Lapland Holidays in the Autumn Months

Experience the quiet magic of ruska season in Lapland - glowing autumn forests, crisp Arctic air, and the chance to see the Northern Lights — through a curated selection of immersive wilderness, culture and aurora-focused journeys across Finland and Norway.

Autumn in Lapland — known locally as ruska — is a season of quiet magic. As the days shorten and the air turns crisp, the forests shift into deep golds, reds and berry tones. Birch trees glow yellow, aspen flare into fiery red, and the blueberry and lingonberry shrubs blanket the ground in crimson. This colourful transformation peaks between early and mid-September and lasts just a few short weeks, making it one of the most beautiful (yet least known) times to experience Finnish and Arctic landscapes.

Add long, peaceful days outdoors with the possibility of Northern Lights at night, and you have one of the most atmospheric times to travel above the Arctic Circle.

Below are four of our favourite Autumn and Aurora journeys — each offering something slightly different, whether you prefer wilderness luxury, wildlife, culture or a cosy glass-igloo stay. For a full list, please see our autumn packages here.

1. Autumn Northern Lights in the Arctic – Finland & Norway

This independent, premium 6-day journey blends two iconic Arctic experiences: the dramatic Norwegian fjords and the serene wilderness of Kilpisjärvi. Stay at the boutique Cahkal Hotel, perched where Finland, Norway and Sweden meet — one of the best places on earth for autumn colours and early auroras.

Why it’s special

• Stay in stylish wilderness comfort with nightly sauna rituals.
• Hike with a Sámi reindeer herder and learn about life in the far north.
• Choose between foraging for berries and mushrooms (August) or aurora chasing (September–October).
• Explore Tromsø’s Arctic heritage, take a scenic fjord cruise, and enjoy curated small-group activities.

Perfect for travellers who want a mix of culture, nature and boutique comfort.

2. Autumn Senja, Wildlife & Auroras – Northern Norway

Never heard of Senja? Many haven’t — which makes it one of Norway’s true hidden gems. Think steep mountains plunging into turquoise bays, tiny islands dotted with white-shell beaches, and skies dark enough for beautiful aurora viewing.

During During this 5-day independent travel package, explore Tromsø and then base yourself at the small and picturesque Hamn i Senja, where days are filled with fresh air and evenings with soft Arctic light.

Trip highlights

• Northern Lights photo tour with a professional guide.
• Wildlife and fjord safari with chances to see sea eagles, seals and more.
• Body-rafting in Arctic maelstrom currents — surprisingly exhilarating and safe.
• Relaxing outdoor hot tub with ocean views.

Brilliant for travellers who love salty sea air, dramatic scenery and wildlife-rich experiences.

3. Northern Lights in Autumn at the Aurora Village – Finnish Lapland

For a cosy, nature-immersed stay, this independent 5-day experience at the family-run Aurora Village Ivalo is a perennial favourite. Your glass cabin sits quietly in the forest, making it easy to watch the night sky — including Northern Lights — from bed.

Expect a warm and adventurous stay with:

• Husky wagon ride through autumn forests.
• Cultural visit to the Sámi Siida Museum and scenic Lake Inari region.
• Hiking in UKK National Park.
• Forest foraging, canoeing and outdoor campfires.
• Aurora hunting by car with expert guides.

Ideal for couples and families with older kids (10+), and anyone wanting a blend of culture, activity and slow-paced wilderness charm.

4. Rovaniemi & Glass Igloo Escape in the Autumn – Finland

This independent 6-day journey combines the best of both worlds: lively Rovaniemi — Santa’s hometown — and a peaceful autumn retreat in the forested fells of Luosto. Finish with a memorable night in a glass igloo beneath the stars.

Trip highlights

• Meet reindeer with a local photographer for beautiful, natural photos.
• Guided hike to a sacred waterfall and a hands-on cultural workshop on Eastern Lapland traditions.
• Northern Lights hunting by car with expert local guides.
• A nature-focused day exploring the ruska landscape before settling into your panoramic igloo for the night.

Perfect for those who enjoy cultural depth, gentle outdoor activities and the comfort of being based partly in a small town.

Why Travel in Lapland During Autumn?

Beyond the ruska colours and auroras, autumn brings a wonderfully local feel. Forest paths are quiet, lakes are mirror-still, and families are out picking blueberries and mushrooms. Wildlife is active, temperatures are comfortable, and the sky is often clear — ideal for photography and outdoorsy travellers.

Each of these tours captures a different side of the Arctic in autumn — from remote fjords to Sámi culture, husky adventures, foraging, and nights under the stars.

You can explore all of our current autumn packages here, with options to suit every style of traveller — from cosy glass-igloo stays to wildlife adventures and boutique wilderness retreats.