Finnish Lapland (Saariselkä/Ivalo) 9-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Ivalo Airport

Land at Ivalo Airport (IVL), the gateway to Finnish Lapland.

You will be greeted by the crisp Arctic air and pristine snowscapes.

Flight details will be provided in the transport section. Ensure you have warm layers ready upon arrival.

Transfer to Saariselkä

Take a pre-arranged transfer from Ivalo Airport to your luxurious accommodation in Saariselkä, a popular Northern Lights viewing area.

Many resorts offer complimentary or paid shuttle services; confirm this when booking your accommodation.

Check-in to Glass Igloo

Check into your unique glass igloo, offering panoramic views of the sky directly from your bed, perfect for aurora viewing.

Settle in and explore the amenities of your resort before dinner.

Dinner at Resort Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local Lappish cuisine at your resort's restaurant.

Many resorts offer half-board options; consider this for convenience.

Northern Lights Riders Aurora Hunt

Join an authentic Lapland aurora hunting safari with local experts.

Venture into the wilderness to find the best viewing spots away from light pollution.

Dress in very warm layers. The tour often includes hot drinks and snacks. Don't forget your camera!

Breakfast at Resort

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your resort to fuel up for a day of Arctic adventures.

Typically included with your stay; check your booking details.

Husky Sledding Adventure

Experience the thrill of driving your own team of huskies through the snowy Lapland forests.

Learn about the dogs and enjoy the incredible scenery.

Warm thermal overalls, boots, and gloves are usually provided by the tour operator. A driving license may be required for some tours.

Lunch in Saariselkä Village

Head to Saariselkä village for a casual lunch at a local restaurant or cafe.

Try some traditional Finnish soup or a salmon dish.

Relaxation / Snow Play

Enjoy some free time back at your resort, relax in your igloo, or partake in some gentle snow activities like tobogganing.

The resort often has facilities for snow activities. Consider visiting the resort's ice bar if available.

Dinner at Resort

Another evening to savor the delicious offerings at your resort's restaurant.

Northern Lights from Igloo

Stay cozy in your glass igloo and watch the skies for the magical Northern Lights.

The remote location offers excellent viewing opportunities.

Set an alarm to wake up if the aurora forecast is strong. The resort might offer aurora alerts.

Breakfast at Resort

Start your day with breakfast at the resort.

Visit Siida Museum

Explore the Siida Museum, the National Museum of the Finnish Sami and Northern Lapland Nature Centre, offering insights into Sami culture, Arctic nature, and the Northern Lights phenomenon.

Accessible by bus or taxi from Saariselkä. Check opening hours in advance, as some museums are closed on Mondays.

Lunch in Inari

Enjoy lunch at a local cafe or restaurant in the village of Inari.

Try traditional Lappish dishes like reindeer stew or fresh fish.

Guided Snowshoeing Tour

Embark on a guided snowshoeing tour through the silent, snow-covered forests, enjoying the tranquility of the Arctic wilderness.

A good way to experience nature at a slower pace. Tours cater to various fitness levels.

Dinner & Leisure

Return to the resort for dinner and an evening of relaxation, keeping an eye on the sky for the Northern Lights.

Breakfast at Resort

Enjoy breakfast before another day of adventure.

Reindeer Farm Visit & Sleigh Ride

Visit a traditional reindeer farm, meet the reindeer, learn about Sami reindeer herding culture, and enjoy a peaceful reindeer sleigh ride through the snow.

A quintessential Lapland experience, offering insight into indigenous traditions. Often includes hot juice and cookies.

Lunch at Resort

Have lunch back at your resort, preparing for the afternoon's faster-paced activity.

Snowmobiling Safari

Embark on an exhilarating snowmobiling safari through the snowy landscapes of Lapland.

Feel the thrill as you glide through forests and open fells.

Thermal gear provided. A valid driving license is required for driving a snowmobile; otherwise, you can ride as a passenger.

Farewell Dinner in Lapland

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Saariselkä, perhaps trying some more local delicacies.

Reflect on your incredible Arctic experiences.

Last Chance Aurora Watch

Spend your final evening in Lapland scanning the skies from your igloo for one last glimpse of the breathtaking Northern Lights.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy your last breakfast in Finnish Lapland and prepare for check-out from your unique accommodation.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

If time permits, do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Saariselkä village for unique Lappish crafts and gifts.

Look for local handicrafts, reindeer products, or traditional Sami items.

Transfer to Ivalo Airport

Take a transfer back to Ivalo Airport for your onward journey to your next Scandinavian destination.

Depart from Ivalo

Board your flight from Ivalo to Tromsø, Norway, where the next leg of your Northern Lights adventure awaits.

Details for this flight will be part of the transport section for the transition to the next destination (Tromsø).

Arrive in Tromsø

Arrive in Tromsø, the 'Gateway to the Arctic', from Finnish Lapland.

Transfer to your accommodation in the city center.

Exact travel time from Finnish Lapland to Tromsø will vary based on your chosen transport (e.g., bus, flight connection).

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel and settle in.

Take some time to relax before afternoon explorations.

Visit Arctic Cathedral

Explore the iconic Arctic Cathedral (Tromsdalen Kirke), a modern architectural masterpiece symbolizing ice and light.

Its striking design makes it a famous landmark.

Check opening hours, as they can vary seasonally and for religious services.

Fjellheisen Cable Car

Ride the Fjellheisen cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen for breathtaking panoramic views of Tromsø, the surrounding islands, and fjords, especially beautiful as evening approaches.

Dinner in Tromsø

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Tromsø is known for its fresh seafood, including cod, salmon, and king crab.

Northern Lights Chase with Chasing Lights

Embark on an unforgettable Northern Lights chase with an experienced local guide.

They'll take you to optimal viewing spots away from city lights, offering photography tips and sharing knowledge about the Aurora Borealis.

Dress warmly in layers. Hot drinks and snacks are usually provided. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g190475-d5505910-Reviews-Chasing_Lights-Tromso_Troms_Northern_Norway.html?m=66827

Explore the Polar Museum

Delve into Tromsø's rich history of Arctic hunting, trapping, and polar expeditions at the fascinating Polar Museum. Learn about famous explorers and the challenges of life in the Arctic.

Visit Polaria Arctic Experience Center

Experience the unique Polaria Arctic aquarium and knowledge center.

Watch bearded seals being fed, learn about Arctic wildlife, and enjoy panoramic films about Svalbard and the Northern Lights.

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of Tromsø's cozy cafes, perhaps trying a traditional Norwegian open-faced sandwich or a warm soup.

Northern Lights Show at Giftshop

Visit The Northern Lights Giftshop for a unique 14-minute show about the Aurora Borealis, using high-tech screens to simulate a journey into space to understand its origins.

This is a daytime experience, providing context for the real Northern Lights hunt. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g190475-d25083621-Reviews-The_Northern_Lights_Giftshop-Tromso_Troms_Northern_Norway.html?m=66827

Free Evening & Dinner

Enjoy some free time for relaxation, explore more of the city, or do some souvenir shopping.

Have dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

Northern Lights Safari

Join another Aurora hunting excursion with Northern Lights Safari, a local company with professional photographer guides.

They know the best spots to maximize your chances of seeing the lights.

Remember to dress warmly. Tours often provide warm gear and hot drinks. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g190475-d15189003-Reviews-Northern_Lights_Safari-Tromso_Troms_Northern_Norway.html?m=66827

Scenic Fjord Cruise

Embark on a tranquil fjord cruise around Tromsø.

Witness the stunning Arctic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and picturesque coastal villages from the water. Keep an eye out for wildlife like sea eagles and seals.

Several companies offer fjord cruises. Options include silent electric boats or wildlife focus tours. Book in advance. Dress warmly.

Lunch by the Harbor

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at one of the restaurants near Tromsø's bustling harbor, offering views of the boats and city.

Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden

Visit the world's northernmost botanical garden.

Even in March, you can admire hardy Arctic and alpine plants, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Entry is free. It's about a 30-minute walk or a short bus ride from the city center.

Relaxation & Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a leisurely evening.

Perhaps unwind at a local pub, revisit a favorite spot, or indulge in a special farewell dinner at a premium restaurant, reflecting on your Arctic experiences.

Leisurely Breakfast

Enjoy a final Norwegian breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe.

Last-Minute Souvenirs

Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in Tromsø's charming boutiques, perhaps finding some local crafts or Arctic-themed gifts.

Hotel Check-out

Check out from your hotel and ensure all your belongings are packed.

Transfer to Tromsø Airport

Make your way to Tromsø Langnes Airport (TOS) for your onward journey back to Brisbane.

Depart Tromsø

Depart from Tromsø, beginning your journey back to Brisbane, reflecting on the incredible Northern Lights and Arctic experiences.