences ensures a truly memorable journey!

Comfortable Accommodations: Stay in cozy cabins with private saunas or charming guesthouses offering a warm welcome and a peaceful atmosphere.
Delicious Meals: Start your day with hearty breakfasts and end it with delightful dinners. Your final evening will be crowned by an unforgettable dinner cruise on a scenic lake.
Entrance Fees and Experiences Included: Enjoy hassle-free access to top attractions such as the Pielinen Museum, Paateri Atelier, Koli Sculpture Park, and Nature Centre Ukko.
A Carefully Designed Route: Clear instructions, local recommendations, and the best insider tips ensure a smooth trip filled with amazing experiences.
The Best of Nature Experiences: Join an unforgettable wildlife-watching evening with EräEero—safely guided by an expert.
Everything is thoughtfully arranged so you can focus on what matters most: immersing yourself in the enchanting nature and culture of North Karelia. All you have to do is set off!

Book an Unforgettable Trip to North Karelia

The trip includes accommodations, meals, entrance tickets, a guided tour, an overnight stay at EräEero’s wildlife-watching lodge, and a carefully planned travel itinerary – starting from €749 per person. Set off in your own or a rented car. If you need to rent a car, we can help you with that.

For more information and bookings: or +358 50 553 3023.

Itinerary for a 6-Day Self-Drive Tour

Day 1: Start Your Journey in Patvinsuo National Park

Begin with a refreshing 5 km hike along the Mäntypolku Trail. This scenic route winds through serene pine forests and wetlands, offering a chance to spot rare birds and immerse yourself in untouched nature.

After the hike, drive to EräEero’s bear-watching lodge. Stay in a cozy cabin with large panoramic windows overlooking the forest. In the evening, experience the thrill of observing bears, wolverines, or other wildlife under the guidance of experienced experts.

Day 2: Hiking, Local Flavors & Wilderness Retreat

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at EräEero’s lodge. After breakfast, embark on a 5.2 km hike around the scenic Ritojärvi Lake, where peaceful forest trails and shimmering waters create a magical atmosphere.

After your hike, drive to Lieksa to stock up on supplies and explore local shops. You can also pick up some Finnish delicacies to enjoy later.

From Lieksa, continue your journey to the Ruunaa Hiking Area, known for its rugged landscapes and pristine wilderness. Settle into your cabin and get ready to explore the breathtaking nature of North Karelia.

End your day with a traditional flame-grilled salmon dinner and a relaxing sauna.

Day 3: Hiking Adventures in Ruunaa

Enjoy breakfast at Ruunaan Matkailu before spending the day exploring the area’s well-marked hiking trails. The paths wind through forests, along rivers, and past rapids, offering stunning views of North Karelia’s serene wilderness.

After your hike, return to your cabin to relax. In the evening, savor a hearty dinner featuring local flavors. End your day with a traditional Finnish sauna, where the soothing heat will ease your muscles and refresh your mind before a peaceful night’s sleep.

Day 4: From Wetlands to Cultural Heritage

After breakfast, head back toward Lieksa. On the way, stop at the Reposuo wetland area and its observation tower to admire North Karelia’s vibrant marshland landscapes.

In Lieksa, visit the Pielinen Museum, one of Finland’s largest open-air museums. Explore its historically significant wooden buildings and exhibitions that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.

After the museum visit, enjoy lunch at a restaurant of your choice in Lieksa before continuing to Paateri, the home and atelier of renowned sculptor Eva Ryynänen. Marvel at her stunning wooden sculptures and the serene chapel she designed.

End the day with a scenic drive to Koli, where you’ll stay in a cozy guesthouse and prepare for the final leg of your North Karelia adventure.

Day 5: Breathtaking Views & a Sunset Dinner Cruise

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Koli National Park. Hike the Mäkrä Trail, which offers spectacular views of Lake Pielinen, rolling hills, and ancient forests—scenery that has inspired countless artists and poets.

After your hike, visit Nature Centre Ukko and explore its interactive exhibitions about the park’s geology, wildlife, and cultural history. Gain a deeper appreciation of Koli’s significance as a symbol of Finnish identity and nature.

In the evening, celebrate your unforgettable journey with a dinner cruise on Lake Pielinen. Enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the peaceful beauty of the lake, islands, and surrounding wilderness as the sun sets.