Berry Picking in a National Park

Explore Finland’s Forests and Forage for Berries in a Small Group Setting

The Berry Picking in a National Park tour from Helsinki offers an engaging day immersed in Finland’s natural wilderness. Priced at $178.62 per person, this full-day excursion lasts approximately 7 hours and caters to small groups of up to 8 travelers. It’s designed for those who enjoy outdoor activities, learning about edible wild foods, and experiencing authentic Finnish cuisine. The tour’s high rating of 5.0 out of 5, based on 9 reviews, reflects its popularity and quality.

This tour begins with a convenient round-trip transfer from central Helsinki to Liesjärvi National Park. Guided by knowledgeable experts, participants learn which berries are safe to pick, how to forage responsibly, and get a glimpse of the local wildlife and forest environment. The highlight is a lakeside Finnish-style lunch cooked over an open campfire, making this experience both educational and delicious.

While the tour is well-suited for most travelers, it involves walking in forested terrain and light outdoor activity. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic, hands-on experience of Finland’s boreal wilderness, coupled with a tasty meal and the company of a small, intimate group.

Key Points

• Price of $178.62 per person for a full-day guided experience
• 7-hour duration, including transport, for a comprehensive forest outing
• Small group size of 8, ensuring personalized attention
• Includes lakeside Finnish lunch cooked over a campfire
• Transport from Helsinki in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi
• Focus on wild berry foraging and forest ecology education

Departure Location and Timing in Helsinki

The tour departs from Mannerheiminaukio 1H in Helsinki at 9:00 am, starting with a short walk to the vehicle. The meeting point at Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art is easy to find, just 500 meters from Helsinki Central Railway Station. The drive to Liesjärvi National Park takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, during which a brief bathroom stop is made.

Participants should arrive promptly, as punctuality is appreciated. The return is to the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward for travelers staying centrally. This timing makes it suitable for a full-day outing, leaving the evening free for additional activities in Helsinki.

Transport and Comfort Features

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, the group enjoys WiFi onboard, making it easy to share photos or check weather updates. The tour provides a raincoat in case of weather changes, ensuring comfort during forest walks. The small-group size promotes a relaxed atmosphere, enabling personalized interaction with guides.

Since plastic bottles are not provided, travelers are encouraged to bring their own water bottles—a thoughtful nod to sustainability. The tour is accessible to most, but participants should be comfortable walking in natural outdoor terrain.

The Forest Walk and Berry-Picking Experience

Upon arriving at Liesjärvi National Park, the guide leads a walk through the forest, stopping at favorite berry-picking spots. The guide explains which berries are edible, such as blueberries, lingonberries, and strawberries, and offers insights into the local flora and fauna.

While picking berries, travelers can enjoy the tranquility of the Taiga forest, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and snack on the freshly picked berries. The walk is leisurely, designed for enjoyment rather than strenuous activity, but some walking in uneven terrain is expected.

Lakeside Campfire and Finnish-Style Lunch

The gathering point is the lakeside campfire, where the guide begins to prepare a traditional Finnish lunch over an open flame. The meal is cooked right in front of the group, offering an authentic taste of Finnish outdoor cuisine. The lunch complements the berry-picking activity perfectly, allowing participants to savor fresh berries alongside their warm meal.

Guests have ample time during lunch to relax, take photos, and enjoy the serene forest setting. This element of the tour combines culinary tradition with outdoor experience, making it a highlight of the day.

Exploring Liesjärvi’s Natural Beauty Post-Lunch

After eating, the guide continues to lead the group through different parts of Liesjärvi National Park, showcasing its natural scenery and wildlife. The walk allows for further exploration of the forest and lakeside vistas before heading back to Helsinki. The entire experience emphasizes the biodiversity and natural richness of this protected area.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included in the price are:
– An air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi
– A raincoat for unpredictable weather
– A lakeside Finnish-style lunch prepared over a campfire

Not included is bottled water—guests are encouraged to bring their own water bottles for hydration, aligning with the tour’s sustainability principles.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers. If weather conditions are poor, the experience may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or alternative date. This flexibility ensures comfort and confidence in booking.

Review Highlights and Guide Expertise

All 9 reviews rate the tour a perfect 5 out of 5, praising the knowledgeable guides like Helena and Jeff. Reviewers appreciate guides’ expertise in plants, berries, and mushrooms, along with their friendly manner and storytelling skills. The lunch preparation and fire-building skills receive particular praise.

The guides’ ability to explain the forest environment and edible plants enhances the overall experience, making it educational and engaging. The small group size contributes to a personal, relaxed atmosphere where questions are welcome.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This berry-picking adventure appeals most to those who enjoy nature, outdoor activities, and learning about local food traditions. It’s suitable for most travelers, including solo visitors, thanks to its convenient meeting point and relaxed pace. However, participants should be prepared for walking in natural terrain and outdoor weather.

This experience is especially ideal for foodies, nature lovers, and families seeking an authentic Finnish wilderness outing with a delicious lakeside meal.

The Sum Up: Authentic Finnish Forest Adventure for Curious Foodies

The Berry Picking in a National Park tour from Helsinki presents a genuine opportunity to connect with Finland’s natural environment. The combination of wild foraging, expert guidance, and a lakeside lunch creates an engaging and memorable day. The small group size and high-quality guides ensure personalized attention, making this a top choice for travelers interested in outdoor life and local flavors.

While it involves walking in uneven terrain, the pace remains relaxed, and the focus on education and culinary experience makes it suitable for most. The full-day duration and included transport simplify planning, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Liesjärvi National Park.

This tour stands out for its authenticity, expert guidance, and the chance to sample wild Finnish berries in their natural setting, making it highly recommended for those eager to explore Finland beyond Helsinki’s city streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $178.62 per person, including transport, lunch, and guided foraging.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, from departure in Helsinki to return.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Mannerheiminaukio 1H in Helsinki at 9:00 am, near Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art.

What is included in the tour?
Guests receive air-conditioned transport, a raincoat, WiFi onboard, and a lakeside Finnish lunch.

Is food provided?
Yes, a traditional Finnish lunch cooked over a campfire is included, while guests should bring their own water bottles.

Are there any physical requirements?
The walk involves forest terrain, so some light outdoor activity is expected; it is suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

What is the group size?
The tour limits participation to 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if done at least 24 hours in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or alternative dates.

Who is the tour operator?
The experience is provided by Taiga Times, specializing in outdoor Finnish adventures.