Snowshoe experience with traditional beverages in Lapland

If you’re dreaming of exploring Lapland’s snowy wilderness, this snowshoe tour with traditional drinks offers a cozy, immersive way to connect with the Arctic landscape. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a compelling picture of what you can expect — and what to consider before booking.

What we really like about this experience is the blend of nature immersion and authentic local touches — like warming up by a fire with berries and sausages. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to add a lot of value, making it more than just a walk in the snow. On the flip side, it’s worth mentioning that some find the actual snowshoeing portion a bit short for the price, which is something to keep in mind if you’re after a longer trek.

This trip appears well-suited for travelers who want a short, memorable Arctic experience without the need for extensive physical exertion. It’s perfect if you’re curious about snowshoeing, love trying local beverages, and enjoy scenic winter landscapes. Those with mobility issues or very young children might want to think twice, as it’s not designed for kids under 2 or certain health restrictions.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Snowshoeing through snowy forests and open lakes offers a true taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland.
• Cultural Touches: Warm fire, local berry juice, cheese, and sausages make the experience feel cozy and genuine.
• Guided Insight: Knowledgeable guides help you understand the landscape and take great photos during the tour.
• Short but Sweet: The tour lasts about 3 hours, which is ideal for a quick yet memorable outing.
• Price vs. Value: It’s priced at $104 per person; reviews suggest it’s worth it, but some feel it could last longer.
• Physical Suitability: Best suited for active, healthy travelers — not recommended for very young children, pregnant women, or those with health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Imagine setting out from the heart of Lapland, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Santa Claus Hotel, to wander through pristine, snow-covered forests or glide across a frozen lake. The journey begins with a brief introduction on how to walk with snowshoes — don’t worry if you’re new to it, as the guides are there to help. The idea is to experience walking on snow without sinking deep, giving you a sense of what it’s like to be part of this winter wonderland.

Every turn promises stunning scenery — dense forests blanketed in white or wide-open lakes shimmering under the Arctic sun. The pace is relaxed, perfect for soaking in the silence and beauty of the landscape. We loved the way guides shared stories about the area’s wildlife and environment, making each step more meaningful.

Once you’ve had your fill of exploring, the highlight is gathering around a warm open fire. Here, you’ll enjoy local beverages — think hot berry juice — alongside local cheese or sausages cooked directly over the flames. It’s a simple but effective way to warm up, especially after braving the cold. The reviews mention that guides go out of their way, taking photos and sharing insights, which makes the experience feel personalized and special.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The tour begins at the central hotel Santa Claus in the heart of Rovaniemi, making it easy to access whether you’re staying centrally or just arriving. From here, transportation takes you into the snowy wilderness; a comfortable setup that ensures your focus remains on the scenery and not on logistics.

Once on site, you’ll receive your snowshoes and instructions — a quick run-through that gets everyone comfortable. The guides are experienced and personable, aiming to make everyone feel at ease, regardless of prior experience. During the walk, you’ll traverse either a beautiful forest or the open snowy lake, depending on conditions and the day.

What makes the experience unique, according to reviews, is the balance of activity and relaxation. You’re not just walking — you’re exploring, stopping for photos, and learning about the environment. The guides often take photos during the trek, which you can later receive via email, adding a memorable touch to your day.

The fire and snack stop is a highlight — cozying up beside an open fire with hot drinks, berries, and local sausages. It’s a simple pleasure that offers warmth and a taste of local culture. Some reviews note that the snack and transfer aspects might make the experience feel shorter than expected, but most agree it’s a worthwhile, intimate outing.

Price and Value

At $104 per person, this tour sits in a moderate price range for Arctic experiences — especially considering transportation, gear, guiding, and the included snacks. Reviews suggest it offers good value, especially if you’re after a short but meaningful outdoor adventure combined with cultural touches.

However, some reviewers mentioned they wished the actual snowshoeing part lasted longer. If you’re craving a more extended trek, this might feel a bit brief, especially considering the price. But for those wanting a fun, scenic escape with cozy comforts, it hits the right notes.

The Guides and Personal Touch

One aspect repeatedly praised in reviews is the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. They are said to go above and beyond — helping with photos, sharing insights, and making sure everyone feels comfortable. For many, this personal touch elevates the experience from a simple walk to a memorable Arctic adventure.

The guides’ ability to tell stories about the surrounding wildlife and environment, along with their patience in helping guests with snowshoe technique, seems to make a difference. If you enjoy learning along with your outdoor activity, you’ll appreciate their approach.

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Physical Considerations and Suitability

This experience is designed for those with a reasonable fitness level; a basic level of fitness is recommended. It’s not suitable for very young children (under 2 or 3), pregnant women, or people with certain health issues such as back or heart problems. The terrain is snowy but not overly strenuous, making it accessible for active travelers in good health.

Note that the tour excludes lunch, so plan accordingly if you want a more substantial meal afterward. Also, remember to dress warmly — layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes are key to staying comfortable during the walk.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snowshoeing adventure paired with a cozy fire and local drinks could be just what you’re looking for if you want a short, scenic, and culturally immersive experience in Lapland. It’s a superb choice for travelers who enjoy simple outdoor activities, are comfortable in cold weather, and appreciate authentic touches like local beverages and fire-side snacks.

If you’re after a longer, more vigorous snowshoe trek, or want a tour that includes other Arctic elements, you might find this a little limited in scope. But for a relaxing, photo-worthy experience that combines walking, learning, and warming up by fire, this tour seems to deliver.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 2 or 3 years old. The tour involves walking in snow and requires a basic level of fitness, so very young or very old travelers might want to consider other options.

What should I wear? Dress in warm clothing and sturdy shoes. Layering is advised, as you’ll be outdoors in cold weather for a few hours.

Does the tour include transportation? Yes, transportation is included from the central hotel Santa Claus to the snowshoeing location and back.

How long does the tour last? The experience is approximately 3 hours, including walking, fire-side time, and pictures.

What is included in the price? Snowshoes, drinks and snacks, transportation, guide/instructor, and photos taken during the tour.

Are there any physical restrictions? Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for those with back or heart issues, pregnant women, or individuals over certain weight or height limits. It’s best suited for those in good health and active.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is there a chance to see the Northern Lights? This particular tour doesn’t focus on Aurora viewing, but it offers a fantastic daytime snowshoe experience in nature.

This snowshoe tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter charm — a blend of outdoor adventure and cozy cultural moments. Whether you’re snapping photos, learning about the environment, or simply relishing the quiet beauty of snow-covered forests, it’s a nice way to spend a few hours in the Arctic. Just keep your expectations aligned with the itinerary’s short duration, and you’ll come away with some lovely memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: