Best of Lapland with Santa Claus Express

Arrival 
Upon arrival in Helsinki, meet your private driver who transfers you to your centrally located hotel.

City Tour
Following breakfast in your hotel, meet your private guide who takes you on a wonderful 4-hour walking tour to show you the best Helsinki can offer.

During the tour, you walk through the vivid Central Harbor and Market Square, explore the charming Old Town, visit the famous Rock Church and take a short tram ride. After the tour, you return to your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Departure
Following breakfast in your hotel, you check out and depart from  Helsinki.

Arrival & Sámi Culture Discovery

Welcome to Lapland!

Upon arrival at Levi Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for some well-deserved rest.

After a break, embark on a guided exploration of the Sámi Museum and Nature Center SIIDA. This immersive experience will introduce you to the rich and diverse history of the Sámi people, their role in modern-day Lapland, and the wonders of Arctic nature.

After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel to relax and enjoy your evening.

Departure to Utsjoki – The Northernmost Gem of Lapland

After a delightful breakfast, your journey continues as you meet your driver for a scenic transfer to Utsjoki, the northernmost town in Lapland. Nestled amidst untouched Arctic landscapes, this remote and tranquil destination offers a glimpse into the pure, unspoiled beauty of the Far North, where the Sámi heritage thrives under the endless sky.

Arrival in Utsjoki

Upon arrival, take some time to rest and unwind at Utsjoki Arctic Resort, nestled in the serene Arctic wilderness.

Tour to the Arctic Ocean

Utsjoki is located right by the Norwegian border, just a stone’s throw from the Arctic Ocean. Hop on a minibus and join a guided full-day tour to the coast of the Arctic Ocean, to Varanger Fjord. You will enjoy guided transportation to sites at Varanger Fjord (Nesseby, Mortensnes, Varangerbotn, Vestre Jakobselv), hot drinks and a locally prepared lunch, as well as tickets to the Sea Sámi Museum. Varanger Fjord is rich in archaeological history dating back to the last ice age. The small villages along the coast have thrived on fishing and trade since the medieval period. The area also boasts a deep cultural history of the Sámi, Norwegians, and Kvens, along with diverse Arctic wildlife, including seabirds and marine life.

Availability: Nov 11 - Mar 30 

Arctic Tundra Safari & Departure

Begin your morning with an unforgettable Arctic Tundra Safari, where you will explore the northern reaches of the Paistunturi Wilderness Area in comfort and safety.

Your expert guide will drive a snowmobile through the breathtaking Paistunturi landscapes, while you sit warmly and comfortably in a sleigh, taking in the vast, untouched beauty of the Arctic. Along the way, you will hear fascinating stories about the geology, traditional livelihoods, and Sámi culture of the region, enjoy the serene silence of the Arctic wilderness, use binoculars to observe reindeer grazing freely without disturbing them.

Discover Paistunturi – A Remote Arctic Wonderland

Spanning 1,500 square kilometers, Paistunturi is one of the most pristine and untouched wilderness areas in northernmost Lapland, Utsjoki. With rolling fells, deep-carved river valleys, and panoramic views stretching into Norway, it offers a truly spectacular Arctic experience.

This region is a traditional reindeer-herding area for the indigenous Sámi people, where over 6,000 reindeer roam freely. Due to the challenging terrain, exploring with a local guide is essential.

After your Arctic adventure, you will meet your driver, who will transfer you to Saariselkä to continue your journey.

Tour Availability: Early December – Late April (depending on snow conditions).

Arrival & Dinner in a Lappish Wooden Log Hut

Upon arrival, settle in and take some time to rest and relax in your unique hotel, surrounded by the serene beauty of Lapland.

As evening falls, immerse yourself in an authentic Lappish experience with a traditional dinner in a wooden log hut—known as a "kota." In this cozy setting, you’ll enjoy a peaceful, candlelit atmosphere by the open fire, creating an unforgettable Arctic evening.

Meet your guide at the safari house and take you to the charming wooden hut, where a delicious 3-course meal will be prepared over an open fire.

While savoring the warm and hearty flavors of Lapland, feel free to step outside to admire the quiet, snow-covered forest, gaze at the blazing campfire, or, if lucky, witness the magical Northern Lights dancing in the sky.

Although the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed, our experienced guide will be there to share fascinating insights about Lapland, offer tips on spotting the auroras, and ensure you have a memorable and cozy evening.

Day Trip to Nellim

The Holy Trinity Church offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, blending the rustic charm of Lapland’s log cabins, the intricate grandeur of Eastern churches, the serenity of untouched nature, and a profound sense of sacred tranquility.

Discover the crossroads of Eastern, Western, and Northern cultures in the remote village of Nellim, nestled on the edge of the vast Russian frontier in the heart of Sámi land.

A comfortable bus ride will take you to the northernmost border crossing between Finland and Russia. After a brief stop at the border station, we’ll continue to the Paatsjoki River Bridge, where the unfrozen river offers a direct view into Russia.

We will also visit the Holy Trinity Church in Nellim, where the warmth of log walls and the beauty of traditional icons create a stunning sanctuary, showcasing the deep-rooted Orthodox heritage of the Skolt Sámi people.

Husky Safari &   Aurora Camp by the Lake 

In the morning an experience in the nature with Arctic husky dogs is a memory you won’t forget! Let our guides and huskies take you on a fun adventure. Enjoy the silence while mushing your dog team through the Lappish wilderness. How the ride is offered, you ask? The sleigh is shared by two people (one person as driver, another sitting comfortably in the sledge on reindeer fur). Half way you have the possibility to change places. The two hrs husky safari track is 10 km, and the actual driving time is around 1-1.5hrs. After the ride enjoy a hot drink and small snack in our kota hut, where our guide will tell more about our dogs and farm.

Later experience an unforgettable evening as you gather around a roaring fire, watching the spectacular dance of the Northern Lights at Aurora Camp, set by a picturesque lakeside.

Your Aurora Expedition begins with a comfortable bus journey, with a stop at the rugged Lake Ukonjärvi—once believed by ancient Laplanders to be the dwelling of Ukko the Overgod. This breathtaking spot offers the perfect opportunity for photos before continuing to the Aurora Camp on the lake’s shore.

At the camp, warm up in a cozy hut by the fire, sipping a hot drink as you wait for the Northern Lights to illuminate the night sky.

For a truly magical experience, grab a soft reindeer hide, lie back in the snow, and watch the celestial display above. On calm, silent nights, you may even hear the whispers of the Northern Lights.

Departure 

After breakfast, you will meet your driver, who will take you to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland. Enjoy the scenic journey through the breathtaking Arctic landscapes, where the untouched beauty of Lapland unfolds before you. 

Arrival
Welcome to to the Motherland of Santa Claus - Rovaniemi!

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel in the city center and have the rest of the day at leisure.

Rovaniemi Exploration Walk &  Northern Lights Hunting

Start your tour by visiting the renowned Aalto buildings, designed by the famous Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. The Rovaniemi City Library and the Lappia House, which houses the city theater, are prime examples of Aalto's modernist style. Admire the sleek lines and functional design that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

Next, head to the Rovaniemi Church, a short walk from the Aalto buildings. This beautiful church, with its striking modern architecture and serene interior, is a must-see. Take a moment to appreciate the impressive altar fresco, which depicts the resurrection and is a symbol of hope and rebirth.

Continue your tour with a stroll across the Lumberjack's Candle Bridge. This iconic bridge, named after the traditional Finnish loggers' bonfire, offers stunning views of the Kemijoki River and the surrounding landscape. It's a great spot for photos and to take in the natural beauty of Rovaniemi.

End your walking tour at the Arktikum Museum. This museum provides fascinating insights into the culture, history, and environment of the Arctic region. Don't miss the Aurora movie, which showcases the breathtaking Northern Lights and offers an immersive experience into the wonders of the Arctic sky.

After your tour, indulge in a delectable lunch buffet to complete your visit.

In the evening we invite you to a magical winter forest where you have a chance to enjoy a blaze of Auroras. Primetime for watching the Nordic Lights is between 9 pm and midnight, so your group tour starts later in the evening. You have the best opportunity to see the Auroras at the open landscape sighting location while enjoying a hot beverage.

Winter clothes are included.

Snowmobile Safari & Visit of Santa Claus Village
Embark on an action-packed Arctic journey, where you'll ride snowmobiles through breathtaking wilderness, meet reindeer and Alaskan Huskies, and enjoy a traditional salmon soup lunch.

Your day begins with a transfer to a local farm, where you'll take a 500m reindeer sleigh ride, earning a Reindeer Sledge Driver’s License. Then, experience the excitement of an Alaskan Husky sleigh ride before enjoying a warm, traditional meal while learning about Lapland’s reindeer herding traditions.

Next, gear up for a thrilling 1-hour snowmobile ride through Arctic Circle forests. The adventure continues at Santa Claus Village, where you can explore, cross the Arctic Circle, meet Santa Claus, and children under 140cm can try mini-snowmobiling.

Your unforgettable day concludes with a return transfer to Rovaniemi

*Note: Due to unsuitable weather conditions (e.g. there is no snow or it is raining), a snowmobile ride and reindeer sleigh will be replaced with a visit to the Arktikum Museum. In order to drive a snowmobile please make sure to have your driver licence with you. After the farm you continue your trip to Santa Claus Village where you have some time to visit the Snowman World and attend a real ice bar in it. You can also buy some traditional Finnish souvenirs and send postcards with special Arctic Circle stamp from Santa Claus main post office.

**Please note: Snowman World is open from Dec 6 to March 17. 

After the tour you are transferred back to the hotel.

Arctic Animals Combo Safari:
Husky & Reindeer & Departure 

In the morning meet the magnificent Arctic animals on our sweet combo tour. Ride a reindeer sleigh and take a husky sleigh ride through winter landscapes.

 You will be picked up from your hotel in Rovaniemi and taken to a traditional reindeer farm, where an unforgettable Arctic experience awaits. At reindeer safari, you will get an exclusive chance to become a certified reindeer driver!  A professional tour guide will provide you with a safety briefing, after which you will go on a 500m self-driving trip.

Your next stop is the Husky park with about 90+huskies, and each year new puppies are born. Here you have a unique chance to see and pet the dogs, learn more about their nurturing and habits. After a safety briefing, you can sit back and glide through the snowfields of Lapland on a husky-pulled sleigh! The husky ride is 2 km long, which gives you just enough time to snap some excellent photos. 

After the ride, you warm up with some hot berry juice and get cozy around the campfire at the park.

After the tour you are taken back to the hotel. 

**Minimum of 2 persons is required.

After the tour, you will board the Santa Claus Express, a magical overnight train that connects Helsinki to Lapland. This comfortable and scenic journey takes you through Finland’s breathtaking winter landscapes, offering a truly enchanting way to experience the Arctic wilderness as you travel through the night.

Arrival 
Upon arrival in Helsinki, meet your private driver who transfers you to your centrally located hotel.

Departure 

After breakfast, you will meet your private driver, who will take you to the airport for your departure. We wish you a safe and pleasant flight!