The Call of the Arctic

The Arctic has always been a place of mystery and allure for me. Having spent years studying the impact of climate change in polar regions, I have developed a deep respect for the harsh beauty of these environments. When I heard about the opportunity to build a snow igloo in Kemi, Finnish Lapland, I knew it was an experience I couldn’t pass up. The idea of constructing a shelter from the very elements that define this region was both thrilling and humbling.

Arriving in Kemi, I was greeted by a landscape blanketed in pristine white snow, a sight that never fails to take my breath away. The air was crisp, and the silence was profound, broken only by the crunch of snow underfoot. Our guide, a seasoned expert in the art of igloo building, welcomed us warmly and explained the process. The task ahead was simple yet demanding: gather a mound of soft snow, shape it into a dome, and carve out the interior. It was a test of patience and skill, a dance with nature itself.

Crafting the Igloo

Building an igloo is an exercise in understanding the delicate balance of nature. The snow, though soft and yielding, must be compacted to form sturdy walls. As we worked, I was reminded of the Inuit, who first mastered this craft. Their ingenuity in using snow as an insulator, trapping air to create warmth, is a testament to human adaptability in extreme conditions.

The process was both meditative and invigorating. Each shovel of snow brought us closer to our goal, and as the igloo began to take shape, a sense of accomplishment washed over me. The walls, 30-40 cm thick, stood firm against the biting wind, a fortress of tranquility amidst the Arctic wilderness. We carved out windows and a door, allowing the pale winter light to filter in, casting a soft glow inside our snowy haven.

A Moment of Reflection

As we sat inside the completed igloo, warmed by the camaraderie of shared effort and a hearty barbeque lunch, I reflected on the experience. The igloo, once a temporary shelter for hunters, now served as a reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness required to thrive in such a harsh environment. It was a humbling experience, one that connected me to the land and its history in a profound way.

The Arctic is a place of extremes, where survival is a constant challenge. Yet, it is also a place of unparalleled beauty, where the stark landscape offers a canvas for adventure and discovery. Building an igloo in Kemi was more than just a fun family activity; it was a journey into the heart of the Arctic, a chance to engage with the environment in a meaningful way. For those who seek to understand the raw beauty of the polar regions, I highly recommend this experience.