Rovaniemi: Berry Picking Tour with Traditional Laavu

Exploring Rovaniemi’s wilderness isn’t just about chasing the Northern Lights or visiting Santa Claus — it can also mean savoring the simple pleasures of Lapland’s lush forests. The Berry Picking Tour with a Traditional Laavu offers a delightful peek into local life, where nature, food, and tradition come together in a short, well-organized outing. Designed for those craving an authentic outdoor experience, this tour combines leisurely forest walks with berry hunting, all topped off with Finnish treats around an open fire.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the chance to walk in the forest, the thrill of finding fresh berries, and the cozy atmosphere of cooking sausages over a fire in a laavu — a traditional shelter. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour is fairly short at just two hours and requires some basic physical mobility, so it’s best suited for active travelers. If you enjoy outdoor activities, local flavors, and a touch of Lapland’s wilderness, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Authentic Forest Walks: Easy, scenic strolls along forest paths, perfect for all ages.
• Seasonal Berries: Availability of blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries during July to September.
• Traditional Finnish Food: Sausages roasted in a laavu, along with Finnish pies and sweets, for a true taste of Lapland.
• All-Inclusive: Includes transfers, berry collection tools, drinks, and snacks.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants for a more personal touch.
• Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Taste of Lapland’s Wilderness

We found that this tour provides a practical way to experience the natural side of Rovaniemi, beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s designed with the traveler who appreciates authentic outdoor activities and local culinary traditions. The tour’s focus on berry picking and cooking in nature is not just fun, but also offers a genuine connection to the Finnish way of life, especially during the berry season from July to September.

The tour begins with a gentle walk along forest paths, where the scenery is typically lush and vibrant. Although the walking is described as easy, you should be comfortable with basic mobility and bring suitable footwear. It’s a chance to stroll through Lapland’s natural beauty, breathe in fresh air, and maybe spot some local wildlife or the occasional reindeer.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Pickup in Rovaniemi

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup point in Rovaniemi, making it straightforward for travelers staying in or near the town. The transportation is included, which means you can relax and enjoy the scenic drive out to the forest without worrying about logistics.

Forest Walk & Berry Picking

Once in the forest, the real fun begins. The paths are designed to be accessible and enjoyable, whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a gentle walk. During the season (July to September), you’ll have opportunities to pick blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries. The guides are knowledgeable, and we loved the way they explained the different berries and their uses in Finnish cuisine.

One participant mentioned, “It was a pleasure to walk in the forest and pick berries that tasted so fresh and natural,” highlighting how satisfying this simple activity can be. The guides also provide buckets, berry collecting tools, and even mosquito nets—a thoughtful touch to make the experience comfortable.

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Cooking and Tasting around a Laavu

After berry gathering, everyone gathers at a laavu, a traditional shelter with a firepit, benches, and a roof. Here, you’ll learn how to make a fire and cook sausages, a classic Finnish treat. Roasting sausages over an open fire is a cozy ritual, and the guides typically prepare some Finnish pies and sweets for tasting. One reviewer said, “The food was surprisingly delicious, with a nice variety of Finnish treats that complemented the outdoor setting perfectly.”

Final Moments

The tour wraps up with some time to relax, savor the food, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Lapland’s forest. The whole experience lasts around two hours, making it a great option for travelers with limited time but a desire for an authentic outdoor activity.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transport: All transfers are included, making this hassle-free for travelers. We appreciated the round-trip service, which keeps logistics simple, especially after a day of sightseeing.

Duration: The tour is valid for 2 hours, with scheduled starts depending on availability. Check in advance to get your preferred time, especially in peak berry season.

Group Size & Guides: Limited to 10 participants, so you get a personal touch and more interaction with the guide. The guides speak English, ensuring clear instructions and engaging commentary.

What’s Included: The package provides berry collection tools, buckets, drinks, and Finnish food treats. You just need to wear comfortable walking shoes, suitable clothes, and bring a reusable water bottle. A collared shirt is recommended for sun protection or warmth, depending on the weather.

What to Bring: Dress in comfortable, layered clothing, and be prepared for an outdoor walk. Mosquito spray isn’t included, so pack some if needed. The terrain is generally accessible, but you should have the physical ability to walk in the forest.

Not Allowed: Alcohol, drugs, or baby carriages aren’t permitted on the tour to maintain safety and comfort for everyone.

Cancellation & Payment: You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Reserving now and paying later offers flexibility—ideal if your plans change unexpectedly.

What Do Travelers Think?

This experience gets a solid 4.8 out of 5 stars, with many noting the delicious Finnish treats and authentic outdoor atmosphere as highlights. One reviewer said, “The food was a real highlight — sausages and sweets, all enjoyed in the peaceful forest setting.” Others appreciated the small group size, which made the activity feel more personalized and engaging.

Some mention that the tour might be a bit short if you want a comprehensive forest adventure, but for most, the balance of activity and relaxation hits just right. The fact that the berries are seasonal and the availability depends on the time of year is something to keep in mind if visiting outside the July-September window.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to connect with Lapland’s natural landscape in a relaxed setting. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy outdoor activities combined with local food experiences. The focus on berry picking and traditional Finnish food makes it authentic and memorable. It’s also suitable for travelers with moderate mobility, as the walk is described as easy.

However, if you’re looking for a high-adrenaline adventure or have limited mobility, you might find this experience a bit gentle. It’s also best for those who enjoy small-group tours and want a personalized, intimate experience rather than a large, noisy group.

The Sum Up

The Rovaniemi Berry Picking Tour with a Traditional Laavu offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s outdoors and local customs. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a short, scenic walk, learn about Finnish traditions, and indulge in delicious foods all in one outing. The small-group setting and inclusive approach ensure you’ll feel well cared for and engaged throughout.

The tour’s emphasis on seasonal berries, traditional cooking, and natural surroundings makes for a memorable experience, especially for those eager to see beyond the typical tourist attractions. While it doesn’t include long hikes or extreme adventures, it provides a balanced and authentic taste of local life, making it a smart choice for curious, active travelers.

For anyone seeking a light, engaging outdoor activity with flavorful rewards, this experience offers excellent value and a wonderful glimpse into Lapland’s wilderness traditions.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transfers from Rovaniemi are included in the tour price.
What should I wear? Comfortable clothes suitable for walking, and closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Can I participate if I don’t like berries? The main activities are berry picking and outdoor cooking, so some interest in those activities helps.
Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, especially if they’re comfortable walking and enjoying outdoor activities.
What is the season for berry picking? July to September, when blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries are in season.
Will I get mosquito bites? Mosquito nets are provided, but bringing insect repellent is a wise idea.
What food is included? Sausages roasted over the fire, Finnish pies, and sweets.
How many people are on the tour? Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.
What if it rains? The tour is outdoors, so it’s best to check the weather, but rain won’t stop the activity entirely if you’re prepared.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with flexible booking options available.

In essence, this tour offers a hands-on, flavorful slice of Lapland’s outdoor life — perfect for those who want to enjoy nature and local traditions in a relaxed, friendly setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: