Things to Do in Kuusamo – Nature & Activities

Kuusamo is a tourism hub in northeastern Finland, known for its rugged nature, rapids and the Ruka ski resort. The area is one of Finland's most popular nature destinations year-round.

Oulanka National Park, the Karhunkierros (Bear's Ring) hiking trail and the rapids of the Kitkajoki river attract hikers. In winter Ruka offers downhill and cross-country skiing; in summer, hiking and canoeing.

Use the map to discover the best things to do in Kuusamo.

Top activities in Kuusamo

Here are the most popular activities in Kuusamo. Click any place to see it on the map.

  1. 1. Kuusamo Ice Hall (EVO-areena)
  2. 2. Kuusamo Swimming Hall
  3. 3. Petäjäkankaan kuntorata – 66.000564, 29.169737
  4. 4. Angry Birds Activity Park Kuusamo
  5. 5. Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki – Kylpyläntie 5, 93600 Kuusamo
  6. 6. Hirsikankaan frisbeegolfrata
  7. 7. Palosaari Reindeer Farm
  8. 8. Ruska Laukka – suomenhevospalvelut
  9. 9. Ruka Safaris – Snowmobile Safaris
  10. 10. Korpikahvila – Tahkolanrannantie 11A, 93830 Rukatunturi

Hiking and the national park

Oulanka National Park and the Karhunkierros trail are among Finland's best-known hiking destinations. What to do in Kuusamo? Hiking the Karhunkierros, rapids scenery in Oulanka and canoeing on the Kitkajoki.

Winter activities and Ruka

The Ruka ski resort offers downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and winter hiking. It is one of Finland's most popular winter destinations.

Family activities in Kuusamo

Ski slopes, nature trails and wildlife spots suit families. Kuusamo offers varied nature experiences with kids.

Kuusamo in winter

In winter Kuusamo means downhill skiing at Ruka, extensive cross-country track networks and husky and reindeer safaris. The winter landscapes of Oulanka and Riisitunturi are among the best known in Finland. Northern lights are possible on clear nights from autumn to spring.

What to do in Kuusamo in winter? Ski at Ruka, cross-country ski and snowshoe, join husky and reindeer safaris and hike Riisitunturi in the snow.

Kuusamo in summer

In summer the Karhunkierros (Bear's Ring) trail, Oulanka National Park and the rapids of the Kitkajoki draw hikers and paddlers. Fishing, whitewater rafting and berry picking are the traditional summer activities. Routes range from short day hikes to multi-day treks.

What to do in Kuusamo in summer? Hike the Karhunkierros, raft the Kitkajoki rapids, fish, and take day trips into Oulanka National Park.

Getting there and where to stay

Kuusamo airport is about 6 km from the town centre and 25 km from Ruka. By car from Oulu the drive takes roughly 2.5 hours. Accommodation is concentrated at Ruka and in central Kuusamo.

Should you stay at Ruka or in Kuusamo town? Ruka suits skiers, while the town is a more practical base for Oulanka and Kitkajoki trips.

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Frequently asked questions

What to do in Kuusamo?
Kuusamo offers a wide range of activities – outdoor adventures, nature spots, museums, sports venues and family-friendly places. Neardo shows the best options on the map so you can quickly find something that suits you.
What free activities are there in Kuusamo?
Free activities in Kuusamo are often found in parks, beaches, nature trails and public sports areas. They are a great option for short day trips and visitors who want things to do without booking or entrance fees.
What to do in Kuusamo with kids?
Kuusamo offers family-friendly activities both indoors and outdoors. Playgrounds, swimming halls, museums and easy nature spots are popular choices. Use the "Family-friendly" filter in Neardo to see suitable places on the map.
What to do in Kuusamo when it rains?
On rainy days, head to indoor venues in Kuusamo: museums, swimming halls, bowling alleys, cafés and indoor playgrounds are good options. Filter by "Indoor" in Neardo to find them quickly.
When is the best time to visit Kuusamo for activities?
Kuusamo is worth visiting year-round – summer brings beaches and nature trails, winter offers ice skating, sledding and indoor activities. Neardo highlights the best spots seasonally on the map.