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Kemijärvi: Insider 5km husky ride + Guided Santa Claus Village Tour in Rovaniemi

Experience the ultimate Lapland winter day trip from Kemijärvi: dash through snowy wilderness on a 5km husky safari, cross the Arctic Circle, and meet Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, all with thermal gear and transfers included.

At a glance

The facts

Duration
10 hours
Minimum age
0 years
Difficulty
Easy
Languages
english, spanish, italian
Meeting / pickup
Meet on location or pickup

Academy Hotel Kemijärvi

9 Seminaarinkatu, Itä-Lappi

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Pickup available from Jauri Resort, Academy Hotel. Hotel guests are picked up at the main door.

About

What to expect

Immerse yourself in a fairy-tale winter wonderland with an all-inclusive excursion starting from Academy Hotel Kemijärvi—the ideal gateway for exploring eastern Lapland’s tranquil, snow-draped landscapes. Your adventure begins stress-free as expert guides equip you with top-tier arctic outerwear before whisking you away through primeval pine forests toward a traditional husky farm. Here, the electric energy of howling huskies gives way to pure serenity as your sled glides silently across 5 kilometers of pristine arctic wilderness. Smelling the pine smoke and holding a warm cup of berry juice, you'll gain deep insight into the ancient art of mushering directly from the locals who live it every day.

The magic deepens as you journey onward to Rovaniemi’s world-famous Santa Claus Village, right on the boundary of the Arctic Circle. After indulging in a rich, soul-warming lunch featuring regional delicacies at the Elves Hotel restaurant, a guided walk uncovers the secret heart of the village. Wander through Santa’s Main Post Office—where millions of letters arrive from every corner of the globe—cross the illuminated Arctic Circle line, and step into a private audience with Santa Claus himself. Designed for families, couples, and winter travelers seeking an authentic Finnish experience without the hassle of planning, this carefully curated journey blends exhilarating outdoor thrill with deep cultural enchantment, sending you back to Kemijärvi with hearts full of arctic wonder.

Included

Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle

Not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Photo with Santa Claus (Can be purchased separately after the meeting)

Step by step

Itinerary

  1. Gear-Up & Briefing at Academy Hotel Kemijärvi

    Meet your guide in the lobby to receive full arctic winter gear—including thermal overalls, insulated boots, and gloves—ensuring you stay warm and comfortable throughout the day's outdoor adventures.

  2. Scenic Transfer to the Husky Farm

    Board the shuttle for a picturesque drive through the snow-covered Lapland countryside as you travel from Kemijärvi to the local husky kennel.

  3. Husky Safari & Kennel Visit

    Take the reins or sit back for an exhilarating 5km husky sled ride through the winter trails, followed by a kennel tour, insights into musher life, and warming hot drinks with traditional biscuits.

  4. Transfer & Lunch at Elves Hotel Restaurant

    Drive to Santa Claus Village and refuel with a hearty, locally sourced meal inside the warm, festive ambiance of the Elves Hotel restaurant.

  5. Guided Santa Claus Village Experience

    Explore the village highlights on a guided tour, including an exclusive private meeting with Santa Claus himself, a visit to Santa’s Main Post Office to send stamped mail, and crossing the Arctic Circle line.

  6. Return Transfer to Academy Hotel Kemijärvi

    Relax on the comfortable drive back to the hotel, taking in the evening arctic views as your full-day excursion comes to a close.

Good to know

Before you go