In Search of Lappish Gold Through the Arctic Wilderness

Difficulty

Extreme

Comfort

Basic

Weight limit

If the allure of the untamed northern wilderness and the intriguing history of the Lapland gold rush captivates you, then get on this unique trail! You will be hosted by a remarkable family-run stable in the Inari-Saariselkä region of Finnish Lapland, and your guide, along with the gentle and joyful Finnhorses, will lead you through an experience that melds traditional camping in pristine nature, a cozy tavern complete with sauna and local treats, and a visit to a gold panning site rich with tales of Lapland's storied and romantic gold rush era.

This journey offers a multifaceted exploration of the Arctic lifestyle, blending the tranquility and beauty of nature with the comfort of modern amenities and the fascination of local lore. You are sure to return home with a sense of joy and rejuvenation!

Maria P. is the provider and guide of this trip

The provider speaks: English

As a lifetime rider and horse enthusiast, I've been fortunate to fulfill my dream and work with wonderful Finnish horses in the Lappish wilderness. Our horses are my treasures and members of the family, and our aim is to provide unforgettable memories for our riders!

View Maria`s tours

Tour highlights

Visit a Gold Panning Site

Reach a gold panning site atop a horseback and find out more about this era via rich tales and exciting stories

Fall in Love With the Finnish Hospitality

No doubt you will be shrouded with care and attention! Our maintenance team will do our best to make your journey unforgettable and unique

Enjoy Stunning Views

Discover amazing Arctic panoramas riding atop magnificent Finnish horses

Route details

On the initial day of the adventure, you gather at the stable at 9 am to get acquainted with your guide and horses. Together you prepare the horses before taking on the trail. The day's journey covers a distance of 35-40 km at a relaxed and moderate pace, interspersed with some quicker intervals. After 3-4 hours of riding, a delightful lunch awaits in the wilderness. The day concludes at a wilderness camp close to a gold mining area. Once the horses are tended to, a delicious dinner, expertly crafted by a professional cook over an open flame, is savored.

While options for washing and swimming are limited, a fresh stream flows alongside the camp, and a canister of tap water is provided for basic hygiene needs. Accommodation for the night is in a cozy 3-4 person shared tent, although participants can also choose to use their own tent if they prefer.

Difficulty

Extreme

Only for experienced and physically fit hikers. Requires specific skills and equipment

Tour provider's comments

In order to join this tour riding experience is obligatory and equestrians should be in good physical shape with some horse
managing skills.

All the riders are required to take care of their horses during the trip, naturally, with a help of the guide.

We deal with long endurance style rides. This trail is somewhat physically demanding for riders and suitable for people with decent physique.

Horse Breed: Finnish horses (approx. 150-173 cm)

Tack Type: English or trail riding saddles

Accommodation

Comfort

Basic

Tent

3 nights

During the first two nights, you will experience the beauty of nature while sleeping in warm and spacious joint tents that can accommodate 3-4 people.

These tents, along with the beds, will be provided by the maintenance team. However, please remember to bring your own sleeping bag. Even during the summer be prepared for chilly nights. On the third night, you will have the option to sleep in shared or separate rooms at the local tavern.

There are no single rooms. For private accommodation please bring your own tent (transported to camps by maintenance team). The tents provided by the stable are for 8 people.

On the first night washing and swimming options are limited, but there is water nearby the camp for basic wash-ups and refreshing. On the second afternoon, you will have the opportunity to wash in the camp sauna and even take a dip in the river if you wish. The camp sauna provides buckets of water from the river for washing. On the third day, you can enjoy the comforts of a spacious sauna specially prepared for your group, and there will be an outdoor swimming possibility as well.

Please note that toilets, electricity, running water, and Wi-Fi are only available at the stable and Laanilan Kievari. However, Wi-Fi might be accessible at higher points along the trail.

Wi-Fi availability is subject to signal strength and may not be available throughout the entire trail.

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place

Лапландия, аэропорт Ивало

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Partnered with

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Tour conditions

Included

transfer from and to Ivalo airport;
4 riding days;
accommodation as described;
meals as described;
tour guides;
horses.

Extras

international flights to and from Finland;
tips and personal expenses;
personal travel insurance (we encourage clients to obtain relevant travel insurance before joining the trip);
pick up from Rovaniemi Airport is NOT available and transfer by bus is riders` own responsibility and not included in the price.

Group size

up to 7 tourists

Duration

4 days

3 nights

It's important to know

Tips;
Riding helmet required;
Sleeping bag;
Sleeping mat.

Extra info: we recommend riders to bring small snack of their choice and a drinking bottle (max 1 litre) for the trail. Also own sleeping bag is recommended for comfort, but provided by us if needed.