Spend a practical five hours outside Ivalo learning snow shelters, winter firecraft and navigation by map, compass and stars. This hands-on camp blends Sámi-informed techniques with modern safety practices for confident winter travel.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The air tastes of iron and cold as you step out onto a broad white plain outside Ivalo. Snow shifts under your boots like a living thing, and the guide points to a pattern of tracks half-buried by last night’s wind—clues to read, routes to choose. For five hours you trade warmth for education: building pits that use snow as shelter, coaxing sparks into flame with damp wood, and navigating by compass, stars and the angle of the sun.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate cardiovascular fitness and be comfortable moving over uneven, snowy terrain for several hours.
Wildlife
History
Lapland’s landscape bears scars of glacial sculpting and a long Sámi presence; traditional seasonal knowledge of travel and resources influences modern survival techniques.
Conservation
Guides follow strict Leave No Trace principles, limit wood collection to approved areas and restore sites after use to minimize impact on fragile Arctic soils.
Reserve your spot on the Winter Survival Skills Camp today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Wear a breathable base layer, insulating mid-layers and a windproof, waterproof outer shell to manage sweat and cold.
Insulated water bottle
Use an insulated bottle or thermos to keep fluids from freezing; sip regularly to avoid dehydration.
Practice on your knees
Bring kneepads or a sit pad—working with snow and wood keeps you low to the ground and damp; insulation prevents heat loss.
Navigation basics
Brush up on basic compass and map skills before the trip to get the most from the navigation exercises.
Insulated, waterproof winter boots
Keeps feet warm and dry when spending hours in snow and during shelter-building.
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Layered clothing system (base, mid, shell)
Allows easy regulation of body temperature during active training and cold pauses.
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Insulated water bottle or thermos
Prevents fluids from freezing so you can stay hydrated throughout the day.
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Sturdy gloves plus liner gloves
Protects hands for tasks like firemaking, wood cutting and shelter construction while retaining dexterity.
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