Feb 5-13, 2027

2027 – Aurora Dreams, Snow Safari in Lapland

Aurora Dreams, Snow Safari in Lapland

9 days · from $5,595

Feb 5-13, 2027

Defrost your heart with Finland’s Northern Lights, magical igloos, and tantalizing Tallinn. Your Arctic dream escape

Can you say Aurora Borealis three times fast? A glistening Arctic kingdom of snow and ice awaits you for what will be your coolest winter vacation ever. This bucket-list trip to the top of the world is the one that AFS clients constantly beg us to repeat, so here it is—even cooler, with off-the-charts scenery and large fun. You’ll feel like you stepped into the movie Frozen in this Arctic Disney World for adults.

The frosty fairyland of Finland’s Lapland is a winter wonderland for thrilling escapades in the snow and eye-popping scenery in an untamed wilderness, with nature in its purest form. Our past nine groups loved this playground of adventure. From Helsinki to Rovaniemi, Ivalo, and Tallinn, you’ll get incredible photos and memories to last a lifetime.

Our Snow Safari begins when we fly up to festive Rovaniemi in the Arctic Circle, a.k.a. the “adrenaline capital of Lapland,” for its endless winter activities and Nordic fun. As the official headquarters of Santa Claus, we start with a whimsical adventure deep into his Secret Forest. The kid in you is sure to come out on our private elf-guided visit to the Christmas Command Center and a gingerbread class with Santa. We visit a traditional reindeer farm and enjoy our new, thrilling Aurora Arctic Ice Float tour!

We then head by private coach to Ivalo, our home at the unparalleled Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, with its stunning glass igloos that allow you to stargaze or watch the northern lights dancing above your own bed. (These are the original epic igloos that other properties tried to copy but can’t compare.) Let the games begin! Enjoy an AFS Snowmobile Safari zipping through a shimmering, snow-blanketed Arctic forest. By day, meet dozens of happy huskies at the husky farm with dog sledding. At night, we board vans for our Aurora Hunting Tour. You will sample traditional Lapish cuisine and embrace the classic woodland sauna each night.

We’ll return to uber-cool Helsinki to tour the ultra-modern Finnish capital. After the city tour, opt for the Christmas foodie tour. For more diversity, we then ferry to the country of Estonia to explore the fairytale-like medieval capital of Tallinn. Wander cobblestone streets of this distinctly Eastern European city, and you’ll feel you’ve been transported to another world.

It’s eight delightful days with glistening lights in a calming glow of darkness. February is the best time to visit to experience the Northern Lights. Trendy Lapland is a costly destination in high-season winter, but we negotiated a great price for you. Don’t miss this AFS Arctic Blast. It’s time to awaken your childlike spirit of adventure. Come chase the Aurora with us to witness a magical place like no other on a memorable winter vacation you will treasure forever.

Adventure includes

accommodation below and AFS GTL.

Day by day

Trip Itinerary

Flight daysExploring on landAt leisure

Feb 5 · Day 1

Depart USA

Air is easy to arrange round-trip from USA to Helsinki. Your adventure starts as you board your flight from the US to Helsinki. Settle in for an overnight journey across the Atlantic—watch a movie, relax, and try to catch some sleep before you land in Finland’s vibrant capital. Air and trip details will be coming in trip tips. Sam may want to arrive a day early to explore beautiful Helsinki. Visit the festive Christmas markets on Senate Square, experience public saunas, see the new Finnish art and design museums and so much more.

Feb 6 · Day 2

Arrive in Helsinki — The Adventure Begins

Arrive today at Helsinki Airport and step into the vibrant heart of Finland’s capital. Helsinki (or Helsingfors) is a unique blend of neo-classical charm, striking Orthodox churches, and a buzzing scene of stylish bars and restaurants. You’ll notice the touch of Alvar Aalto, Finland’s world-famous architect and designer, whose functionalist buildings shape much of the city’s distinctive vibe — loved by some, challenged by others. The Finnish capital of Helsinki is known for a great mix of neoclassic buildings, orthodox style churches, and a chic bar and restaurant scene at night. This is a walking city with heated sidewalks in the main pedestrian area.

Next, settle in at your hotel, perfectly positioned right next to Terminal 2 at Helsinki Airport. Connected by a partly covered walkway, this inspiring hotel is designed to meet your every need, making your stay comfortable and convenient. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner at the hotel. (Restaurant details to be shared closer to departure.)

Includes: dinner

Overnight: Scandic Helsinki Airport Hotel Meals: Dinner

Feb 7 · Day 3

Helsinki to Rovaniemi — Into Magical Lapland (by flight)

Depart Helsinki at 8:00 AM with Norwegian Airlines, arrive Rovaniemi at 9:25 AM (subject to change).

This morning, we’ll take an early flight to Rovaniemi, the vibrant capital of Finnish Lapland. The population of 60,000 makes it the largest hub in the Arctic Circle. No wonder Santa chose this city for his official home and post office. Here, snowy forests give way to bustling ski towns, and the magic of the Arctic is everywhere. You’ll arrive in a place where the magic of winter wonderlands is very real. Lapland’s charm lies in its striking contrasts — endless summer sunlight gives way to dark, peaceful winters. Here, the lively towns and ski resorts sit just moments from untouched wilderness.

After checking into your hotel, prepare for a whimsical adventure deep in the Secret Forest, home to the Elves! Join the cheerful Professor Elves for Santa’s Helpers Training, where you’ll learn essential Elf skills and earn your very own Elf diploma. Wander through the enchanted forest to Santa’s special Christmas Command Center, where Elves are busy gearing up for Christmas.

Your magical activities include:

Warm welcome from the Elves Santa’s Helpers Training & Diploma Gingerbread decorating Stroll through the magical forest Hot drinks by the fire Elf-guided visit to the Christmas Command Center Special meeting with Santa Claus

Overnight: Rovaniemi Pohjanhovi Hotel. (overnight two nights here. The Scandic hotel sold our original rooms but we are on waitlist to get them back and will advise.) Meals: Breakfast

Feb 8 · Day 4

Aurora Artic Float – The Frozen Sea

We leave the day free with so much fun to be had here. Visit Ranua Wildlife Park, the Arctic Snow hotel, the iconic Santa’s Village Park and shops, or the Arktikum Science Museum. Or try some snow tubing and ice fishing.

5 PM, we head out to a secluded frozen lake to experience a unique adventure. We gear up in special survival suits that cover your whole body to keep you warm and dry in the open Zero° water. (Wear your own clothes underneath). Guides will assist us into the ice hole to float under the serenity of the Arctic starry night. If the weather is clear, we may witness the northern lights dancing above us for a magical night. Afterwards, we gather in a cozy wooden cabin for warm drinks and cookies. It’s an unforgettable and immersive time for great photos and your bragging rights.

Overnight: Rovaniemi Pohjanhovi Hotel. Meals: Breakfast

Feb 9 · Day 5

To Ivalo — Your Glass Igloo Stay!

After bidding farewell to Rovaniemi, embark on a scenic drive through the snowy wilderness to Ivalo—a journey that feels like stepping deeper into a winter fairy tale. Your destination is the enchanting Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, where the true magic begins: your very own Glass Igloo awaits. Time to indulge in the cozy warmth surrounded with enchanting beauty. This resort is famous for its igloos of unparalleled views of the sky and its crazy fun activities. Set in an unspoiled forest, the remote location ensures little light pollution for observing the Northern Lights.

You will be spending next two nights in a Glass Igloo, providing a unique opportunity to admire the Northern Lights and the millions of stars of the crystal clear sky in a comfortable room temperature. Built from a special thermal glass, the temperature inside the Igloo always stays at a normal level. It also prevents the glass from not getting white frosted, hence keeping the view clear even when the temperature outside drops to under -30°C.

Glass Igloos – Upon check-in, the wonderful staff will give us a full briefing on procedures.

Afternoon get ready for today’s Husky Safari – an unforgettable journey through breathtaking winter scenery. An arctic adventure with the huskies! The guide will piek guests up from Kakslauttanen and provide thermal outfits at the husky farm. Then it is time to meet the friendIy dogs who are eagerly waiting in front of the sledges. Husky dogs love running and can’t wait to get going! The guide wilI give instructions on how to stop, turn and drive the husky sledge pulled by several dogs. The sled is for two people, unless you wish to have your own sled only for yourself (for extra cost). The other person is seated in the sleigh, the other is standing and driving in the back, you can swap drivers half way. You will enjoy riding in the wintery forest as much as the dogs! After arriving at the farm and thanking your dogs for the adventure together it’s time for a hot drink and some husky stories.

So much to do in your free time at this fab resort. Visit the new art gallery, the Igloo Tower with a unique Sky Bar, or the Planetarium, which is the biggest in northern Europe, an impressive 18 m diameter dome theater with celestial documentaries to watch. A very Finnish thing to do is to enjoy an evening sauna. Finns take saunas seriously for the healing warmth they bring both physically and spiritually. There are three different types of smoke saunas here, one is the largest in the world, holding up to 80 bathers at a time, each with a fireplace and dressing rooms. Afterwards, you can take a dip in the cold spring water pool for total rejuvenation. There’s also an Ice Bar and two restaurants offering the freshest fish, salmon, reindeer and local delicacies. Check out the gift shops for local handicrafts.

Overnight: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Feb 10 · Day 6

Snowmobile Safari & Aurora Hunting

Kick off your day with an adrenaline-pumping 2-hour Snowmobile Safari through the breathtaking Arctic forest. There’s no better way to uncover Lapland’s rugged fell landscape than tearing across snowy trails on a powerful snowmobile. You’ll be picked up from Kakslauttanen and whisked to the activity base, where you’ll gear up in cozy thermal outfits and receive expert guidance to get you ready for the ride. Each snowmobile seats two — one driving, one riding — with the chance to switch halfway through. Want the full thrill solo? You can ride alone, or choose to relax in the back of a sleigh instead (available for an extra cost). Feel the rush as you speed through pristine wilderness, soaking in the raw beauty of the Arctic. After the ride, warm up with hot juice and a traditional Finnish treat before returning to the resort.

As night falls, brace yourself for a spellbinding Aurora Hunting tour by bus. Journey into the darkest corners of Lapland, far from all light pollution, and watch in awe as the Northern Lights ignite the sky in waves of green and purple(subject to weather Gods and Northern lights making an appearance). This magical spectacle under the Arctic stars will leave you breathless.

Dinner awaits you back at the hotel.Dinner is at the hotel.

Includes: dinner

Overnight: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Feb 11 · Day 7

Return to Helsinki — discover the city’s charm

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to Ivalo Airport for your 10 AM flight back to Helsinki. Upon arrival, dive into a guided city tour lasting 2 to 3 hours, exploring Helsinki’s most iconic sights. Wander through Senate Square to admire the majestic Helsinki Cathedral, glimpse the Presidential Palace, City Hall, the stunning Temppeliakion Church and Parliament building. Marvel at architectural gems like Finlandia Hall, the Opera House, Helsinki Music Centre, and the innovative Central Library Oodi.

After the tour, check in to your hotel and unwind. Our past 10 groups loved this hotel with fabulous Saunas located in the heart of town, walking distance to everything.

Later in the afternoon, you may opt to join the new Taste Helsinki Food Tour (3 hours), a flavorful journey through Finnish culinary traditions. Savor the pure, fresh flavors of Finland’s forests, lakes, and fields — from wild berries and mushrooms to fresh fish, dairy, and hearty rye bread. Taste classic treats like Karelian pies and irresistibly soft cinnamon buns, while your local guide shares stories of Helsinki’s history and vibrant culture. Along the way, soak in the city’s stunning architecture and design, and get insider tips on where to shop for Finnish fashion and how to make the most of your stay. Just google visithelsinki.com to discover plenty of ways for you to enjoy nightlife in this city..

Includes: breakfast

Overnight: Scandic Grand Marina Meals: Breakfast

Feb 12 · Day 8

Day Trip to Tallinn, Estonia

This morning, head to Helsinki Harbour and board the ferry for a scenic two-hour journey to Tallinn, Estonia’s captivating medieval capital and one of the country’s top tourist destinations! As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by Tallinn’s enchanting Old Town, where cobblestone streets and historic buildings create a timeless atmosphere unlike anything in Helsinki, Stockholm, Oslo, or Copenhagen. The city’s distinctly Eastern European character calls to mind the charm of Prague, Krakow, and Riga, reflecting Estonia’s unique position at the crossroads of Eastern Europe, Central Europe, and Scandinavia. This day trip offers a fresh and fascinating contrast to your travels so far and we’ll give you some free time to wander on your own or delightful shops and cafés.

In the evening, we’ll board the ferry back to Helsinki. The day wraps up with a Farewell Dinner at the hotel, a perfect chance to celebrate the memories of your Arctic adventure.

Includes: dinner

Overnight: Scandic Grand Marina Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Feb 13 · Day 9

Farewell Finland — Departure

Today, it’s time to say farewell as you transfer to Helsinki Airport for your journey home. As you leave behind the snowy landscapes, the dancing Northern Lights, and the warm moments shared, carry these memories close to your heart. Finland’s magic will stay with you long after the plane takes off — a beautiful chapter in your story that will call you back someday.

Meals: Breakfast

Deposit $500

NEW Land Price $5595 per person twin share based on 25 to 27 participants – plus 2 internal flights (fares not yet released). Two flights are additional, from Helsinki to Rovaniemi and from Ivalo back to Helsinki. The estimated cost may be around $440, but this is subject to revision until tickets are issued. We will advise you in the trip tips. Payment dates Jun 10 50% and Nov 30 FP

This was $300 higher, but we were just able to negotiate a new, lower price for you!

Includes: breakfast

Know before you go

Trip Tips

It’s your responsibility to read this information. Updates and addenda will be posted here. Some travelers have lost their entire trip for not reading what we send on visas, air details, inoculations, etc. Check back from time to time.

✦AFS LAPLAND TRIP TIPS – 2027

Prepare to be thrilled by an Arctic adventure like no other ! Our past eight groups loved Lapland. The last group wrote us “best trip ever Suzy” and we made yours even more special. From Helsinki to Rovenemi, Ivalo and Estonia, I wonder which part will be your favorite… the reindeer, huskies, northern lights, tour, Santa, elves, experience, snowmobiling, Talinn, Arctic floating to the glass, igloos and solar eclipse !

At present, we have a wonderful group of 26 travel lovers and 5 are new to AFS. We just had three spaces open today, so please tell your friends and share the trip link on your social media to fill these spots we’ve already paid for. Deanna is thrilled to lead you on this one. If you have questions after reading these trip tips, feel free to text her at 404-401-1740.

More detail details will be emailed to you as we near departure. For now, get to know each other on your private Facebook group page and do share your air ideas. Now is the time to look for air USA to Helsinki.

Payments – Jun 10th: 50% due; final due on Nov 30, 2026. You will get emails with payment reminders from our booking platform, WeTravel.

WeTravel is our new data management company, it allows you to pay by check electronically without a fee. Simply follow the instructions. Credit cards will be assessed a processing fee at the time of purchase. As a small business, this helps mitigate costs and allows us to give you the very best price. If you prefer to use the mail, make your payment to AFS or Adventures For Solo Travelers, 1907 Daniel Green Ct., Smyrna, GA 30080

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Pricing & payments

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Trip price$5,595per person, twin share

Deposit$500

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