Rovaniemi: Snowshoeing in the Arctic Wilderness

Imagine gently trudging through untouched snow, surrounded by the silence of Lapland’s vast wilderness, with only the crunch of snow under your feet and the stories of your guide filling the air. That’s exactly what you get with the Snowshoeing in the Arctic Wilderness tour in Rovaniemi. This guided adventure offers a mix of physical activity, cultural insights, and breathtaking scenery—all packed into a manageable three-hour experience.

What immediately stands out is how accessible this activity is for most travelers. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just curious to try snowshoeing for the first time, the guide will show you how to use the equipment, making deep snow trails feel surprisingly effortless. Plus, the chance to relax with gingerbread and hot drinks amid pristine snowy landscapes adds a cozy, festive touch.

One thing to consider, though, is that winter overalls and boots are not included—so packing warm, comfortable footwear and clothing is essential. This activity suits those with a moderate fitness level looking for a gentle adventure and a taste of authentic Lapland scenery. If you’re after an active yet laid-back way to experience the Arctic wilderness, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Accessible for most: Snowshoeing skills are taught on-site, making it suitable for beginners.
• Cultural immersion: Learn about the region’s ecosystem and traditions through storytelling.
• Comfortable social experience: Small groups (up to 8 participants) mean more personalized attention.
• Scenic beauty: Expect sweeping views and peaceful, snow-blanketed landscapes.
• Price for value: At $117, it offers a good balance of activity, scenery, and cultural insight.
• Additional options: You can request a professional photo session for an extra fee.

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting Out: Hotel Pickup & Transportation

The tour begins with a pick-up from your accommodation within approximately 10 km of Rovaniemi’s city center. This convenience means you avoid the hassle of finding meeting points, especially in the winter darkness. If you’re staying further out, longer transfers can be arranged for an additional fee, which is helpful for those booking wider accommodation options.

Once picked up, you’ll be driven to a stunning Arctic setting—likely a quiet forest or snow-covered open space, carefully chosen for its serenity and natural beauty. The small group size ensures that you’ll feel more like a guest than just a face in the crowd, and your guide, who speaks both English and Spanish, will make sure everyone feels comfortable.

Learning Snowshoe Skills

The highlight here is the snowshoeing introduction. Even if you’ve never tried it before, you’ll quickly learn how to strap on the snowshoes and walk confidently across the deep snow. The guide’s patience and clear instructions are appreciated, especially since many reviews praise guides like Rafael for their friendliness and expertise. As one reviewer noted, Rafael “took us to a perfect place with no one else around” and made sure to capture memorable photos for everyone.

Exploring the Arctic Landscape

As you set out, expect to see some of Lapland’s most picturesque scenery—snow-laden trees, silent forests, and perhaps even reindeer or other wildlife if you’re lucky. The pace is moderate, allowing you to truly enjoy the surroundings, breathe in the crisp air, and notice the intricate frost patterns on the trees.

Many travelers have pointed out how spectacular the views from higher vantage points are—a perfect backdrop for photos. In fact, the reviews mention that guides like Rafael not only help you capture great shots but also share stories about the region’s ecosystem, local traditions, and wildlife, enriching the visual experience with fascinating context.

A Rest and a Snack

Midway or at the summit, the tour pauses for a well-deserved break. Here, you’ll savor gingerbread cookies and hot drinks—warming your hands and spirit. One reviewer fondly recalled “tea and gingerbread cookies when we reached the top,” adding that those moments of rest offered a perfect chance to soak in the tranquility and chat with fellow participants.

The Return: Relaxed and Satisfied

After the snack break, it’s time to head back, retracing your snowshoe tracks through the quiet wilderness. The entire experience from pick-up to drop-off lasts around three hours, a length that balances activity with relaxation. Reviewers consistently mention the friendly, attentive guides and the stunning solitude of the landscape as the most memorable aspects.

The Value of the Tour

At $117 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded Arctic adventure without breaking the bank. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Lapland’s winter landscape without the need for advanced hiking skills or equipment. The inclusion of snowshoes, snacks, and transportation makes it an easy, all-in-one option.

While you’ll need to bring your own warm clothing and sturdy shoes—since winter overalls and boots aren’t included—the overall cost is reasonable given the quality of the experience. For those interested in capturing memories, the option to book a professional photo session for an additional $50 adds extra value, especially for travelers wanting high-quality images of their Arctic adventure.

The Review from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—notably Rafael, who is praised for his patience, friendliness, and storytelling. Several mention that the views are breathtaking and that the activity is suitable even for first-timers. One reviewer described the experience as “incredible” with the chance to see wild reindeer, while others appreciated the flexibility, like Rafael’s willingness to shift departure times for better daylight.

Suitability and Considerations

This experience is ideal for adventurers with moderate fitness levels who want to experience the Arctic landscape up close. It’s not suitable for very young children (under 9), those with back problems, or wheelchair users. The activity is also weather-dependent; cancellations are possible if conditions worsen, but this is an inherent part of Arctic adventures.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snowshoeing tour is perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic outdoor activity that combines physical movement with cultural storytelling. It’s especially appealing to those who want to see Lapland’s winter wonderland without the intensity of snowmobiling or husky sledding.

Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers interested in authentic Arctic experiences will find it a memorable outing. The small group size ensures intimacy, making it easier to ask questions and soak up the landscape.

FAQs

Do I need to know how to snowshoe before the tour?
Not at all. The guide will teach you how to use the snowshoes, making it accessible even for beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing. Since winter overalls and boots aren’t included, you’ll want to dress in layers with waterproof outerwear for comfort and dryness.

Is transportation included?
Yes, there’s pick-up and drop-off within about 10 km of Rovaniemi’s city center. Longer distances can be arranged at an extra cost.

What’s the tour duration?
The whole experience lasts around 3 hours, including transport, snowshoeing, and breaks.

Can I book a professional photo session?
Yes, for an additional $50 per person, you can request a professional photographer to capture your adventure, subject to availability.

Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 9 years old due to the physical nature and environmental conditions.

Final Thoughts

This Snowshoeing in the Arctic Wilderness tour offers a wonderful mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight that’s hard to match in such a short time. The fact that guides like Rafael receive praise for their friendliness and storytelling makes it more than just a walk in the snow—they create a memorable Arctic experience. The stunning views and peaceful landscapes make it a must-do for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Lapland’s natural beauty.

If you’re after a calm, scenic, and culturally enriching activity that doesn’t demand high fitness levels or advanced skills, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s a practical choice for travelers seeking authentic, low-pressure Arctic exploration with the bonus of cozy refreshments and fantastic photo opportunities.

This experience is best suited for those who want to combine light outdoor activity with storytelling and scenic photography, making it a well-rounded, high-value addition to any Lapland itinerary.