Wild Taiga travel guide

Finland has a national epic poem, The Kalevala, written by Elias Lönnrot and published in 1835. It was inspired by his travels in the far north of Finland in this spectacular terrain that has become known as the Wild Taiga. Extending along the Russian border in the east, its thick forests, lakes and rivers – habitat for bears, deer, wolves and moose – certainly make for epic experiences. Stretching from Kuhmo to Suomussalmi it dominates Finland’s Kainuu region. Don’t be overawed by the word epic however, as you can break it all down into sublime stanzas, be it canoeing across remote lakes, experiencing ancient and contemporary culture, staying up all night to watch bears emerge from their ancient habitats, snow shoeing through perfectly snow laden forests, hiking with huskies or seeing the Northern Lights. Put Sibelius’ Karelia Suite on your MP3 player for this one, also inspired by these far out landscapes for the perfect epic soundtrack.

Finland celebrated its 100th birthday in 2017 as an independent country and yet the taiga terrain of subarctic conifer forest in this region is not only ancient but feels almost frozen in time. Explore its wilderness in a variety of outdoor adventures, hiking along the many trails of Hossa National Park, snow shoeing across the aapa, or string bogs, of Riisitunturi National Park or canoeing through the tranquil wetlands of Oulanka National Park. And, most exciting for wildlife lovers, bear watching in hides that are scattered through the moss covered forests of Martinselkonen Nature Reserve or around Lake Kuikkajärvi . You will never tire of Taiga.