About Pyhä Safaris
Pyhä Safaris – Authentic Experiences in the Heart of Lapland
We are a family-owned safari and activity company based in Pyhä, Finnish Lapland, offering high-quality experiences with over 30 years of roots in tourism and outdoor life.
Founded in 2001 by Sinikka and Raimo Haikonen, Pyhä Safaris began with just six snowmobiles and a small rented office. Today, we operate from our own safari house in the center of Pyhä, with a modern fleet of over 30 snowmobiles, ice karting cars, minibuses, and more.
Despite our growth, one thing has never changed: our commitment to providing personal, authentic, and high-quality experiences. We focus on small groups, local culture, and genuine connection with the Arctic nature that surrounds us.
Why Choose Us
- Family-owned, second-generation company with deep local roots
- Over 30 years of experience in tourism and outdoor services
- Personal and authentic small-group experiences
- Comfortable safari house in the center of Pyhä with spacious dressing facilities
- All equipment is fully owned and maintained by us
- Flexible operations – from private experiences to larger groups
- Friendly, professional, and English-speaking staff
We believe that great service is something you can truly feel. For us, it’s a matter of pride — because happy guests create lasting memories, and that’s what makes our work meaningful.
Our Story
Entrepreneurship runs deep in our family — we are at least the third generation, possibly even more. Over the years, our family has operated a wide range of businesses, including gas stations, restaurants, automotive services, camping areas, taxi services, and motorsport teams.
Raimo and Sinikka moved to Kemijärvi from Rovaniemi in the 1970s to build their life and business. Raimo has always been passionate about motors and outdoor sports, competing in disciplines such as speed skating, rally driving, motorcycling, and snowmobiling.
Sinikka was the true driving force behind the safari business, managing much of the daily operations and rental services. She has always loved the outdoors and was also a Finnish slalom champion in the early 1970s.
This passion naturally continued into the next generation. The eldest son, Toni Haikonen, built an international career in snowmobile racing, competing for 20 years across Europe and the United States. His achievements include victories at the ESPN X Games, as well as European, Finnish, and U.S. championships in snowcross.
The younger brothers, Timo and Tommi, were involved in the company from an early age. Tommi took over the business in 2014 after completing his degree in tourism. He is also a licensed fishing guide.
Today, Pyhä Safaris continues as a proud family business. What matters most to us is creating safe, memorable, and meaningful experiences — moments where our guests can relax, connect with nature, and truly enjoy Lapland.
Work With Us
Many of our guides return year after year, which we are incredibly grateful for. Each winter season, we also welcome new team members, including guides and occasionally front desk staff.
The winter season typically runs from early December to the end of March, but shorter periods — such as 2–4 weeks during the Christmas season — are also possible. We can assist with accommodation, and we also offer staff housing for 2–4 people.
We also welcome internship applications — feel free to get in touch.
Practical Information
At our office, we accept cash, most major debit and credit cards, as well as mobile and activity payments via Smartum, Edenred, Epassi, and Eazybreak.
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us by phone, email, or by visiting us in Pyhä.
Summer Tourism Development Project
Pyhä Safaris (TT Haikoset Oy) is currently developing its summer services through a project supported by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (2023–2027 programme).
The goal is to expand summer tourism offerings and strengthen business operations in this unique, sparsely populated region. Through this investment, we aim to improve both the quality and accessibility of our services.
The project has received funding of €41,627.45, covering 40% of eligible costs, co-financed by the European Union and the Finnish state.
pland.
