Lapland, Finland 7-Day Trip

$5,650 USD – Trip cost per person (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)

A down payment of half the trip cost is needed to secure a spot on the trip. The other half is due 75 days before the trip start date.

*$300 of the down payment serves as an administrative fee and is non-refundable. You can see our cancellation policy HERE.

Payments made by credit or debit card are subject to processing fees at the time of booking. These fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. To avoid these fees, you can pay via bank account which does not incur any processing fees.

I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?

There is no single supplement for this trip and every person who signs up will get their own room. We do not offer roommate pairing on this trip.

What is included :

  • Airport pick-up
  • 6 nights accommodation (single occupancy)
  • Private, air-conditioned ground transportation
  • 2 domestic flights
  • Most activities (as noted in the itinerary)
  • All breakfasts
  • Most lunches and dinners
  • Lapland luggage porterage
  • Trip host
  • Winter gear kit (thermal overalls, boots, and gloves) in Saariselkä

What is not included :

  • International flights
  • Airport drop-off
  • Insurance
  • Optional activities
  • 1 lunch, 2 dinners
  • Gratuities
  • Souvenirs

  2. This trip requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Depending on your physical ability, you may find walking over snow and ice difficult, especially with bulky winter gear on.

    To participate in this trip you should be able to:

    • Be on your feet for up to 2 hours walking and standing outdoors and in snow.
    • Walk 1 – 2 miles throughout the day unassisted, up/down stairs, over unpaved or cobblestone surfaces with/without an incline, and on rough terrain.
    • Get in and out of vans, snowmobiles, and sleighs without assistance.

  3. March is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights in Finland! ​With an average of 15 hours of darkness and the spring equinox, March is a great time for the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights.

    *NOTE: Please don’t plan your trip around seeing the Northern Lights. If the Lights are active during your stay and you get so lucky to see them, then it will be a bonus!

  4. Each group consists of 6 – 15 travelers. We prefer small group travel because based on our experience, large groups are less easily able to integrate into society and generally have less authentic contact with the locals.

    A small group number also means that the participants will receive more personal treatment from the trip host who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be more easily altered en route.

  5. The trip price in Lapland includes daily activities noted on the itinerary. For the snowmobile and dog sledding activity, there will be 2 people per snowmobile/sled, and halfway through the activity, you can choose to switch seats.

  6. Airport pick-up is included in this trip*. The arrival airport is Helsinki, Finland (HEL).

    *Airport pick-up is included only if you arrive on Day 1. If you are not arriving on Day 1, airport pick-up is not included but you can easily take a taxi at the airport or pre-arrange an airport pick-up with a transport company such as Welcome Pickups or one that you may find online.

    Airport drop-off is not included on this trip. The departure airport is Helsinki, Finland (HEL). The hotel can help you arrange a taxi to the airport. Or you can take a taxi or pre-arrange airport pick-up with a transport company such as Welcome Pickups or one found on travel sites such as TripAdvisor.

  7. Currently, passport holders of the US, the UK, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa to travel to Finland for tourism.*

    *The European Union is planning to introduce an e-visa for most visitors traveling to Europe in 2025. The e-visa is not currently required but we will provide any guidance necessary as soon as it gets launched.

    If you are not a citizen of one of the above-mentioned countries, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to Finland.

    As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.

  8. The official currency of Finland is the euro (EUR).

    Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using an online currency converter.

  9. The only time you will need cash is for tipping your local guides and trip host.

    To get cash, we strongly recommend using ATMs while in Finland as they usually offer the best exchange rates. The easiest way is to pull money out from the ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip. It is always a good idea to carry some cash on you upon arrival in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card.

    You can usually find ATMs at almost all bank branches, supermarkets, petrol stations, shopping malls, airports, and post offices.

    It’s best to use your credit/debit card for all purchases outside of what’s included in the trip in Lapland because there are no ATMs nearby. All meals in Lapland are included as are most daily activities. If you choose to do additional activities in your free time, you can also pay for them by credit card.

  10. Cash is NOT king in Finland, credit card is! Credit/debit cards are accepted everywhere in Finland (except Discover and American Express).

    It’s important to tell your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in Finland. Some banks may block transactions in foreign countries or currencies if they haven’t been forewarned of your travel plans. It is also a good idea to carry some cash on you in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card.

  11. Finland does not have a strong tipping culture. Many dining and drinking establishments will add a service fee to the bill. In restaurants, taxis, and for personal services, all tips are at your discretion. If you do decide to tip, around 10% of the total bill is adequate.

    Tipping your local guides and trip host: If you feel your local day guides did an exceptional job, then you can tip anywhere from 5 – 10 EUR a day. You are welcome to trip your trip host at your discretion.

    For more information about tipping your local guides, please see our blog on tipping guides.

  12. We suggest having access to 400 – 600 USD/EUR either in cash or by credit/debit card.

    WE HIGHLY ADVISE HAVING ACCESS TO MORE THAN YOU EXPECT TO SPEND IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY.

    Finland is an expensive country but nearly all activities and expenses are included in the trip cost. During the 4 nights in the Lapland, all meals and daily activities are included. You will only need money for any extras you want to purchase (i.e. drinks, souvenirs, additional activities, etc.)

    You will primarily need money for your time in Helsinki. Breakfast is included at the hotel in Helsinki but lunch and dinner are at your own expense. If you enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine in the evening, these costs are also incurred at your own expense.

  13. When using your phone overseas, check with your provider to get informed about data and call roaming prices. When you land in Finland, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls, and texts in that country. See the example below:

    Welcome to Finland! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day. 

    You may consider contacting your service provider to learn what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts, and data.

  14. Both the hotel in Helsinki and the hotel in Lapland offer free Wifi. Most restaurants and other public places in Helsinki also offer Wifi.

    Please keep in mind that the internet may not be as fast as you’re used to and could be spotty or weak.

  15. In Finland, the most common outlet fits European pin plugs also known as the standard “Euro” outlet (see picture below). Finland operates on 230V and 50Hz. Converters and/or adapters might be necessary for your electronic devices. 

  16. The weather in Finland at this time of the year will be extremely cold and there will likely be large amounts of snow for most of the trip. Make sure to check the packing list carefully so you will be well-prepared to have an enjoyable experience. At the Lapland Hotel you will be provided with snow gear as well.

    The temperatures in Helsinki are a few degrees warmer than in Sodankylä.

    There are about 10 hours of daylight in March but we suggest bringing a flashlight, headlamp, or cell phone with a light.

  17. As the famous Finnish saying goes, “There is no bad weather, only inadequate clothing.” So be sure to prepare all the necessary items to stay warm!

    Temperatures often drop well below zero Fahrenheit, especially at night and there can be lots of snow so snow gear is essential.

    The hotel offers a winter gear package that is included in the trip cost. It includes thermal overalls, boots, and gloves (see picture below). Upon arrival, you will be fitted for these clothes but you’re welcome to bring your own gear if you’re worried about clothes not fitting properly. We recommend using what the hotel provides you as it is specifically made for this type of weather. 

    Below are some things that we recommend bringing to make your trip enjoyable:

    • Snow boots (w/ good tread for Helsinki)*
    • Walking/hiking sticks (if you have a hard time walking on uneven terrain)
    • Wool/water-resistant socks
    • Thermal underwear (fleece-lined is best, tops & bottoms)*
    • Hot packs (for keeping hands and feet warm)*
    • Thermal long sleeve shirts
    • Base and mid-layer clothes (avoid cotton because it gets wet easily)*
    • Fleece jacket or wool/warm sweaters*
    • Bathing suit (for public/hotel saunas or ice plunge)
    • Beanie/stocking cap (that covers ears)*
    • Warm scarf*
    • Buff*
    • Water-resistant gloves (touch screen compatible for taking pictures with them still on)*
    • Sunglasses
    • Snow goggles (for optional tobogganing but can also be purchased at the resort)
    • Warm hiking pants (wind & water-resistant)*
    • Warm, wind, and water-resistant winter coat* (for Helsinki)
    • Flip flops (for sauna)*
    • Washcloth (for shower)
    • Portable phone charger/battery pack
    • Charger & cables (bring 2!)
    • Adapters/converters
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Small backpack or across-the-shoulder bag for day trips (water-resistant is best)*
    • Headlamp or flashlight*
    • Motion sickness, diarrhea, prescription medication (if needed)

    Both hotels have a hairdryer and a small toiletries kit. If you need extra shampoo, conditioner, or soap, please bring your own.

    The unpredictable weather in Finland can be difficult to dress for but layers are the way to go. When packing clothes for Finland, water- and wind-resistant is key. You will most likely wear the same thing every day of the trip and then put the hotel’s winter gear over it.

  18. All hotels on this trip offer laundry services for a fee, if needed.

  19. Yes, the water is generally safe to drink in Finland unless noted. Locals say that Lapland has some of the purest drinking water around!

  20. Finland is considered by most travelers to be very safe. It experiences low crime rates and even lower violent crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not leave your belongings unattended to avoid being an easy target for a thief.

    The US State Department offers general travel information about Finland. See below for more information:

    U.S. State Department Travel to Finland

  21. Finland offers a wide variety of cuisines. When making your reservation, please notify us of your specific requests such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the trip although options might be limited.

  22. Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website before traveling to Finland for any recommended vaccinations.

    If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise checking with a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.

Flights

The arrival and departure airport is Helsinki (HEL).

*Please do not purchase any flights until you receive an email from us. You will receive an email regarding your trip within 24 – 48 hours of booking.

Visa

Currently, passport holders of the US, the UK, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa to travel to Finland for tourism.*

*The European Union is planning to introduce an e-visa for most visitors traveling to Europe in 2025. The e-visa is not currently required but we will provide any guidance necessary as soon as it gets launched.

If you are not a citizen of one of the countries mentioned above, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to Finland.

As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.

The accommodations on this trip are unique and have been carefully selected for their quality. The highlight of the trip will be the aurora cabins, nestled in a pristine, snowy forest, where each room offers stunning views of the sky right from your bed, ideal for spotting the elusive Northern Lights!

Helsinki

Located in downtown Helsinki, this hotel is within walking distance of trendy restaurants, bars, and shops. It has a fitness center and a café serving drinks and light bites. The restaurant offers a contemporary breakfast buffet and a Latin-inspired dinner menu with quality international and local ingredients. At the cozy bar, you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails, local beers, and a wide variety of rums and tequilas.

Saariselkä

Nestled in Lapland’s pristine wilderness, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by a white forest. Its prime location provides optimal conditions for Northern Lights viewing.

You will stay in the unique Aurora cabins, equipped with laser-heated windows that open up into the Northern sky… directly above your bed! The spacious cabins provide first-class comfort in the heart of the wilderness, with amenities including an ensuite bathroom, an electric kettle, a mini-bar, and a cozy fireplace beside a comfortable sofa.

The hotel features a restaurant specializing in local Lapland cuisine, stylish bar, sauna, hot tub, and ice bath. Guests can get up close with the friendly reindeer at the on-site paddock.

We recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We work with Travelex which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and emergency evacuation/repatriation, trip delay, baggage delay, and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.

For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.

Trip insurance get a quote travelex

The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N