Seven days of real Arctic winter, unforgettable adventures and Christmas atmosphere: huskies, snowmobiles, reindeer, a Finnish sauna and nights spent searching for the Northern Lights.
There are places where winter is just a cold season. And then there is Lapland, where winter becomes a whole world.
Endless snowy forests, frozen lakes, small wooden cabins, reindeer and a sky that sometimes comes alive with incredible green waves of Northern Lights. Even an ordinary road through the forest can look as if you have stepped inside a Christmas card.
Over seven days we will discover Finnish Lapland in our favourite format — a small group, our own cars, plenty of winter adventures and enough time to simply enjoy the atmosphere of the North. We will ride dog sleds, head out on snowmobiles through snowy forests, try ice karting and ice fishing, meet northern reindeer and visit the famous Santa Claus Village.
But this trip is not only about activities. It is also about the moments that make you want to return to the North again and again. Morning coffee with a view of snow-covered trees, walks in complete silence, a hot Finnish sauna after a frosty day and cosy evenings in our house when the whole team gathers and shares impressions.
A special place in this adventure belongs to hunting for the Northern Lights. We will follow weather forecasts, cloud cover and geomagnetic activity so that, in favourable conditions, we can head to where we have the best chance of seeing Aurora Borealis. Of course, nature guarantees nothing, but the possibility of stepping out of the house one evening and seeing the dance of light above a snowy forest is what makes Lapland so special.
Unlike many of our road-trip expeditions, here we will not change accommodation every day. Our cosy house in the Kuusamo area will be the base for the whole adventure. From here we will set off for winter activities, explore the surrounding natural landscapes and return in the evening to warmth and comfort.
This is one of the calmest VABO Trips journeys in terms of physical effort, but definitely not in terms of experiences. There will be plenty of adrenaline, new discoveries, laughter and real winter magic. And at the same time we will leave room for rest, spontaneous stops and moments when you simply want to be in no hurry.
Seven days of real Arctic winter, unforgettable adventures and Christmas atmosphere. This is exactly how we want to show you Lapland.
Lapland is not just another winter destination. It is a chance to find yourself for a few days in a completely different world, where snowy forests, frozen lakes, Arctic nature and Christmas atmosphere create a special feeling of adventure. We want to combine the most interesting winter activities with comfort, a calm pace and the freedom of a real road trip.
One of Lapland's brightest adventures: a ride by dog sled through snowy forests and winter expanses.
A winter adventure along dedicated routes that combines adrenaline, freedom of movement and incredible Arctic views.
Several chances to go out in search of Aurora Borealis, guided by the weather, cloud cover and viewing conditions.
A visit to the farm and a chance to get closer to the animals that are one of Lapland's symbols.
Christmas atmosphere, a meeting with Santa Claus, festive lights and a crossing of the Arctic Circle.
Instead of constantly changing hotels we will live in one house, enjoying evenings together, warmth and real Finnish cosiness.
We always try to create trips in which not only famous places and planned activities matter, but the atmosphere itself. For us, Lapland is not just a set of winter entertainments. It is a chance to live a real Arctic week, to be among incredible nature, to meet new people and to feel how special winter can be.
We travel in a small group because we believe the people around us can make any adventure even brighter. We have no big tourist bus and no dozens of strangers constantly shuttled from one activity to the next. Instead we explore new places together, share impressions and create an atmosphere in which everyone can feel part of the team.
Many of our travellers join on their own, and that is completely fine. You don't need to find a travel companion — new friendships often form by themselves during shared adventures, dinners or long conversations in our house. And sometimes those friendships turn into ones that last for years.
We love active trips, but we don't believe a real adventure has to mean sacrificing comfort. That is why in Lapland we choose a cosy house, where every evening you can return after a frosty day, take a hot shower, relax in the sauna and spend time together. There will be plenty of activities, but also plenty of chances to recover.
Winter Lapland requires careful preparation: cars, accommodation, booking activities, weather conditions, short daylight and safe travel on winter roads. We take care of all the main organisational questions in advance so that you can simply enjoy the adventure.
At the same time, we keep the programme flexible. If the forecast promises a clear sky somewhere else, we can change plans for the sake of the Northern Lights. If an activity depends on snow conditions, we will adjust its order. For us it is important not just to follow a schedule, but to make the trip genuinely interesting and comfortable.
We want you to come home after this trip not only with beautiful photos, but with the feeling that you have lived something special. That you remembered what it is like to enjoy simple moments, be amazed by nature, spend evenings in good company and sometimes just stop to enjoy the silence around you.
Our trip will take place mainly in the Kuusamo region and the surrounding natural areas of the Finnish North. Instead of daily transfers with suitcases, we will choose one cosy house from which we set off to explore snowy forests, frozen lakes, national parks and the places where winter activities take place.
During the week we have husky safaris, snowmobiles, a reindeer farm, ice karting, ice fishing and a trip to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. And in the evenings, whenever the weather allows, we will go out in search of the Northern Lights. We have a well-thought-out programme, but we leave room to change the order of days to make better use of the weather, daylight and availability of activities.
Open each day to see the plan.
For those who want to make this trip a little longer, there is an option to begin our adventure together already in Helsinki. For an additional €100 per person you can join us in Helsinki and set off together by car to the north instead of flying directly to Kuusamo.
On the afternoon of 13 December we leave Helsinki and begin our drive towards Finnish Lapland. Instead of trying to cover the whole distance in one day, we split the route into two days and make the journey itself part of the adventure. The further north we go, the smaller the towns become, the traffic gradually fades, and more and more real winter landscapes appear outside the windows.
In the evening we stop at a hotel along the way, where we can comfortably spend the night, have dinner and rest before continuing. In the morning of 14 December, after breakfast, we set off again and continue to Kuusamo, where the main programme of the Lapland trip officially begins. This option can also be chosen in the opposite direction after the trip ends, so you can decide for yourself whether you want to drive the route between Helsinki and Lapland with us on the way north or on the way back. The additional cost is €100 per person one way. This is a completely optional part that does not change the main programme at all. Simply an extra opportunity for those who love road trips to see more of Finland and to begin or end our shared adventure not at the airport, but already on the road.
For those flying directly to Lapland, we meet at Kuusamo airport, where the frosty Arctic air immediately sets the atmosphere for the days ahead. Those who chose the optional road trip from Helsinki arrive with us from the south, and from this moment the whole team is together and the main Lapland adventure begins.
After collecting the cars we need, we drive along snowy roads to our accommodation, already getting a first sense of Lapland's endless expanses and winter silence on the way. On arrival we check in to our cosy house, surrounded by forests and snow, which will be our base for the whole trip.
We keep the first evening as calm and unhurried as possible: dinner together, warm drinks, getting to know each other, rest after the journey and, if conditions allow, our first chance to step outside and look at the northern sky in search of Aurora Borealis.
We dedicate this day to the natural landscapes of Lapland. We set off to explore the surrounding national parks, walk through snowy forests, along frozen rivers and open viewpoint trails, where you truly begin to feel the scale of the North. These are not difficult, exhausting hikes but slow winter walks, with plenty of time to stop, take photos and simply enjoy the silence around us.
Later we visit a reindeer farm to get closer to local life and the traditions of this part of Finland. After returning home, we leave the second half of the day and the evening for one of the most important elements of northern culture — the traditional Finnish sauna. After a cold day outdoors it is the perfect way to warm up, relax completely and recharge before the next adventures.
Today one of Lapland's most iconic winter adventures awaits us — a dog-sled safari. After a short introduction, briefing and explanation of the basics of driving, we set off on sleds pulled by huskies through snowy forests and open winter expanses.
This is a completely different way to experience the Arctic. Instead of the noise of an engine, all around you there is only the sound of sleds gliding over snow, the cold air and the incredible energy of dogs who truly love to run. It quickly becomes clear why the husky safari has become one of the most special ways to see winter Lapland.
After the safari we return to our house, rest a little and warm up. And in the evening we head outside again, but this time with one specific goal — hunting for the Northern Lights.
We are not tied to one place: we follow the weather, cloud cover and Aurora Borealis forecasts and, if needed, get into the cars and drive to where we have the best chance of seeing a clear Arctic sky away from artificial light. The Northern Lights can't be guaranteed, but our mobility and flexibility give us many more chances to be in the right place at the right moment.
Today we will see Lapland from a different angle, heading out on a snowmobile safari. Moving across frozen expanses, through forests and open snow fields, you get a special feeling of freedom and scale that is hard to describe in words until you experience it yourself.
Later we change pace and set off on a short winter walk to slow down again and pay attention to the details — the silence around us, the squeak of snow underfoot, the soft Arctic light. We deliberately leave the evening calm, without hurry or clear plans: dinner together, sauna if you wish, conversation and rest.
This day combines adrenaline and complete calm. First we have ice karting — races on a special track on frozen ice, where control, excitement and laughter quickly take over. It is an unusual winter experience that adds energy to the trip and a little playful mood.
After that we completely change rhythm and head out for ice fishing on a frozen lake. It's not about the result but about the process itself — drilling through the ice, sitting in silence, looking at the horizon and feeling one of the simplest and most genuine Arctic traditions.
We spend this day visiting Santa Claus Village, where we cross the Arctic Circle, stroll around the area at our own pace, take photos and send postcards from one of the northernmost post offices in the world.
Whether you come here for the atmosphere, out of curiosity or simply to enjoy the place — it is an easy and pleasant part of the trip.
We spend the final evening together in our house: we recall the moments we have lived through, have dinner together and, if the weather is kind, make one last attempt to see the Northern Lights before saying goodbye to Lapland.
Our last morning in Lapland begins without complicated activities or long drives. Depending on flight times, we have breakfast, pack and head to Kuusamo airport. And those who chose the additional road route to Helsinki continue their adventure along Finnish winter roads.
Just a week ago we came here with expectations, plans and a wish to see a real Arctic winter. And now we are going home with memories of snowy forests, dog sleds, snowmobiles, frozen lakes, the Finnish sauna and warm evenings in our house. And, perhaps, with photos of the Northern Lights we managed to see with our own eyes.
But, as always with VABO Trips, the best memories will be not only the places and activities, but the people with whom we shared this adventure. Dinners together, conversations in the cars, jokes, unexpected moments and new friendships that, I hope, will continue far beyond this trip.
Highlights of the day Last breakfast • Kuusamo • The way home • New friends and winter memories
This is one of the easiest trips in our collection in terms of physical effort. There will be no difficult mountain climbs, multi-day treks or exhausting transfers with constantly changing accommodation. However, this is an active winter adventure, so you need to be ready for frost, snow, walks outdoors and taking part in a variety of activities.
Most of our walks will be short and accessible to people with an ordinary level of fitness. We will walk on snowy paths, visit natural locations and spend time outdoors. Some surfaces may be slippery or uneven, so proper winter footwear and care are important.
Husky safari, snowmobiles and ice karting do not require previous professional experience, but they do require following the instructions of local operators. For driving certain types of vehicles, age requirements, driving-licence requirements and other safety rules may apply. Taking part in specific activities will depend on these conditions.
In December it can be truly cold in Lapland. Temperatures sometimes drop far below zero, and wind can make the frost feel stronger. That is why quality winter clothing, thermal underwear, warm mittens and suitable footwear are extremely important. Before the trip we will send a detailed list of recommended gear.
In December there is very little daylight in the North. In the Kuusamo area the sun is above the horizon only for a short time, and twilight can last for a large part of the day. This creates a special atmosphere, but it also affects how activities are planned. We will take daylight and weather into account to use the best time for walks and photos.
Most days we will spend in the Kuusamo area, without having to cover long distances every day. However, the trip to Rovaniemi will be a longer driving day, and winter roads may take more time. We will plan transfers taking weather conditions and safety into account.
Throughout the main programme we will live in a cosy house where we can rest after activities, cook or organise dinners together and enjoy a Finnish sauna. This makes the trip much calmer, because we won't have to pack our suitcases and move to a new hotel every day.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that depends on solar activity, cloud cover and other conditions. We plan several opportunities to watch for them, but their appearance can't be guaranteed. Likewise, individual winter activities may change because of weather, ice conditions or snow cover. We will always put safety first and adjust the programme if necessary.
You don't need to be an experienced traveller, have special physical preparation or have visited the Arctic before. The most important thing is to love winter, be open to new experiences and want to spend a week among incredible northern nature.
This trip is for those who dream of seeing snowy forests, riding dog sleds, trying snowmobiles, feeling the atmosphere of a real Christmas and setting off in search of the Northern Lights at least once in their lives. For people who love active holidays but also value comfort, calm evenings and good company.
We don't believe every trip should suit absolutely everyone. It is important to us that you understand its format and can get the maximum enjoyment from it.
Lapland is not an extreme expedition and not an ordinary hotel holiday. It is a real winter adventure that combines activities, incredible nature, comfort, Christmas atmosphere and the chance to find yourself in a completely different world for a few days.
The places and moments that make us want to return to the North.
14–20 December 2026 · 7 days / 6 nights
Ask about availabilityMessage Vabo directly on Instagram. Ask about availability, flights and how to join.
To reserve your place, a deposit of €300 is required. The second payment of €1,200 is due 45 days before the trip starts. The remaining €600 is paid in cash when we meet at the start of the adventure.
Main arrival and departure airport: Kuusamo (KAO).
Additional option: a road trip from Helsinki to Kuusamo or in the opposite direction — €100 per person one way.
Important: the route, the order of activities and individual elements of the programme may change depending on weather, snow conditions, safety, the availability of local operators and other circumstances beyond our control.
The overall level is easy, 1.5/5. It is one of the easiest trips in our collection in terms of physical effort: there are no difficult mountain climbs, multi-day treks or exhausting transfers. At the same time it is an active winter adventure, so you need to be ready for frost, snow and walks outdoors.
Yes. Many of our travellers join on their own, and that is completely fine: new friendships often form by themselves during shared adventures, dinners or conversations in our house.
No, they can't be guaranteed: they depend on solar activity and cloud cover. We plan several opportunities to watch for them, follow the forecasts and, if needed, drive to where the chances of a clear sky away from artificial light are best.
In one cosy house among forests and snow in the Kuusamo area: our base for all 6 nights. You won't have to pack your suitcase every day, and evenings end with dinners together and a Finnish sauna.
Yes, it is optional. For an additional €100 per person you can join us in Helsinki on the afternoon of 13 December and drive north by car, with a night in a hotel on the way. The same option can be chosen in the opposite direction, also €100 per person one way.
No previous professional experience is needed, but you must follow the instructions of local operators. For driving certain types of vehicles, age requirements, driving-licence requirements and other safety rules may apply.
The route, the order of activities and individual elements of the programme may change depending on weather, snow conditions and safety. We keep the programme flexible and adjust its order if needed to make better use of the weather, daylight and availability of activities.
Message Vabo on Instagram. A €300 deposit reserves your place, the second payment of €1,200 is due 45 days before the trip starts, and the remaining €600 is paid in cash when we meet at the start of the adventure.
Want to know more or have questions? Message Vabo on Instagram and we'll talk through your winter adventure.
Message us on Instagram@vabo_trips · Direct contact with the organiser