Rovaniemi: Snowmobile Safari to Arctic Snow Hotel

Rovaniemi: Snowmobile Safari to Arctic Snow Hotel – A Cool Adventure in Lapland

If you’re dreaming of Arctic adventures that combine adrenaline with breathtaking scenery, the Snowmobile Safari to the Arctic Snow Hotel might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but after digging into the details and reviews, it’s clear that this experience offers a unique peek into the snowy wilderness of Lapland — all while providing the thrill of a snowmobile ride and the chance to see an extraordinary ice hotel.

What really catches our eye are the guided tours led by knowledgeable guides and the chance to explore the spectacular Arctic Snow Hotel, a true masterpiece of ice and snow. Plus, the included lunch of glow-fried salmon sounds like a delicious treat, especially after a morning of snowy adventure. On the flip side, the price point of around $292 per person might seem steep for some, especially if you’re not a snowmobiling enthusiast or traveling on a tighter budget.

This tour suits those who love outdoor adventures, are comfortable with snowmobile driving (or are willing to pay for a single drive), and are keen to see the Arctic’s icy artistry. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who shares your love for wilderness excursions, you’ll likely find this a memorable day in Lapland.

Key Points

• Exciting snowmobile ride through scenic wilderness tracks, offering a true Arctic adventure.
• Visit the Arctic Snow Hotel, an incredible structure made of ice and snow, with guided insights.
• Includes a hearty 2-course lunch featuring glow-fried salmon cooked by the fire, served in a cozy Kota tepee.
• Guided tours led by expert guides ensure safety, fun, and informative commentary.
• All necessary gear and warm clothing are provided, making the cold a lot more bearable.
• Duration of approximately 6 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.

What to Expect from this Arctic Safari

The journey begins well before you hop onto snowmobiles. The pickup from the Safartica Office in Rovaniemi ensures everyone’s safely gathered before heading out into the frosty wilderness. Once you’re suited up in the provided warm clothes — including overall, woolen socks, boots, mittens, and scarves — you’ll get a quick safety briefing and instructions on how to operate or ride the snowmobile.

The actual snowmobile ride lasts roughly 3 hours, passing through some of Lapland’s most stunning icy landscapes. The weather can be cold — often around -35°C — so that warm gear is crucial. For those with a valid driver’s license and over 18, you can take charge of your own snowmobile, though most participants share one vehicle, with an option to pay extra for a solo drive. If you’re nervous about driving, don’t worry; guides are always present to help keep things safe.

The ride itself is designed to be exhilarating but manageable, with stops along the way for photos and to take in the scenery. Many reviews highlight how well the guides navigate the terrain and keep everyone comfortable, regardless of skill level. You’ll pass through pristine white forests, frozen lakes, and open tundra, all under a vast Arctic sky.

When you arrive at the Arctic Snow Hotel, prepare to be wowed. This icy structure, built entirely of snow and ice, is a true work of art. Your guided tour will take you through the hotel, explaining its construction and features like the snow sauna. Many guests comment on their amazement at how elaborate and beautiful the hotel is, making it a must-see highlight of any trip to Rovaniemi.

Seeing the hotel’s interior is a fascinating experience. From sculpted ice sculptures to intricately carved rooms, it’s like stepping into a winter wonderland. The guides are eager to share their knowledge, making the visit educational as well as visually stunning.

After the tour of the hotel, you’ll settle into the cozy warmth of a traditional Kota tepee for lunch. The highlight is the glow-fried salmon, cooked over an open fire — a simple, hearty meal that embodies local Lappish flavors. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, with one guest noting they’d happily order another grilled salmon if they’d known how good it was.

The day wraps up with a scenic snowmobile ride back to Rovaniemi. The return journey offers more chances to take in the snowy vistas, often bathed in the soft, wintery light. Guides are attentive, ensuring everyone stays safe and comfortable during the drive home.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The guided snowmobile experience is safe and well-organized, with friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the day informative and fun.
– The visit to the Arctic Snow Hotel is genuinely impressive, giving you a chance to see intricate ice art and learn about its construction.
– The lunch of glow-fried salmon offers a tasty taste of local cuisine, served in a cozy setting.
– The included gear and warm clothing make cold weather more manageable, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery.

Cons:
– The price of $292 per person may seem high, especially for those not as keen on snowmobiling or with a tighter budget.
– The activity is not suitable for children under 13, and even older children need to be tall enough and strong enough to ride as passengers.
– The duration of about 6 hours means this is a full-day commitment, which might be a bit long for some travelers with limited time.
– Snowmobile riding involves some risk, and you’ll need a valid driver’s license if you want to drive yourself.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For adventure lovers, especially those eager to explore Arctic landscapes on a snowmobile, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. The combination of scenic rides, the awe-inspiring Arctic Snow Hotel, and a solid local meal makes it a day to remember. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, which adds a lot to the overall experience.

However, for travelers on a tighter budget or those who aren’t comfortable with snowmobile driving, it might be worth considering alternatives or looking for shorter, less expensive options. If you’re traveling with family, note that children under 13 aren’t suited for this tour unless they can ride as passengers and meet height/strength requirements.

Overall, this experience is best suited for those who love outdoor activities, want to see the iconic ice hotel, and don’t mind a full day of Arctic adventure.

FAQs About this Snowmobile Safari

• Is pickup included?
  Yes, pickup and drop-off from the Safartica Office in Rovaniemi are included, but you need to be there 25 minutes before departure.

• What should I bring?
  You need to bring your driver’s license if you plan to drive, and dress warmly with the provided gear, including overall, socks, boots, mittens, and scarf.

• How long does the snowmobile ride last?
  The driving time is about 3 hours, depending on weather conditions and group skill levels, with stops for photos and breaks.

• Can I drive a snowmobile by myself?
  Yes, if you have a valid driver’s license and are over 18. A single-drive supplement can be purchased for about $90.

• Is this experience suitable for children?
  Children under 13 generally cannot participate, but older children who meet height and strength requirements can ride as passengers.

• What about safety?
  Guides are experienced, and safety gear is provided. You’ll receive instructions before riding, and guides are there to assist.

• How is the Arctic Snow Hotel tour conducted?
  It’s a guided visit where you learn about the hotel’s construction, see the ice sculptures, and explore the ice rooms and snow sauna.

• What’s included in the price?
  Pickup, warm clothing, helmet, snowmobile instructions, guided tour of the snow hotel, and a 2-course lunch.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is the tour weather-dependent?
  Yes, snowmobile conditions depend on weather, and the experience may vary slightly based on snow and ice conditions.

If you’re after a full-day Arctic adventure that combines adrenaline, culture, and a bit of luxury in ice architecture, this tour hits all the marks. It’s a great pick for those who want to really get a taste of Lapland’s winter magic, with guides who make the experience both safe and enjoyable.