Basecamp Oulanka: Gateway to Wilderness Adventure
Explore Finnish Lapland: Eco-friendly lodging, outdoor adventures, and local cuisine near Oulanka National Park and the Karhunkierros Trail.
Basecamp Oulanka, located in Kuusamo, Finland, serves as a welcoming gateway to the wonders of Oulanka National Park. Situated near the Arctic Circle, this nature-friendly basecamp provides a harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation. Since 1998, Basecamp Oulanka has been committed to sustainable practices, ensuring that visitors leave a positive footprint on the environment. The hotel features cozy rooms reflecting Finnish design, modern amenities, and an on-site restaurant serving traditional Finnish cuisine made from local, organic ingredients. Guests can savor dishes like reindeer stew and fresh fish, with vegan and vegetarian options available. The café offers snacks, cakes, and pastries. Basecamp Oulanka provides easy access to numerous outdoor activities, including hiking on the famous Karhunkierros Trail, canoeing on pristine rivers, and cross-country skiing. After a day of exploration, guests can unwind in the traditional Finnish sauna and hot tub. The location is also known for offering views of the Northern Lights. Oulanka National Park itself is a haven for nature lovers, boasting dramatic landforms, towering cliffs, and roaring rapids. The Oulanka Visitor Centre, located nearby, provides valuable information about the park's trails and services.
Local tips
- Book outdoor activities in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
- Try local delicacies at the Basecamp Restaurant for an authentic taste of Finnish cuisine.
- Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna experience during your stay.
- Pack layers of clothing, as temperatures in the region can vary significantly, especially during winter.
A brief summary to Basecamp Oulanka
- Myllykoskentie 30, Kuusamo, 93900, FI
- +358400509741
- Visit website
Getting There
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Car
Basecamp Oulanka is located approximately 20 km (12 miles) from Ruka and 50 km (31 miles) from Kuusamo Airport along road 950. From Kuusamo Airport, follow signs for Ruka, then continue towards Salla, watching for signs to Basecamp Oulanka. Parking is free for day visitors and hotel guests; others pay €10/day.
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Public Transport
From Ruka or Oulanka Visitor Centre, the Karhunkierros Express shuttle operates Monday to Saturday, multiple times a day, via the route Ruka-Basecamp Oulanka-Oulanka Visitor Centre from May 24 to September 30. Bus tickets from Kuusamo to Ruka can be purchased online or via the Matkahuolto app. From Ruka, transfer to the Karhunkierros Express. A single bus fare from Ruka to Basecamp Oulanka is approximately €5-€10.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Ruka and Kuusamo Airport. A taxi from Ruka to Basecamp Oulanka will cost approximately €40-€60. From Kuusamo Airport, expect to pay around €60-€80. Shared taxi options (''kimppataksi'' in Finnish) may be available during the summer months for travel to the Karhunkierros Trail.
