5 days | Independent | Dec | Rovaniemi
Discover the magic of Finnish Lapland on this five-day family holiday based in Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and one of the world's most accessible Arctic destinations. Located on the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is known for its snowy winter landscapes, outdoor adventures, and its connection to Santa Claus, whose official hometown sits just outside the city. Despite its Arctic location, Rovaniemi is a modern and welcoming destination, offering an excellent introduction to the culture, nature, and traditions of northern Finland.
Staying at centrally located Santa's Hotel Santa Claus, you'll enjoy a collection of classic Lapland winter experiences designed for the whole family. Experience the thrill of snowmobiling through snowy forests, meet and learn about Lapland's iconic reindeer during a traditional sleigh ride, and drive your own husky team through the Arctic wilderness. With comfortable accommodation, family-friendly activities, and plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the winter landscape, this itinerary combines adventure, culture, and festive atmosphere in the heart of Finnish Lapland.
As a Certified B Corporation, 50 Degrees North has designed this tour using handpicked local hoteliers and suppliers who share our ethos of delivering services and activities of high social and environmental standards.
The CO2-e per person per day of all tours is carefully measured following each season. We fully offset all emissions of our tours on your behalf, and we constantly look at ways to reduce emissions where possible.
Welcome to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland and a vibrant Arctic city located just below the Arctic Circle. Known as the gateway to Lapland, Rovaniemi combines modern amenities with easy access to the region's forests, rivers, and natural phenomena, including the Northern Lights in winter and the Midnight Sun in summer.
Upon arrival at Rovaniemi Airport, transfer by shared airport express service to Santa's Hotel Santa Claus. Situated in the centre of Rovaniemi, the hotel offers a comfortable and convenient base within walking distance of restaurants, cafés, shops, and local attractions.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey or begin exploring the city at your own pace.
Enjoy a memorable family adventure in the snowy landscapes surrounding Rovaniemi. The day begins with mini snowmobiling for children, while those waiting for their turn can relax by the fire and roast marshmallows. There will also be time to capture some wonderful family photos.
Next, adults take the controls of their own snowmobiles and head out on a guided safari through the Lapland wilderness, while children travel comfortably in a sleigh pulled behind the guide's snowmobile. Surrounded by snow-covered forests and Arctic scenery, this easy-paced excursion offers fun for all ages and is a great introduction to one of Lapland's most popular winter activities.
In the evening, celebrate Christmas Eve on 24 December with a festive atmosphere throughout the hotel. Guests can look forward to a visit from Santa Claus, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, and seasonal decorations that create a Christmas spirit. While the final Christmas Eve programme is still being finalized, it will be a special festive moments for everyone to enjoy.
Today, experience one of Lapland's most enduring traditions with a visit to a local reindeer farm. After meeting your guide, travel to the farm and learn about the important role reindeer herding has played in Arctic life for generations.
Settle into a traditional sleigh and enjoy a peaceful 1.5 km reindeer ride through the snow-covered forest. Moving at a gentle pace, this is a wonderful opportunity to take in the winter scenery and experience a mode of transport that has been used across Lapland for centuries.
Following the ride, warm up with hot drinks in a traditional Finnish kota (teepee-style hut) while hearing more about reindeer, Sámi culture, and daily life in the far north.
Today, experience one of Lapland's most iconic winter activities with a husky safari through the snowy wilderness. After arriving at the husky farm, you'll receive instructions on how to drive your own sled before setting off behind a team of enthusiastic huskies.
Travel through beautiful Arctic landscapes as the dogs lead the way along forest trails, providing a memorable introduction to traditional northern travel. Following the approximately 5 km safari, enjoy hot drinks and biscuits while learning more about the lives, training and care of these remarkable dogs from your guide.
After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to Finnish Lapland. Enjoy a shared airport shuttle transfer from Santa's Hotel Santa Claus to Rovaniemi Airport in time for your onward flight.
Standard price, per person twin/double share
Family triple - 2 adults sharing with 1 child (age 4-12)
Family quad - 2 adults sharing with 2 children (age 4-12)
Please note: The snowmobiling is not suitable for children aged 0-3 years. During snowmobile safaris, children aged 4-12 years travel in a sleigh pulled behind the guide's snowmobile.
ANIMAL WELFARE POLICY:
At 50 Degrees North, animal welfare is a top priority during all our tours and packages. We carefully select suppliers who adhere to strict animal welfare standards, ensuring that wildlife interactions are respectful and comply with local, national, and international regulations. We avoid offering excursions that involve captive wildlife, except where they are properly regulated, and all activities are designed to minimise disturbance to natural ecosystems. Our travellers are educated on responsible, including responsible animal interactions, through our 'Responsible Travel Tips' for travellers, and our guides are trained to lead by example, promoting ethical conduct towards both wild and domesticated animals. By prioritising animal welfare in every aspect of our tours, we ensure that your travel experience is both enjoyable and ethically sound. Read our article on Animal Welfare to learn more.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Weather conditions may occasionally affect certain activities, and as a result, the schedule may be adjusted to ensure the best possible experience for all guests. For multi-activity stays, often the order of the activities will be confirmed locally on arrival. Activities might vary slightly in their duration or location due to the weather and local conditions. Any activities that are unable to be re-scheduled due to weather conditions will be refunded as a general practice, as determined by the activity provider.
Finland is well known as a 'Northern Lights' travel destination. Above the Arctic Circle, small villages and resorts in the wilderness over unique chances to see the lights between mid-September to early April.
Our guide to what you should try on your Christmas holiday to Finland, Norway & Denmark.
Our range of Lapland family Christmas holidays is built on the memories of our own childhoods: sneaking the neighbour's fir tree, hunting for the blanched almond in the rice pudding...
