Matka 2027 Pre Tour | Pyhä-Luosto

Q: When will I know if I have been accepted for a tour?

Registration is open from 1 to 30 November 2026. After registration closes, NordicMarketing will review all applications together with the host destinations. We aim to accommodate as many preferences as possible, taking into account your selected tours, professional profile and the available places. All applicants will be informed of their tour allocation by 15 December 2026 at the latest. Please note that places are limited, and some tours may be more popular than others. Participation in your preferred tour cannot be guaranteed. The final selection is made by the host destination. If we cannot offer you a place on one of your preferred tours, we may contact you to discuss a suitable alternative.

Discover Pyhä-Luosto: Arctic Nature & Experiences in Finnish Lapland

Pre Tour · 16–19 January 2027 · 3 nights

Discover Pyhä-Luosto in the heart of Finnish Lapland on this Pre Tour ahead of Matka 2027. Explore the spectacular winter landscapes of two fell destinations, experience the unique atmosphere of Pyhä-Luosto National Park and meet local tourism businesses offering authentic Arctic nature, outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Two Fells, One Destination

Pyhä-Luosto combines the untouched nature of Finland’s oldest national park with the charm of two distinctive fell destinations. With two distinctive fell destinations to explore, Pyhä-Luosto offers a diverse mix of Arctic nature, outdoor adventures and local traditions all zear round. Wherever you choose to stay, you can enjoy the services and experiences of both Pyhä and Luosto.

In winter, visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, husky and reindeer experiences, while the region’s dark skies offer excellent opportunities to admire the Northern Lights. Beyond the outdoor activities, Pyhä-Luosto also provides insights into local culture.

For tour operators, the destination offers a versatile range of experiences in a compact area, making it easy to combine active holidays, nature-based activities and authentic encounters with Finnish Lapland.

Getting to Pyhä-Luosto

Pyhä-Luosto is located in Finnish Lapland, approximately 90 minutes by car from Rovaniemi Airport. Rovaniemi offers regular flight connections from Helsinki, as well as seasonal international flights. From Rovaniemi there are daily connections by bus to Pyhä-Luosto all year round. Kittilä Airport is another option, depending on the route and travel arrangements.

Pyhä and Luosto are just 25 minutes apart by car, making it easy to explore both areas during the same stay.

The final travel arrangements and transfers for the Pre Tour will be confirmed closer to the event.

Pyha-Luosto-woman standing on a tower-copyright Kota Collective Photo

Helsinki - Rovaniemi - Luosto

Day 1: Saturday, 16 January 2027

Arrival Day

17:45 - Arrival at Rovaniemi airport (AY535)
18:00 - Welcoming group at Rovaniemi Airport
Transfer to Luosto. Driving distance approximately 1,5 hours.
19:45 - Check-in to Lapland Hotels Luostotunturi
Lapland Hotels Luostotunturi is located in the idyllic log village of Luosto, next to the excellent recreational areas of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Under one roof, you'll find a spa, diverse accommodation options, functional meeting services, a restaurant world featuring northern flavors, and a comprehensive entertainment offering.
20:30 - Welcome dinner at Lapland Hotels Restaurant Bistro
During dinner, Lapland Hotels & Safaris’ Travel Services Coordinator will introduce the company’s operations in Luosto.
22:00 - Overnight stay at Lapland Hotels Luostotunturi

Pyha-Luosto-ski and snowboard-copyright Kota Collective Photo

Luosto - Pyhä

Day 2: Sunday, 17 January 2027

7:00-9:00 - Breakfast at restaurant Tunturi
9:15 - Check out from the hotel
The day’s programme is planned so that we travel from one location to another by minibus, which will be at the group’s disposal throughout the day.
9:30 - Pick up the winter equipment from Lapland Safaris Office on the way to Santa's Hotel Aurora
10:00 - Inspection to Santa's Hotel Aurora
Santa’s Hotel Aurora is a cozy hotel in Luosto with hotel rooms and glass igloos. Aurora is the perfect destination for you to experience authentic Lapland and enjoy the quiet, surrounding nature, while still being close to services. Our boutique-style hotel, rooms with private saunas and fireplaces, and atmospheric glass igloos create a warm and inviting setting throughout your stay. With low light pollution, Aurora is also a good place to see the northern lights close to the hotel.
10:45 - Jewels of Lapland - Visit to the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine
Dig your own gemstone of Lapland, purple amethyst, during your visit to Amethyst Mine. You travel to Amethyst mine with special snow vehicle, Amethyst Pendolino. On the top of Lampivaara hill you can admire maybe the most beautiful landscape of the area. At the mine you will be invited into a warm wooden house upon arrival. During the storytelling moment you will learn about this fascinating stone and how it was formed more than 2000 million years ago. Afterwards everyone may search and dig own amethyst stone and take it with as a memento.
12:45 - Lunch at the family-owned Restaurant Punakettu which is Green Key certified
14:00 - Inspection to Pyhä-Luosto Travel cabin accommodation
Pyhä-Luosto Travel manages over 130 holiday cottages in the Luosto area. The cottages are built in a traditional style using old kelo (weathered pine) wood, giving the area its unique Lappish atmosphere. All cottages are located in the village of Luosto, and most are within walking distance of local services.
14:45 - Lapland Husky Safaris Luosto and Reindeer Park Kopara
Ready, set, go: this husky ride is packed with excitement and thrills! It's time to meet the friendly husky dogs that are eager to take you through winter landscapes. After a short drive from village, you’ll arrive at a husky kennel, where friendly huskies will enthusiastically welcome you. Before departing, you will be instructed how to control your sleigh, which you get to ride in pairs. If you want, you may swap places at the halfway point! Afterwards experience the magic of Lapland with a guided reindeer farm visit. During this one-hour tour, you’ll get to know the world of reindeer herding and northern traditions. The visit includes storytelling, where local guides share interesting facts about reindeer and life in the north. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in feeding the reindeer, and a short reindeer sleighride offering a unique and memorable encounter with these gentle animals.
17:30 - Check-in to Hotel Kultakero
Hotel rooms and apartments are available in seven different sizes, so Kultakero is the perfect choice for customers traveling alone or in larger groups. You do not need a car during your holiday, as the Pyhä fell village is very near Hotel Pyhätunturi, restaurants, rental shops, slopes, and the national park.
19:00 - Dinner at the Restaurant Popolo
Popolo is a warm and welcoming meeting place at Hotel Kultakero in Pyhä, where guests can enjoy delicious food. At the heart of the restaurant is an authentic Italian wood-fired oven, used to prepare both dishes and pizzas.
Overnight stay at Hotel Kultakero

Pyhä

Day 3: Monday, 18 January 2027

8:00 - Breakfast at the Hotel Pyhätunturi, restaurant Camp Pyhä
9:30 - Getting familiar with Pyhä Ski Resort accommodation facilities, ski resort and its services year-round
10:30 - Minibus transfer to Pyhä Express lift
From this point on the day’s programme is planned so that we travel from one location to another by minibus, which will be at the group’s disposal throughout the day.
10:45 - Feel the Peak Express lift and inspection to Pyhä Dreams
A visit to Pyhä isn't complete without taking in the breathtaking felltop views beside the national park. At the summit, you'll find Restaurant Tsokka, the Pyhä Dreams wine bar, a cozy scenic hut with a fireplace, a panoramic viewing deck, and snowy glimpses of the Huttu-Ukko art trail.
12:15 - Lunch at the restaurant Neidon Sydän and presentation their upcoming investment in Pyhä five boutique apartments and a new restaurant for winter 2027-28.
13:45 - Inspection at Lucky Ranch
Lucky Ranch offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, whether you're chasing the northern lights, exploring snowy trails, or relaxing in a lakeside sauna. Located in the heart of Pyhätunturi, the ranch is built on strong values and a passion for the outdoors.
15:15 - Sauna and ice floating experience at the Kairosmaja,
with Outdoor Artisans
Experience what it feels like to float in icy water. You will get a dry suit that keeps you dry and warm so you can relax and be present in your body. After instructions, you step into the frozen lake and enjoy the quietness, sensations and nature around you. After floating, you will enjoy a traditional Finnish lakeside sauna.
17:45 - Return to accommodation and short time to relax and get ready for dinner
19:15 - Transfer to Kurula's Resort
19:30 - Inspection at Kurula's Resort
Kurula’s is a modern approach to providing that same sense of leisure and wonder in the ancient fells and the beautiful shores of Lake Pyhäjärvi. The main lodge has 17 spacious premium suites. The 19:2suites have magnificent views of the lake and fells. All activities as well as the serene lake are right outside the door.
20:00 - Dinner at the restaurant Kurula's Bistro
22:00 - Return to the accommodation

Pyha-Luosto-husky safari-copyright Jani Karppa

Pyhä - Rovaniemi - Helsinki

Day 4: Tuesday, 19 January 2027

Departure Day

8:00 - Breakfast at Hotel Pyhätunturi restaurant Pyhä Camp
10:00 - Check-out and transfer to Northern Lights Village
10:30 - Inspection at Northern Lights Village Pyhä
Discover the magic of the star-filled winter sky and the Northern Lights from the comfort of our Cabins and Suites.
11:15 - Transfer from Pyhä via Luosto to Rovaniemi airport
14:00 - Flight Rovaniemi - Helsinki (AY534)

Day 3: 18 January 2027

Oulu - Nallikari - Ii

Breakfast at the hotel & check-out
Transfer to Nallikari
Site inspection at Nallikari By the Sea
Winter activity on the frozen sea with Nallikari Safaris
Visiting the reindeer farm Kellon Kuusi
Lunch in a traditional Finnish kota
Transfer to and check-in at Merihelmi Aurora Sea Resort
Guided Ice Fishing on the frozen sea
Kantele Apprentice - learn to play Finland's national instrument
Dinner at Merihelmi Aurora Sea Resort
Possibility for Seaside sauna and outdoor hot tub
Overnight stay at Merihelmi Aurora Sea Resort

Day 2: 17 January 2027

Oulu

Day 4: 19 January 2027

Departure Day: Ii - Oulu - Helsinki

Breakfast at Merihelmi Aurora Sea Resort
Activity
Light lunch in a traditional Finnish kota hut by the sea
Transfer to the airport
Flight to Helsinki

FAQ for Tour Operators

A Pre or Post Tour is a hosted familiarisation trip organised before or after Matka Travel Fair and Matka Workshop Day.

It gives international tour operators the opportunity to experience a Finnish destination first-hand — beyond brochures, presentations and short meetings. Participants can meet local tourism suppliers in person, test selected products and activities, inspect accommodation options and gain a deeper understanding of how the destination can fit into their own travel programmes.

For tour operators, this is a valuable way to discover new product ideas, build trusted local contacts and assess the destination’s potential for future sales. A Pre Tour takes place before the main event, while a Post Tour takes place after the event.

The Pre and Post Tours are designed for international tour operators, travel agencies, product managers and buyers who are interested in developing new tourism products in Finland.

Participation is only intended for professionals who are already taking part in Matka Travel Fair and/or Matka Workshop Day 2027.

As places are limited and some tours are particularly popular, participation is generally limited to one person per company per tour.

We kindly ask for your understanding, as we want to give as many different tour operators as possible the opportunity to experience our Finnish destinations.

Exceptions may be possible: If places remain available and the host destination agrees, we may allow a maximum of two participants from the same company to join the same Pre or Post Tour. Such requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Please note: Two or more representatives from the same company are welcome to apply for different tours. The one-person limit applies to each individual tour, not to the company’s overall participation in the Pre and Post Tour programme.

Buyers can indicate their preferred tours during the registration process. NordicMarketing will review all registrations together with the tour organisers and, where relevant, with the partners involved in the overall programme.

The final allocation depends on the buyer’s profile, business focus, market relevance, available places and the suitability of the tour programme.

Please note that participation cannot be guaranteed. The final decision is made by the destination or tour organiser, and places are limited. If demand is high, not all interested buyers may be able to join a tour.

Registration is open from 1 to 30 November 2026. After registration closes, NordicMarketing will review all applications together with the host destinations.

We aim to accommodate as many preferences as possible, taking into account your selected tours, professional profile and the available places.

All applicants will be informed of their tour allocation by 15 December 2026 at the latest.

Please note that places are limited, and some tours may be more popular than others. Participation in your preferred tour cannot be guaranteed. The final selection is made by the host destination. If we cannot offer you a place on one of your preferred tours, we may contact you to discuss a suitable alternative.

Your initial registration is not yet a binding booking. During the registration process, you can select up to three preferred tours. NordicMarketing will review all registrations together with the destinations and will try to match buyers with their preferred tours whenever possible.

However, participation in a specific tour cannot be guaranteed. If your preferred tours are fully booked or not the best match for your profile, we may suggest an alternative tour and will discuss this with you directly.

Once you have confirmed your participation in a specific tour and the destination has booked and paid for services such as flights or other travel arrangements on your behalf, your participation becomes binding.

If you cancel after this point, the destination reserves the right to charge any costs that have already been incurred.

The main language of the Pre and Post Tours is English. Presentations, communication and guiding during the tours will generally be provided in English, unless otherwise stated in the specific tour programme.

The group size is usually 4–8 participants per tour. This ensures a personal atmosphere, high-quality networking and enough time for meaningful discussions with the local hosts and tourism companies.

The tours are generally organised on a hosted basis. This means that the host organisation usually covers the buyer’s costs on the route Helsinki–destination–Helsinki, including the services included in the confirmed tour programme.

Buyers are responsible for their own travel to the starting point, unless otherwise agreed or confirmed separately.

Yes. Buyers can provide information about dietary requirements, allergies and other relevant food preferences during the registration process.

The tour organisers will do their best to take these into account. However, availability may depend on the destination, local suppliers and the specific programme.

Please bring comfortable clothing suitable for the season and the activities included in the programme. For winter tours, warm outdoor clothing, proper shoes, gloves, a hat and layered clothing are strongly recommended.

More detailed packing information will be provided before the tour, depending on the destination and programme.

If special equipment is needed for specific activities, this will usually be mentioned in the tour programme.

In some cases, local suppliers may provide activity-specific equipment such as overalls, helmets, snowshoes or other gear. Details will be confirmed before the tour.

In most cases, participants will stay in single rooms. If shared accommodation or another special accommodation arrangement is part of a specific tour, this will be clearly mentioned in the tour description in advance. This may apply, for example, to special wilderness experiences such as an overnight stay in a wilderness cabin.

Some tours may include outdoor activities, walking, snow activities or other experiences that require a normal level of physical fitness. However, nobody is required to take part in an activity if they do not feel comfortable or fit enough. There will usually be a Plan B or an alternative option.

Please let us know during registration if you have any health-related limitations or concerns, so that we can take this into account when assessing the suitability of the tour.

Yes, we strongly recommend that all participants have valid travel health insurance and travel insurance covering the full duration of their trip. Participants are responsible for their own insurance coverage, including medical care, accidents, travel disruptions and personal belongings.

Please let us know during registration if you have any health-related limitations or concerns, so that we can take this into account when assessing the suitability of the tour.

Pyhä-Luosto