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Aurora Encounter

6 days / 5 nights PS1
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Finland / Finnish Lapland / Independent Travel / Northern Lights Tours

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Northern Lights Wilderness Adventure – Finnish Lapland

Journey deep into the snow-covered wilderness of Finnish Lapland on an unforgettable Northern Lights holiday filled with Arctic adventure, pristine nature and magical winter experiences.

Far from the bright lights of the cities, you’ll stay in a peaceful wilderness setting near Ivalo, one of Finland’s renowned Northern Lights destinations. With clear Arctic skies and minimal light pollution, this is an ideal location for searching for the spectacular Aurora Borealis.

According to Finnish folklore, the Northern Lights were created by a magical fire fox racing across the snowy landscape, its tail sweeping sparkling snowflakes into the night sky. Today, witnessing the Aurora remains one of the most extraordinary experiences you can have in Lapland.

Over six days, experience some of the best winter activities in Finnish Lapland, including husky sledding, snowmobiling, a traditional reindeer farm visit, snowshoeing through pristine forests, cross-country skiing and guided Northern Lights hunting. Your Arctic escape culminates with a very special night in an Aurora Cabin, where you can gaze through the glass roof towards the star-filled sky and, with a little luck, watch the Northern Lights dance above you from the comfort of your bed.

With full-board accommodation, winter clothing, transfers and an exciting programme of included Arctic activities, this Finnish Lapland Northern Lights package is perfect for couples and travellers looking for an authentic Lapland wilderness experience away from the crowds.

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Partially guided tour

Travel dates:

Available mid November to end March

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Highlights:

  • Aurora Borealis hunting

  • Overnight stay in a glass-roof Aurora Cabin

  • Husky sledding safari in Lapland

  • Snowmobile safari through the Arctic wilderness

  • Reindeer farm visit and Sámi cultural experience

  • Snowshoeing through pristine Lapland forests

  • Cross-country skiing in Finnish Lapland

  • Aurora campfire experience under the Arctic sky

  • Full-board Arctic holiday package

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Tour inclusions:

  • Return airport transfers in Ivalo

  • 4 nights in a Wilderness or Superior Room

  • 1 night in an Aurora Cabin

  • Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner

  • Husky safari

  • Reindeer farm visit by snowmobile

  • Snowmobile safari

  • Guided Northern Lights hunting

  • Aurora campfire evening

  • Guided snowshoeing experience

  • Cross-country skiing

  • Aurora alerts

  • Thermal outdoor suit and winter boots for the duration of your stay

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Frequently asked questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, this tour is very family-friendly. Children can participate in most activities, with safety measures in place (e.g. children ride in sleighs during snowmobiling).

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour is moderately active but suitable for most fitness levels. Activities like snowmobiling and husky sledding require basic mobility, but no prior experience is needed.

Is travel insurance required?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers.

Will there be daylight in winter?
Yes, but daylight hours are limited (approximately 2–4 hours in mid-winter), creating a magical twilight atmosphere.

Can I use my phone and internet in Lapland?
Yes, mobile coverage is generally good in Rovaniemi, and most hotels offer Wi-Fi.

How far in advance should I book?
Lapland winter travel—especially December—is extremely popular. Booking 9–12 months in advance is recommended.

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Northern Lights Adventure

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At a glance

Day 1 - Arrive in Lapland and Settle In

Day 1 - Arrive in Lapland and Settle In image

Arrive in Lapland and Settle In

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Day 1 - Arrive in Ivalo, Finnish Lapland

Welcome to Finnish Lapland! On arrival at Ivalo Airport, you’ll be met and transferred through the beautiful snow-covered Arctic landscape to your wilderness hotel.

Settle into your accommodation and begin soaking up the peaceful surroundings of Lapland’s pristine wilderness. Your programme for the coming days will be provided, giving you a taste of the exciting Arctic adventures ahead.

Depending on your arrival time, you’ll also receive your thermal winter clothing and boots today or the following morning, helping to keep you warm and comfortable throughout your stay.

This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel and your first night surrounded by the magical winter scenery of Finnish Lapland.

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Day 2 - Reindeer Farm Visit and Aurora Sledge Ride

Day 2 - Reindeer Farm Visit and Aurora Sledge Ride image

Reindeer Farm Visit and Aurora Sledge Ride

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Day 2 – Reindeer Farm & Northern Lights Camp

Today, set off by snowmobile through the beautiful snow-covered wilderness to visit a traditional reindeer farm. Meet a local reindeer herder, learn about Sámi culture and the important role reindeer play in everyday life in Lapland, and enjoy the opportunity to feed these gentle Arctic animals by hand. Afterwards, warm up around the fire with a comforting bowl of soup.

This evening, head into the wilderness in search of the spectacular Northern Lights. Travel comfortably by sled behind your guide’s snowmobile to a remote Aurora camp, far from city lights. Gather around the fire with a hot drink while your guide shares stories and explains the fascinating natural phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis. With clear skies and a little luck, you may see the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky.

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Frequently asked questions

Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. However, this itinerary includes multiple opportunities to see them, including a dedicated Aurora excursion and your stay in a glass igloo.

What should I wear in Lapland?
Thermal base layers, insulated outerwear, gloves, hats, and snow boots are essential. Outdoor clothing and boots are supplied for the duration of the tour.

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Day 3 - Husky Safari and Snowmobile Northern Lights

Day 3 - Husky Safari and Snowmobile Northern Lights image

Husky Safari and Snowmobile Northern Lights

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Day 3 – Husky Safari & Northern Lights Snowmobiling

Meet Lapland’s energetic huskies and set off on an exhilarating husky sledding adventure through the peaceful, snow-covered forests. Travelling two people per sled, one person will take the reins while the other relaxes in the sleigh before swapping positions along the way, giving you both the chance to experience the thrill of mushing your own husky team.

Later, another Arctic adventure awaits as you head into the wilderness by snowmobile. After a safety briefing and driving instructions, follow your guide along snowy trails through the spectacular Finnish Lapland landscape.

As darkness falls, continue your snowmobile safari in search of the Northern Lights. Far from city light pollution, the surrounding wilderness provides an excellent setting for watching the Arctic sky and, with favourable conditions, experiencing the magical Aurora Borealis.

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Frequently asked questions:

Do I need experience to drive a snowmobile?
No experience is required. A full safety briefing is provided. However, a valid driver’s licence is required to operate a snowmobile.

Can two people share a snowmobile?
Yes, snowmobiles are usually shared between two adults, with the option to switch drivers during the activity.

Day 4 - Snowshoeing in the Lapland Wilderness

Day 4 - Snowshoeing in the Lapland Wilderness image

Winter Forest Walk and Campfire Lunch

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Day 4 – Snowshoeing in the Lapland Wilderness

Step into a true winter wonderland today on a guided snowshoeing adventure through the pristine forests of Finnish Lapland. Surrounded by snow-covered trees and peaceful Arctic scenery, follow your guide along quiet wilderness trails while learning about the local environment, wildlife and life in Lapland.

Along the way, pause around an open fire to warm up with hot drinks and enjoy lunch in the heart of nature. With its beautiful landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, this is a wonderful experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.

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Day 5 - Cross-Country Skiing & Aurora Cabin

Day 5 - Cross-Country Skiing & Aurora Cabin image

Cross Country Skiing and Aurora Hut Night

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Day 5 – Cross-Country Skiing & Aurora Cabin

Experience one of Finland’s most traditional winter activities today as you try cross-country skiing through the beautiful snow-covered landscapes of Finnish Lapland. With guidance and instruction provided, learn the basics before gliding along groomed trails surrounded by peaceful Arctic wilderness.

This evening brings a very special finale to your Lapland adventure as you spend the night in an Aurora Cabin. With its glass roof providing uninterrupted views of the northern sky, you can relax in the warmth and comfort of your bed while watching for the magical Northern Lights.

With clear skies and a little luck, the Aurora Borealis may dance above you, creating an unforgettable final night in the Finnish Lapland wilderness.

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Frequently asked questions

Can you really see the Northern Lights from the igloo?
Yes, if the conditions are right. The glass roof is designed for optimal viewing, but sightings depend on weather and solar activity.

Are the igloos warm?
Yes, glass igloos are fully heated and designed for comfort even in extreme winter conditions.

Day 6 - Departure from Lapland

Day 6 - Departure from Lapland image

Farewell and Transfer to Airport

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Day 6 – Depart Finnish Lapland

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to the magical wilderness of Finnish Lapland.

Check out of your hotel and transfer to Ivalo Airport for your onward journey, taking with you wonderful memories of husky sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer encounters and unforgettable nights spent searching for the Northern Lights.

Your Finnish Lapland winter adventure comes to an end, but the magic of the Arctic will stay with you long after you leave.

Map of the trip locations

Aurora Encounter Map

A. Ivalo Airport

Lentokentäntie 290, 99800 Ivalo, Finland

B. Wilderness Hotel

Inari, 99870 Inari, Finland

About the Organiser

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About us

Pure Scandinavia is a family-run travel business specialising in curated journeys through Scandinavia and the Nordic region. With over 35 years of experience, the business is built on the expertise of founder Claudia Pallaspuro, who created and ran Snowbound Adventures and Lapland Magic in Finland. After relocating to Australia in 2010, Claudia brought her passion for Lapland with her and steadily developed Scandinavian travel experiences tailored for Australian travellers.

In 2025, her daughter Elaine joined the business and has extensive first-hand experience. Elaine has travelled throughout Scandinavia and personally inspected many of the hotels featured in the itineraries, ensuring each meets the standard and experience expected by Pure Scandinavia clients.

What sets Pure Scandinavia apart is its deeply rooted local knowledge. Every member of the team has lived and worked in Finland, offering genuine insight, trusted relationships, and a personal, hands-on approach to designing authentic Nordic travel experiences.

What Our Clients Say

Pure Scandinavia is proud to receive consistently strong feedback from travellers who value personalised service, expert planning, and authentic Nordic experiences.

Based on verified reviews via Trustindex and other public platforms such as Google Reviews, Pure Scandinavia maintains a strong overall rating, reflecting high levels of customer satisfaction across both independent and escorted Nordic journeys.

According to Trustindex (updated 2026), Pure Scandinavia now holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 41 verified reviews, demonstrating consistently high satisfaction across both independent and escorted travel experiences. 

Clients consistently highlight:

  • Seamless, well-structured itineraries across multiple Nordic countries

  • Personalised service and flexibility, particularly for independent travel

  • Deep local knowledge and authentic experiences in Lapland and Scandinavia

  • Stress-free planning for complex, multi-destination trips


Verified Client Reviews

“Claudia… put together an amazing 3 week holiday… detailed itinerary that flowed and showed her extensive knowledge and passion.”
– TT Foodie, April 2026

“Made a last minute decision… the team looked after everything… an amazing itinerary.”
– Scott Post, March 2026

“Everything was organised perfectly… amazing trip… highly recommend Claudia and Pure Scandinavia.”
– Louise Stuart, February 2026

“Amazing job… everything was thought of… felt like travelling with a bunch of friends.”
– Adelle Fernandez, February 2026

“Unforgettable Arctic holiday… seamless itinerary… incredibly easy travelling through remote areas.”
– Silke Bader, January 2026

“Took all the stress out of planning… a once in a lifetime holiday.”
– U S, January 2026

“Totally exceeded our expectations… activities were exceptional and well organised.”
– Garry Elsdon, January 2026

“Well planned and organised… balanced itinerary with first class experiences.”
– Michelle Collett, January 2026

“Unforgettable Lapland and Tallinn Experience”
– James Delaney, May 2025

“Enjoyed an amazing trip to Norway. Claudia was efficient and very friendly, including providing advice on what clothing to take for the cold weather. The local guides and activities were exceptional.”
– Clancy Michael, April 2025

“A once in a lifetime trip. Everything ran smoothly, we loved the overnight train journeys and the wilderness hotel was fantastic.”
– Andrew Roser, March 2025

“We travelled as a family of six in December on an independently tailored trip. Everything was flawless and all accommodations exceeded expectations.”
– Scott, March 2025

“The Lapland Fantasy Tour was nothing short of magical. The itinerary was very thoughtfully put together and Claudia’s passion and guidance really stood out.”
– Danielle W, January 2024

“Highly recommend for families. Our Lapland Fantasy Christmas Tour was a true bucket-list experience.”
– Sharon Burton, January 2024

“The experience was amazing and I would definitely book again.”
– Nigel Ainsworth, October 2023

“A 15-day self-guided tour through Scandinavia was much less stressful than trying to organise everything ourselves.”

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