Saariselkä: Forest Treasures Excursion with Outdoor Lunch

Discover Forest Edibles on a 3-Hour Lapland Foraging Tour

The Saariselkä Forest Treasures Excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural bounty of Lapland, Finland. Priced for a 3-hour experience, this guided tour departs from the Kakslauttanen area near Urho Kekkonen National Park. Led by an expert guide from Wilderness Hotel Muotka, the tour focuses on discovering berries, mushrooms, herbal plants, and chaga—all depending on the season’s offerings. The highlight is a delicious open-fire lunch prepared with the ingredients gathered during the walk, making it a practical yet authentic outdoor food experience.

This excursion is ideal for those who enjoy light physical activity and are curious about the local flora and fauna of Finnish Lapland. The tour limits participation to 10 people, ensuring a small, personalized group. It is suitable for travelers with weather-appropriate clothing and hiking shoes, but not for children under 4 years. Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the reserve now, pay later option adds convenience for planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Guided foraging adventure in Lapland’s forests near Urho Kekkonen National Park
• Discover edible treasures such as berries, mushrooms, herbal plants, and chaga
• Enjoy a freshly prepared open-fire lunch with ingredients gathered during the walk
• Led by an expert guide from Wilderness Hotel Muotka in a small group setting
• Season-dependent experience, shaping what foraging finds are available
• Suitable for ages 4 and up, requiring hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing

Starting Point Near Urho Kekkonen National Park

The tour begins in the Kakslauttanen area, close to the Urho Kekkonen National Park. This location provides a stunning natural backdrop, with forests that change character depending on the season. The starting point is accessible and designed to give participants a true taste of the Finnish wilderness, away from urban life. The proximity to the national park enhances the forest experience, with abundant flora and fauna to observe.

The guide from Wilderness Hotel Muotka introduces participants to the terrain, sharing insights into the local environment. This small-group experience keeps the pace comfortable, making it ideal for those new to foraging or outdoor exploration. The tour emphasizes practical knowledge, teaching participants how to identify edible plants and mushrooms safely.

Learning About Local Flora and Fauna

During the walk, the expert guide explains how to recognize various berries, mushrooms, herbal plants, and chaga—a type of fungus valued for its health properties. The experience is seasonally driven, so what is available varies throughout the year. Regardless of the specific finds, each outing offers a meaningful connection to Lapland’s natural landscape.

Participants gain knowledge about Finnish flora and fauna, understanding how local plants are used traditionally and what to look for in the wild. The guide also shares tips on sustainable foraging, ensuring that the forest remains healthy for future visitors. This educational component enriches the experience, making it both fun and informative.

The Open-Fire Lunch: Tasting Local Ingredients

After discovering edible treasures, everyone gathers around an open fire to enjoy a lunch prepared with foraged ingredients. The meal is a highlight, showcasing how simple, natural foods can be transformed into a hearty dish in the outdoors. The setting adds to the authenticity, with the smell of cooking mingling with fresh forest air.

The lunch provides an opportunity to relax and reflect on the morning’s discoveries. It also underscores the practical aspect of foraging—showing how the forest’s bounty can be used to create a satisfying meal. The experience emphasizes sustainability and the value of local ingredients, making it both a culinary and cultural lesson.

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Practical Details and What to Bring

This small-group tour is designed to be accessible for most participants. It lasts about 3 hours, with scheduled starting times to suit different travel plans. Participants should wear hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the outdoor environment can vary with the season.

Since the experience involves walking through forests, it may not be suitable for very young children under 4 years. The tour’s limit of 10 participants helps keep the experience intimate and engaging, allowing the guide to provide personalized attention.

Booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, as well as a reserve now, pay later option. These flexible terms make it easy to plan this activity as part of a broader trip to Lapland.

The Role of the Expert Guide from Wilderness Hotel Muotka

The guide from Wilderness Hotel Muotka is the key to making this experience both educational and enjoyable. Their knowledge of local plants, mushrooms, and edible forest treasures ensures safety and authenticity. They also share stories about the natural environment and traditions, enriching the walk with context and local insight.

Participants appreciate the guide’s friendly manner and ability to answer questions about Lapland’s ecosystem. This personalized guidance helps demystify foraging and boosts confidence in identifying edible plants safely.

Seasonality and What Can Be Foraged

What you find during the tour depends heavily on the season. In the right period, berries like lingonberries or cloudberries may be plentiful, while mushrooms such as chanterelles could be available. Herbal plants and chaga are also part of the forage, with their availability fluctuating throughout the year.

This season-dependent aspect adds an element of surprise to each outing, encouraging repeat participation across different times of the year. The foraging experience is designed to adapt to nature’s rhythm, making each trip unique.

The Unique Experience of Outdoor Cooking in Lapland

Cooking over an open fire in the forest is a highlight that sets this tour apart. Participants witness firsthand how traditional methods are used to prepare a hearty, natural meal. This method of outdoor cooking enhances the overall experience, blending culinary arts with nature appreciation.

The lunch serves as a satisfying reward after the morning’s exploration, providing a taste of Finnish wilderness cuisine. The setting, with the backdrop of Lapland’s forests, amplifies the rustic charm of this outing.

Who Would Enjoy This Forest Foraging Tour?

This experience caters to nature lovers and curious travelers interested in connecting with Lapland’s wilderness in an authentic way. It’s suitable for those comfortable with light walking and outdoor conditions, and who enjoy learning practical skills like foraging.

The small group size and expert guidance make it ideal for travelers seeking a personal, hands-on activity. It’s perfect for people of all ages over 4 years, especially those eager to understand the local environment through a sustainable lens.

The Sum Up: A Practical and Flavorful Forest Adventure

The Saariselkä Forest Treasures Excursion offers an engaging way to experience Lapland’s outdoor environment. With expert guidance, season-dependent foraging, and a delicious open-fire lunch, the tour balances education, outdoor activity, and local culinary tradition.

While it’s a relatively short activity, the opportunity to learn about edible forest resources and enjoy a meal prepared with foraged ingredients makes it both practical and memorable. It suits travelers who want a hands-on experience that’s both fun and informative—perfect for those eager to explore Finnish nature beyond typical sightseeing.

Participants should prepare for outdoor conditions with proper clothing and footwear, and benefit from the flexible booking options. This tour provides a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness and the chance to gather new skills in a beautiful setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 4 years old can participate, provided they are comfortable with outdoor walking and weather conditions.

What should I bring with me?
Participants should wear hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable during the outdoor walk.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the reserve now, pay later option is available for flexible planning.

What will I learn during the tour?
The guide explains how to identify edible plants, mushrooms, and other forest treasures, along with insights into their traditional uses and sustainability.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, the open-fire lunch is prepared with foraged ingredients and is included in the tour price.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from the Kakslauttanen area near Urho Kekkonen National Park, providing a scenic setting for foraging in Lapland’s forests.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby