2 in 1 Arctic Zoo and Santa Claus Village Experience
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Two signature experiences in one premium half day. Late-morning hotel pickup and a comfortable drive to the world’s northernmost zoo, home to 60+ northern species. Your guide is also a wildlife photographer. Get close-up stories about the animals, learn simple photo tips, and receive a curated gallery after the tour. Warm winter clothing is provided for comfort.
Pause for a tasty wilderness lunch barbecued by your guide. (see menu below). Then continue to Santa Claus Village, timed for softer light and lighter crowds. Follow a photographer-led route through the Post Office, Main Square, and key spots. Enjoy relaxed photo breaks and a smooth flow through the must-do stops, with skip-the-line style access where possible. The day ends with an easy drop-off or an optional hand-off to an evening aurora tour.
Available options
2 in 1 Arctic Zoo and Santa Claus Village Experience
What's included
Soft Lunch (Lappish Barbecue)
Ranua Zoo Entry Ticket
Winter Overalls and Boots
Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off Service
Guided experience all throughout the journey.
Professional photos of animals and Santa Claus Village photos taken by your guide on your tour day.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Two signature experiences in one premium half day. Late-morning hotel pickup and a comfortable drive to the world’s northernmost zoo, home to 60+ northern species. Your guide is also a wildlife photographer. Get close-up stories about the animals, learn simple photo tips, and receive a curated gallery after the tour. Warm winter clothing is provided for comfort.
2
Stop 2
Then continue to Santa Claus Village, timed for softer light and lighter crowds. Follow a photographer-led route through the Post Office, Main Square, and key spots. Enjoy relaxed photo breaks and a smooth flow through the must-do stops, with skip-the-line style access where possible. The day ends with an easy drop-off or an optional hand-off to an evening aurora tour.
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Book Lapland main office, right next to Burger King in the city centre.
About Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is the capital of Finland's Lapland region, renowned as the official hometown of Santa Claus. It offers a unique blend of Arctic nature, cultural heritage, and festive charm, making it a year-round destination for families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers.
Top Attractions
Santa Claus Village
A year-round Christmas-themed attraction where visitors can meet Santa Claus and cross the Arctic Circle.
Cultural
2-3 hours
€10-20
Arktikum
A museum and science center showcasing the history, culture, and nature of Lapland.
Museum
1-2 hours
€12-15
Ranua Wildlife Park
A zoo specializing in Arctic and Nordic wildlife, located about 80 km from Rovaniemi.
Nature
Half-day trip
€15-20
Must-Try Local Dishes
Reindeer Sausage
A traditional Finnish sausage made from reindeer meat, often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.
Main Course
Contains meat, gluten-free if served without bread.
Salmon Soup
A creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and vegetables, often served with rye bread.
Soup
Contains fish, gluten-free if served without bread.
Popular Activities
Dog sledding
Snowmobiling
Hiking
Northern Lights viewing
Spa visits
Coffee breaks
Visit Santa Claus Village
Explore Arktikum
Best Time to Visit
December to March (Winter) and June (Summer)
Winter is ideal for snow activities and Northern Lights, while summer offers midnight sun and outdoor adventures.
-15°C to -30°C (Winter), 10°C to 20°C (Summer)
5°F to -22°F (Winter), 50°F to 68°F (Summer)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Finnish, Swedish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Rovaniemi is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, winter conditions can pose challenges.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of ice and snow on sidewalks and roads.
- • Dress warmly and in layers.
- • Stay informed about weather conditions.
Getting there
By air
- Rovaniemi Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Rovaniemi Railway Station
By bus
Rovaniemi Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and efficient, with frequent services.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Not commonly used, hail on the street or call a taxi company.
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
City Center
Ounasvaara
Day trips
Ranua Wildlife Park
80 km from Rovaniemi • Half-day trip
A zoo specializing in Arctic and Nordic wildlife, offering a unique opportunity to see polar bears, reindeer, and other animals in a naturalistic setting.
Pyhä-Luosto National Park
130 km from Rovaniemi • Full-day trip
A stunning national park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views, offering a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Festivals
Arctic Lights Festival • February
Santa Claus Marathon • First weekend of December
Pro tips
- Visit Santa Claus Village early in the day to avoid crowds.
- Dress in layers and wear waterproof, insulated boots in winter.
- Try local dishes like reindeer sausage and salmon soup.
- Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Consider visiting in shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and lower prices.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
