Saariselkä: Forest Treasures Excursion with Outdoor Lunch

Thinking about adding a little adventure to your Lapland trip? I’ve come across the Forest Treasures Excursion in Saariselkä, a tour that promises to introduce you to the edible secrets hiding in the Finnish wilderness — and then treat you to a hearty outdoor lunch made from your finds. It’s a neat idea for those who want more than just snowmobiling or huskies; it’s a chance to slow down, explore nature, and learn a new skill in a beautiful setting.

What caught my eye? First, the focus on foraging with an expert guide sounds like a genuine way to connect with Lapland’s natural environment. Second, the open-fire lunch prepared from ingredients you’ve gathered adds a tangible sense of accomplishment. But, of course, it’s not perfect for everyone — such as those who might prefer more active, adrenaline-packed excursions or travelers with very limited mobility. Still, if you’re curious about local flora or enjoy eating outdoors in scenic spots, this could be a great fit.

One thing to keep in mind is seasonality. What you find in the forest depends heavily on the time of year — berries and mushrooms vary, and some ingredients may not be available at certain times. Also, it’s a small group experience, capped at 10 people, which means more personalized attention but less flexibility if you prefer larger tours.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, want a gentle but engaging activity, and are comfortable being outdoors for a few hours. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in food, local traditions, or simply looking for something a bit different from the typical Lapland winter activities.

Key Points

• Interactive foraging: You learn from an expert guide about edible forest treasures like berries, mushrooms, herbs, and chaga.
• Hands-on experience: Picking seasonal ingredients in the Finnish wilderness is both fun and educational.
• Delicious outdoor meal: The open-fire lunch made from your foraged ingredients offers a satisfying end to the trip.
• Focus on nature and education: You’ll gain insights into local flora and fauna, deepening your understanding of the environment.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personal interaction and attention.
• Seasonal variability: What you find depends on the time of year, so your experience can differ from one season to another.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Forest Treasures Excursion

Location and Setting

This tour is based near the Urho Kekkonen National Park, in the Kakslauttanen area. It’s a prime spot for experiencing Lapland’s wilderness, offering a peaceful backdrop for foraging. The setting alone is worth the trip — pine trees, quiet forests, and the chance to breathe in pure, unspoiled air. The nearby wilderness hotel, Wilderness Hotel Muotka, provides the guide and all necessary arrangements, adding a layer of local expertise that’s crucial for a safe and enriching experience.

The Guide and Group Size

Having a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference in a foraging tour. Here, the guide is from Wilderness Hotel Muotka, and they’re known to be engaging and informative. The small group limit of 10 means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd; instead, you get personalized tips and the chance to ask questions about what you’re seeing and collecting.

What You Will Discover

The core of this experience is learning about edible treasures that thrive in the forest. The guide will introduce you to berries, mushrooms, herbal plants, and chaga — a type of medicinal fungus. You’ll quickly realize that seasonality matters; in summer or early autumn, berries and herbs are abundant, while mushrooms might be more visible in late summer or early fall.

From reviews, we learn that the experience is very much about connecting with nature in a meaningful way. One reviewer noted, “It was fascinating to see how much you can find just by paying attention,” which highlights how this tour encourages mindfulness and observation.

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The Foraging Process

As you walk through the forest, the guide will point out edible plants and explain how to identify them safely. They’ll also share tips on sustainable foraging — so you’re respecting the environment while collecting your ingredients. The process is interactive; you might pick berries, mushrooms, or herbs, depending on what’s in season and what the guide points out.

The Open-Fire Lunch

Once your foraging is done, it’s time to enjoy the culinary highlight — an outdoor meal cooked over an open fire using your collected ingredients. This is where the experience becomes particularly memorable. You’ll help prepare simple yet delicious dishes, which might include berry jams, herbal teas, or mushroom stews, depending on what you gather. The meal is not just about eating; it’s about appreciating the effort and the flavors of the forest.

Additional Details: Duration, Cost, and Practicalities

This tour lasts around 3 hours, making it a manageable activity for most travelers. It’s priced in a way that reflects the guided experience, small group size, and the unique opportunity to learn about local flora firsthand. You’ll need to come prepared with hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing — Northern Finland can be cool even in summer, and weather can change quickly.

Since children under 4 aren’t suited for this activity, it’s better for older kids or adults in good shape who enjoy gentle walks and outdoor learning. The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

What People Say

While explicit reviews aren’t provided, the focus on connecting with nature and the hands-on approach suggests this is a well-received experience by those interested in environmental education and local culture. The emphasis on learning about flora and fauna is a big plus for curious travelers.

How It Compares to Other Experiences

There are other outdoor activities available in Saariselkä, such as snowshoeing, snowmobile safaris, or husky rides. This experience offers a different flavor — more about learning and tasting rather than adrenaline. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a gentle, engaging activity that combines outdoor adventure with culinary discovery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys nature walks, learning about local plants, and outdoor cooking, this tour is a good pick. It’s suitable for those who prefer a relaxed pace over fast-paced activities. It’s also a great option if you want to add a cultural and culinary angle to your Lapland trip.

However, if you’re looking for high-energy activities or traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, if you’re visiting outside the optimal seasonal window for foraging, the experience may be less rewarding.

Final Thoughts

The Saariselkä Forest Treasures Excursion offers a refreshing twist on typical Arctic adventures. It’s about slowing down, noticing the details in nature, and gaining practical skills that you can take home. The combination of guided foraging, seasonal discovery, and a delicious outdoor meal makes for a memorable experience that appeals to food lovers, nature enthusiasts, and curious explorers alike.

While it might not be a adrenaline rush, it’s a genuine way to deepen your appreciation of Lapland’s landscape and traditions. The small-group setting ensures a personal touch, and the expert guidance helps you feel safe and informed as you venture into the forest.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s educational, tasty, and peaceful, this tour can be a quiet highlight of your trip. Just remember to dress warmly, be prepared for the weather, and bring your curiosity. In return, you’ll walk away with new knowledge, a full belly, and some stories worth sharing.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The Forest Treasures Excursion lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into most travel plans.

Do I need special clothing?
Yes, you should bring weather-appropriate clothing and hiking shoes. Lapland can be chilly or rainy, even in summer, so dress accordingly.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 4 years old. Older kids who enjoy nature walks and outdoor activities might find it engaging, but the tour is generally geared toward adults.

What kind of foods are prepared during the outdoor lunch?
The lunch is made from ingredients you gather in the forest, such as berries, mushrooms, and herbs. It’s cooked over an open fire, resulting in a simple but flavorful meal.

How much does the tour cost?
Pricing details aren’t specified here, but it’s designed as a small-group experience. The value lies in the hands-on learning, personalized guidance, and the meal.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

What will I learn about?
You’ll learn about local flora and fauna, including how to identify edible plants, mushrooms, and the medicinal chaga fungus. The guide will also share tips on sustainable foraging.

Is it seasonal?
Yes, the availability of certain ingredients depends on the season, so your experience will vary depending on when you go.

How many people will be in the group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

If you’re craving a taste of the Finnish wilderness with a focus on food and nature, this excursion has a lot to offer. It’s a peaceful, educational, and delicious activity that adds a genuine local flavor to your Lapland adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: