Core lessons and inspiration

• Respect for the environment through living closely with nature

• Winter sports

• Once in a lifetime experiences 

• Equal rights, community and teamwork

• Silence

Programme

Camp design

We have set blocks of time to create a rhythm to the day. Time blocks include a morning adventure and afternoon adventure which typically last about three hours each, and an evening activity that is optional and runs from after dinner until the lights go out.

Activities included in the programme

The learning-by-doing approach connects theory with the physical world, and promotes self-directed learning at an individual pace. In an outdoor setting, nature becomes the classroom, further promoting exploration and discovery and sparking curiosity about the natural world. The activities included in this programme were designed to maximize hands-on learning and connection to nature.

Adventure briefing 

The school camp will start with an introduction to Finland and the programme for the camp, so that both students and teachers can feel comfortable in Finland and what is ahead for each day. 

Adventure journal introduction

Students will begin their personal adventure journal which they will keep during the camp. The journal is their own space to record notes, keep thoughts and complete creative tasks - a great learning tool and memory of their time at the camp.

Gear check

Gear check ensures everyone has what they need to stay warm, dry and comfortable including clothes, shoes, ski boots, basic adventure gear, safety gear and personal hygiene items.

Monkey Olympics 

Monkey Olympics is a team-based outdoor sports activity that combines physical and mental challenges with a fun twist and a bit of friendly competition. World Championships of Monkey Driver requires everyone to come together in order to beat the previous teams on the Adventure Apes ranking list while Finnish baseball with a rubber chicken is perfect for team bonding and working towards a common goal. Be prepared for lots of laughs!  

Igloo (quinzee) building 

Quinzees are a special kind of igloos. We build them in two parts starting with the base – a huge pile of snow which we will let freeze and harden. The next day we finish the igloo. No igloo build is complete without a housewarming party for your new snowy dwelling! Those adventurous enough will have the chance to sleep a night in the igloo, staying plenty warm with our four-season sleeping bags. 

Introduction to Finnish Sauna culture

The Sauna is an important part of Finnish culture and Finns are just crazy about it. We will share all our Sauna secrets and then let students experience it for themselves. Yes, bathing suits will be worn so don’t be shy!

Finnish lessons 

We’ll learn some funny Finnish words that we can use throughout the week. For example, do you know what kiitos, poro or mustikkapiirakka mean? You will by the end of the week! 

Cross-country ski school 

It is time to experience one of Finland’s favorite winter sports: cross-country skiing. Your guide will show you the basics during your first ski lesson (or share some of their favorite tips if you are already an experienced skier).  After learning the basics you will be ready for a relaxed skiing tour through beautiful fields, forests and lakes.

Open gym

Adventure Apes Lodge was once home to the village school. The original gym is still on site and hosts a range of activities including volleyball, basketball, floorball, badminton, yoga, relaxation and stretching. Or maybe the students would like to introduce one of their favorite games to the Adventure Apes guides? 

Games night

At game night we play a variety of games in small teams in order to share a bit of fun while enhancing cooperation within the team.

Ice skating 

Finns learn to skate before they learn to walk. This is your chance to learn how to skate and have some fun at the same time. Ice hockey skates, helmets and skating aids provided. 

Ice fishing 

Finland is the land of a thousand lakes (187,888 to be exact) which are home to many different species. We will learn about fish and life in the lakes while also spending some time fishing and enjoying the silence of nature.

Sledding 

Now it's time to have some fun! Sledding is one of the favorite activities of Andy the Ape and we believe you like it too! Would you like to have a small race, as well? 

Movie night 

Our movie collection includes films about Finnish nature as well as a few of our favorite cultural classics. Movie night can be a great way to spark new discussions about life - past, present and future - in Finland. And, we’ll be sure to choose films with subtitles so everyone can enjoy them. Alternatively, students are welcome to bring their own films to watch.

Snowshoeing expedition

We will set out on a guided snowshoeing adventure off the beaten path. You will be walking in deep snow with the help of special shoes designed to keep you on top while admiring the snow-covered forest. We will enjoy some hot juice on top of a hill while enjoying stunning scenery.  

Preparations for the farewell party 

The students will do some party preparations in small teams. They will take care of the program planning and also prepare to give positive feedback to their buddies. Now it is also time to return the rental winter clothing sets as well as pack your luggage for the next day.

Farewell party

The farewell party is the perfect time to reflect back on all the fun we have had and the things we have learned both individually and as a team. With food, stories and activities, it will be a memorable last evening.

Reflection

Reflection is an important part of the learning process so we build it into the camp programme. It builds self-awareness and encourages students to consider what they know, how they learned it, and what they might still need or want to learn. 

Every night: Northern Lights Hunt

While only mother nature knows when the Aurora Borealis will dance in the Northern sky, our guides will watch for the best chance to catch a view of this spectacular display. Any evening when the conditions are right, we will have the option to turn the evening activity into a fun hunt for the Northern Lights. 

Details

Availability: 01 January through 30 April 2024

Duration: 7 days, 6 nights

Location: Kuusamo, Finland

Arrival and departure points: This tour will begin and end at Kuusamo Airport (KAO)

Group size: 18-20 students + 3 adults 

Activity level: Beginner

Suitability: This adventure is best suited for students who are looking for an active week in winter conditions. Previous experience in winter conditions is not required.

Age limit: The program will be tailored to each age group 

Gear needed: All special gear is included. Recommended personal clothing & gear list will be provided well in advance.

Language: English, Finnish (Other languages available on request) 

Safety 

The adventure is led by a professional wilderness and outdoor sports guide who has suitable safety training for all the activities in the program. Adventure Apes has a detailed safety plan and risk assessment for the school camp and all the activities. Safety training will be given before every activity as needed.

Guiding 

The guide team consists of professional guides having experience in all the activities included in the program. They have experience in guiding children and young people in arctic wilderness  and have also participated in Adventure Apes inhouse training including safety and adventure education training. They are also first aid certified. In addition there are trainees who are in the Adventure Apes training program. 

Adventurers are requested to follow the guide’s instructions in all circumstances. 

The guides may be male or female depending on availability of staff. Main guide will be available for 24/7 but will stay the nights in a separate staff building right next to customer accommodations.

Accommodations

The accommodation is at Adventure Apes Lodge in the countryside of Kuusamo. Once a public primary school, the guesthouse has been newly renovated to provide clean and cozy, standard-level accommodations. The dorm-style rooms have bunk beds with a maximum occupancy of seven people per room with private bathrooms. Bed linen, towels and access to the traditional wood-heated sauna are included. See video and pictures here: www.adventureapes.fi/lodge. 

Room capacity

Room 1: reserved for adults 

Room 2: 4 students 

Room 3: 4 students 

Room 4: 6 students

Room 5: 6 students  

Room 6: reserved for adults 

Total: max 18-20 students 

Rooms 1-5 are located in the main lobby and room 6 is separate behind the kitchen with a separate entrance. The students will also have the option to spend one night in an igloo built from pure snow. Proper sleeping bags and sleeping mattresses are included. 

Food 

All food is included according to the outlined programme. The menu typically consists of typical Finnish foods which are sourced as locally as possible. The food is plentiful, generally local in style, and will give you plenty of energy. Specific dietary requirements can be accommodated. (Please note we require special dietary requirements 45 days before the start of the tour.)

Food included

Day 1: Dinner 

Days 2-6: Breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner 

Day 7: Breakfast

Food not included

The tour price does not include additional snacks or alcoholic beverages. 

Travel arrangements

Ground transportation

Travel from and back to Kuusamo (KAO) airport and all local travel necessary for the travel programme is included. 

Flights

Flights are the responsibility of the buyer. Please check with the airline directly to confirm arrival and departure times. Adventure Apes cannot be responsible for changes to the schedule because of flights. However, we will work with you whenever possible to adjust the programme to provide the best possible experience. This program includes bus transfers from/to Kuusamo (KAO) airport. Other suitable airports are Rovaniemi (RVN) or Oulu (OUL) - please check extra pricing. Only one airport transfer per group is possible.

Visas

Visas may be required for travelling within the Schengen area. Arrangement of appropriate Visas are the responsibility of the customer.

Travel insurance

Adventure Apes has liability insurance, however, the adventurers are required to have adequate personal travel insurance prior to their arrival to Finland and are asked to send copies of their insurance policies in advance. The insurance should cover health problems, ambulance transfers, visits to the hospital and private doctor, payments for canceled/delayed flights, lost luggage.

Pricing

Student price

1199 euros per student 

Adults join for free

Three staff members join each group for free 

Adults join for free but they are requested to participate fully in the program and show a positive example for the students, always encouraging and supporting them to participate in all the activities. Teachers are also responsible for the night watch and make sure everyone stays in bed between 10pm and 7am. 

Value Added Tax VAT 

All our prices include local tax, or Value Added Tax (VAT) valid in Finland. Tax is variable based on the good or service but can make up to 24% of the total cost of the tour. 

What’s in the price?

Adventure Apes’ commitment to fair pay and supporting the local economy: 

Adventure Apes is a responsible travel provider. We are committed to supporting both travelers and our local economy in a way that respects the best interest of all parties. This means our tours may not always come in at the lowest price, but you can rest assured the money goes where it should go: to the local guides, bakers, fishermen and women and other small producers and local partners that make you feel part of the community. Our price includes: 

• Accommodations as indicated above

• Transfers as indicated above

• Meals and activities as shown in the program

• Special outdoor sports gear rental such as cross country skis, snowshoes, ice skates, ice fishing gear, sleeping bags, inner liners, sleeping mattresses etc.

• Group safety gear: full safety plan with risk analysis, first aid bags, space blankets, emergency shelters, gps, whistles, knives, ice picks, etc.

• Guide services - private, professional English speaking wilderness and outdoor sports guide(s)

• Liability insurance of Adventure Apes

• Lead guide available 24/7

What’s not in the price?

• Hotels before or after the start of the tour

• Airfare and flight management (flights or transportation before or after the start of the tour)

• Any visas that may be required or the management thereof

• Personal outdoor clothing/apparel (a complete recommended gear list will be provided before the tour - see next page for more details on the optional winter gear rental package *) 

• Single room accommodation

• Optional add-ons

• Meals, snacks or drinks other than those listed and alcoholic beverages

• Travel insurance (personal travel insurance is required and should cover possible evacuation from the wilderness by helicopter)

Arctic conditions and gear

This adventure takes place in Arctic conditions. All the special gear rental will be provided; however, adventurers will be expected to come prepared for low temperatures varying from zero degrees to minus 35 degrees celsius.

A personal gear list will be provided to the buyer who is responsible for sharing it with all the participants and ensuring they understand the importance of coming prepared with proper gear. Optional gear rental package (mentioned in the programme) should be made available for reservation by the buyer at the time of booking and the shoe size, height (cm) and weight (kg) should be collected to ensure we have the right size.

Adventurers who do not own suitable outdoor clothing (such as boots, thermal base layer, etc.) are advised to budget an additional fee for the add-on gear package rental which should be reserved together with the booking. 

How to dress for winter in Finland

Recommended gear list plus video: What to wear in Finland?

Optional personal winter gear rental package *

Some adventurers prefer not to buy personal outdoor winter clothing. If you are traveling light or just prefer not to add to your closet, we are happy to offer a winter clothing gear rental package that will help to keep you warm and dry in Arctic conditions. Preliminary booking is required to ensure appropriate sizes are available. 

The gear package includes:

• One set of thermal underlayer (trousers and shirt)

• Woolen socks

• Fleece

• Wind and waterproof jacket and trousers

• Down jacket

• Winter boots (suitable for snowshoes)

• Small hat + big hat for extra cold weather

• Gloves + mittens

• Buff

• Balaclava

• Head torch

Price of the personal winter gear rental package: 100 euros. This is how the winter gear rental package looks like:

Nice to know about Adventure Apes Lodge

• The Lodge is reserved only for one group at the time so there are no other travelers at the same time

• Free use of the sports hall in the free time for games and play

• Small souvenir and snack shop at the Lodge (nearest shops located 30 kilometers away)

• Main guide available 24/7 in a staff house next door

• Laundry service available at extra cost

• Possibility to invite local people to activities

Other details

Please note that modifications to the route, program or activities are possible due to weather and/or safety reasons. We are following the leave no trace policy and require all participants to follow our example.