Do I need to be fit / an experienced hiker?

Participants on the HAWK TOUR (4 km hike) should be able to walk for 120 minutes at a relaxed pace. You need to be in a moderate condition and prepared for a few steep climbs along the route.

Participants on the ROBIN TOUR (2 km hike) should be able to walk 45 minutes at a relaxed pace. The route is rated easy. 

Both walks take place on forest trails with uneven surfaces, roots and gentle hills, and are not suitable for people with heart conditions, limited mobility or back/knee issues. 

What should I wear & bring along?

Proper footwear is essential: please wear good sneakers/trainers or hiking shoes. No city shoes, loafers or sandals. Other clothing according to weather (long trousers or shorts, skirts are not recommended), if it's cooler, bring some layers. Bring a bottle of water with you.

What if it rains or weather is bad?

Nature is beautiful in all weather. We proceed with most experiences even in light rain, but we’ll contact you in case of severe weather.

Can I bring my children?

Children over 6 years of age are old enough to participate in the short tour. Children over 8 years of age are old enough to participate in the longer tour. Please note that child seats are unfortunately not available.

What and where is Nuuksio National Park?

Nuuksio National Park is one of Finland’s most beloved natural areas, located in southern Finland, just 45 minutes from the capital city Helsinki. It offers an authentic taste of Finnish wilderness without needing to travel far from the city.

Are there any toilets / facilities in the woods?

There are free composting/dry toilets (eco-friendly outhouses) in the area. These are basic facilities, but they serve their purpose.

How do I get to the meeting point in Helsinki?

Please see map below. Address: Mikonkatu 19, 00100 Helsinki (charter bus stop /Tilausajolaituri). It is right next to the Central Railway Station and the Rautatientori Square in Helsinki. Please be there 10 minutes before departure, as we will not be able to wait long for latecomers.

What form of transport is used for travel?

Your guide is driving a clean and spacious 1+8 seater minibus, marked with the Elev8 logos. Unfortunately child seats are not available.

Can I bring my pet?

Unfortunately pets are not allowed (although we love them!), as we may have people with allergies sharing the ride.

How do I pay my experience?

All payments are secured by Stripe and made upon booking on our webshop. We accept most credit and debit cards, MobilePay, Google Pay, Apple Pay and iDEAL. All bookings must be made and paid in full by 8 p.m. the previous day for the 9 a.m. tours (HAWK tour), and by 8 a.m. the same day for the 2 p.m. tours (ROBIN tour). 

How do you promote sustainable travel?

We are committed to the Principles of Sustainable Tourism developed by Metsähallitus (Parks & Wildlife Finland), the Finnish state-owned enterprise responsible for managing national parks and protected areas.​ Our tours follow a strict "leave no trace" policy — we make sure that nothing unnatural is left behind in the environment. To reduce our environmental impact, we use fuel made from 100% renewable raw materials in our transport vehicles. During our tours, we take the opportunity to discuss the importance of forests and biodiversity to the global ecosystem.

Am I likely to encounter wildlife on the trail?

Quite unlikely—these well‑trodden paths are familiar to animals, and they instinctively steer clear of groups. In Nuuksio, everyone respects each other’s space: you follow the guide and stay on the trail, and wildlife keeps its distance. That mutual respect makes for a completely safe, calm, and enjoyable experience.