Plizio Visual Lab

Tuntsa Wilderness

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Forest

Weather…

The Tuntsa Wilderness Area in eastern Lapland is known for its dramatic history and unique, barren beauty. In 1960, it was the site of the largest forest fire in Finland's modern history, which destroyed vast portions of the original coniferous forests and left behind an open, park-like landscape. Geographically, Tuntsa is located in the municipalities of Salla and Savukoski, directly on the Russian border. The region is characterized by gently sloping hills, known as 'vaaras', and deep gorges such as the Tuntsajoki valley. This remoteness makes Tuntsa an important habitat for European reindeer and various species of birds of prey. Hikers value the area for its tranquility and the broad views facilitated by the slow regeneration process of the vegetation following the fire.

Location: Finland
Nearby: Salla (83 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-13	-13	-9	-3	4	10	14	11	6	-1	-7	-11
Rain mm	46	40	43	50	81	96	122	100	85	73	56	54

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The wilderness is typically accessed via remote unpaved logging roads in eastern Lapland, often approached from Salla or Savukoski. Reaching the area usually requires a reliable private vehicle capable of handling rough conditions.

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Best season

Summer (late July and August) is typically preferred for hiking, while late winter (March and April) is handy for backcountry skiing. Autumn brings beautiful colors but carries the risk of unpredictable, freezing weather.

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Terrain & paths

The landscape consists of vast pathless forests, rugged fell slopes, and remote river valleys with very few marked trails. The wild terrain demands excellent physical endurance and highly proficient wilderness navigation skills.

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What to bring

Complete wilderness survival gear, an accurate topographic map, a compass, and emergency supplies are absolutely mandatory. Sturdy waterproof trekking boots and weather-proof clothing are essential for any expedition here.

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Parking

Small, informal gravel clearings can sometimes be found at the dead ends of logging roads, acting as remote trailheads. There are no official facilities, and leaving a vehicle in these isolated spots is done at the owner's risk.

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Safety

The extreme remoteness means mobile network coverage is often completely absent throughout the wilderness area. Travelers must inform someone reliable of their planned route and possess solid self-rescue and survival skills.

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Time needed

Visiting this area typically entails multi-day backcountry trekking or skiing expeditions due to its immense size and isolation. Short day visits are very uncommon given the long driving distances required just to reach the borders.

Geography

Coordinates

67.50000, 29.50000

Facts

The 1960 forest fire destroyed over 20,000 hectares of forest land.
Tuntsa is considered one of the most challenging hiking areas to access in Finland.
Nuorttitunturi hill is one of the most well-known elevations in the region.
The area is home to rare lichen species that thrive on the scorched soil.
The state border with Russia runs directly to the east of the wilderness area.
The region is an important part of the Green Belt of Fennoscandia.