Please note: The Single Room price displayed above is for a single room in conjunction with other travellers. A solo traveller price is available on request.
Independent Holiday
5 Days from Tromso
Departs Daily - Winter 2024/2025
1 December 2024 - 27 March 2025
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Arctic Wilderness from Tromso to Kilpisjarvi, located at the very top of Finland. Sleep under the Arctic Sky in one of only four high-quality glass igloos located on the Vasara reindeer farm, an authentic and secluded Sami reindeer herding ranch on the shore of the crystal clear Lake Peerajärvi, surrounded by fells - a truly unique and memorable experience !
Highlights:
- Meet the indigenous Sami people, listen to their stories and try the oldest form of transport in the north
- Sleep in a spacious glass Igloo providing incredible views of the Arctic Sky
- Observe reindeer as they roam freely on the ranch grounds
- Take a snowmobile tour stopping at the border point of Finland, Sweden and Norway
OPTIONS (price on application):
1) Private transfers throughout
2) Kilpisjarvi - Stay in the boutique Hotel Cahkal or Santas Hotel Rakka
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Tromso (Norway)
Welcome to Norway. On arrival transfer by Flybuss (airport shuttle) to the city centre. Overnight Clarion The Edge Hotel (or similar).
Day 2: Tromso (Norway) - Kilpisjarvi (Finland) (BLD)
Embark on a 7-hour authentic Sami culture and reindeer sledding experience at the wilderness center Camp Tamok. Meet with the ingenious Sami people, listen to their stories and have a close-up encounter with their reindeer. Upon arrival you will be dressed up in warm winter clothes and boots and then head off to explore the ancient part of Sami culture and try the oldest form of transport in the north. During this experience, a local meal is included.
Upon completion of the tour, you will be transferred by private vehicle from Camp Tamok to Arctic Land Adventure Reindeer Ranch in Kilpisjarvi. Located on lake shore at an authentic and secluded Sámi reindeer herding ranch, you can immerse yourself in the silence and serenity of this unique region. Reindeer roam at liberty on the ranch grounds providing you with marvellous photo opportunities.
The glass Igloos feature all the amenities you would expect of a well-appointed hotel room, in addition to an incredible view, which is made possible by the glass roof. During the winter season you are welcome to borrow Altai skis, snowshoes, kick sledges, toboggans, ice fishing gear and warm clothing (overalls, gloves/mittens, hats, boots).
Dinner is served this evening at the Kota lounge. Overnight in your unique Glass Igloo.
Day 3: Kilpisjarvi (Finland) (BD)
Depart this morning on a 4hr snowmobile tour of Kilpisjarvi that will cover approx. 40-50kms. This is a great combination of learning how to drive the snowmobile (your tour guide provides instruction) while sightseeing snowy fells and lakes. Discover the sights around Kilpisjärvi, visit a tundra lake surrounded by the mighty Saana and Jehkas fells, and stop at the yellow border cairn of Finland, Sweden, and Norway.
Remainder day to relax and enjoy the nature and stillness of the Wilderness. Dinner and overnight Arctic Land Adventure Glass Igloos.
Day 4: Kilpisjarvi (Finland) - Tromso (Norway) (B)
Depart this morning after breakfast and transfer by coach to Tromso city centre. Make your way the short distance to your hotel. Overnight Tromso.
Day 5: Tromso (B)
This morning transfer by coach (airport shuttle) to the airport for your departure flight.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 2 nights accommodation in superior first class hotel in Tromso - Standard room with private facilities
- 2 nights accommodation in unique Glass Igloo with private facilities
- Daily breakfast; 2 x dinners in Kilpisjarvi
- Flybuss (airport shuttle) transfers Tromso Airport/City Centre/Tromso Airport
- Private vehicle transfer Camp Tamok/Kilpisjarvi
- Regular Coach transfer Kilpisjarvi (pick up from Arctic Land Adventure)/Tromso City Centre
- Shared sightseeing tours:
- 7hr Reindeer Sledding at Camp Tamok with local meal included
- Snowmobile Experience Kilpisjarvi (includes guiding; safety gear, thermal outfit, coffee/tea, trail license, English and Finnish speaking guide services, transfer from Kilpisjarvi village area, VAT and insurance)
- 24/7 support in Scandinavia
- Assistance of local representatives
- Scandinavia Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Optional tours and excursions
- Porterage/Luggage Handling (you will be required to carry you own bags)
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Departure taxes
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Visas (unless specified)
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following or similar.
The hotel selection may change – please use this as a guideline only.
Tromso
Superior First Class: Clarion The Edge - Standard Room
Kilpisjarvi
Special Category: Arctic Land Adventure - Glass Igloos
The Northern Lights
Chasing the Northern Lights, also referred to as the Aurora Borealis, during winter presents an unforgettable journey. These regions are renowned for their pristine skies and minimal light interference, providing ideal settings for witnessing this natural wonder. Bundling up warmly and exercising patience are essential for fully enjoying this awe-inspiring chase.
However, it is important to acknowledge that the aurora's appearance can be unpredictable, appearing only when conditions are right (it needs to be cold and dark with clear skies). Thus, maintaining patience is crucial when seeking the Northern Lights and understanding that this phenomenon is unpredictable and sighting the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed.
Winter Sightseeing Activities
Please note sightseeing tours are weather dependent and may be cancelled if the weather conditions are not ideal.
Winter Weather Conditions
In winter, Northern Norway and Finnish Lapland experience harsh conditions with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. Snowfall is common, blanketing the region in a thick layer of snow. Strong winds can further intensify the cold, making it feel even chillier. Daylight hours are significantly reduced, with the polar night phenomenon occurring in some areas, where the sun doesn't rise above the horizon for an extended period.
Dressing for Winter Tours
Dressing for winter requires layers to combat the extreme cold. Start with a thermal base layer, followed by insulating layers such as fleece or wool, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Accessories like hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated boots are essential to keep extremities warm in subzero temperatures and snowy conditions.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.