Lapland Travel Guide: Northern Lights & Arctic Adventures
I'm sharing everything you need to know about planning an unforgettable trip to Lapland, from the best time to visit to hidden gems beyond the tourist hot spots.
Why Visit Lapland?
Lapland isn't just a destination—it's an experience that feels like stepping into a winter fairytale. Located in the northernmost region of Finland, this Arctic wonderland offers:
The mesmerizing Aurora Borealis dancing across the night sky
Authentic winter activities like husky sledding and reindeer safaris
The official Santa Claus Village where Christmas magic is real
Stunning wilderness perfect for those seeking tranquility
Unique accommodations including glass igloos and ice hotels
Rich Sámi culture and traditions
Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple seeking romance under the Northern Lights, or a family wanting to create once-in-a-lifetime memories, Lapland has something special for everyone.
Best Time to Visit Lapland
The timing of your visit depends on what experiences you're seeking.
Winter Season (December to March)
This is peak season for good reason. December through March offers the quintessential Lapland experience with thick snow cover, frozen lakes, and the best Northern Lights viewing opportunities. December is particularly extraordinary if you want the full Christmas atmosphere at Santa's Village in Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi.
January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures often dropping to minus 20-30°C, but they also offer the most reliable snow conditions and stunning winter landscapes. March brings slightly warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it perfect if you want to balance Northern Lights viewing with daytime activities.
Autumn Season (September to November)
Early autumn, particularly September and October, is another excellent time for Northern Lights viewing. The nights are dark enough for aurora hunting, but temperatures are much milder (around 0 to minus 10°C). This season offers beautiful fall colors in the forests, fewer tourists, and lower prices.
Summer Season (June to August)
If winter sports aren't your thing, summer in Lapland reveals a completely different character. Experience the Midnight Sun, endless daylight, hiking in pristine wilderness, fishing, and surprisingly pleasant temperatures (15-20°C). The landscape transforms into green forests, blooming wildflowers, and rushing rivers.
Chasing the Northern Lights
Seeing the Aurora Borealis is often the main reason travelers venture to Lapland, and this region offers some of the best viewing opportunities in the world.
Best Months for Aurora Viewing
The Northern Lights are visible in Lapland from late August through April, but the peak season runs from September to March. During these months, you have the perfect combination of dark nights and clear skies. December through February offer the longest periods of darkness, giving you more hours to spot the lights.
Top Viewing Locations
While you can see the Northern Lights throughout Lapland, some locations offer better conditions. Inari, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, is one of the best spots due to its remote location and minimal light pollution. The vast frozen Lake Inari provides an incredible foreground for aurora photography.
Saariselkä offers excellent viewing opportunities combined with good infrastructure and accommodation options. The surrounding fells and wilderness areas provide dark skies perfect for aurora hunting. Levi and Rovaniemi are more touristy but still offer good viewing chances, especially if you venture slightly outside the town centers.
Maximizing Your Chances
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings are never guaranteed. However, you can improve your odds significantly. Stay for at least 3-4 nights to increase your chances of clear skies. Download aurora forecast apps like "My Aurora Forecast" to track solar activity and cloud cover.
Book accommodations away from city lights, or join a guided Northern Lights tour that takes you to optimal viewing spots. Many tours include photography assistance, warm clothing, and hot drinks while you wait. Be patient and dress warmly—you might need to wait outside in freezing temperatures for extended periods.
Photography Tips for Beginners
Capturing the Northern Lights requires some basic photography knowledge, but modern cameras and smartphones have made it more accessible. Use a camera with manual settings, a wide-angle lens, and a sturdy tripod. Set your camera to manual mode with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower if possible), ISO 1600-3200, and start with a 15-second exposure.
Newer smartphones can also capture the aurora using night mode, though the results won't match a proper camera. Bring extra batteries—they drain quickly in cold temperatures. Keep them warm in your pocket until you need them.
Must-Do Activities in Lapland
Racing through snow-covered forests pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies is an absolute highlight. Tours range from short 1-hour rides to full-day adventures. Many farms offer the chance to meet the dogs before your ride, and some even provide overnight stays in wilderness cabins. The connection you feel with these incredible animals and the silence of the snowy forest create an unforgettable experience.
Reindeer Safaris
Reindeer sledding offers a more gentle, peaceful experience compared to husky rides. Learn about Sami culture and reindeer herding traditions while gliding through winter landscapes. Many tours include a visit to a traditional Sami camp where you can hear stories around a campfire and enjoy local food like smoked reindeer meat.
Snowmobiling
For adrenaline seekers, snowmobile safaris provide thrilling rides across frozen lakes and through forests. Tours range from a few hours to multi-day expeditions. You'll need a valid driver's license, and dress warmly—the wind chill at speed can be intense. Many tours combine snowmobiling with other activities like ice fishing or visiting remote wilderness lodges.
Meeting Santa Claus
The Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is the official home of Santa, and it's magical regardless of your age. Cross the Arctic Circle line, send postcards from Santa's official post office, and meet the man himself year-round. The village is free to enter, though meeting Santa and various activities have separate costs. Nearby SantaPark, an underground Christmas theme park, offers additional family-friendly attractions.
Ice Swimming and Saunas
Experience the ultimate Finnish tradition by combining a hot sauna with a dip in icy water. Many hotels and tour operators offer this experience, which is surprisingly invigorating. The contrast between the hot sauna and freezing water creates a natural high, and locals swear by its health benefits.
Glass Igloo Stays
Sleeping under the Northern Lights in a heated glass igloo is a bucket-list experience. These specially designed accommodations feature thermal glass roofs that stay clear even in freezing temperatures. You can watch for the aurora from the comfort of your warm bed. Popular options include Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Arctic SnowHotel, and Northern Lights Village, though many other properties now offer glass igloo experiences too.
Where to Stay in Lapland
Rovaniemi
As Lapland's capital, Rovaniemi offers the widest range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It's the most accessible destination with an international airport and serves as an excellent base for first-time visitors. The Santa Claus Village is located just outside the city, and numerous tour operators offer activities departing from here.
Stay in the city center for restaurants, shops, and nightlife, or choose accommodations on the outskirts for easier Northern Lights viewing and a more peaceful atmosphere.
Saariselkä
This northern village offers a perfect balance of infrastructure and wilderness. It's quieter than Rovaniemi but still has good facilities, restaurants, and accommodation options. The surrounding wilderness provides excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing, skiing, and hiking.
Inari
For a more remote, authentic experience, Inari is perfect. Located in the heart of Lapland, this small village offers incredible wilderness access and minimal light pollution for aurora viewing. The Siida museum provides fascinating insights into Sámi culture and Arctic nature. Accommodations are more limited but tend to focus on unique wilderness experiences.
Levi
Finland's most popular ski resort, Levi combines winter sports with Lapland experiences. It's a good choice if you want to mix skiing or snowboarding with Northern Lights viewing and other activities. The resort has excellent facilities, restaurants, and après-ski options.
Unique Accommodation Options
Beyond standard hotels, Lapland offers extraordinary places to stay. Glass igloos and aurora cabins let you watch the Northern Lights from bed. Traditional log cabins provide an authentic Finnish experience with saunas and fireplaces. Ice hotels and snow igloos offer a night in rooms made entirely of snow and ice (these typically include regular heated accommodations for the rest of your stay).
Wilderness lodges in remote locations provide an escape from civilization with activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing right from your doorstep.
Getting There and Around
Getting to Lapland
Rovaniemi Airport is the main gateway, with direct flights from Helsinki and seasonal connections from several European cities. Flying to Helsinki and connecting to Rovaniemi is often the most convenient option. Kittilä Airport serves the Levi area, while Ivalo Airport is closest to Inari and northern Lapland.
The overnight train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi is a romantic and environmentally friendly alternative, taking about 12 hours with comfortable sleeper cabins available.
Transportation in Lapland
Renting a car provides the most flexibility, especially if you want to explore beyond the main tourist areas. Winter driving requires experience with snow and ice, and you'll need proper winter tires. Roads are well-maintained, but conditions can be challenging.
Many accommodations and tour operators offer pickup services from airports and hotels. Organized tours handle all transportation and are stress-free options, especially for short visits. Local buses connect major towns, though services are limited in winter.
If staying in Rovaniemi or other larger towns, you can easily access major attractions without a car by using tour operators.
What to Pack for Lapland
Proper clothing is essential for enjoying Lapland in winter. Temperatures regularly drop to minus 20-30°C, and being unprepared can ruin your trip.
Essential Clothing
Layer your clothing with a thermal base layer made of merino wool or synthetic materials. Never wear cotton next to your skin in winter. Add an insulating mid-layer like fleece or down, then a windproof and waterproof outer layer.
Invest in proper winter boots rated for extreme cold with good insulation and traction. Many tour operators provide winter overalls, boots, and gloves for activities, but bring your own for everyday use. Pack a warm winter hat that covers your ears, a neck warmer or scarf, and insulated gloves or mittens (mittens are warmer).
Bring hand warmers and foot warmers for extra protection during long periods outside, and don't forget sunglasses or ski goggles—the sun reflecting off snow can be intense.
Camera and Electronics
Batteries drain quickly in cold temperatures, so bring extras and keep them warm in inside pockets until needed. Protect your camera from rapid temperature changes by placing it in a sealed bag when moving between cold and warm environments. This prevents condensation that can damage electronics.
Budget Breakdown
Though Lapland can be expensive, costs vary significantly based on your choices.
Location
In Lapland, location strongly affects holiday costs, because accommodation, activities, and transport prices vary widely depending on remoteness, demand, and infrastructure. Staying in less crowded or more remote areas often means lower accommodation prices and activity costs, while still offering the same Arctic nature and Northern Lights experiences.
Accommodation
Budget hostels and guesthouses start around 50-80 euros per night. Mid-range hotels cost 100-200 euros per night. Glass igloos and luxury wilderness lodges range from 300-800 euros per night. Booking well in advance, especially for peak season, can save money.
Activities
Husky sledding typically costs 80-150 euros for a 2-3 hour experience. Reindeer safaris run 60-100 euros. Snowmobile tours range from 100-250 euros depending on duration. Northern Lights tours cost 70-150 euros. Meeting Santa is free, though photos have a fee.
Food
Supermarket meals can keep costs to 15-25 euros per day. Budget restaurants charge 15-25 euros for a main course. Mid-range dining runs 25-40 euros per meal, while fine dining starts at 50 euros and up. Consider booking accommodations with kitchen facilities to save on food costs.
Overall Daily Budget
Budget travelers can manage on 100-150 euros per day including basic accommodation, supermarket food, and one activity. Mid-range travelers should plan for 200-350 euros per day with comfortable hotels, restaurant meals, and multiple activities. Luxury experiences with glass igloos and high-end dining can easily exceed 500 euros per day.
Beyond Rovaniemi: Hidden Gems
While Rovaniemi is the most popular destination, venturing beyond reveals more authentic experiences with fewer crowds and more affordable price tag.
Inari and Lake Inari
Finland's third-largest lake becomes a vast frozen expanse in winter, offering incredible photo opportunities. The Siida museum provides deep insights into Sámi culture and Arctic nature. The area offers some of the best Northern Lights viewing with minimal light pollution.
Pyhä-Luosto National Park
This national park features ancient forests, dramatic fells, and the deepest gorge in Finland. Amethyst mining at Lampivaara is a unique activity where you can dig for your own gemstones. The area offers excellent hiking and cross-country skiing with far fewer tourists than more famous locations.
Utsjoki
Finland's northernmost municipality offers true wilderness experiences. The tiny village provides access to pristine nature and authentic Sami culture. It's remote and requires more planning, but rewards adventurous travelers with unspoiled landscapes.
Ylläs
This ski resort area is quieter than Levi but offers excellent slopes and beautiful scenery. The surrounding wilderness provides opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and Northern Lights viewing.
Salla
Offers pristine Arctic wilderness, excellent Northern Lights visibility, and a calm, uncrowded atmosphere that’s ideal for travelers seeking authentic Lapland nature. It’s a more affordable destination with high-quality accommodation and activities, perfect for those who value peace, space, and genuine experiences.
Experiencing Sámi Culture
The Sámi are the indigenous people of Lapland, and learning about their culture enriches any visit. Visit the Siida museum in Inari for comprehensive exhibits about Sámi history, culture, and the Arctic environment. Attending a traditional Sámi performance featuring joik singing and handicrafts provides authentic cultural experiences.
Many reindeer farms are run by Sámi families who share stories about their herding traditions and way of life. Support Sámi artisans by purchasing authentic handicrafts like the traditional Sámi knife (puukko) or colorful textile work called duodji. Always choose experiences run by actual Sámi people rather than tourist imitations.
Practical Tips
Language
Finnish is the main language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few Finnish phrases like "kiitos" (thank you) and "terve" (hello) is appreciated.
Currency
Finland uses the euro. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, even for small purchases. Cash is rarely necessary.
Northern Lights Etiquette
Keep noise levels down when viewing the aurora—others are trying to enjoy the peaceful experience. Be mindful of your lights (flashlights, phone screens) as they affect night vision and photography. If joining a tour, listen to your guide about the best spots and techniques.
Safety in Winter
Never underestimate the cold. Frostbite can occur in minutes at extreme temperatures. Inform someone of your plans if venturing into remote areas. Stick to marked trails unless you have proper wilderness experience and equipment. The sun barely rises in December and January, so plan accordingly.
Sustainable Travel
Respect nature by following Leave No Trace principles. Support local businesses and Sami communities. Consider the environmental impact of flights and activities. Many providers now offer carbon offset programs.
Is Lapland Worth It?
Absolutely. Lapland offers experiences you simply cannot find anywhere else. The combination of natural wonders like the Northern Lights, unique activities, and the magical winter atmosphere creates memories that last a lifetime.
Yes, it's expensive, and yes, it requires proper preparation for the extreme cold. But standing under the dancing Northern Lights, racing through silent forests on a husky sled, or watching your children's faces light up at meeting Santa makes every euro and every layer of clothing worthwhile.
Whether you visit for three days or three weeks, Lapland will capture your heart. The pristine wilderness, the warm hospitality despite the freezing temperatures, and the sense of being somewhere truly special make this Arctic destination unforgettable.
Start planning your Lapland adventure today—the Northern Lights are waiting.
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