We can all make a difference through our everyday choices. Simple actions such as switching off lights, picking up trash, recycling, choosing local food and products, supporting responsible businesses, and travelling outside the busiest Christmas season can all help reduce your environmental impact.

When you make these choices, you are helping to support sustainable tourism in Lapland.

In Finland, everyone has the right to roam freely, and there is plenty of space and nature to explore. However, this right should always be used responsibly. Berries and mushrooms can be freely picked for personal use, but please stick to established paths where possible. Wildlife has lived here long before people, so please only camp in designated camping areas.

Many forests in Finland are privately owned. Entering private land without permission — especially near homes or privately owned shorelines — is not allowed. Visitors are encouraged to use public hiking areas, which offer safe and responsible access to nature.

When exploring nature, please help keep forests, rivers, lakes, and other natural areas clean by taking all rubbish with you. Even small items can harm wildlife and damage the environment.

Finland’s high-quality tap water is safe to drink and among the best in the world, so there is no need to buy bottled water during your stay in Rovaniemi. If you are hiking in Lapland and come across a stream flowing from the fells, you can safely drink from it!

The Northern Lights, Midnight Sun, Polar Nights, and other natural wonders can be enjoyed independently or as part of a guided tour. Independent travellers are welcome to use private lean-to shelters and public hiking areas, such as the Arctic Circle Hiking Area and Ounasvaara Walking Trails.

Please note that tour companies are not permitted to operate in public hiking areas. Responsible tour operators take their guests to designated locations that are specifically intended for business use and private groups.

The more you understand a culture, the easier it is to respect it. Here in the Arctic Circle region, you can explore our rich cultural heritage through our museums and science centres as well as by visiting other cultural attractions and local events the city has to offer.

Local culture is also something you can experience in everyday life. For instance, why not try traditional Finnish sauna? It is simple, pure, and deeply connected to Finnish traditions — just like the local food culture!

Culture is not only something to observe, but also to take part in. In today’s digital world, creating something with your own hands is a valuable experience. Visiting a local family and learning about local culture and traditions can also be a responsible and sustainable way to spend your holiday.

Sustainability also means respecting the people who live in Rovaniemi and sharing public spaces safely and responsibly.

Even though the city has plenty of space and light traffic, safety should always be a priority. In winter, roads and paths can be icy and slippery, so please use designated pedestrian crossings when moving around.

For safety reasons, sledding on cross-country skiing tracks is not allowed, as it can cause accidents and damage the tracks, which require regular maintenance.

It is also important to respect local residents in everyday situations. Please be considerate when taking photos or making noise, especially in residential areas. Guided tours, including Northern Lights excursions, are not permitted on private property, such as residential yards.

Sustainability means making responsible choices when selecting tours and activities. Choose operators that respect nature and local communities while offering you a high-quality experience.

We encourage you to choose local, reliable, and trustworthy companies and service providers.

A campfire is a wonderful way to enjoy Lapland’s outdoors, but it must always be done responsibly. Never light a fire directly on river or lake ice, as burned wood and other campfire waste are difficult to remove and are considered environmental damage. Always use lean-to shelters or other designated campfire sites. This applies to all visitors, as well as guided tours and tour operators.

The City of Rovaniemi and Visit Rovaniemi have provided guidance to safari companies on safe and responsible campfire practices. No rubbish or campfire remains should ever be left on ice, snow, or in nature. Whatever you bring into nature, please take it back with you.

Before lighting a campfire, always check if a wildfire warning has been issued in the area.

You can find more information about campfire safety from the Luontoon.fi website.