Travel Guide to Akka-Koli Hill

Getting There

• Car

  To reach Akka-Koli Hill by car from anywhere in North Karelia, head towards Lieksa. From the center of Lieksa, follow signs to Koli National Park. The most common route is via Route 6 (E75) heading south. After approximately 30 km, you’ll see signs for Koli. Turn onto Koli Road (Road 504), and follow it until you arrive at the Koli Visitor Centre. From there, continue along the road until you reach the parking area for Akka-Koli Hill. Parking may incur a fee, so be sure to check the signage upon arrival.

• Public Transportation

  If you prefer public transportation, take a bus to Lieksa from major cities in North Karelia such as Joensuu. Upon arrival in Lieksa, you can take a local bus to Koli National Park. The bus schedules vary, so check the latest timetable on the local transport website. Once you arrive at the Koli Visitor Centre, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to the Akka-Koli Hill area. Note that local buses may not run frequently; plan your return journey accordingly.

• Taxi

  If you are traveling from Lieksa and prefer a more direct and comfortable option, consider taking a taxi. Taxis are available in Lieksa, and you can arrange one to take you directly to Akka-Koli Hill. This option is more expensive than public transportation, typically costing around €30-€50 depending on your starting point and the time of day.

• Walking/Hiking

  For the adventurous, if you are already in the Koli National Park area, you can hike to Akka-Koli Hill from the Visitor Centre. There are marked trails leading to the hill that vary in difficulty and length, offering beautiful views along the way. Make sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes and carry water and snacks, as the hike can take 1-2 hours depending on your pace.