Rovaniemi: Ski Trekking Safari in Lapland

If you’re dreaming of exploring the pristine wilderness of Lapland while gliding on snow, then this Ski Trekking Safari in Rovaniemi offers a compelling way to do just that. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a picture of an experience that’s both adventurous and deeply scenic. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy the quiet beauty of Arctic nature without the fuss of intense skiing skills.

What I really like about this experience is how accessible it is — with easy-to-learn back-country skis that don’t require advanced techniques, plus the opportunity to explore remote, untouched landscapes. Plus, the friendly, knowledgeable guides seem to make everyone feel at home, regardless of their experience level. On the downside, it’s not a tour for everyone — especially if you have mobility issues or health concerns. Still, if you’re up for a bit of outdoor fun in the snow and love scenic views, this could be a memorable highlight of your trip to Lapland.

This tour is particularly suitable for active travelers who appreciate nature and don’t mind getting a little snow on their boots. Families with older children (7+) who enjoy the outdoors might also find it a good fit, provided everyone is comfortable in winter gear. Overall, it’s a well-balanced adventure blending gentle exercise, breathtaking scenery, and cultural insights over a manageable four-hour window.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners: The skis are designed to be easy to use, even if you’ve never done any form of ski trekking.
• Breathtaking scenery: You’ll get to see Lapland’s winter landscapes, forests, and frozen lakes — perfect for photography lovers or anyone craving Arctic views.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their patience, knowledge, and ability to adapt to the group’s level.
• Warm-up and food: A cozy campfire snack and sausages baked in a teepee add a memorable touch to the tour.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Great value: At $124, it offers a lot of scenery, guidance, and cultural insight for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Rovaniemi Ski Trekking Safari

What to Expect on the Tour

This 4-hour adventure begins with a pick-up or a meeting at the provider’s office in Rovaniemi. From there, you’ll head into the Lapland wilderness, specifically into the expansive Taiga forest, which remains largely untouched by modern development. The journey is designed to introduce you to back-country skiing, also known as off-piste skiing — meaning you won’t be on groomed trails but instead weaving through hilly terrain, snow-covered forests, and frozen lakes.

The skis provided are equipped with skins, which are strips of material that allow you to ascend hills without sliding backward, making the trek a more natural and less stressful experience. These skis are similar to snowshoes in how easy they are to handle, making this activity suitable even for beginners and those with little to no prior experience. The guides typically assess the group’s skill level beforehand and tailor the route accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Once you’re out in the forest, your guide will give a brief safety talk and some quick lessons on techniques for walking and skiing on fresh snow. It’s generally a low-pressure way to try something new, and the emphasis is on enjoying the environment rather than mastering advanced skills. Many reviews highlight how patient and helpful guides are, making even first-timers feel comfortable.

Halfway through, the group stops for a warm campfire. Here, you’ll enjoy a typical Finnish snack — usually sausages baked over the fire, which are deliciously satisfying after some exertion in the cold. Some travelers, like Ana Liza, mention how this moment feels especially cozy and authentic, adding a cultural touch to the adventure.

The area your guide picks depends on your group’s level, but from multiple reviews, we gather it’s often a breathtaking spot with views over lakes or forested valleys. You’ll get to take photos, breathe in the crisp air, and learn more about Arctic nature and Lapland’s unique environment. The scenery is frequently described as “stunning,” “breathtaking,” or “like something out of a fairy tale,” which makes sense given the pristine snow and untouched landscape.

Guides and Group Size

What sets this experience apart, according to reviewers, is the quality of guides. People consistently mention guides like Maca, Emily, Luka, and others as being warm, patient, and knowledgeable. They adapt the trip to the group’s level, ensuring everyone has a good time, whether they’re experienced skiers or complete beginners.

The small group size (up to 8 participants) means you get more personalized attention, which is appreciated when navigating tricky snowy terrain. You’ll likely learn some interesting tidbits about Lapland, its wildlife, and local culture along the way.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers ski equipment (skis, poles, boots), a professional winter snowsuit, a guide, transportation from the meeting point, and the campfire snack. It’s a pretty good value when you consider all the gear, expert guidance, and the scenic experience packed into four hours.

One thing to note is that lunch isn’t included, so if you prefer a full-day adventure or want more substantial food, you might want to bring extra snacks or plan for a meal afterward. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or travelers with limited mobility, so check your own circumstances before booking.

The Real-World Experience (Based on Reviews)

Many reviews rave about the scenery and friendliness of guides. For example, Vera appreciated how Maca adapted the tour to suit the group’s skill level and made everyone feel welcome. Others like Ana Liza loved having the opportunity to learn about Arctic life and enjoy the “awesome” views, especially with the hot drink and sausages afterward.

Some travelers found the skis “not like normal skis,” which made the activity a bit challenging at first, but guides like Ayan’s mentioned that support from the guides helped everyone get the hang of it. Even for those who didn’t fully complete the trek, the experience was still described as memorable, fun, and worth the effort.

Timing and Practical Tips

Check the availability for the start times—they vary and depend on the season and day. Since this is a winter activity, dress warmly — thermal layers, hats, gloves, and insulated boots are recommended. The provided gear is designed to keep you warm, but layering is still key.

Transportation from the meeting point in Rovaniemi is included if your accommodation is in the city center, which simplifies logistics. Make sure to arrive on time, and to be prepared for cold weather, even if you are just spectating or taking photos.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience really shines for adventurers curious about Arctic landscapes who want a manageable but immersive activity. If you’re interested in learning about Lapland’s nature, this tour offers both scenery and stories. It’s suitable for beginners, thanks to the simple skis and supportive guides, but those with some outdoor experience will also enjoy the challenge.

People who love cozy moments in the outdoors will appreciate the campfire and snack experience. However, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children, given the nature of the activity and equipment.

Overall, if you seek an authentic, relaxing yet adventurous Arctic experience that combines outdoor activity with cultural learning, this ski safari could be a highlight of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is back-country skiing?
It’s a type of skiing that takes you away from groomed trails, allowing you to explore forests, lakes, and hills covered in snow — perfect for those wanting a more natural and adventurous experience.

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes. The skis are easy to handle with skins that help you ascend hills without sliding backward, and guides provide instructions tailored to your level.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It’s moderate — enough to enjoy the outdoor exercise and scenery without requiring advanced skiing skills. The guides will support you through the terrain.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is essential. The tour provides gear, but layers, hats, gloves, and thermal wear will help keep you comfortable.

Can children join this activity?
Not children under 7. The activity isn’t suitable for children younger than that or those with mobility impairments.

What is included in the price?
Ski equipment, professional winter snowsuit, boots, guide, transportation from the meeting point, and a campfire snack are included.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch isn’t included. You might want to bring extra snacks if you plan to be out longer or want a more substantial meal afterward.

How big are the groups?
Small groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of guidance.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The stunning winter landscapes, the chance to learn about Arctic nature, and the cozy campfire experience stand out, making it a well-rounded Arctic adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Ski Trekking Safari in Lapland offers a fantastic way to experience the region’s incredible winter scenery without needing to be a seasoned skier. The guides’ warmth and expertise make the activity accessible and enjoyable, even for beginners. The quiet forests, frozen lakes, and snowy vistas are sure to make an impression, especially when paired with the cozy warmth of a campfire and traditional Finnish snacks.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate natural beauty, and want a mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re after an experience that’s both scenic and social, with a touch of Arctic authenticity, this tour is likely to leave you with wonderful memories.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even with older family members, this activity provides a meaningful way to connect with Lapland’s wild side — all in a manageable four-hour package that’s both memorable and well-priced.

You can check availability for your dates here: