Drive it Yourself: Kilpisjärvi to Kautokeino in Finnish Lapland & Finnmark
Enjoy this remote and scenic drive through Finnish Lapland into Finnmark
Kilpisjärvi is a small village located in the north-western part of Finland, by the Norwegian and Swedish borders. Finland’s highest point, the Halti fell (1300m) is just north of Kilpisjärvi.
Latitude: 69 degrees north
Population: 114
Northern Sami: Eanodat
Kilpisjärvi coat-of-arms
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Kilpisjärvi
The exact point where Finland, Norway and Sweden meet. Reach it via a summer boat trip across Lake Kilpisjärvi followed by a scenic walk, or a full winter ski/snowmobile excursion.
Interactive exhibits about local wildlife, Sámi culture, Arctic landscapes and the region’s unique ecology.
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are our recommendations!
The defining peak of Kilpisjärvi. A well-marked trail leads to the top for incredible views over the Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish border mountains. The walk is easy at first but you have to take 742 wooden steps to the top.
One of Finland’s oldest protected areas, filled with rare Arctic plants, clear streams, and dramatic fell scenery. Perfect for day hikes.
Full-day route from Kilpisjärvi along the lake and through the reserve; can be walked point-to-point with a boat return.
Multi-day trek or guided trip to reach Finland’s highest summit (1,324 m). Rugged, remote and unforgettable.
Follow our road-trip guides for scenic trips around Kilpisjärvi
Watch our YouTube videos featuring Kilpisjärvi
Watch the drive from Kilpisjarvi in Finnish Lapland to Kautokeino in Norway.
Kilpisjärvi has long been a gathering place for the Sámi, who used the area for reindeer migration routes, fishing and seasonal travel. The village remained small and remote for centuries, with most movement occurring across the fells to Norway and Sweden. The modern road only arrived in the mid-20th century. During WWII, the region saw troop movements and evacuations, and the area’s isolation shaped its development. Today, Kilpisjärvi is known for its pristine nature, cross-border culture and strong Sámi heritage.
With around 100–150 year-round residents, Kilpisjärvi is one of Finland’s most remote and scenic communities. It’s a haven for hikers, aurora hunters, skiers and wilderness travellers. Despite its size, it has excellent outdoor infrastructure, cosy accommodation and a welcoming, quiet atmosphere. The village sits right on the lake, backed by Saana and surrounded by some of the wildest landscapes in Lapland.
Fly: No airport
Drive: Kilpisjärvi is on the E8 highway that runs through Finland. The drive between Muonio and Kilpisjärvi is spectacular.
Train: No train access
Ferry: No ferry access.
A car is needed to get around.
Cafes & Bakeries
Casual Eateries
Kilpisjärven Retkeilykeskus Restaurant – homestyle meals with plenty of choice; very popular with hikers. Open during the summer months.
Santa’s Hotel Rakka Restaurant – modern Nordic dishes with panoramic windows overlooking the mountains.
High End & Unique Eats
Hostels & Camping
Retkeilykeskus Cabins – well-equipped cabins ideal for hiking and skiing trips.
B&Bs & Guesthouses
Guesthouse Haltinmaa – cosy, family-run stay with saunas and hearty breakfasts.
Chains & Mid-Range
Hotel Kilpis – lakeside hotel with scenic rooms and a calm atmosphere.
Santa’s Hotel Rakka (Standard Rooms) – modern, stylish and perfectly located near Saana.
High End & Unique Properties
Sunrise: 11:48am
Sunset: 1:44pm
Average Temperature: -12.2C (10F)
Sunrise: 9:05am
Sunset: 4:38pm
Average Temperature: -12.3C (9.9F)
Sunrise: 6:56am
Sunset: 6:36pm
Average Temperature: -8.8C (16F)
Sunrise: 5:37am
Sunset: 9:38pm
Average Temperature: -3.5C (26F)
Sunrise: 2:53am
Sunset: 12:11am
Average Temperature: 2.3C (36F)
Midnight sun
Average Temperature: 7.7C (46F)
Midnight sun until 23 July
Average Temperature: 11.6C (53F)
Sunrise: 4:46am
Sunset: 10:31pm
Average Temperature: 10C (50F)
Sunrise: 6:52am
Sunset: 8:08pm
Average Temperature: 5.7C (42F)
Sunrise: 8:46am
Sunset: 5:56pm
Average Temperature: -0.5C (31F)
Sunrise: 10:09am
Sunset: 2:32pm
Average Temperature: -6.5C (20F)
Polar night
Average Temperature: -10C (14F)
Enjoy this remote and scenic drive through Finnish Lapland into Finnmark