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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

UNDERSTANDING OUR BOOKING PROCESS AND WEBSITE

Where can I find tour prices?

Tour prices are listed on each itinerary page. They are shown as a from price and vary by season, as peak summer or Northern Lights season can affect pricing considerably depending on the property and demand. We also list the single supplement (for solo travellers) and family prices. Click the blue + button on the pricing section to see these.

All prices are listed per adult (15 years or older) on a twin share basis, meaning the price applies to each person sharing a room with another traveller.

What is the difference between an independent journey and a group tour?

Independent journeys are designed for travellers who prefer to move at their own pace. We arrange your transport (car hire, private transfers, rail passes, or a combination), hand-pick accommodations that suit the style of your journey, and handle all the logistics in the background. Your days are yours to shape. If none of our existing itineraries quite fit, contact us and we will build one around you.

Group tours are led by an experienced tour leader from start to finish. They are particularly well suited to the Nordic region, where off-road driving in Iceland, reaching the best aurora spots in Northern Norway, or navigating remote Arctic terrain is far more rewarding with someone who knows the landscape well. Our group tours include carefully chosen activities that can only be experienced with a knowledgeable local guide, and travel between destinations is shared (typically by mini-coach, ferry, or coastal vessel).

Escorted tours work in the same way as small group tours but are hosted by a specific person: a professional photographer, one of our own staff, or a specialist in a relevant field. They always include a selection of high-quality local hotels, meals, activities, and seasonal inclusions.

The great majority of our small group and escorted tours are capped at 18 travellers. Our premium Lapland Highlights tour is limited to 12 guests whereas some Iceland coach tours and our Classic group tours can accommodate 20-30 depending on the tour.

What level of fitness do I need for a small group tour?

All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully. Before booking, read through the itinerary carefully and consider whether the pace and physical demands are right for you. You should be able to walk for two to four hours a day at a group pace on uneven surfaces, get on and off various forms of transport including small boats, and manage your own luggage throughout. Portage services are limited in the Nordic region and tour leaders are not able to carry luggage for guests.

Scandinavia is an increasingly accessible destination for people with limited mobility, but many of our group tours involve activities and pacing that are not well suited to guests who need significant mobility assistance. If this applies to you, an independently designed itinerary is often a better fit. Contact us to discuss your needs and we will find the right approach.

When are tour departures available?

Departure dates are listed on each tour's itinerary page. They vary by tour depending on road conditions, hotel openings, and coastal sailing schedules. Availability can be limited, particularly during peak Northern Lights and summer seasons, so even a tour listed as available may be close to capacity. We recommend enquiring early.

What is a single/solo supplement?

If you are travelling alone and do not wish to share a room, a solo supplement applies. This covers the cost of a single room, which in Scandinavia is often simply a standard double room used by one person.

What does twin share or twin room mean?

Twin share means the price is per person sharing a room with another traveller. A twin room has two single beds. It is common in Scandinavia for double rooms to have two single beds pushed together rather than one larger bed.

For families or groups wanting more than two people in a room, extra beds are typically rollaway beds or sofa beds suitable for one adult or one to two small children. Room sizes in Scandinavia tend to be smaller than Australian or North American hotels, and the standard layout rarely accommodates two large beds.

Which tours are most suitable for lower fitness levels?

Independent journeys are generally the best starting point for travellers with lower fitness levels or specific mobility needs. You move at your own pace, and our destination specialists can adapt the itinerary accordingly, including the addition of private guided city tours where helpful.

Norwegian coastal voyages are also well suited to those who want to cover significant ground without the physical demands of a land-based tour. Sailing between Bergen and Kirkenes, the ship calls at 34 ports along the way, and most time is spent on board enjoying the scenery from deck or the panorama lounge. Shore excursions are optional, so you can step off as much or as little as suits you.

UNDERSTANDING NORDIC SERVICE CULTURE

What are typical bed sizes?

Single beds across Norway, Sweden, and Finland are typically 90 cm (35 in) wide and 200 cm (79 in) long. Hotel double rooms almost always contain two of these singles pushed together rather than one larger mattress, giving a combined width of around 180 cm (71 in), comparable to a North American king. The practical difference is the join down the middle and, typically, two separate duvets rather than one shared one, which is standard Scandinavian practice and worth knowing before you arrive.

Extra beds are typically rollaway options or sofa beds suited to one adult or a child. If sleeping arrangements matter to you, let us know and we will flag your preferences with the property before you arrive.

What if I am unhappy with a meal or service?

Scandinavians tend to be direct and appreciate feedback given in the moment. If something is not right with a meal or a service, raising it at the time gives the staff the best chance to address it. Waiting until after and then complaining is, culturally, less expected and less effective. Honest, calm, in-the-moment feedback is genuinely welcomed.

What small differences should I be aware of?

A few things that regularly catch travellers by surprise:

Tea and coffee in rooms. Scandinavian hotels rarely provide in-room kettles or hot drink facilities as standard. If this matters to you, ask at reception on arrival, or bring a small supply from home.

Room size. Hotel rooms are generally smaller than Australian or North American equivalents. Double rooms typically have two single beds pushed together, and extra beds are rollaway or sofa options.

Winter lunches. On group tours during winter, the included midday meal is often a hearty soup with bread rather than a sit-down multi-course lunch. This is entirely normal and, in the cold, genuinely welcome.

Public toilets. In Scandinavia, public toilets are rarely free. Carrying a small amount of local currency is worth doing.

For a fuller overview of what to expect from Nordic hotels and service, see our hotels and services guide.

Is tipping expected?

Tipping is not mandatory in Scandinavia. That said, it is appreciated when service has been genuinely good.

For group tour leaders, a common guideline is around EUR 5 per person per day, though the amount is entirely your choice based on the length of the trip and the quality of service you received. A tip is not an obligation.

In restaurants and cafes, card payment terminals often prompt you to add a tip. Locals sometimes add 5–10% for exceptional service, but there is no social pressure to do so.

Is alcohol included in half-board or full-board?

Alcohol is not included in any of our packages. You may occasionally receive a small glass of wine or a seasonal drink such as glögg as a welcome gesture, but this is not standard.

What is half-board or full-board?

Half-board means breakfast and dinner are included. Full-board adds lunch. On active tours, lunch during the day is often something practical: a packed lunch, a hearty soup, or a similar light meal rather than a formal sit-down affair.

What can I expect from Scandinavian food?

Nordic food is rooted in simplicity, seasonality, and quality ingredients. Root vegetables, rye bread, fresh seafood, game meats, dairy, and berries all feature prominently. Traditional cooking tends to rely on good produce rather than strong spices.

During winter, expect heartier dishes: meat stews, creamy fish dishes, warming soups. In summer, the focus shifts to fresh fish, foraging-inspired salads, and produce from the brief but abundant growing season.

Breakfast buffets in Nordic hotels are a highlight: cold cuts, cheeses, herring, smoked salmon, eggs, dark bread, fresh fruit, and yoghurt. Worth taking your time over.

A few things worth trying:

  • Korvapuusti (Finland): a generously spiced cinnamon bun, stickier and denser than the Swedish version
  • Karjalanpiirakka (Finland): a thin rye pastry filled with rice, often eaten with egg butter
  • Fika (Sweden): the ritual of a coffee break with something baked, more cultural institution than snack
  • Hot dogs (Denmark): a street food tradition, topped with fried or fresh onions, remoulade, and mustard
  • Bergen Fish Market (Norway): one of the country's most visited outdoor markets, and a genuine introduction to Norwegian seafood culture

What about coffee and tea?

Coffee in Scandinavia is typically filter coffee, strong and slightly bitter, often brewed in advance and left in a pot. It is consumed in large quantities and is deeply embedded in the culture. Espresso-based drinks are widely available in cities.

Tea is less embedded in Nordic culture than in Australia or the UK. If you ask for a tea, you will likely receive a cup of hot water and a teabag rather than anything brewed with ceremony. Bringing your own preferred tea bags is a practical move, particularly for regional hotels where a kettle may not be available.

Do Nordic hotels and restaurants cater for dietary requirements?

The Nordic region is generally well set up for common dietary needs, though the level of care varies between cities and more remote areas.

Gluten-free is well understood across the region. Most hotels will provide gluten-free bread and alternatives at breakfast if you let them know on arrival. If you are coeliac rather than gluten intolerant, be specific when you inform the hotel: ask that the kitchen use separate preparation surfaces and utensils, and flag this in advance rather than on the day.

Lactose-free products are widely available throughout Scandinavia and Finland, both in supermarkets and on restaurant menus. Dairy is central to Nordic cuisine, so lactose-free alternatives are stocked as standard in most hotels and larger establishments. It is worth mentioning your requirement on arrival so the kitchen can plan accordingly.

Vegetarian and vegan options have grown considerably in recent years, particularly in cities such as Oslo, Stockholm, Helsinki, and Copenhagen, where plant-based menus are now common.

Further north and in more remote areas, options narrow, and wilderness lodges tend to centre their menus on local meat and fish. If you follow a plant-based diet, let us know at the time of booking and we will flag this with your accommodation providers in advance.

For any dietary requirement, telling us when you book gives us the best chance to make the right arrangements before you arrive.

LUGGAGE FOR TRAVELLING

How much luggage should I bring?

Many Nordic cities have cobblestone streets, which make pulling wheeled cases difficult. On group tours, transfers use mini-coaches or smaller vehicles, and space can be limited. We ask that you travel with one suitcase and one carry-on item. If you need to bring more, please let us know at the time of booking so we can arrange appropriate transport. Additional luggage may incur extra charges.

STAYING CONNECTED AND HANDLING MONEY

Will my mobile phone work in the Nordic region?

In major cities, yes. Check with your service provider before you travel to confirm coverage and data roaming costs. If you are not set up for international roaming, we recommend turning it off to avoid unexpected charges and using Wi-Fi calling where available. Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and on ferries and trains across the region.

What currencies do I need?

Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland each have their own krone, abbreviated NOK, SEK, DKK, and ISK respectively. These are separate currencies with different values and are not generally interchangeable. Finland uses the Euro (EUR). In Greenland, the Danish krone (DKK) is the currency in use.

A useful reference for current exchange rates is xe.com.

What is the best way to carry money?

A combination of a small amount of local cash, an ATM card, and a credit card as a backup works well. Check with your bank before you travel regarding international transaction fees and ATM withdrawal limits.

What happens to my money when I pay for my trip?

When 50 Degrees North receives your payment, it is deposited into a Client Trust Account held with a reputable bank (National Australia Bank, U.S. Bank, or Den Norske Bank, depending on your region). The funds remain in that account until we are required to pay suppliers and accommodation providers, which is typically around 30 days before your departure. In the unlikely event that 50 Degrees North ceased trading, your funds would remain protected.

Our Australian operations are accredited under the AFTA Travel Accreditation Scheme (ATAS), with accreditation number A10454, which includes independent financial auditing. Our Norwegian entity, 50 Degrees North Nordic AS, holds a guarantee with the Norwegian Travel Guarantee Fund (Reisegarantifondet/RGF), which provides further protection under Norwegian law.

VISAX AND DOCUMENTATION

What are the border requirements for the Nordic region?

Requirements vary by nationality and destination. Please refer to our visa and entry information page for guidance.

Do I need an international driver's licence for a self-drive tour?

In most cases, your standard national driving licence is accepted across the Nordic countries, provided it is valid and you meet the local minimum driving age. A modern plastic card licence is generally sufficient. You will also need to show your driving licence for snowmobile safaris.

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS & MIDNIGHT SUN

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)?

The Northern Lights are visible around and above the Arctic Circle from late September through to late March, though the experience varies considerably across the season.

Late September to early October brings stable autumn weather and the year's most vivid autumn colours. There is little or no snow, so this is not the season for winter snow activities, but aurora viewing conditions can be excellent.

Late October to early December sees the transition into winter, with more variable weather and occasional coastal storms. Inland areas of northern Sweden and Finland tend to offer more reliable conditions at this time than the Norwegian coast.

Late December to early January is the darkest period of the year. Snow is well established, and there are three to five hours of atmospheric blue light each day even when the sun does not rise above the horizon.

Late January to late March is generally considered the most reliable window for Northern Lights viewing combined with full winter activities: good snow, more stable weather, longer periods of darkness, and reliable conditions for husky safaris, snowmobile riding, and reindeer experiences.

Aurora sightings cannot be guaranteed. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and depend on solar activity as well as clear skies. Our itineraries position you in regions with consistently low light pollution and, on group tours, include dedicated aurora hunting with experienced guides.

What causes the Northern Lights?

The sun constantly releases charged particles into space in what is called the solar wind. When this wind reaches Earth, the planet's magnetic field deflects most of it, but near the poles, where the field is weaker, charged particles enter the upper atmosphere and collide with oxygen and nitrogen molecules. These collisions release energy as light, which we see as the aurora. The shape, colour, and intensity of the display depend on the type of particles involved and the altitude at which the collisions occur.

How do I give myself the best chance of seeing them?

Position, time, and duration are the three factors you can control. Getting above the Arctic Circle, away from artificial light, with a sufficient number of nights to wait for clear skies, is the practical starting point. Our Aurora Borealis tours are designed around this logic: we place you in the best locations, fill your days with activities, and give you multiple nights of genuine opportunity rather than a single night that may be clouded over.

What is the Midnight Sun?

Above the Arctic Circle in summer, the sun does not set for an extended period, sometimes for weeks or months depending on latitude. This is caused by the tilt of the Earth's axis. As the Earth orbits the sun, the polar regions remain continuously exposed to sunlight in summer and in continuous darkness in the depths of winter. The effect on people, animals, and landscapes is striking. After months of limited daylight, the return of continuous sun feels like a kind of collective awakening.

When and where can I see the Midnight Sun?

From early June to mid-July, Northern Norway and Northern Finland experience 24-hour daylight. The further north you travel, the longer the period. The Norwegian coastal voyage is one of the most popular ways to experience it, with views of the sun hovering above the horizon throughout the night as the ship travels along the coast.

The Nordic capital cities do not reach true Midnight Sun at their latitudes, but they enjoy very long summer days with only a brief period of soft dusk rather than full darkness.

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

Where is the Nordic Region?

The Nordic region encompasses Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland, along with the associated territories of the Faroe Islands, Greenland, Svalbard, and the Åland Islands. It covers a large geographic area ranging from continental Northern Europe to the sub-Arctic and Arctic.

Is Finland part of Scandinavia?

Strictly speaking, Scandinavia refers to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, the countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula. Finland shares many geographical, cultural, and historical characteristics with its Scandinavian neighbours, particularly Sweden, but is linguistically and culturally distinct and is more accurately described as part of the Nordic region rather than Scandinavia specifically.

How do I get to the Nordic Countries?

The Nordic capitals serve as the main entry points for most of our travellers. The primary international airports are:

The following are major international airports in the Nordic capitals:
• Finland: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport
• Sweden: Stockholm-Arlanda Airport
• Denmark: Copenhagen-Kastrup Airport
• Norway: Olso-Gardermoen Airport
• Iceland: Keflavik Airport

What is the best time of year to visit?

The short answer is that each season offers something genuinely different, and choosing between them is largely a matter of what you want to experience.

Summer (June–August) brings long, warm days, spectacular hiking and kayaking, the Midnight Sun in the north, and a general sense of life at full speed. Cities are at their most vibrant.

Autumn (September–October) is a quieter, increasingly popular season. Crowds are thinner, landscapes shift to gold and red (the Finnish ruska season is particularly striking), and Northern Lights viewing becomes possible from September onwards.

Winter (November–March) is the season for snow activities, Northern Lights, Christmas experiences in Lapland, coastal voyages, and deep Arctic quiet. Days are short but the light is extraordinary.

Spring (April–May) brings longer days, wildflowers, and excellent availability across the region, though snow activities wind down from April onwards at lower elevations.

Good resource for Nordic weather patterns: http://www.yr.no/english/1.2025949

Good resource for Sunrise/Sunset times: http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/astronomy.html?n=211

How do I stay warm in cold conditions?

The most common mistake is overdressing in heavy layers that restrict movement and cause perspiration, which then makes you cold. The more practical approach is loose, light layers that trap warm air between them and allow moisture to escape.

A few principles that hold in genuine Arctic conditions:

  • Wool and synthetic fabrics (especially merino and polar fleece) retain warmth even when damp; cotton does not
  • Mittens are warmer than gloves for the same reason that a sleeping bag is warmer than a blanket: fewer gaps
  • Heat loss from the head is significant; a hat, balaclava, or snood is not optional in extreme cold
  • The neck and wrists are often overlooked; cover them
  • Keep feet warm and dry; consider layering thin wool socks under heavier ones

On our group tours, thermal suits, boots, gloves, and helmets are provided for wilderness activities such as snowmobiling and husky safaris. You will need your own warm clothing for travel days and time at leisure. We can provide a full packing list on request.

Any advice for walking on ice?

Take short, deliberate steps and keep your weight over your feet rather than leaning forward or back. Slip-on crampon-style ice cleats are inexpensive, lightweight, and effective. They are available online before you travel and in many outdoor shops on arrival across the region. We strongly recommend them for winter travel.

How to walk on ice

AFTER YOUR TOUR WITH 50 DEGREES NORTH

How can I give feedback about my tour?

We welcome direct contact. If you would like to share your experience, contact us through our website and we will be in touch. If you are comfortable leaving a public review, Google reviews are particularly helpful (however, reviews on platforms where you first found us are also appreciated):

What if I have a complaint?

In the unlikely event of a problem during your trip, please raise it with your tour leader or our on-call team as soon as possible. We have a 24-hour emergency line specifically for in-destination issues, and we would always rather address something in the moment than hear about it afterwards.

If a concern has not been resolved to your satisfaction by the end of your trip, please notify us in writing within 30 days of your return.

How can I apply to work with 50 Degrees North?

We are a growing company and we are always interested in hearing from people who share our approach to travel. Details of current vacancies are on our employment page.