Kainuu Orienteering Week is an international orienteering event organized annually in the Kainuu region. As Finland’s largest orienteering week and the second oldest in the world (established in 1966), it has become a premier holiday destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

The event offers a versatile orienteering and holiday experience for everyone interested in the sport. In the forest, you will find beginners and fitness orienteers sharing the same terrain with world-class elite athletes. The competition centre provides activities and childcare for the youngest family members while adults focus on their courses, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

Event and Categories

The event consists of four competition days with two rest days in between. During the rest days, Kainuu offers a wide range of additional activities, including training orienteering, hiking, outdoor adventures, and local cultural experiences.

• Competition categories: Age groups from H/D8 to H/D95. Elite categories compete for prize money, and the overall winners are determined by cumulative results.
• Open categories: Nine different skill levels, ranging from easy courses for children to demanding tracks for experienced orienteers. Participation is possible without prior registration.

Services and Accessibility

The competition centre serves as the heart of the event, offering a comprehensive range of services:

• Restaurant and Retail: Lunch restaurant, café, orienteering equipment stores, and local handicraft vendors.
• Other Services: Childcare (Muksula), dog park, showers, and restroom facilities.
• Logistics: Accommodation service (including cabins, apartments, hostel, and camping options) and a dedicated shuttle bus service from the local town centre to the competition site.

Experience a magnificent orienteering and holiday week in Kainuu!