The large wilderness reserve offers excellent possibilities for independent trekking for an experienced hiker.
Kaldoaivi is the largest wilderness reserve in Finland. The landscape of this roadless fell area varies surprisingly from deep, steep river valleys to gentle fell slopes. The protected mires of Sammuttijänkä-Vaijoenjänkä are connected to the wilderness reserve on the southwestern side. The unbroken wilderness does not end at the Finnish side of the border, but the roadless area continues onto the Norwegian side, too. Kaldoaivi Wilderness reserve is suitable for day trips as well as treks lasting for several days. For an experienced hiker, the area is a rewarding destination. A beginner should explore the area together with a more experienced hiker.
- The wilderness area safeguards Sámi culture and traditional livelihoods, and protects the wilderness nature.
- Roadless fell area
- Steep river valleys
- Neighboring the Sammuttijänkä-Vaijoenjänkä mire protection area
- Reindeer herding area
- Suitable for day trips as well as treks lasting for several days
Activities and trails
There are challenging mountain biking trails in the Kaldoaivi Wilderness area.
The River Näätämöjoki Canoeing Route
Pay the fisheries management fee at Metsähallitus eräluvat.fi -webstore.
Kaldoaivi wilderness reserve belongs to four permit areas. Get small game hunting permits from the Metsähallitus webstore (eräluvat.fi).
Skiing freely in the terrain, there are no maintained tracks in the area.
Cloudberries on the mires, or Lingonberries, Blueberries and Crowberries on the heaths.
Natural Features of Kaldoaivi Wilderness Area
This area, which is well suited for wilderness trekking, mostly consists of highland in about the altitude of 200 - 300 metres.
Nature at the siteHistory of Kaldoaivi Wilderness Area
The wilderness area has been inhabited since the end of the last Ice Age. Catching the wild reindeer, fishing and hunting were the earliest sources of livelihood. Later, reindeer herding replaced catc
History of the destinationVisitor's checklist
Everyman’s Right apply in the wilderness areaTemporary camping in the area is allowed.
Remember to bring a trash bagThere is no recycling point in the area. Bring a trash bag and take the trash with you.
Making campfire is allowed in the terrainIf a designated campfire site is available within 500 meters, you must use the site for making a fire and not create a new campfire site. Collecting fallen tree branches and twigs for your fire is fine.
Be prepared for areas with limited or no mobile network coverageRemember to take a paper map and compass.
Take the Sámi cultural environment into considerationBe respectful and do not damage the sacred sites of the Sámi people.