Finland Lapland Winter Package 7 Days 6 Nights

Venturing into Finland’s Lapland during winter promises a landscape straight out of a postcard—snow-laden forests, shimmering Aurora Borealis, and the chance to meet Santa Claus himself. This 7-day, 6-night package offers an intriguing mix of iconic Arctic experiences and cozy accommodations, making it an attractive choice for anyone craving a genuine winter escape.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the way it combines nature excursions like husky sledding and snowmobiling with immersive cultural moments such as meeting Santa and crossing the Arctic Circle. The inclusion of glass igloo stays adds a touch of magic, allowing travelers to drift off under the Northern Lights from the comfort of their warm beds.

Of course, with such a packed itinerary, you’ll want to be prepared for long travel days—especially the 10-hour coach ride from Helsinki to Kuusamo. But if you’re after authentic Arctic adventures and scenic beauty, this trip offers remarkable value for its well-rounded mix of activities. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor winter sports, unique wildlife encounters, and heartfelt cultural experiences.

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Key Points

Authentic Arctic experiences including reindeer sledding, husky rides, and snowmobiling.
Multiple Northern Lights tours increase your chances of witnessing this spectacular phenomenon.
Cultural highlights like meeting Santa Claus and crossing the Arctic Circle.
Beautiful landscapes in Oulanka National Park and Salla N.P., perfect for photography.
Comfortable accommodations in both Helsinki and Lapland with included transfers.
Small group size (limited to 10), enhancing personalized attention and flexible experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Finland Lapland Winter Package

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Starting in Helsinki: A Quick City Tour and Travel Comfort

Your adventure begins in Finland’s lively capital, Helsinki. The tour includes a transfer from the airport to the train station, ensuring a smooth start. If you arrive early, there might be a chance to explore Helsinki’s highlights—think sleek architecture, cozy cafes, and vibrant design stores—which sets a nice tone before heading north.

Boarding the train to Lapland is a scenic journey that, depending on the season, might include views of snow-dusted forests or the open Finnish countryside. This train ride, though around 10 hours, offers a relaxed way to transition from urban to Arctic wilderness. Travelers have noted that the journey becomes part of the adventure, with many enjoying the chance to unwind and gaze out at changing landscapes.

Arrival in Lapland and Reindeer Farm Experience

Upon arriving in Lapland early in the morning, the transfer to your accommodation is swift, allowing for some downtime. The highlight of Day 2 is a visit to a Reindeer Farm—a true Arctic icon. Here, you’ll get a chance to sled on reindeer-drawn sleighs and feed the reindeer, which are surprisingly gentle and curious creatures.

Travelers note that the reindeer experience is both fun and authentic—this isn’t a tourist trap but a genuine interaction with these hardy animals that are vital to local Sami culture. It’s a peaceful contrast to the hustle of city life, with the snowy landscape serving as a perfect backdrop.

Santa Claus Village & Crossing the Arctic Circle

A visit to Santa Claus Village is the heartwarming highlight of Day 3. Meeting Santa himself—though likely a jolly elf in costume—brings out childhood nostalgia. You can also send postcards from the official Arctic Post Office, a quirky touch that adds a tangible memory to your trip.

Crossing the Arctic Circle is a noteworthy milestone, often marked with a small ceremony or photo op. For many travelers, this moment is a bucket-list tick, but what they appreciate most is the chance to experience the magic of the North firsthand. In the evening, the first of several Northern Lights tours takes place, weather permitting. Keep in mind that sightings depend heavily on clear skies, but the tour operators are experienced at maximizing your chances.

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Husky Rides & Exploring Ruka Village

Day 4 features a Husky Farm visit, a favorite among travelers. The thrill of steering a team of energetic huskies across snowy trails is adrenaline-pumping and immersive. Many mention how friendly and enthusiastic the guides are, often sharing insights about the huskies’ care and training.

Post-sledding, you have free time at Ruka Village for lunch or shopping. Ruka itself is a cozy hub for winter sports, with ski centers and cafes lining the streets. Some travelers use this time to try local Finnish cuisine or pick up souvenirs, making the day both active and leisurely.

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Oulanka National Park & Snowmobiling Adventure

Day 5 is dedicated to exploring Oulanka National Park—a stunning area known for its frozen rivers, rugged forests, and dramatic landscapes. The park offers some of the most impressive winter scenery in the region, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Following this, a snowmobiling ride through Arctic terrain adds a dash of excitement. Many guests find snowmobiling to be a fun, high-speed way to experience the wilderness, while others appreciate the tranquility of the snow-covered landscape. The rides are usually about two hours, giving just enough adrenaline without overwhelming.

Salla National Park & Multiple Northern Lights Tours

On Day 6, you’ll visit Salla National Park, another prime spot for Arctic scenery and wildlife. The park’s stark beauty and snow-covered forests make for fantastic viewing—whether for photography or just soaking it all in.

That evening, another Northern Lights tour gives you a second chance to see the Aurora. Guests consistently mention how the guides are knowledgeable about cloud cover and Aurora activity, increasing their chances of witnessing the phenomenon.

Wildlife Encounters at Ranua & Departure

The final day includes a visit to Ranua Wildlife Park, home to polar bears and other Arctic animals. This gives a different perspective—seeing these creatures in a semi-natural environment rather than in captivity. Many reviewers find this to be a poignant and educational experience, especially for those interested in Arctic wildlife conservation.

The tour concludes with your transfer back to Helsinki, ending a week filled with adventure, wonder, and culture.

Practical Insights and Value

The price of the package covers most major activities and accommodations, making it a solid value considering the inclusions. The small group size enhances the experience, with guides able to offer more personalized attention and insights.

Transportation logistics—such as the 10-hour coach ride and airport/train transfers—are well-managed, but travelers should be prepared for long travel days. The itinerary balances outdoor adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax, which helps prevent fatigue.

Accommodation quality in Ruka and Helsinki is generally comfortable, with warm rooms and easy access to activity sites. Meals are only included for breakfast, so you’ll want to budget for lunches and dinners, especially in remote areas where options may be limited or pricier.

Weather can be unpredictable, so packing thermal clothing, gloves, and a good camera is essential. Travelers have praised the tour guides for their friendliness and knowledge, often sharing tips for spotting the Northern Lights or staying warm during outdoor tours.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This package is ideal for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers who want a comprehensive Arctic experience. Those who enjoy wildlife encounters and snow sports will find plenty to do, while families with children over five will appreciate the mix of fun and cultural elements.

If you’re after authentic scenery, the chance to meet Santa, and multiple opportunities to see the Northern Lights, this tour offers a balanced and memorable introduction to Finnish Lapland. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer guided experiences with a small group for a more intimate and flexible adventure.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes accommodations in Helsinki and Ruka, transfers from the airport and between activities, visits to Santa Claus Village, reindeer sledding, husky rides, snowmobiling, and wildlife park entry, along with daily breakfast.

Are the Northern Lights guaranteed?
While sightings depend on weather conditions, the tour offers multiple Northern Lights tours on different nights to increase your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis.

How long is the coach journey from Helsinki to Lapland?
The journey takes approximately 10 hours, making it a long day but also part of the adventure, with scenic views along the way.

What should I pack?
Warm clothing is essential—thermal layers, gloves, hats, and waterproof outerwear. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and Northern Lights.

Can I participate if I don’t like winter sports?
Yes. The trip offers activities like reindeer feeding and wildlife visits, which don’t require adventure sports skills. You can also explore Ruka Village at your own pace.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 5 years due to outdoor activities and travel demands. Always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Are meals included?
Only breakfast at the hotels is included. You will need to budget for lunch and dinner locally.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, offering a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.

Is this package flexible in terms of cancellations?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind when planning.

Final Thoughts

This Finland Lapland Winter Package offers a well-rounded Arctic experience packed with memorable moments—whether it’s chasing the Northern Lights, cuddling a reindeer, or zooming through snowy forests on a snowmobile. Its combination of outdoor adventures, cultural encounters, and cozy accommodations makes it well-suited for travelers craving an authentic winter escape.

While the long travel days may seem daunting, they are part of the journey’s charm, offering a true immersion into Finnish Lapland’s breathtaking landscapes. Perfect for those who want to step outside the usual holiday routine and dive into a snowy wonderland, this tour delivers stunning scenery and meaningful experiences in one compact package.

If your ideal winter trip involves plenty of outdoor fun combined with cultural highlights and a touch of magic, this tour could be your gateway to a memorable Arctic adventure.