You need to enable JavaScript to run this app.
New trip
from $5,080
FinlandHelsinki
3+
10 days, 9 nights private tour
Rating 4.9/5

Ruska Wonders of Finland

Discover Finland's autumn magic through this private 10-day journey at a moderate pace. From Helsinki's iconic Rock Church and Market Square to Lapland's wilderness adventures—including bear watching in Ruka, husky safaris in Rovaniemi, and aurora hikes in Saariselkä—this tour balances cultural exploration with authentic Nordic experiences. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and couples seeking the ruska season's golden landscapes alongside Arctic wildlife encounters.… Read more

Ruska Wonders of Finland
Ruska Wonders of Finland

Helsinki, Finland

3 days
Helsinki
Day 1

Arrival


Upon arrival in Helsinki, meet your private driver who transfers you to your centrally located hotel. 

Day 2

City Tour


Following breakfast in your hotel, meet your private guide who takes you on a wonderful 4-hour walking tour to show you the best Helsinki can offer.

During the tour, you walk through the vivid Central Harbor and Market Square, explore the charming Old Town, visit the famous Rock Church and take a short tram ride. After the tour, you return to your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Please note: The Rock Church will be closed for renovation from 11 January to 31 May 2027. During this period, the visit will be replaced with a visit to Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral.

Day 3

Departure


Following breakfast in your hotel, you check out and depart from  Helsinki.

HelsinkiHEL Helsinki Vantaa
Travel time1 h 30 minClassEconomy
Ruka, KuusamoKAO Kuusamo

Flight from Helsinki to Ruka, Kuusamo

Ruka, Kuusamo, Finland

2 days
Ruka, Kuusamo
Day 3

Arrival and Bear & Wildlife Watching Tour

Upon arrival your driver meets you at the airport and transfer to the hotel.

In the evening you step into the heart of Finland’s untamed wilderness for an unforgettable wildlife photography adventure. From the comfort and safety of specially designed hides, you’ll have the chance to watch brown bears, white-tailed eagles, hawks, and a variety of other bird species. With a bit of luck, you may also encounter elusive forest dwellers such as wolverines, foxes, or moose.

The observation area is set in a vast, untouched fen framed by dense forests, with the striking tundra mountains of Russia visible in the distance—providing breathtaking, ever-changing backdrops for your photos.

Guided by professional nature photographers, you’ll receive expert tips to help perfect your shots, along with fascinating insights into the behavior and ecology of the Arctic’s remarkable wildlife.

The hides are conveniently located just 350 meters from the parking area, along a gentle forest trail with no significant elevation changes. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks, or purchase drinks and light refreshments on-site.

The tour starts between 5–6 PM (depending on the season and day) and ends around 10–11 PM. Transfer to and from the hotel is included.

Season: mid-August to September

Restrictions:

  • Smoking, alcohol, and strong scents (perfumes, heavily scented insect repellents) are strictly prohibited.
  • Not recommended for children under 8 years old.
  • If bringing children, prepare quiet entertainment (e.g., books, videos with headphones) as silence is required in the hides. Talking or whispering in a very quiet voice is allowed.

Dress Code:

  • Arrive as odor-free as possible to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Wear dark-colored clothing (shirt/jacket) to avoid being seen through hide windows.

What to Bring:

  • Dress according to the weather; evenings can be chilly, even in summer.
  • Camera/phone and binoculars (fully charged battery recommended).
  • Snacks (optional) – small snacks and drinks are available for purchase on-site (card payments accepted).
  • Indoor shoes or socks (outdoor shoes must be removed before entering hides; indoor shoes/socks can be borrowed).
Day 4

Departure

In the morning, check out from the hotel and meet your driver for the transfer to Rovaniemi.

Ruka, KuusamoRuka hotel
Travel time2 h 30 minClassPrivate Transfer Sedan
RovaniemiRovaniemi hotel

Car from Ruka, Kuusamo to Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi, Finland

5 days
Rovaniemi
Day 4

Arrival


Welcome to to the Motherland of Santa Claus - Rovaniemi!

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel in the city center and have the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 5

Mushrooms & Wild Berries Picking Tour

Embark on a thrilling forest expedition with expert guides who will help you identify hidden treasures among the foliage. Learn about various mushroom species, their unique characteristics, and the best harvesting practices. Lapland is a treasure trove of wild berries. During this tour, you'll pluck nature's candy directly from the bushes, savoring the pure flavors of the forest. As you wander through the woods, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including reindeer, foxes, and a rich variety of bird species, adding to the enchantment of your journey.

Season: July - September.

Day 6

Autumn Husky Safari

Experience the magic of Lapland like never before with Autumn Husky Safari — a thrilling, season-defying adventure where lush green forests meet golden autumn hues. 

Led by one of Lapland’s most storied families — tracing their roots back 20 generations to the 1600s — this experience blends authentic heritage with breathtaking natural beauty. Under the guidance of expert instructors, you’ll meet friendly huskies, learn the art of mushing, and take the reins for your own ride along scenic forest trails.

As your eager team pulls you through rolling landscapes, keep an eye out for roaming reindeer, elk, and other wildlife. The crisp autumn air, the sound of paws on earth, and the brilliant colors of the fells create a setting that’s nothing short of magical.

Inclusions: Meet & greet with the huskies, approximately 6–10 km self-driving trek with the huskies, guiding throughout the experience, convenient pick-up and drop-off from the accommodation, complimentary hot drinks, barbecue with grilled sausages. 

Day 7

Ranua Wildlife Park Tour with Buffet Lunch


Step into the enchanting winter wonderland of Lapland, where snowflakes drift gently, and the air is crisp. Begin your journey with a scenic drive through picturesque forests as you make your way to Ranua Wildlife Park. Home to over 50 Arctic species, the park offers a rare opportunity to observe majestic polar bears, playful wolves, owls, foxes, and many more in their natural habitats.

Guided by experts, you'll gain fascinating insights into the behavior and survival of these remarkable animals in the Arctic wilderness. After your visit, indulge in a delicious buffet lunch while soaking in the breathtaking surroundings. If time allows, enjoy a stop at the Fazer sweets shop and local souvenir stores for a perfect end to your adventure.

Note: Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.

Day 8

Departure

In the morning, check out from the hotel, meet your driver, and head to Saariselkä.

RovaniemiRovaniemi hotel
Travel time3 hClassPrivate Transfer Sedan
SaariselkaSaariselka hotel

Car from Rovaniemi to Saariselka

Saariselka, Finland

2 days
Saariselka
Day 8

Arrival & Autumn Aurora Hike

Your driver will drop you off at your hotel for check-in.

In the evening, you will embark on a tour. The adventure begins at the resort, where you'll traverse through the picturesque autumn fells to your wilderness camp. Along the way, immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape and gain insights into the local flora and fauna from a seasoned guide.

Upon reaching your camp, you'll cozy up with a cup of delightful berry juice and toast marshmallows over the crackling campfire. As twilight descends, you'll eagerly await the appearance of the Northern Lights. Once the Aurora Borealis graces you with its presence, you'll be assisted in setting up your camera and provided guidance on capturing breathtaking photos of this natural wonder. The team will also be on hand to help you seize any other remarkable moments, such as encounters with reindeer or other wildlife.

This excursion is suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels, and all essential equipment, including warm attire, headlamps, and cameras, will be provided.

Day 9

Departure

In the morning, you check out from the hotel and meet your driver, who will transfer you to Ivalo, from where you will take your flight to Helsinki.

Saariselka
Travel time3 hClassEconomy & Private Transfer Sedan
Helsinki

Flight from Saariselka to Helsinki

Description

You will have private transfer from Saariselkä to Ivalo followed by flight to Helsinki

Helsinki, Finland

2 days
Helsinki
Day 9

Arrival


Upon arrival in Helsinki, meet your private driver who transfers you to your centrally located hotel.

Day 10

Departure

Today is the final day of your exciting adventure. After breakfast, you check out from the hotel and your driver transfers you to the Helsinki airport for your flight back home.

We hope you enjoyed your Finland experience and will plan your next trips with Firebird Tours!

What's included

Exceptional downtown hotel accommodations
Guided sightseeing tours with expert English-speaking guides
Delicious breakfasts at your hotels
Entrances to Market Square, The Rock Church and more
Entrances to Market Square, The Rock Church and more
Tickets and intercity transportation as per itinerary
Professional meeting services at the airport
Dedicated support team before and during your trip