Travel guides
Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, sits right on the Arctic Circle. From late November to March the town is wrapped in snow, the nights are long and dark, and the wilderness starts just minutes from the centre.
That makes it one of the easiest places in the world to try real Arctic adventures in a short trip. Here are the ten experiences we recommend most for a winter visit.
1. Hunt for the Northern Lights
The aurora borealis is the number one reason many travellers come to Lapland. In Rovaniemi the Northern Lights can appear on clear, dark nights from late August to early April.
City lights make them harder to see, so the best chances are outside town with a local guide who follows the weather and aurora forecasts and drives to where the sky is clearest. Sightings always depend on nature and can never be guaranteed.
2. Ride a husky sled through the forest
Few things feel as joyful as a team of eager huskies pulling your sled along a snowy trail. Short rides suit families and first-timers, while longer safaris let you drive your own team deeper into the wilderness.
Most husky farms also let you meet the dogs up close after the ride.
3. Meet reindeer and try a sleigh ride
Reindeer are part of everyday life in Lapland. A calm reindeer sleigh ride through the forest is a peaceful contrast to faster safaris, and reindeer farm visits tell you how herding families have lived with these animals for generations.
4. Drive a snowmobile across frozen lakes
A snowmobile safari takes you across frozen lakes, rivers and forest trails much faster than any other way. A valid driving licence is usually needed to drive, and guided tours include warm thermal clothing.
Evening snowmobile tours are also a popular way to search for the Northern Lights.
5. Visit Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle
Santa Claus Village, about 8 km north of the centre, is where you can meet Santa Claus every day of the year, cross the Arctic Circle line and send a postcard from Santa's main post office.
December is the busiest and most magical month, so book any Santa experiences early.
6. Float in icy water in a warm dry suit
Ice floating is one of Lapland's most surprising experiences. Wearing a thermal dry suit, you lie back and drift in an icy lake or river while staying completely warm and dry, often under a starry sky.
7. Warm up in a real Finnish sauna
Sauna is at the heart of Finnish culture. After a cold day outdoors, nothing beats a hot sauna by a frozen river, and the brave can try a quick dip in an ice hole between rounds.
8. Try ice fishing on a frozen lake
Drill a hole through the thick lake ice, drop a line and enjoy the silence of the Arctic. Ice fishing trips usually end by a campfire with a warm drink, and it is a relaxed activity for all ages.
9. Explore the wilderness on foot
Snowshoe hikes and nature tours take you to frozen waterfalls, canyons and quiet fells just outside the city. They are a great way to experience the landscape at your own pace.
10. Take home professional photos of your trip
Capturing the Northern Lights or a snowy forest with a phone is hard. On a photography tour a professional photographer helps you find the best spots and you take home edited photos of your adventure.
With three or four days in Rovaniemi you can easily combine several of these experiences. Compare tours, prices and live availability on SeekLapland and book directly with trusted local operators.