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New Years in Ruka Village
What if this New Year’s Eve you celebrated surrounded by snow, Northern Lights, and the true magic of Christmas? Experience an unforgettable family adventure above the Arctic Circle: husky sledding, snowmobiles, enchanted forests, and a private visit to Santa Claus himself. Lapland has everything you’ve dreamed of—and more.
A magical way to say goodbye to the year. An unforgettable way to begin the next. What if this New Year’s Eve you celebrated it deep inside the Arctic Circle? With #SantaClausInLapland, specialists in unforgettable family journeys to Lapland, we invite you to experience an extraordinary winter adventure. Surrounded by snowy landscapes, you'll drive husky and reindeer sleds, explore frozen forests by snowmobile, and try your luck ice fishing on a frozen lake. But the highlight awaits in Santa Claus’s real forest home—where families are welcomed with warmth, joy, and an exclusive encounter with the true spirit of Christmas. End the year with wonder, and begin the next with the magic of Lapland. Because there are trips… and then there’s this one.
Day 1 – Journey to the White Heart of the Arctic
The adventure begins at the airport, where you’ll be welcomed by Catai staff to assist with the easy check-in process. We’ll board a special direct flight to Kuusamo, with an onboard snack included. Upon arrival, our guide will be waiting for us, and after a short 30-minute transfer, we’ll reach Ruka—an enchanting winter resort perched on the edge of the legendary Arctic Circle. There, we’ll collect our thermal gear, essential for fully enjoying the magic of Lapland. Once settled, a warm dinner awaits us at a local restaurant, marking the beginning of this unforgettable experience. Overnight in Ruka.
Day 2 – Ice Beneath Your Feet, Snow at Every Step
After breakfast, we kick off the day with one of the North’s most fascinating traditions: ice fishing. At a fully frozen lake, a local fisherman will teach us this ancient technique. Each traveler will drill their own hole and cast a line—perhaps catching perch, pike, or lake herring. Later, we’ll strap on snowshoes for a serene walk through the snowy Lapland forest, a peaceful moment of connection with nature. A light lunch is included during the excursion. In the afternoon, free time to enjoy skiing or join an optional adrenaline-filled activity: snow karting and mini snowmobiles. Guests aged 14+ can drive the specially adapted snow karts, while children aged 4 to 11 will have the chance to ride a mini snowmobile. Dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight stay.
Day 3 – Meet the Arctic’s Legendary Travelers: Huskies and Reindeer
After breakfast, we head out for one of the most unforgettable experiences of the trip—driving our own dog sled through pristine snowy landscapes. Guided by expert mushers, we’ll discover fascinating facts about these huskies, who can pull up to seven times their weight. We’ll enjoy a light lunch during the excursion. Later, we’ll visit a traditional reindeer farm where Sámi herders will share their way of life and deep connection to these animals. A reindeer sleigh ride will allow us to experience this age-old tradition firsthand. In the afternoon, enjoy free time for skiing. With virtually no lift lines and slopes open from October to May—many of them lit—Ruka is a skier’s paradise. Little ones will love the Rosa & Rudolf Family Park, accessible from the village via scenic gondola. Skipass and ski equipment are included. Dinner and overnight in Ruka.
Day 4 – Snowmobiles and the Magic of Santa Claus
After breakfast, we gear up with helmets and gloves for one of the most thrilling activities: a snowmobile safari. Adults will ride in pairs, while children travel safely in a sled pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. Along the trail, we’ll feel the power of the machines and marvel at the snowy forests and frozen lakes. A light lunch is included. In the afternoon, we head to the charming village of Vuotunki, where Santa Claus’s house awaits beside a frozen lake. Natural snow slides formed on the lakeside slopes offer fun for children and adults alike. Inside, a friendly elf will guide us to Santa himself, who will welcome us with stories, songs, and warmth. Mrs. Claus will teach us her famous Christmas cookie recipe, which we’ll bake in a large wood-fired oven. Each child will receive a special gift from Santa—a moment that will remain in the heart forever. We’ll close the day with a special New Year’s Eve dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight stay.
Day 5 – Untamed Nature in Oulanka National Park (Optional)
After breakfast, you’ll have free time to ski or unwind. For those seeking deeper contact with the wild beauty of Lapland, we recommend an optional excursion to the nearby Oulanka National Park, renowned for its frozen waterfalls and dramatic rapids. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, we’ll explore the park’s flora, fauna, and the stunning Myllykoski rapids. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch beside an open fire before strapping on snowshoes once more to roam this winter wonderland. Prefer to stay local? Enjoy the shops and cafés in the Village or simply relax. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 6 – A Finnish Farewell to Remember
After breakfast, enjoy some final free time for shopping or soaking in the magical landscape. But there’s one more essential tradition to live before we leave: the Finnish sauna. With nearly one sauna for every two people, Finland has made this ritual a cultural treasure—a true celebration of wellness. After this relaxing experience, we transfer to Kuusamo Airport to board our direct flight back to Spain. Snack included onboard. End of our unforgettable journey with #SantaClausInLapland.
Some trips fade with time… others stay in your heart forever. This journey to Lapland with #SantaClausInLapland is not just a winter holiday; it’s a life-changing experience that brings families closer to the true magic of Christmas. From steering a husky sled through snowy forests to watching your children’s eyes light up as they meet Santa Claus in his forest home—every moment is crafted to become a treasured memory. Designed especially for Spanish families looking for more than just a getaway, this experience blends excitement, connection and wonder in a safe, carefully curated itinerary. Comfortable accommodations, thrilling activities, expert guides, and the breathtaking beauty of the Arctic Circle make this trip one-of-a-kind. If you've ever dreamed of a white Christmas, this is your time. Because the greatest gift is sharing magical moments together in a place like no other. Feel the magic. Share the joy. Discover Lapland with your family.
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