Step into the wild heart of Northern Lapland for an adventure like no other – a week built for you to embrace challenge, discovery, and the rush of the great outdoors.
From the crack of your sled runners over fresh snow to the adrenaline of skiing untouched slopes, this is your chance to push your limits, try new skills, and immerse yourself fully in the Arctic wilderness.
We reserve the right to modify the daily itinerary during your trip depending on the weather and Northern Lights forecasts, to ensure you have the greatest possible chance to see the auroras.
The right mix of challenge and recovery
Your base is Ivalo – a village on the edge of one of the most remote wilderness areas in the European Union. Each day brings a new challenge: drive your own sled dog team, try backcountry skiing, ride frozen trails on different types of vehicles, learn new skills, and even spend a night outdoors.
You’ll balance action with recovery – mastering survival skills, enjoying unique experiences, and building the most authentic connection with Lapland’s wilderness. Afterwards, slow down in the soothing heat of a sauna, followed by an icy plunge. And with a bit of luck, the Northern Lights will light up the sky during your stay.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Ivalo & Welcome to Lapland
Welcome to the Far North! Upon arrival at Ivalo Airport – or the bus station – you’ll be greeted by your local guide for a smooth transfer to your accommodation.
Your guide will introduce the week’s program, answer your questions, and provide your personal cold-weather gear for the adventures ahead.
Take a moment to settle in and get comfortable.
Day 2 – Backcountry Skiing & Aurora Hunting
Start your adventure on backcountry skis, venturing into untouched wilderness where silence and snow stretch as far as the eye can see. Feel the rhythm of your skis on pristine trails and discover the beauty of the Arctic in its purest form. A refreshing lunch will be served after your trek.
In the evening, the journey continues at Aurora Camp, deep in the wilderness. This unique four-hour experience combines an inspiring Northern Lights workshop at Xwander Basecamp with an exciting aurora hunt. Learn about aurora science, forecasting, and photography techniques. Then step outside for a guided walk to observe the night sky – and with luck, witness the Northern Lights in full splendour.
Day 3 – Dog Sledding & Electric Snow Scooters
Meet your musher and their loyal team of Arctic dogs – Taimyr dogs or huskies – for a true polar adventure. After a short introduction, set off into the snowy wilderness. Comfortably seated in the sled, you’ll glide through forests and open plains, the air crisp on your face and only the sound of paws and sled runners breaking the silence. It’s one of the most authentic and exhilarating ways to experience Lapland.
After the ride, enjoy a traditional outdoor lunch cooked over an open fire – a perfect way to recharge before your next adventure.
In the afternoon, trade sled runners for something different: explore Arctic landscapes in a sustainable, eco-friendly way with electric snow scooters. Cruise through the snowy trails of Rahajärvi in silence, combining speed with respect for the environment.
Day 4 – Wilderness Survival Experience
Today you’ll learn essential Arctic survival techniques: shelter building, fire-making, and bushcraft skills to navigate and thrive in the wilderness.
In the afternoon, shift from survival mode to pure Finnish tradition with a wilderness tent sauna followed by an invigorating ice plunge. Let the wood stove’s warmth melt into your muscles before taking the ultimate Nordic leap into an ice-covered lake – an unforgettable shock that leaves you refreshed and deeply connected to the elements.
Dinner will be a traditional Lappish meal prepared outdoors over an open fire, under Arctic stars, while you keep an eye on the night sky for the Northern Lights. The day ends with a truly unique experience: spending the night in a shelter you’ve built yourself, using the survival skills learned earlier. A memory – and a story – you’ll carry home forever.
Day 5 – Snowmobile Safari, Ice Karting & Polar Night Snowshoeing
The morning kicks off with an adrenaline rush: gear up and ride your snowmobile through forest trails and frozen expanses. Whether a first-timer or experienced rider, you’ll enjoy the thrilling blend of speed, control, and stunning landscapes. Keep watch – you might spot reindeer along the way. A hearty lunch will leave you full of energy for your next activity.
The pace picks up in the afternoon with an activity like no other: ice karting. Take the wheel of a specially designed kart and race across frozen tracks, where adrenaline and Arctic fun meet.
In the evening, the mood softens. On a polar night snowshoe trek, walk quietly through snow-laden forests beneath starry skies. With luck, the Northern Lights will join you, illuminating your path through the winter silence.
Day 6 – Departure (or Extension)
After a week of challenge and discovery, it’s time to bid farewell to Lapland. Depending on your departure time, you may still fit in a last adventure – whether snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, fatbiking, bushcraft, ice floating, or even a king crab safari.
We’ll arrange your transfer to Ivalo Airport or bus station. If you’d like to extend your journey to Rovaniemi, Kirkenes, or beyond, we’ll be delighted to help you plan the perfect continuation of your Arctic adventure.
FAQ
Is the program fixed, or can I customize the activities during my stay?
The final itinerary will be confirmed just before your arrival. The described itinerary is a preliminary suggestion and can be adjusted and complemented according to your wishes. We can tailor your experience to suit your wishes, with added options such as snowshoeing, an escape game, a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride, or additional Aurora hunting adventures.
There is also flexibility built into the program, and there can be optional evening activities or alternative experiences. Let your guide know your preferences and we’ll adapt wherever possible.
How physically demanding is this trip?
Some tours take place outdoors in cold winter conditions, so you should be prepared for low temperatures. This itinerary is designed for travellers who enjoy an active holiday and are comfortable with moderate to high physical activity. Activities like snowmobiling, backcountry skiing, fatbiking, and snowshoeing require a basic level of fitness, but our guides adjust the pace and difficulty to suit the group. If you’re in good health and enjoy outdoor adventures, you’ll thrive.
What kind of clothing and gear do I need?
We provide overalls, warm boots, and gloves for all outdoor activities. We recommend dressing in layers: thermal base layers, warm mid-layers, and a windproof, waterproof outer layer.
Bring a swimsuit for sauna sessions, as well as essentials like a headlamp, sunglasses, and lip balm to protect from the cold and sun. A small backpack with your own water bottle is also a good idea.
Is there a temperature limit for the activities?
For safety reasons, if the forecast is colder than –25 °C or weather conditions are otherwise unsuitable, we will cancel and/or reschedule the activity.
What happens if the weather is too extreme?
Safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe – such as temperatures below –25 °C or storms – we’ll reschedule the activity or offer an alternative. Our goal is to keep your adventure both safe and enjoyable, without extra cost to you if we have to cancel due to weather.
Do I need previous experience for skiing, driving kart cars, or dog sledding?
No previous experience is necessary – our guides provide full instructions and safety briefings before every activity. All activities are accessible for beginners, but they do involve some physical effort. This trip is a fantastic opportunity to try new sports, push your own limits, and discover what you’re capable of in a stunning Arctic setting. We recommend being prepared to spend several hours outdoors and moving.
Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
We can’t promise the Northern Lights every night – they are a natural phenomenon and depend on both solar activity and weather conditions. However, we carefully plan our aurora hunts based on the latest forecasts and choose the best locations to maximize your chances. Many of our guests do see the lights during their stay, and even without them, the Arctic night sky is a magical experience in itself.
Find full FAQ from here
Book with Confidence
- Local family owned business
- Personalized service
- Flexible itineraries
- Small group sizes
Price Includes
- All the listed activities, meals, and transfers to and from activities
- Winter gear, including overalls, boots, and gloves
- Complimentary use of snowshoes, skis, and toboggans
- Transfers to and from Ivalo Airport or bus station
- Accommodation tailored to your preferences – whether in a hotel, villa, cabin, or apartment
Price Excludes
- Flights to and from Ivalo
- Personal Travel Insurance (Required)
