If you’re planning a trip to Lapland, you’re in for an incredible adventure. My home, Lapland, is a magical destination known for its endless wilderness, Northern Lights, and unique winter activities. Although it might seem a bit daunting compared to big European cities or beach destinations in Southeast Asia, there’s nothing to be afraid of. In this post, I’ll share some essential travel tips for visiting Lapland that you might not know.
Here are 11 tips to help you make the most of your trip;
1) WIFI and Internet
Surprisingly, even remote areas in Lapland usually have decent internet access. Most hotels, cabins, and restaurants offer reliable WiFi, though speeds can slow down in very remote spots, especially during peak times.
Most restaurants and cafes also provide free WiFi for customers, as do trains and buses, though internet connectivity on the move can be unreliable.
If your accommodation doesn’t offer WiFi, consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival. Top Finnish providers like Elisa and DNA offer solid coverage throughout the region.
2) Book In Advance
Lapland offers a variety of accommodation options, from cozy cabins and glass igloos to luxury hotels. However, many of these fill up quickly, especially during the peak winter season (December mostly).
To experience popular activities like staying in a glass igloo or going on a husky safari, book well in advance. Last-minute bookings can lead to limited options and higher prices. During high season, it’s common for people to miss out on activities they wanted due to full bookings.
3) It Gets Crowded (In Popular Spots)
Lapland is vast, but certain areas, like Rovaniemi (the “official” home of Santa Claus) and Levi, attract many tourists, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. These towns can get crowded, and the most famous attractions may feel a bit commercial.
For a more tranquil experience, consider exploring lesser-known regions such as Inari, Kilpisjärvi, or Pyhä-Luosto, where you can enjoy the beauty of Lapland without the crowds.
Don’t worry if you’re traveling outside mid-December. Lapland is large, and while it sees many visitors throughout the winter, it’s generally less crowded after Christmas. The only exception is the Finnish winter holiday season in late February and early March, when locals flock to ski centers.
4) Travel Days Can Be Long
Distances in Lapland can be vast, and since public transportation isn’t extensive, many tourists rent a car to get around. If you’re relying on buses or trains, be prepared for long travel days between towns or attractions. For example, a bus from Rovaniemi to Levi takes about 2.5 hours, while a drive from Rovaniemi to Saariselkä take around 3 hours.
Be sure to plan your itinerary carefully to minimize back-and-forth trips and allow time to rest and enjoy the landscapes along the way. While many travelers hope to enjoy the scenery while traveling by bus, the reality is that there isn’t much to see, especially during Polar Night when it’s dark for most of the day. It’s best not to spend the limited daylight hours on long bus rides.
5) Be Prepared for Weather Delays
In the winter, flights, trains and buses in Lapland can be delayed due to snowstorms and other severe weather conditions. Even if you’re flying into Helsinki from abroad, consider allowing some buffer time if you’re catching a connecting flight to Lapland.
Make sure to pack travel insurance to cover unexpected changes to your plans. Travel insurance also comes in handy if you plan on participating in any adventurous winter activities.
6) Northern Lights: Be Patient
The Northern Lights are one of Lapland’s main attractions, but they’re unpredictable. Clear skies and solar activity are necessary to see them, so don’t be disappointed if you don’t spot them on your first night, or at all. Many hotels and lodges offer aurora alerts, which notify you if the lights are visible.
To increase your chances, plan to stay at least a few nights in areas with little light pollution. Be patient and persistent, and you’ll have a good chance of witnessing this magical phenomenon.
Read my guides Hunting the Northern Lights in Lapland: How to avoid common mistakes and Northern Lights tour vs. Northern Lights Hunting
7) Choose Ethical Wildlife Experiences
Husky and reindeer safaris are among the most popular activities in Lapland. However, it’s crucial to choose ethical providers who prioritize the well-being of their animals. Research your options and opt for smaller, family-run tours where animals are well cared for and treated with respect. Always ask questions and avoid tours that seem sketchy or super touristy. While most safari companies I know take excellent care of their animals, high demand can sometimes attract those motivated primarily by profit.
My favourite Husky place in my home town Rovaniemi is Bearhill Husky. I feel like those dogs have much better life than I do. Get your Bearhill Husky ride on GetYourGuide* *Affiliate link. With no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase.
8) Winter Gear is a Must
Lapland in winter is cold, with temperatures quite often dropping below -20°C. Layering is essential to stay warm. Most outdoor activity providers will give you appropriate clothing, including thermal suits, boots, and gloves. However, it’s important to bring your own quality base layers, wool socks, and insulated outerwear. Learn more about Layering for winter in Lapland here. You can also rent some extra winter gear in Rovaniemi, Levi and Saariselkä from GetYourGuide* if you are planning to DIY some of your outdoor activities. *Affiliate link. With no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase.
9) Unique Activities
Lapland offers many activities you won’t easily find elsewhere, including ice fishing, ice floating, snowshoeing, and staying in an ice hotel. Winter sports enthusiasts will enjoy skiing or snowboarding in resorts like Levi, Ylläs, Ruka or Luosto. For those seeking a more serene experience, consider trying a traditional Finnish sauna followed by a dip in an ice-cold lake.
10) It’s Safe to Travel in Lapland
Lapland is an incredibly safe region to visit, with a very low crime rate. Whether you’re walking around Rovaniemi at night or exploring more remote areas, you’ll find the local people warm and welcoming. Make sure that you are prepared for the weather and have a reliable GPS or map when exploring the wilderness. Never go wandering alone in the forest without telling someone where you are going, and have a headlamp with you.
More about safety in Lapland in this post; Is Lapland safe for solo travelers?
11) Set Your Expectations
Lapland is breathtakingly beautiful, but it’s also wild and remote. While there are modern amenities in most towns, don’t expect luxury at every turn. The beauty of Lapland lies in its simplicity: cozy cabins, snow-covered forests, and the quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Maybe my best travel tips for visiting Lapland is to take it easy, relax and enjoy.
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