Rovaniemi , Finland

Backcountry skiing adventure

Active

(30 reviews)

Duration varies

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This 3-4 hour adventure gives you a chance to try the most popular sport in Finland, cross-country skiing. It’s a fascinating and environmentally friendly way to move in deep snow through the Arctic forests and rugged areas. We will teach you the basics of this wonderdul wintersport and take a photography tour through the Arctic wilderness. The adventure is guided by professional photographer who makes sure that you have all the time necessary to enjoy and photograph the snowy Arctic nature and amazing landscapes around us. The adventure gives you wonderful opportunity to witness the real and authentic nature of Lapland!

Available options

Backcountry skiing adventure

Pickup included

What's included

warm clothing & winter boots

minivan transportation

hotel pick-up & drop-off

Wilderness/photography guide

Collection of edited photos after the tour

skiing trip to Arctic nature

hot drinks and snacks

skis & poles

What you'll see

During our adventure, we will enjoy beautiful nature and photograph the breath-taking landscapes around us. We use special skin-based skis, which take skiing from cross-country right into the backcountry. Backcountry skiis represent the freshest Finnish innovation in wilderness exploration. Owing to their composition and skin-based material they provide us unlimited access to the endless, snowy hinterlands of Lapland.

We will start our tour from Rovaniemi and drive to our location hidden in the forest. During the trip, we will take a break in a wooden shelter and prepare some sausages over an open fire. We will be surrounded by all of the most astonishing features of Lappish nature. Moving on skiis in these snowy landscapes gives us unforgettable opportunities for photography! The tour is always guided by a professional photographer who will share his knowledge of landscape and nature photography.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

26 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

A maximum of 8 people per booking

Minimum age is 10 years

Meeting point

Beyond Arctic office, 15 minutes before start of the tour

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

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.