Arctic Info

Learning new skills through active participation and being part of the local culture is a focal point of the Arctic Escapades. We will provide a complete set of information of your arctic location, as well as travel information when you sign up and confirm your place. A preparatory Zoom call will be held before each trip so you will get a chance to meet us. 

Some interesting facts and things you will learn and experience:

  • 3 winters Did you know that there is not just one but three winters in Lapland? The first snow period (Oct-Nov), Polar Night (Dec-Jan) and Snow-crust-season (Feb-April/May).  Depending what type of scenery and weather you want to experience, the choice of timing is important. The time from December to February is stunningly different but also much colder. This is the best time to experience arctic conditions with temperatures from -10C° to -30C°. But don’t worry – with exercise and warm clothing combined, you will stay warm. March – April is then much milder, warmer days with day temperatures from approx. -5C° to +5C° and a lot of sun from early morning till late evening! Snow is more hard packed and we get to enjoy a lot of light. This is an ideal time for long cross-country ski trips.
  • Cold weather A rule of thumb: The colder, the more beautiful. Don’t be afraid of the cold – our houses and cars are always warm and when outside, warm clothing and staying active keeps you warm.
  • Northern Lights (also known as aurora borealis or polar light). Northern Lights may appear close to Earth but they actually form at altitudes of over 100 kilometres, when solar winds made of particles from the sun agitate atmospheric gases. Northern lights are best spotted during winter when it’s dark and weather clear. Therefore the cold Polar Night season is generally the best. We can’t promise that you will see this beautiful display but the longer you stay, the greater your chances to experience them. You can start preparing for the Northern Lights before your travels.   
  • Sauna – a traditional part of Finnish culture, sauna is the most relaxing way to end your day. We’ll teach you how to heat up a wood burn sauna as well as the many traditions around it.
  • Ice swimming – did you know that the biggest fans of ice swimming are our elderly people? If our grannies can do it, so can you! There is a dress code. Woolly hat and woollen socks make walking through the snow more comfortable. A swimsuit is optional 😊
  • Arctic wildlife Reindeer, Siberian Jay, wood grouse, willow grouse, are just some of the wildlife that you can encounter in Lapland. You will get to recognise their tracks and perhaps see glimpses of them.    
  • Tykky trees – these stunning frozen creations can way up to 6,000 kgs when covered with ice and snow. The higher on the fell you climb the more unique they are. Take a good look but don’t go camping under them.
  • Snow crust – from March to April after a cold night you can ski or even cycle anywhere on the surface of the snow without sinking. Just make sure you return before the afternoon sun warms up the surface!
  • The largest wildness area in Europe. Yes, that is Lapland. Welcome to join us for an Arctic Escapade!