Nightless Night Trek in Muotkatunturi Wilderness Area Lapland

Muotkatunturi Wilderness Area is one of the most remote corners in Lapland. There are no marked trails and the only signs of humans are the occasional old fire pits or reindeer herders ATV tracks. Our route starts from the old pine forests, the last ones surviving this north. Soon as we gain more elevation, pines give space for mountain birch and eventually for ground crawling dwarf birch, crowberry and lichen. Open tundra offers great scenery but also exposes us to the winds from the Arctic ocean just a hundred kilometres away. The water in crystal clear rivers, brooks, ponds and lakes is so pure that you can drink straight from them. These waters are home to trout, grayling and arctic charr. The area is also home for countless reindeers, elks and grouse birds. Even spotting bear tracks from soft ground is possible. Few of the last arctic foxes in Finland also live in the area. With a lot of luck you could even see one of them on a hunt for lemmings.

We will hike moderate distances in various terrain with no trails. Good and tested footwear is essential and a basic level of fitness will make hiking more enjoyable. We will always set our camp in valleys with some forests so camping under a tarp and lighting a campfire is possible.

The trek takes place during the early summer when the mosquitoes and midges haven't yet yet occupied the airspace. Proxmity to midsummer makes sure the sun never sets. Magical time to hike the fjells!

Trek is guided by Sampo Rouhiainen – a wilderness guide specializing in survival and traditional Finnish bushcraft skills. Sampo's extensive knowledge on traditional ways of wilderness living, training in adventure education and knowledge on choosing simple, lightweight and functional kit will help you to prepare for the trek, enjoy it and get through the occasional difficulties.

Tour dates for 2024: June 8 – June 15