About Us
Family owned company
We established Pihka Outdoors in 2018 after having enough of city life. Our home and starting point of many adventures is in Ylläs, where we live with two small kids and a dog. We offer unique all-inclusive experiences and wild camping in true wilderness of Lapland. Up here in the north we have pure air and fresh water, peace and quiet. Pure luxury.
See you soon,
Joona & Minttu
We make memories for a lifetime.
The concept
Choose us for carefree all-inclusive adventures in the remote wilderness of the Arctic Finnish Lapland. You just pack your personal clothing and leave the rest to us. We conduct sustainable tours with top quality equipment in all seasons. The air in Lapland is the purest in the world, the water is drinkable straight from streams and it is unlikely that we see any other people. This is the luxury to remember.
Simply creating the most amazing memories of your life.
Our values
We have left our old life in a city to pursue dreams and fulfilling life instead of working in an office 24/7. Life is short, better make the most of it! We want to live slow life in the middle of nature, as one species among the others. Be outsider with us!
Our base value is sustainability – we have small groups on treks to prevent pressure on vulnerable arctic tundra up in the open fells, leaving no trace. Adventures are powered by your own muscles, not motorised vehicles.
Meaning of Pihka?
Pihka is Finnish and means the resin of coniferous trees, such as pine and spruce. You know, the sticky stuff. It actually has superpowers – antimicrobial pihka protects trees from hazardous bugs and disease. Like a helping band-aid!
Meet The Team
Minttu Heimovirta
Co-owner, biologist, wilderness guide, journalist
In previous life she worked on TV telling stories about nature. She is still working as journalist and has written a funny non-fiction book about the inhabitants of Norcic nature. Minttu loves all kinds of ways to roam in the wild – by foot, skis, canoe or bike. Her favourite season is Autumn, when days are still warm, nature is wearing amazing “ruska” colours and the forests are full of clean berries and mushrooms to eat.
Joona Kivinen
Co-owner, wilderness guide
When the weather gets extreme, Joona packs his bag and heads out. He loves testing himself and his equipment in wild conditions. Long hikes on skis or by foot are his favourite. Joona also trains new wilderness guides and he has a vast knowledge of survival and wilderness skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to the questions we receive the most about our services.
If we missed anything, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’ll be happy to help!
Where is Pihka Outdoors located?
We are located in Ylläs, Finnish Lapland. How to get to Ylläs? Take a train from Helsinki to Kolari or fly to Kittilä airport. Both are only 35km from Ylläs and there is bus connection from both stations.
Do i need travel insurance when participating in your adventures?
Travel insurance is always required on our adventures.
Are your adventures safe?
We take safety very seriously. We do our best to make our adventures as safe as possible and follow strict safety guidelines. The wilderness guides are trained professionals and locals who know the area and the weather circumstances of Lapland.
Do you arrange longer hikes?
Yes we organise longer hikes and ski treks in Lapland. Take a look at our multiday adventures!
Are private tours available?
Yes! We can also arrange a customised experience for your group only. Privacy is a priority. Contact us.
What should I wear in Lapland during winter?
Warm winter clothing is all about layers. Wool and down are the warmest products there is. Make sure you don’t get too sweaty in winter. Check out our blogpost on winter clothing.
What kind of winter shoes will I need?
Best winter shoes are at least one size bigger than your normal shoes. This is important so you can fit at least one additional woollen sock in there. Cotton is not good in winter, your toes will get cold quickly. Also, thick sole is good as the cold creeps in from beneath. We wear Sorel Caribou winter boots or similar.
Can you see northern lights in Lapland?
Yes! The possibility of seeing Auroras in Lapland is very good, more than 60% if the sky is clear. The rule is, if you can see stars, you can see the northern lights. You just need to wait. Generally the best time is between 10pm and midnight but it’s possible to see them earlier too. As long as it’s dark. The Aurora season starts in September and lasts until the end of March. After that it starts to get too light again. We combine the hunt for northern lights with other activity such as snowshoeing to our secret hideaway.