From Helsinki: 7-Day Lapland Northern Lights Tour

This 7-day adventure takes you from Helsinki into the heart of Finnish Lapland, promising a blend of iconic Arctic activities, breathtaking scenery, and the chance to witness the legendary Northern Lights. Designed for travelers seeking authentic winter experiences, this tour offers a good mix of cultural encounters, outdoor thrills, and cozy moments—all packed into a manageable week.

What really draws us in are the chance to meet Santa Claus, thrilling husky safaris, and the mesmerizing auroras. We also appreciate how it’s a well-rounded journey that balances active days with relaxing moments, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

A potential consideration is the reliance on weather conditions—Northern Lights sightings are always subject to clear skies, which can sometimes be unpredictable. Still, the tour’s diverse activities ensure you’ll have plenty to enjoy regardless of nature’s mood.

This tour is ideal for those who want to experience the essence of Lapland’s winter magic without spending months planning. It’s perfect for families, adventure lovers, or anyone eager to see the Arctic in full winter glory.

Good To Know

• Authentic Arctic experiences: Reindeer and husky safaris, snowmobiling, and icebreaker cruises.
• Northern Lights: Multiple excursions increase your chances of a sighting.
• Cultural encounters: Meet Santa Claus, cross the Arctic Circle, visit Santa’s village.
• Comfort and convenience: 6 nights of accommodation included, with transfers and guided activities.
• Value for money: The price covers a broad range of activities, making it a cost-effective Arctic escape.
• Flexible booking: Can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with pay later options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point & Helsinki Overview

This tour kicks off in Helsinki, Finland’s vibrant capital. The first day offers a quick city tour if time allows, giving a taste of Helsinki’s design museums, historic sites, and lively markets. This is a nice way to shake off jet lag or get a final dose of urban life before heading north.

Then, you board a train to Lapland, which isn’t just a transfer but a scenic journey through the Finnish landscape—think snowy forests and peaceful lakes, setting the tone for the Arctic adventure ahead.

Arrival in Lapland and Reindeer Farm Experience

Arriving early in Lapland, the tour ensures an efficient transfer to your accommodation. From there, the day’s highlight is a visit to a Reindeer Farm, where you get to feed reindeer and enjoy a sled ride. This is a charming, authentic activity that offers insight into the region’s indigenous Sami culture. As one reviewer shared, “The reindeer ride was magical, and it felt like stepping into a Christmas card.”

This activity isn’t just for fun; it’s also informative, giving you a glimpse into traditional Sami livelihoods. The reindeer are generally calm, and guides typically share stories about their significance in local culture. Afterward, there’s free time for lunch in the city center, allowing you to savor local Finnish cuisine or simply browse shops for Arctic souvenirs.

Santa Claus Village & Cross the Arctic Circle

A real highlight is the visit to Santa Claus Village, where kids and adults alike can meet Santa himself. The village is festive and full of charming shops, post offices, and photo opportunities. You’ll send postcards from the official Arctic Post Office—a nostalgic touch that makes for unique souvenirs. Crossing the Arctic Circle is an exciting milestone, often marked with a ceremonial photo and a sense of achievement.

Reviewers appreciated the chance to experience this childlike wonder. One remarked, “Meeting Santa was surreal, and crossing the Arctic Circle was a fun, memorable moment.” The village’s atmosphere is family-friendly, but even adults find it enchanting.

Northern Lights Excursions

The tour includes multiple Northern Lights tours, which are crucial since aurora sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity. These excursions are typically in remote areas away from artificial lights, maximizing your chances. Expect guides to provide blankets and hot drinks, making the experience cozy and comfortable.

Travelers who’ve done this before mention that seeing the Aurora Borealis is a humbling, almost spiritual experience, with some nights offering spectacular displays that dance across the sky. Even if the lights stay elusive, the thrill of being out in the Arctic wilderness under a starry sky is rewarding.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Husky Safari & Ski Center Visit

On Day 4, you’ll start with a husky ride—a quintessential Lapland experience. The guides often emphasize how friendly the dogs are, and the rides usually last for a good period, giving you a real taste of what it’s like to command a team of Siberian huskies.

Afterward, you’ll have free time at a Ski Center, where you can enjoy lunch, shop for gear, or try some casual skiing or snowboarding. This flexibility lets you tailor your experience—some reviewers mentioned that the ski options are suitable for beginners and offer beautiful views.

In the evening, another Northern Lights tour is scheduled, increasing your chances of a sighting and allowing you to experience the Arctic night at different locations.

Day 5: Oulanka National Park & Snowmobiling

The next day’s adventure takes you to Oulanka National Park, renowned for its frozen rivers and striking winter landscape. Here, you’ll explore on foot or snowshoes if available, enjoying the serenity of the snow-covered wilderness.

Following that, a snowmobiling ride adds a dash of adrenaline, allowing you to cover more ground quickly and see more of Lapland’s vast, icy terrain. This activity is especially praised for its thrill factor, with one reviewer noting, “I felt like I was in a winter action movie.”

Icebreaker Cruise & Ice Floating in Kemi

A unique part of the tour is the Icebreaker Cruise in Kemi. You’ll board a real icebreaker ship that slices through the frozen sea, offering a fascinating glimpse into Arctic shipping and maritime life.

Post-cruise, you can try ice floating, a surreal experience where you lie back in the icy water with a life vest, feeling surprisingly warm thanks to the buoyancy and thermal protection. Reviewers find this to be a one-of-a-kind Arctic adventure, often describing it as playful and slightly exhilarating.

Final Day: Wildlife & Departure

The last day involves a visit to Ranua Wildlife Park, home to polar bears, lynx, and other Arctic animals. Observing these creatures in a naturalistic setting gives a deeper appreciation for the region’s biodiversity. Many travelers find this a peaceful way to say goodbye to Lapland before heading back to Helsinki.

Afterward, the journey concludes with a transfer back to the train station, completing a well-organized, activity-filled week.

Overall Value and Practical Considerations

At $2,838 per person, this tour offers substantial value considering the inclusions—six nights of accommodation, multiple guided activities, and several Northern Lights excursions. The price covers a broad spectrum of Arctic experiences that would be costly if arranged independently.

However, food and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly for meals, especially if you prefer dining at local restaurants or want to indulge in Finnish specialties. The tour’s schedule is well-paced without feeling rushed, but travelers should be prepared for variable weather conditions; clear skies are essential for Northern Lights viewing.

The tour’s group size and guides have been praised, with some reviews noting the friendly, knowledgeable staff who are attentive to guest needs. The availability of guides speaking English and Hindi adds a touch of inclusiveness, which is helpful for international travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure appeals most to those who enjoy outdoor winter activities—dog sledding, snowmobiling, and wildlife encounters. Families and couples alike will appreciate the mix of cultural sites and adrenaline-pumping adventures.

It’s also suited for travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Northern Lights without having to hunt for them independently. If you’re a fan of cozy, picturesque moments—like meeting Santa or watching the aurora dance—you’ll find this trip delivers.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to chase the magic of the Arctic while enjoying a variety of activities, this 7-day Lapland tour from Helsinki offers a compelling mix. It balances action with cultural highlights, ensuring you leave with unforgettable memories and plenty of stories to tell.

The experience is especially valuable for those who want a comprehensive, guided exploration of Lapland’s winter wonders—without the hassle of planning every detail. Despite weather dependencies, the variety of excursions increases your odds of catching the Northern Lights and fully enjoying Arctic life.

In short, this tour is best suited for adventure-seekers, families, or anyone looking to see the real Finland in winter—a true winter escape that charms with snowy landscapes, wildlife, and the joyous spirit of Santa Claus.

FAQ

How many nights of accommodation are included?
Six nights are included, providing comfortable lodging throughout your Arctic adventure.

Are Northern Lights sightings guaranteed?
No, Northern Lights depend on weather and solar activity, but multiple tours increase your chances of seeing them.

What activities are part of the tour?
Expect reindeer sled rides, husky safaris, snowmobiling, icebreaker cruise, ice floating, and visits to Santa’s village and wildlife park.

Is food included in the price?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to budget for meals outside of scheduled activities.

How is transportation handled?
Transfers between Helsinki, Lapland, and Kemi are included, as well as guided excursions, making logistics smooth.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially with family-friendly activities like meeting Santa, reindeer rides, and wildlife visits. Check age restrictions with the provider.

What should I pack?
Warm clothing, thermal layers, waterproof shoes, gloves, hats, and maybe a camera with a good zoom for aurora photos.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it’s listed as wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to confirm specific needs with the provider beforehand.

You can check if your dates are available here: