There is no better way to explore untouched parts of the Arctic nature than backcountry skiing! As your professional guide will take you away from Rovaniemi, straight into nature, you will get the chance to explore some of the breathtaking scenery of Lapland using backcountry skis and leave your track in the deep snow where no one has been before you! The tour is designed to get a good chance to observe the Northern Lights if they appear.
Backcountry skiing, or off-piste skiing, is a great way to explore remote areas of Lapland covered in deep snow. Unlike alpine skiing and cross-country skiing, which are practised on groomed trails, backcountry skiing allows you for a more adventurous trip through hilly terrains, forests and lakes. As the skis are equipped with skin, they allow you to go uphill and downhill without excessive speed. Like snowshoeing, it does not require much practice to get used to the gear and to the techniques to slide on deep snow. This makes it very comfortable and easy to use, even for beginners!
Your guide will choose a location that best fits the level and the needs of the group, but also that allows you to get a good chance to see Northern Lights if they appear. They will also provide you with safety instructions and teach you some techniques on how to use the skis on fresh snow. Refreshments and a typical Finnish campfire snack will be provided halfway, as your guide will lite a fire to keep you warm. They will also provide you with a great explanation of the Northern Lights phenomenon and Lapland in general. This is a great moment for you to learn more about the Auroras, life in the Arctic and nature here.
This ski tour lasts 3 hours 30 minutes, which includes the transportation from/to Rovaniemi, the campfire snack around the fire and, of course, the skiing time in the nature (around 1 hour 30 minutes – 2 hours depending on your level). This tour is a good alternative for those who want to catch the Northern Lights and have a sense of adventure. The tour will be running in any weather conditions. Even though there is a lower chance to see Auroras, you will still enjoy a great skiing experience in the wilderness!
On all our excursions, our groups are limited to 8 people maximum. It is very important for us to provide you with the best experience possible, and avoid mass tourism. This way, your guide will know you better and will be able to address all your needs and answer your questions. As we usually say – the smaller the group, the bigger the experience!
What’s included
- Hotel pick-up/drop-off for accommodations outside the city centre. Extra surcharge if staying 10km or further from the centre,
- Skiing equipment – poles and backcountry skis,
- Professional winter overalls and boots,
- Guiding services and ski instructions,
- Transportation,
- Hot drinks and snacks around the fire,
- Tax and fees.
Requirements
- Bottle of water
- We will provide you with overalls and boots, but please be prepared and use good under-layers, socks, hats and gloves.
Attention
Please note: The northern lights are a natural occurrence, which activity, vibrancy of colour cannot be guaranteed on the evening of the tour.
Cold weather clothing is provided but please dress appropriately. Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions. This experience may require a certain amount of endurance.
This safari will operate in any weather conditions. Even though the Northern Lights prediction is low, you will still enjoy a great skiing experience into the wilderness.
Hotel pick-ups commence 10 – 60 minutes prior to the start time. Your pick up time will be confirmed by email.
COVID-19: Your safety is our priority! Because of the Covid-19, we have taken additional measures to limit the risks of contagion and similar risks during our tours. Now more than ever, it makes even more sense for us to keep our philosophy of small group tours and to refuse mass tourism. Check our sanitary policy here.
Meeting point : Wild About Lapland Office
Pickup is offered in following places
- Apukka Resort (Transfer fee is € 40 / one-way – please contact us)
- Arctic Snow Hotel (Transfer fee is € 60 / one-way – please contact us)
- Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
- Guesthouse Borealis
- Hostel Ibedcity
- Läkituvat Cottages / Meeting point
- Lapland Hotels Ounasvaara Chalets
- Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara
- Motelli Rovaniemi
- Napapiirin Saarituvat Cottages
- Santa Claus Holiday Village Reception
- Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle
- Vaattunki Wilderness Resort (Transfer fee is € 60 / one-way – please contact us)
- Walk in the office / City Centre accommodation
Contact information
96200 Rovaniemi