Safaris and excursions in Rovaniemi
The capital of Finnish Lapland offers its visitors a multitude of experiences, from the Santa Claus Village, culture and tradition of the Sami people, and the best winter excursions like snowmobile safaris and husky or reindeer sledding.
The Arctic Circle runs through the southern end of Lapland. Around its central axis is the city of Rovaniemi, whose population of 60,000 makes it the largest population near the Arctic Circle. Apart from Santa Claus and thousands of reindeer, Rovaniemi is home to an amazing variety of museums. Culture proliferates in many ways in the city that brings together various cultural treasures. The capital of Lapland in Finland, strategically located at the crossroads between North and South, on the border of the Arctic, has become a modern city, full of life with its unique characteristics. Santa Claus in Lapland® can book you on the following excursions in Rovaniemi for your next trip to Lapland.
We work with the most experienced activity organizers in Lapland to make sure that your family vacation is planned out perfectly. We are the experts in Lapland, we know all the excursions and those who organize them. Do you have doubts? Click here for help.
1. Snowmobile Safari
Come experience a bright and icy winter day driving a snowmobile through the snowy forests. You will receive instructions to drive the snowmobile and safety regulations. Then you will be ready for the adventure. This experience introduces you to unforgettable Lappish nature as you trek through snowy forests and frozen lakes. During the route you will enjoy a break for a cup of hot berry juice. Duration: 2 hours
What includes: Thermal equipment, guide in English, snowmobile ride 2 people per snowmobile, fuel, traffic insurance (maximum excess per person €980), hot drink.
Good to know:
- Two passengers will share the snowmobile and take turns driving. The snowmobile driver must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving license in Finland. Finnish law prohibits driving motor vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- The child rate gives the right to a place in a sled pulled by a snowmobile driven by a guide. Children taller than 140 cm can sit on the snowmobile with an adult as long as the adult rate is paid. Please note that children under 2 years of age are not permitted to participate in snowmobile safaris. Lapland Safaris West Ltd reserves the right to prohibit young children from participating due to safety concerns (eg inclement weather or poor terrain).
- This safari uses CO2 offsets for the snowmobile's fuel emission.
- Self liability can be reduced to $150 by paying waiver supplement $15 per safari driver.
- Possibility of individual driving. Additional for individual driving $45/person.
Prices per season:
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $99/ adult - $50/ child
2. Santa Claus Safari (daily)
A truly Arctic day, first with a snowmobile and reindeer sleigh ride, then a visit to Santa Claus. Our most popular safari combines nature, culture and Christmas spirit. The day begins with a snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm steeped in Lappish culture. You can take a reindeer ride and take part in the Arctic circle crossing ceremony. In the afternoon, the tour will continue by car to Santa Claus Village, a great place to do some Christmas shopping. You will also have the opportunity to send postcards from the Santa Claus Post Office. During the day, you will meet Santa Claus himself and enjoy a delicious lunch in a cozy restaurant. Plus, to top it off, you'll receive a diploma for having crossed the Arctic Circle! Duration: 5 hours
What's included: Thermal gear, guide in English, mini-snowmobile for kids to try, reindeer farm visit and ride, Arctic Circle crossing ceremony, diploma, 2-course meal (mashed potatoes and meatballs, dessert), visit with Santa Claus and his post office, transportation.
Good to know:
- Activity indicated for: Children over 2 years old
- This program includes a fixed menu. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $184/ adult - $138/ child
3. Snowmobile safari to a husky farm
The thrill of snowmobiling and sledding in one adventure! If you like huskies and snowmobiles, this is the safari for you. After an exciting snowmobile ride, you will arrive at the husky farm, where the dogs will greet you with friendly barks. Enjoy an exciting 20-minute husky ride and discover the ins and outs of life on the husky farm. Before returning to Rovaniemi on the snowmobiles, hot drinks will be served by the bonfire fire. Duration: 3.5 hours
What includes: Thermal equipment, guide in English, snowmobile ride (2 people per snowmobile), fuel, traffic insurance (maximum excess per person €980), 3 km safari with huskies, information about huskies, hot drink.
Good to know:
- Activity indicated for: Children over 2 years old
- Two passengers will share the snowmobile and take turns driving. The snowmobile driver must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving license in Finland. Finnish law prohibits driving motor vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- The child rate gives the right to a place in a sled pulled by a snowmobile driven by a guide. Children taller than 140 cm can sit on the snowmobile with an adult as long as the adult rate is paid. Lapland Safaris AC Ltd reserves the right to prohibit young children from participating due to safety reasons (eg inclement weather or poor terrain).
- In the event that the weather conditions are bad during the month of December, transfers to the farms can be made by car for safety reasons. However, the activity will continue to include snowmobile driving.
- Ride with huskies approx. 20 minutes. In the sled with huskies, one will be placed behind the sled as the driver and the other in the sled as a passenger.
- This safari uses CO2 offsets for the snowmobile's fuel emission
- Self liability can be reduced to $150 by paying waiver supplement $ 15 per safari driver.
- Possibility of individual driving. Additional for individual driving $45/person.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $199/ adult - $149/ child
4. Snowmobile Fishing Experience (Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday)
Go through the wild and white wilderness to enjoy ice fishing on a frozen lake. This route heads north by snowmobile on a trail that will take you along the frozen Ounasjoki River, through snowy forests to the hills, from where you can contemplate the wonderful wilderness and the vast forests of Lapland. Following the path that crosses the snow-covered fields, you will reach a small wild lake. You will feel the silence around you, while the guide will prepare you to start fishing. Try this traditional way of fishing and cook what you have caught over the fire. Finally you will return to the city for a well-deserved rest. Duration: 4 hours
What includes: thermal equipment, guide in English, snowmobile ride (2 people per snowmobile), fuel, traffic insurance (maximum excess per person €980), ice fishing, snack, hot drink.
Good to know:
- Activity indicated for: Children over 2 years old
- This program includes an aperitif. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
- Two passengers will share the snowmobile and take turns driving. The snowmobile driver must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving license in Finland. Finnish law prohibits driving motor vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- The child rate gives the right to a place in a sled pulled by a snowmobile driven by a guide. Children taller than 140 cm can sit on the snowmobile with an adult as long as the adult rate is paid. Lapland Safaris AC Ltd reserves the right to prohibit young children from participating due to safety reasons (eg inclement weather or poor terrain).
- This safari uses CO2 offsets for the snowmobile's fuel emission.
- Self liability can be reduced to $150 by paying waiver supplement $15 per safari driver.
- Possibility of individual driving. Additional for individual driving $45/person.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $168/ adult - $126/ child
5. Snowmobile Safari in the Heart of Nature (Monday, Thursday and Saturday)
Discover arctic wilderness on a snowmobile - try ice fishing and snowshoeing. Enjoy the incredible landscapes of this snowmobile safari through the heart of wild nature. This full day experience guides you along the trails of the real Lapps. The trail traverses steep hills and narrow valleys, frozen lakes and rivers. During the day, you can go snowshoeing and try your hand at ice fishing. During the activity a delicious Lappish style lunch will be served in the heat of a bonfire. Duration: 6 hours.
What includes: Thermal equipment, guide in English, snowmobile ride (2 people per snowmobile), fuel, traffic insurance (maximum excess per person of €980), food, ice fishing
Good to know:
- Activity indicated for: Children over 15 years old
- This safari takes place from December 15.
- This program includes a fixed menu. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
- Two passengers will share the snowmobile and take turns driving. The snowmobile driver must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving license in Finland. Finnish law prohibits driving motor vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- This safari uses CO2 offsets for the snowmobile's fuel emission.
- Self liability can be reduced to $150 by paying waiver supplement $15 per safari driver.
- Possibility of individual driving. Additional for individual driving $45/person.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $216/ adult (over 15 years old)
6. Northern Lights Snowmobile Safari
Come and experience an exotic arctic night driving a snowmobile through snowy forests and frozen lakes. With a bit of luck, the sky will be clear and you will be able to see the moon, the stars, and even the Northern Lights! Enjoy a hot drink, have a snack by the campfire and learn more about the Northern Lights and the beauty of Lapland. Duration: 3 hours.
What includes: Thermal equipment, guide in English, snowmobile ride (2 people per snowmobile), fuel, traffic insurance (maximum excess per person of €980), aperitif at the bonfire, hot drink, information about the Northern Lights
Good to know:
- Activity indicated for: Children over 2 years old
- This program includes an aperitif. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
- Two passengers will share the snowmobile and take turns driving. The snowmobile driver must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving license in Finland. Finnish law prohibits driving motor vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- The child rate gives the right to a place in a sled pulled by a snowmobile driven by a guide. Children taller than 140 cm can sit on the snowmobile with an adult as long as the adult rate is paid. Lapland Safaris AC Ltd reserves the right to prohibit young children from participating due to safety reasons (i.e. inclement weather or poor terrain).
- The Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon whose development can be predicted, but not guaranteed.
- This safari uses CO2 offsets for the snowmobile's fuel emission
- Self liability can be reduced to $150 by paying waiver supplement $15 per safari driver.
- Possibility of individual driving. Additional for individual driving $45/person.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $146/ adult - $110/ child
7. Northern Lights Adventure
You will arrive in the middle of the wild Lappish nature and begin your journey towards the river. As you walk through the forest, take a moment to enjoy the silence all around you. You will witness the northern sky in its maximum splendor, and you will be able to reach the points with the best views. Be patient though, the Northern Lights like to play hide and seek. You never know when they might show up! While enjoying the peace of nature, you can fry sausages wrapped in the warmth of the campfire fire. Afterwards, your journey continues in a cozy old building “Poro-Pekan Pirtti”. Here you can enjoy an excursion to the past of Lapland, at the hands of the hosts of the house. This relaxing getaway will satisfy all your senses! Round trip to this location by car (30 miles one way). Duration: 4 hours.
What's included: Thermal equipment, guide in English, snack at the campfire, hot drink, information about the Northern Lights, transportation, use of tripods for the cameras, tips on how to photograph the Northern Lights.
Good to know:
- One way transportation 45 min.
- This program includes a snack. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
- The Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon whose development can be predicted, but not guaranteed.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $119/ adult - $89/ child
8. Northern Lights Observation Field Tour by Bus
Discover the phenomenon of the northern sky at our Northern Lights base. This tour will take us to the Northern Lights viewing field located far from the city lights, with a perfect view of the northern sky. In the countryside, you will find the Aurora Borealis theatre, a theater where you can enjoy a film and an exhibition of spectacular photos of the northern lights. Also, you will have time to tour the complex, take a quick ride on a sleigh pulled by a snowmobile, simply rest by a bonfire, admiring the northern sky. And don't forget to enjoy a traditional fire-cooked reindeer burger in the Kota tipi! With a little luck, the sky will be clear and you will be able to see the moon, the stars, and even the Northern lights. Duration: 2.5 hours.
What's included: Transportation, thermal gear, guide in English, film and information about the Northern Lights, snack at the campfire, hot drink, use of tripods for the cameras, tips on how to photograph the Northern Lights, snowmobile ride.
Good to know:
- This program includes a snack. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
- The Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon whose development can be predicted, but not guaranteed.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $122/ adult - $92/ child
9. Excursion to Ranua Zoo
At Ranua Zoo, you'll find endangered arctic species like the polar bear, arctic fox, snowy owl and musk ox, all highly threatened by climate change. Learn how those species are protected, how injured animals are cared for, and how they return to the wild! Ranua Wildlife Park is a zoo, but it is also committed to protecting endangered species and encouraging participation in conservation programs. Before returning to Rovaniemi, you will have some free time to visit the souvenir shops and wine bars. Duration: 5 hours
What's included: Transportation, guide in English, admission to Ranua Zoo, snack and bottle of water.
Good to know:
- This program includes a snack. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
- One way transportation 1 hour
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $123/ adult - $92/ child
10. Reindeer Safari (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday)
Experience a traditional reindeer sleigh ride and learn more about these animals and their herders. On this ride, we'll drive you to a Lappish reindeer farm for a taste of reindeer sledding! This traditional way of moving through the snowy forests is a unique experience. Enjoy a cup of hot coffee with a scone by the campfire and discover what life is like for reindeer herders. Duration: 2- 2.5 hours including transfers
What's included: Thermal gear, guide in English, reindeer farm visit, reindeer sleigh ride, campfire snack, hot drink, information about reindeer and reindeer herding, transportation.
Good to know:
- Total duration: 2 – 2.5 hours. Sleigh ride of approx. 1 hour.
- This program includes a snack. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
- Both male and female reindeer grow antlers. They lose them once a year and they grow back.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $149/ adult - $112/ child
11. Safari with huskies (10 km or 3 km)
Experience a winter safari with a team of huskies! When you arrive at the farm, the arctic dogs will welcome you with their barks. Before starting the excursion, you will receive instructions on how to control the sled in which you will travel in pairs. If you want, you can switch positions midway! The guide will tell you about the life and training of these Arctic animals. In addition, you will have the opportunity to take some fantastic photos. A hot drink will be served in the heat of the bonfire. Transfers are made by car. .
10km husky safari. Daily.
Duration with transport approx 2.5 hours.
What's included: transportation, thermal gear, guide in English, husky farm visit, 10 km husky safari, information about huskies, hot drink
Good to know:
- Activity indicated for: Children over 4 years old
- Ride with huskies approx. 1 hour 15 minutes The children will travel in a large sled led by a guide. When sharing a husky sled on safari, one will sit behind the sled as driver/driver and one in the sled as a passenger. Drivers/drivers can be changed during the safari.
- You can choose between a morning departure (9:15am) or an afternoon departure (1:15pm); please check the calendar for availability.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $182/ adult - $137/ child
3km Family Safari with huskies
Duration with transport approx 1h 45mins.
What's included: transportation, thermal equipment, guide in English, visit to husky farm, 3km husky safari, information about huskies, hot drink
Good to know:
- Activity indicated for: Children over 2 years old
- Ride with huskies approx. 20 minutes Children must travel with their parents in a sleigh (max. 2 adults and 2 children per sleigh). In the husky sled, one will stand behind the sled as the driver/driver and the other in the sled as the passenger. For safety reasons, drivers will not change during this family safari when there are children on the sled.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $145/ adult - $109/ child
12. Reindeer Safari to Santa Claus Village
What better way to travel to Santa Claus than on a reindeer-drawn sleigh? Lapland is famous for Santa Claus and his reindeer. What better way to meet them than by joining us on a reindeer safari to Santa Claus's village! Sitting in the reindeer sleds you will travel along the snowy trails through the winter forest from the reindeer farm to the Santa Claus village. In the town, you will have free time to visit Santa Claus in his office, send postcards from the Official Santa Claus Post Office and visit the craft, design and souvenir shops. You'll come back with a reindeer driver's license and an Arctic Circle crossing diploma, it's an experience you won't forget. Transfers are made by car. Duration: 4 hours
What includes: Transportation, thermal equipment, guide in English, visit to the reindeer farm, reindeer safari, reindeer driver's license, diploma of the crossing of the Arctic Circle, visit to Santa Claus's village and his office
Good to know:
- Sleigh ride approx. 30 min.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $173/ adult - $130/ child
12. Experience with Huskies and Reindeer
These Arctic animals love the cold and the quiet life of the Nordic nature and they are waiting to meet you. First, you will visit a local reindeer farm, where you will learn a lot about Lappish culture and reindeer husbandry. Afterward, it's time to sit in a reindeer-drawn sleigh and enjoy a leisurely 30-minute ride through the forest. Before starting the next stage of your adventure (the husky farm), you will be given an international license to drive reindeer. At the husky farm, you can take a slightly faster 20-minute ride with the huskies. After the ride, the flames of the bonfire and hot drinks will protect you from the cold while you learn curiosities about these amazing animals. Transfers are made by car. Duration: 2.45 hours.
What includes: transportation, thermal equipment, guide in English, visit to the reindeer farm and information about the animals, reindeer safari of 30 min approx., reindeer driver's license, visit to the husky farm, safari with huskies 3 km, information about huskies, hot drink.
Good to know:
- Activity indicated for: Children over 2 years old
- Reindeer ride 30 min.
- Ride with huskies approx. 20 minutes
- Children must travel with their parents in a sleigh (max. 2 adults and 2 children per sleigh).
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $192/ adult - $144/ child
13. White Silence in Snowshoes
A guided adventure through picturesque snowy landscapes. Feel the essence of the Arctic on this snowshoe adventure, where you will travel through the picturesque snowy landscape of Lapland and experience the silence and beauty of winter forests. Take a break by the bonfire and enjoy some snacks, while listening to the silence of the forest and the bonfire as the only sound. Duration: 3 hours
What includes: Thermal equipment, guide in English, hot drink and snack at the campfire, snowshoes.
Good to know:
- Activity indicated for:Children over 12 years old
- This program includes a snack. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
- This adventure requires minimal fitness.
- Next to the city of Rovaniemi we have the beautiful hill of Ounasvaara, where you can try snowshoeing by yourself!
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $87/ adult - $65/ child
14. Dinner in a Kota in the Wild
Live the unique experience of dining by the fire in a traditional kota! The afternoon begins with a short coach trip to a kota in the wilderness. Here you can relax by the fire and enjoy traditional hot and cold smoked salmon as an appetizer, and children have the opportunity to fry sausages by the fire! The chef has prepared a traditional Finnish menu: Karelian stew (stew of different types of meat with vegetables) accompanied by mashed potatoes. For dessert, pancakes cooked in the fire of the bonfire. You can even cook your own pancake before heading back to town! Duration: 2.5 hours.
- Menu:
- Salmon appetizers
- Karelian stew with mashed potatoes
- Pancakes
- Coffee or tea
What is included: Transportation, thermal equipment, guide in English, three-course dinner with a bonfire in the wild.
Good to know:
- This program includes a fixed menu. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies. Limited capacity, advance reservations strongly recommended!
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $105/ adult - $79/ child
15. Excursion to Santa's Hideout (December 24)
Santa's hideout is one of the best kept secrets in Lapland and you are invited to discover every corner of this magical place! Let the spirit of your children guide you along the path through a fairytale forest until you find Santa's little helpers, elves and forest animals. Santa Claus has already taken off to begin his journey around the world, but he has left you a message that you will have to look for! At Christmas, Santa Claus and his elves need all the help in the world. Help the elves feed the birds that live in the forest and decorate the Christmas trees, cross the Arctic Circle and enjoy a ride on a reindeer sleigh with Santa's own reindeer. After a hard day preparing the stash for Christmas, the table is set at the cabin in the woods for a delicious and well-deserved Christmas dinner. Duration: 4 hours
What's included: Transportation, thermal gear, guide in English, letter to Santa, short reindeer ride, reindeer driver's license, Arctic Circle crossing ceremony, Christmas tree hunt, lunch (chicken paella and porridge) hot drink.
Good to know:
- One way transportation 15 min.
- This program includes a fixed menu. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $157/ adult - $118/ child
16. Snowfun Day (December 25)
Guaranteed fun for the whole family with endless activities! Arrive at the Snowfun site to enjoy all the activities that can be done in the snow: mini snowmobiles for the kids, short snowmobile safaris, and four-wheel scooters for everyone to enjoy! You will have at your disposal sleds, a toboggan run, ice golf, snowshoes and skis. You will also have the opportunity to team up and participate in a game of snow hockey! During the stay, hot drinks will be served by the bonfire. In a huge kota, you will have the opportunity to fry sausages and enjoy a comforting hot soup. Duration: 3 hours
What includes: Transportation, thermal equipment, guide in English, mini snowmobiles, scooters, sledges, snowshoes, skis, snow hockey game, hot soup, snack, hot drink
Good to know:
- This program includes a fixed menu. Please notify us in advance of any special diets or food allergies.
- Snowfun day is dedicated to families!
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $122/ adult - $92/ child
17. Dinner at Snowland's Igloo Restaurant (December 26)
At Snowland, you'll dine in a true arctic setting: an igloo restaurant! Outside, bonfires and candles will create a mystical atmosphere in contrast to the ice and snow. Inside, the seats and tables are made of ice, and lit up with lanterns and candles. Above us, the ceiling presents a sky full of stars! The ice sculptures will sparkle in the ambient light as you enjoy a three-course dinner. Duration: 2 hours
- Menu:
- Tomato soup with herbs
- Beef Stroganoff with mashed potatoes
- Grandma's hot pudding and vanilla cream
- Coffee or tea
What includes: transportation, thermal equipment, guide in English, three-course dinner
Good to know:
- This activity includes a pre-established menu, please notify us in advance of possible special diets or food allergies.
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $141/ adult - $106/ child
18. Mystical New Year's Eve Party (December 31)
Welcome to the New Year in the Arctic Circle, like you've never experienced it before! The party with which we will welcome the New Year will begin at the magical border of the Arctic Circle in Lapland. Fire, ice, darkness, snow, lights, dance and music. Together, these elements create a magical moment for the whole family. The mysterious shamans will liven up the atmosphere as the New Year approaches, and Santa Claus himself will pay us a visit! A giant ice disco, snow bars, fireworks and an amazing New Year's dance show will make for an unforgettable night. Take part in Finnish New Year traditions and get ready to have your future read by shamans! The activity will take place on the snowy banks of the Ounas River, in an idyllic winter setting. Duration: 3 hours
What includes: Transportation, thermal equipment, guide in English, welcome drink, prediction of the future, snow disco, dance shows, fireworks.
Good to know:
- It's a party you don't want to miss!
- Thermal clothing can be collected from the Lapland Safaris office on 31st December before 17:00 and returned the next day
Prices per Season
- Christmas and New Year (1/12 to 6/01) 2022-2023 - $105/ adult - $79/ child
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