Oulanka National Park: A Wilderness Wonderland

• HelloHei
  [hay]
• GoodbyeNäkemiin
  [nah-keh-meen]
• YesKyllä
  [kuu-laa]
• NoEi
  [ay]
• Please/You're welcomeOle hyvä
  [oh-le huu-vaa]
• Thank youKiitos
  [kee-toas]
• Excuse me/SorryAnteeksi
  [an-tee-ek-see]
• How are you?Kuinka voit?
  [kween-ka voyt]
• Fine. And you?Hyvin. Entä sinä?
  [hoo-vin. en-taa see-naa]
• Do you speak English?Puhutko englantia?
  [poo-hoot-koh eng-lan-tee-ah]
• I don't understandEn ymmärrä
  [en um-maa-raa]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaisinko nähdä ruokalistan, kiitos
  [sai-sin-koh nay-da roo-oh-ka-lis-tan, kee-toas]
• I don't eat meatEn syö lihaa
  [en syo lee-haa]
• Cheers!Kippis!
  [kip-pis]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHaluaisin maksaa, kiitos
  [ha-lu-ai-sin mak-saa, kee-toas]

• Help!Apua!
  [ah-pua]
• Go away!Mene pois!
  [me-ne po-is]
• Call the Police!Soita poliisille!
  [soi-ta po-lee-sil-le]
• Call a doctor!Soita lääkärille!
  [soi-ta laa-ka-ril-le]
• I'm lostOlen eksyksissä
  [o-len eks-uk-sis-sa]
• I'm illOlen sairas
  [o-len sai-ras]

• I'd like to buy...Haluan ostaa...
  [ha-lu-an os-taa]
• I'm just lookingKatselen vain
  [ka-tse-len vain]
• How much is it?Paljonko se maksaa?
  [pal-yon-ko se mak-saa]
• That's too expensiveSe on liian kallis
  [se on lee-yan kal-lis]
• Can you lower the price?Voitko laskea hintaa?
  [voit-ko las-kea hin-taa]

• What time is it?Mitä kello on?
  [mi-ta kel-lo on]
• It's one o'clockKello on yksi
  [kel-lo on yk-see]
• Half past (10)Puoli (kymmenen)
  [pwo-li (kum-mee-nen)]
• MorningAamu
  [aa-mu]
• AfternoonIltapäivä
  [il-ta-pai-va]
• EveningIlta
  [il-ta]
• YesterdayEilen
  [ei-len]
• TodayTänään
  [ta-naan]
• TomorrowHuomenna
  [hwo-men-na]
• 1Yksi
  [yk-see]
• 2Kaksi
  [kak-see]
• 3Kolme
  [kol-me]
• 4Neljä
  [nel-ya]
• 5Viisi
  [vee-si]
• 6Kuusi
  [koo-si]
• 7Seitsemän
  [sait-se-man]
• 8Kahdeksan
  [kah-dek-san]
• 9Yhdeksän
  [uh-dek-san]
• 10Kymmenen
  [kum-mee-nen]

• Where's a/the...?Missä on...
  [mis-sa on]
• What's the address?Mikä on osoite?
  [mik-a on os-oi-te]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Voitko näyttää minulle (kartalla)?
  [voit-ko nayt-taa mi-nul-le (kar-tal-la)]
• When's the next (bus)?Milloin on seuraava (bussi)?
  [mil-loin on se-ur-aa-va (bus-si)]
• A ticket (to ....)Lippu (jonnekin)
  [lip-pu (yon-ne-kin)]

The region that is now Oulanka National Park has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological findings, including stone tools and remnants of ancient dwellings, suggest that early humans utilized the area's abundant natural resources for hunting, fishing, and gathering.

The indigenous Sami people have a long history in the Oulanka region. Their traditional lifestyle, which revolves around reindeer herding, fishing, and handicrafts, has left a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the park. Visitors can still observe traces of old Sami settlements and sacred sites scattered throughout the park.

The 18th and 19th centuries saw increased interest in exploring and mapping the remote areas of Finland, including Oulanka. Notable explorers like Pehr Kalm and other naturalists documented the area's diverse flora and fauna, laying the groundwork for future conservation efforts.

Oulanka National Park was officially established in 1956, aimed at preserving the unique natural habitats and geological formations of the area. The park covers over 270 square kilometers and is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Oulankajoki River and its famous rapids.

During World War II, the Oulanka region saw military activity, including the construction of defensive positions and supply routes. The remnants of bunkers and other wartime structures can still be found, serving as a somber reminder of the conflict's impact on this pristine wilderness.

In 1989, Oulanka National Park, along with the adjacent Paanajärvi National Park in Russia, was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This recognition highlights the park's significance in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Ongoing conservation efforts focus on preserving the park's ecosystems and promoting research and education.

Today, Oulanka National Park is a popular destination for tourists seeking cultural and outdoor experiences. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, canoeing, and birdwatching. The Karhunkierros Trail, one of Finland's most famous hiking routes, attracts thousands of visitors each year, providing a unique opportunity to explore the park's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Oulanka National Park is located in the northeastern part of Finland, near the Russian border. The nearest airport is Kuusamo Airport, approximately 60 kilometers away from the park. From Kuusamo, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach the park. Another option is to fly into Rovaniemi Airport, which is about 200 kilometers from Oulanka, and then drive or take public transport to the park. Trains are also available to Rovaniemi, and from there, you can take a bus or rent a car.

Once in Oulanka National Park, the best way to get around is on foot or by bicycle, as the park has extensive trails that are well-marked. For those who prefer not to hike, there are guided tours available that include transportation within the park. Car rentals are available in Kuusamo and Rovaniemi for those who prefer to drive. Public buses also connect Kuusamo to the park, but services can be infrequent, so it's best to check the schedule in advance.

The official currency in Finland is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or in more remote areas of the park where card payment might not be an option. ATMs are available in Kuusamo, so consider withdrawing cash before heading into the park.

Oulanka National Park is generally a very safe destination for tourists. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. However, it's always advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping your belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings. Wildlife encounters can occur, so it's crucial to follow park guidelines regarding animals. Also, weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The nearest medical facilities are in Kuusamo, so for minor issues, there are first aid stations in the park. Make sure to carry a basic first aid kit and inform someone of your intended route and expected return time if you are hiking alone.

Fashion: Do wear layers and waterproof clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions. Don't wear impractical footwear; hiking boots are recommended. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although the park does not have specific religious sites. Public Transport: Do be punctual as public transport schedules are strict. Don't talk loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hei' or 'Moi'. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies if offered. Don't leave litter; always use designated bins or carry your trash out of the park.

To experience Oulanka National Park like a local, start your visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and avoid crowds. Join a guided tour to learn about the flora, fauna, and history of the park from local experts. Participate in traditional activities such as berry picking or fishing, depending on the season. Don't miss the Karhunkierros Trail, a renowned long-distance hiking route that offers breathtaking scenery. Lastly, take time to visit the Oulanka Visitor Centre for detailed maps, tips, and information about the park.