Quinzee and Aurora: Arctic Night Survival Workshop at Pyhätunturi
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
20–22 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: ability to stand, dig and move in snow for a few hours and to sleep in a cold environment.
Overview
Spend a night in a hand-built quinzee under Lapland skies. This guided survival workshop at Pyhätunturi combines classroom lessons with hands-on snow shelter building, a monitored overnight stay and practical cold-weather skills.
Quinzee and Aurora: Arctic Night Survival Workshop at Pyhätunturi
Select participants and date
When the light finally thins to a hard blue and stars prick the Lapland sky, the snow around Pyhätunturi stops being a passive blanket and starts to act — it holds heat, muffles sound and, when shaped right, shelters you from the Arctic night.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Bring moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating midlayer and a windproof outer shell—temperatures can vary between activity and rest.
Bring high-calorie snacks
Even with warm drinks provided, cold nights increase calorie burn—pack nuts, energy bars and an extra thermal flask.
Waterproof footwear
Use insulated, waterproof boots with good traction—work around a quinzee is wet and compacted snow can be slippery.
Protect electronics
Cold kills batteries; keep cameras and phones close to your body and bring spare batteries in an inner pocket.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Reindeer
- Snow hare
History
The Pyhätunturi fells have long been part of Sámi grazing lands; survival techniques and seasonal knowledge here blend indigenous practice with modern safety.
Conservation
Operators emphasize Leave No Trace in fragile tundra and limit group sizes; avoid trampling vegetation under the snow and pack out any waste.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Pyhätunturi (Pelkosenniemi)
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Insulated winter sleeping bag (rated to -20°C or lower)
Keeps you warm inside the quinzee and handles cold Arctic nights.
winter specific
Closed-cell foam or inflatable insulated sleeping pad
Creates a thermal barrier between you and the cold snow floor.
winter specific
Insulated, waterproof winter boots
Necessary for building the quinzee and moving around in deep snow without getting wet.
winter specific
Balaclava and spare gloves
Protects face and fingers during night watches and while shaping the snow shelter.
winter specific