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New Year's in Rukatonttu
This New Year, embark on an unforgettable journey to Lapland, where dreams come true for both kids and adults. Husky sleigh rides, snowmobile safaris, ice fishing, northern lights, and the long-awaited meeting with Santa Claus… all in a breathtaking natural setting with top comfort. A family-friendly adventure, expertly organized with every detail taken care of. #SantaClausInLapland #LaplandTrip
A Magical New Year in Ruka: Adventure, Nature & the Joy of Believing Again End the year by crossing the Arctic Circle, surrounded by untouched snow, wild forests, and breathtaking scenery… this is not just a trip — it’s a transformative experience to enjoy as a family. Each day of this unique itinerary unfolds like a storybook: walk across frozen lakes, drive a husky sled like a real musher, meet friendly reindeer, and snowmobile through Lapland’s enchanted forests. And, of course, the highlight for children (and grown-ups alike): a private visit to Santa Claus’ house, where magic becomes real.
You’ll stay in the cozy Rukatonttu and Aurinkurinne apartments, located within the Ruka Village Ski Resort — one of Finland’s most beautiful winter destinations. Set by a frozen lake and surrounded by snowy trees, these cabins offer comfort, space, and stunning views to make your stay unforgettable. With Spanish-speaking guides, thermal gear included, optional skiing and snow activities for all ages, and the chance to see the Northern Lights, this journey has everything to start the year in the most extraordinary way. Celebrate differently with #SantaClausInLapland — the leading experts in family travel to Lapland from Spain. Because there’s no better way to welcome the New Year… than by believing in magic again.
Day 1 – The Journey Begins: Welcome to the Arctic Wonderland
We start this magical adventure by meeting at the airport, where the Catai team will assist with check-in before boarding our special direct flight to Kuusamo, deep in Finnish Lapland. Enjoy a snack on board while you leave daily life behind and head toward snow-covered serenity. Upon arrival, our guide will greet us and transfer us to Ruka (approx. 30 min). Once there, we’ll collect our thermal clothing, which we’ll use throughout the stay. After settling into your cozy apartment in Rukatonttu or Aurinkurinne, we’ll enjoy a warm dinner at the complex restaurant, surrounded by snowy landscapes and the peaceful silence of the Arctic. Your Lapland story begins now.
Day 2 – Ice, Snow & Adventure: Arctic Fishing and Snowshoe Fun
After a buffet breakfast, we’ll dive straight into local tradition with an authentic ice fishing experience on a frozen lake. With the help of a local fisherman, each person will drill their own hole in the ice and try their luck catching perch, pike, or arctic whitefish. We’ll also enjoy a guided snowshoe walk through Lapland’s snowy forests, a fun and accessible activity for all ages. A light lunch will be provided during the excursion. In the afternoon, enjoy free time — perhaps hit the nearby ski slopes, or choose to join an
OPTIONAL EXCURSION: Ice Karting and Mini Snowmobiles
Get ready for an adrenaline-filled experience at the snow circuit. After a short transfer, we’ll arrive at a specially prepared track where you’ll have the chance to drive karts designed to glide smoothly over snow and ice! This activity is perfect for guests aged 14 and up and requires no prior experience—just a sense of adventure and fun. While teens and adults enjoy the thrill of ice karting, the little ones (ages 4–11) won’t be left out. They’ll get to ride mini snowmobiles on a safe and adapted circuit, living a magical and unforgettable moment of their own. Prices valid for bookings made up to 30 days before departure. Subject to availability. A minimum of 10 participants is required to run the excursion.
Adult price (14+): €90
Children (4–11): €60
Day 3 – Arctic Animals & Snowy Dreams: Huskies and Reindeer Day
After breakfast, prepare for a day full of unforgettable moments. In the morning, we’ll take part in a husky safari, where we’ll drive our own sleds like real mushers. Did you know huskies can pull up to seven times their body weight? Their trainers will share fascinating insights before the ride begins. After a light lunch, we’ll visit a reindeer farm, where Sámi herders will teach us about their culture and connection to these iconic animals. We’ll enjoy a peaceful sleigh ride and learn about reindeer husbandry. The rest of the afternoon is free — enjoy some skiing (with rarely any lift queues), or take the kids to Rosa & Rudolf Family Park in Ruka Valley, accessible via a scenic gondola. A ski lift ticket is included so you can ride to the summit for panoramic views and great photo opportunities. Dinner at the complex restaurant. Overnight stay.
Day 4 – Snowmobiles & Santa Claus: A Magical Day to Remember
Today is packed with excitement. After breakfast, we gear up with helmets and gloves and head off on one of the trip’s highlights: a snowmobile safari. Adults will drive (two per snowmobile), while children ride in a sled pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. We’ll cruise across frozen lakes and snowy forests, soaking in Lapland’s raw beauty. After a light lunch, it’s time for the most magical moment of all: a visit to Santa Claus’ house in Vuotunki, by a frozen lake. Children (and adults!) can slide down natural snow toboggans before being welcomed by an elf who leads us into Santa’s warm, cozy home. There, Santa himself will tell stories and sing songs, while Mrs. Claus teaches us her famous cookie recipe, which we’ll bake in her traditional wood-fired oven. At the end of the visit, Santa will personally give each child a gift. A moment that will stay in your hearts forever. Dinner at the complex restaurant. Overnight stay.
Day 5 – Your Day, Your Way: Skiing, Relaxation or an Arctic Escape Buffet breakfast. Today is a free day to enjoy as you wish. You can explore the Ruka ski resort, go shopping, or enjoy a warm drink in a cozy café. You also have the chance to try cross-country skiing, a popular activity in all Nordic countries and easy to learn with the help of local instructors. Optionally, join an unforgettable excursion to Oulanka National Park, famous for its stunning landscapes and the dramatic Myllykoski rapids. We’ll hike with snowshoes through the snowy forest, listen to stories from our guide about the park’s flora and fauna, and enjoy a picnic-style lunch by a campfire.
Optional excursion prices valid for bookings up to 30 days before departure and subject to availability. Minimum 10 participants required. Dinner at the complex restaurant. Overnight stay.
Day 6 – Farewell, Lapland: Sauna, Snow & Sweet Memories
Buffet breakfast. Enjoy free time for last-minute shopping in the Village or one final walk in the snow. Before we leave, there’s still time for a deeply Finnish tradition: the sauna. With almost one sauna for every two people, it’s a beloved ritual of well-being and reflection. Afterward, we head to Kuusamo Airport for our flight back to Spain. Snack served on board. We return home with full hearts, fresh air in our lungs, and unforgettable memories — a true Arctic story to cherish forever.
Traveling to Lapland is much more than a destination – it’s an experience that transforms. In this Special New Year's Journey in Ruka, each day is crafted to create unforgettable family memories. From driving a husky sled like a true musher to meeting Santa Claus in his magical home by a frozen lake, this trip offers the perfect blend of adventure, nature, tradition, and warmth. The activities are thoughtfully designed to amaze both children and adults alike: snowmobile safaris, ice fishing, snowshoe hikes through snowy forests, visits to reindeer farms, and serene moments by the fire or in a traditional Finnish sauna. All of this while staying in the heart of Ruka Village, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and enjoying the comfort you need for a cozy and welcoming stay.
This program, ideal for Spanish families, combines professional organization, personalized attention, and an unmatched setting. Here, family bonds grow stronger, Christmas is lived with authentic magic, and the wonders of the Arctic Circle are discovered with the peace of mind that everything is planned down to the last detail. With #SantaClausInLapland, the experts in Lapland travel, you will enjoy an unforgettable New Year’s experience. Get ready to return with your heart full of stories and your suitcase packed with moments you’ll cherish forever. Because the best way to end the year… is by starting a new adventure.
Why Choose SantaClausInLapland for Your Journey to Lapland When it comes to discovering the true magic of Lapland, not all experiences are created equal. At SantaClausInLapland, we are not just another travel agency — we are Lapland travel specialists who turn winter dreams into unforgettable family adventures. We offer the most complete, safe, and magical experiences in the Arctic Circle, with exclusive programs tailored for Spanish families. Every detail is designed with care: direct flights from Spain, expert Spanish-speaking guides, premium thermal equipment, and accommodations that combine comfort, charm, and nature
With us, you don’t just visit Lapland — you live it. Ride through snowy forests on husky sleds, meet Santa Claus in his own home, watch the northern lights dance across the sky, or simply enjoy a peaceful sauna after a day of adventure. We are committed to offering professional planning, personalized attention, and the kind of emotional, immersive itineraries that create lifelong memories. Our programs are filled with authentic Lapland experiences, wrapped in warmth, tradition, and magic. SantaClausInLapland is your best choice for a truly magical family holiday in Lapland. Because there’s only one place where the spirit of Christmas lives all year long… and we take you there better than anyone.
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