About us
Aurora Donkey Tours was born in November 2025, when 16-year-old Pinja Kurvinen decided to follow her dream and create something entirely unprecedented in the Kuusamo tourism landscape. Pinja's grand vision was to establish an experiential tourism company where the magical nature of the North, sustainable travel, and the absolute respect for animals meet at their purest. This is not just a business, but a whole way of life, with Pinja's mother, Ulla Kurvinen, actively supporting and helping her. Together, they ensure that every visit is filled with warmth, safety, and genuine, unhurried encounters with animals and nature in Kuusamo.
The heart of our operations is located right near the center of Kuusamo, just three kilometers away from local services. Aurora Donkey Tours operates in a stunning lakeside setting on the shores of Lake Kuusamojärvi, at the Nurminiemi riding stable. At the farm, magnificent log buildings and an indoor riding arena await our guests, ensuring top-tier, neat, and safe facilities for experiences throughout the seasons – from crisp winter frosts to the midnight sun. This location makes our donkey and nature experiences easily accessible for both domestic and international travelers.
Our animals are beloved family members whose well-being is at the core of everything we do. On our treks, cart rides, and camps, the main guides are our charming donkeys, Lea and Hedda, who have been part of the family since 2020. These two inseparable long-ears captivate every visitor with their gentle gaze, calm pace, and unbelievably soft fur. The herd is also complemented by Pinja's own horse, Maisa, who moved to the farm in March 2026 to enjoy her well-deserved retirement as an ex-trotter. Although Maisa does not take part in the company's active work, this beautiful and sensitive mare delights visitors around the stable area and may occasionally join us for atmospheric photo sessions or serve as a gentle led-riding horse.
At the Nurminiemi riding stable, the animals live a happy and species-appropriate life, and every Aurora Donkey Tours activity is always organized on the animals' terms. The animals are never forced; instead, we share genuine, unhurried moments with them in the peace of nature amidst the beautiful lakeside scenery of Kuusamo. Welcome to discover the story of Aurora Donkey Tours, animal-friendly experiential tourism, and our wonderful herd in the stunning landscapes of Lake Kuusamojärvi!
