Crossing the Artic Circle

An adventure in Lapland’s Capital

Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, in northern Finland. It was almost totally destroyed during World War II, but today it’s a modern city known for being the “official” home town of Santa Claus, where you can meet the man himself — all year round, and for viewing the Northern Lights.

It’s home to Arktikum, a museum and science center exploring the Arctic region and the history of Finnish Lapland.

Shopping is easy and inviting in Rovaniemi, as just about everything from enchanting small boutiques to full scale shopping centers are in the city center.

Day 1

Snowmobiling, Reindeer & Husky Sleigh Ride

The first stop of the day we visited a husky and reindeer farm, where we were able to experience a 500m ride on your own reindeer sledge and receive a reindeer sledge driver’s license. We learned about the Sami culture and nomadic lifestyle listening to the local reindeer herders as they shared more about the herding lifestyle and how it is to be a reindeer herder in the 21st century. We learned a lot about reindeer and were pleasantly surprised to learn that this farm actually releases the herd to their home in the far north for 6 months of the year to live free.

Next, we made our way to the Alaskan Huskies and experience them in action on a 800m long sleigh ride. After the farm visit, we went for an hour snowmobile trek through the countryside with breathtaking views.

Last stop of the day, we were taken to the Santa Claus Village where we had some free time to explore the village and the opportunity to experience the Christmas atmosphere and step across the Arctic Circle! Sadly we did not meet Santa Claus as it was just far too busy.

Later in the evening, set out on a 2-hour quest for the Northern Lights. Your guide will explore the Arctic Circle area with you, away from the city lights. At the end of the tour you will return to Rovaniemi for a well-deserved rest.

Cont…

Santa Claus Village and Crossing the Arctic Circle

Rovaniemi is The Official Hometown of Santa Claus, and therefore it is only natural that there is also a small village full of magical Christmas atmosphere in the Arctic Circle. You can spend a memorable day visiting Santa Claus Village or stay overnight.

Take in a leisurely stroll through the beautifully lit and decorated Santa Claus Village square while Christmas carols are playing, will surely bring a smile to your face and guarantee that the Christmas spirit will take over. Wander through the alleys to look and admire, stop at the restaurants and cafes serving local delicacies or stop by the boutiques to admire Finnish design and handicrafts.

This is for all lovers of the Christmas magic, a visit to Santa Claus Village is a dream come true.

What Is the Arctic Circle?

The Arctic Circle is a circle of latitude that runs 66°33′45.9″ north of the Equator. It marks the southernmost latitude where the sun can stay continuously below or above the horizon for 24 hours – these phenomena are known as the Midnight Sun in the summer and the Polar Night in the winter.

Many consider the Arctic Circle to be the border of happiness and carefree moments. This is where there’s space to breathe some of the cleanest air in the world with ease and let yourself completely unwind. Exploring Rovaniemi and its surroundings certainly strengthens the myth. Everywhere you look you’ll find the soothing natural beauties of the Arctic. Everything in nearby and with easy access, and everywhere you go, you are welcomed and taken care of.

You can cross the Arctic Circle effortlessly simply by landing in Rovaniemi airport, or with more creative ways. Many visitors have fun crossing the Arctic Circle in Santa Claus Village – where it is clearly marked on the ground – and even acquire a certificate confirming the deed.