Lapland: A Family Winter Adventure - 6 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the minimum age to join this family adventure tour?

  The minimum age to join this trip is 6 years old.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 12.

• What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

  You will stay in hotels for 4 nights and experience an overnight train for 1 night. The hotels are typically small, family-run establishments, offering clean, safe, and simple accommodation in central locations. Please note, some may not have elevators.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner.

• What are the main highlights of the Lapland Family Winter Adventure?

  Key highlights include discovering hands-on exhibits at the Heureka Science Centre in Helsinki, exploring Santa Claus Village and meeting reindeer and huskies in their snowy home, and experiencing an Aurora Borealis picnic and a dark-sky hunt for the Northern Lights. You'll also ride an overnight train to the Arctic Circle.

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  Transportation includes an overnight train, private transport, and walking.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of travel insurance, which must cover medical expenses including emergency repatriation at a minimum.

• Who will lead the group during the tour?

  The group will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the trip, and local guides will also be utilized where specific local knowledge enhances the experience.

• What are some optional activities available during the tour?

  In Ranua, optional activities include a Husky Sledge Ride (120 EUR per person), Downhill Sledding and Ice Skating (98 EUR per person), and a Guided Northern Lights Hunt (129 EUR per person). In Riisitunturi, a Riisitunturi National Park Guided Day Excursion (198 EUR per person) is also an option.

• What is the local currency and what should I know about money exchange?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Cirrus, Plus) are very useful, but it's recommended to carry a combination of Euros and one or two cards, as ATM machines may not always accept all cards. Ensure any USD or EUR bills you bring are new and rip-free for exchange.

• Is tipping customary in Finland?

  Yes, tipping is customary in Europe. A general guideline is 10% for wait staff and €1-€2 for other service providers. For local guides, €3-€5 per day is recommended. For your CEO, €6-€8 per person per day, or €30-€40 per person per week, is appreciated.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• What is the policy regarding illegal drugs and paid sex workers on the tour?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated on any trips and possessing or using them can put the group at risk and contravenes local laws. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also contrary to the tour philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• What are the emergency contact details for the tour operator?

  Should you need to contact the tour operator in a dire situation, first call the local office. If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. Global sales team numbers are also available: Toll-free North America: 1 888 800 4100, UK: 0344 272 0000, Germany: 0800 365 1000, Australia: 1 300 796 618, New Zealand: 0800 333 307. Outside these regions: +1 416 260 0999.

• What are the safety recommendations for personal belongings during the trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables like passports, tickets, and cash. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and any recommended inoculations well before departure. It's advisable to carry a First Aid kit and personal medical requirements. Leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• What amount of emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please ensure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used in unforeseen circumstances that may require a change to the planned route. This is a rare occurrence.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry, so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum 6 months validity. Visa requirements vary by nationality and destination. Finland is part of the Schengen area, simplifying travel within it with a Schengen visa. As of 2025, ETIAS travel authorization may be required for visa-exempt nationals. It is vital to check current requirements with your local embassy or consulate or through the tour operator's resources.

• What are the main highlights of this Lapland adventure?

  Discover hands-on exhibits at the Finnish Science Centre and explore the iconic Helsinki Central Library, wander the stalls of the lively Hakaniemi Market Hall, ride an overnight train headed straight for the Arctic Circle, explore Santa Claus Village where the holiday spirit never ends, meet reindeer and huskies in their snowy northern home, and have a picnic around a campfire under the Northern Lights.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions for 4 nights, and one night will be spent on an overnight train. These accommodations are typically locally-run, with traditional character, and in central locations. Please note that properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• Are there any exceptions to standard rooming or 'My Own Room' on the tour?

  Night 2 of the tour involves an overnight train, which is an exception to standard hotel rooming or 'My Own Room' options.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility in dining choices.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The group size for this tour has a maximum of 16 travelers, with an average of 12.

• Are there any age restrictions for participants on this family adventure?

  This trip has a minimum age requirement of 6 years and a maximum age of 100 years.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation during the tour includes an overnight train, private transport, and walking.

• What kind of activities are optional and not included in the base tour price?

  Optional activities available include a Husky Sledge Ride (120EUR per person), Downhill Sledding and Ice Skating (98EUR per person), a Guided Northern Lights Hunt (129EUR per person) in Ranua, and a Riisitunturi National Park Guided Day Excursion (198EUR per person) from Riisitunturi. It is recommended to book popular optional activities in advance during high season.

• What is the tipping etiquette for this tour in Europe?

  Tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% for wait staff, and €1-2 for other service providers. For local guides, a recommendation would be €3-5 per day. If you felt your CEO did an outstanding job, a tip of €6-8 per person, per day can be used as a guideline.

• What should I know about currency and managing money during the trip?

  Credit cards and debit cards (Cirrus, Plus, Visa, usually requiring 4-digit PINs) are very useful. It is best to carry a combination of Euros and one or two cards, as card acceptance can vary. Ensure any USD or EUR bills you bring are new and crisp. It is also recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory to participate in this trip. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of insurance. At a minimum, coverage for medical expenses including emergency repatriation is required. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• What are the general visa and entry requirements for Finland?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. For travel within the Schengen area (which includes Finland), a Schengen visa may apply. As of 2025, various European countries are introducing ETIAS travel authorization as an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals. It is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  This group trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, whose aim is to enhance your travel experience. Local guides are also utilized where specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places visited.

• What are the safety and security considerations for this trip?

  We strongly recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes, and a lock is recommended for your luggage. Your CEO can amend the itinerary if necessary due to safety concerns. While cities are generally safe during the day, it's advised to stay in small groups and use taxis for night-time excursions. Illegal drugs and exploitation of the sex trade are strictly prohibited.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• Will I have opportunities to do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What is Planeterra and how does this tour contribute to it?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Our tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of any donation (e.g., through their Dollar-a-day Program) will directly support Planeterra projects.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  If for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, you should contact your starting point hotel as soon as possible, requesting to speak to or leave a message for your CEO. If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to the provided emergency contact details for the local office or sales team.

• What is the minimum age for children to join this family adventure tour?

  This tour has a minimum age requirement of 6 years old.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will be staying in small family-run hotels or pensions for 4 nights, and one night will be spent on a comfortable overnight train. Note that some hotels may not have elevators.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2, indicating light activity.

• Is seeing the Northern Lights guaranteed?

  While the tour includes an Aurora Borealis picnic and a dark sky hunt for the Northern Lights, seeing them is dependent on weather conditions and natural phenomena, so it cannot be guaranteed. In the event of uncooperative weather, the Aurora Borealis picnic will be moved to the next day.

• What are the main activities and experiences included in the tour?

  The tour includes a visit to the Huereka Science Centre, a CEO-led orientation walk in Helsinki, a visit to Santa Claus Village, an Aurora Borealis picnic, a husky experience with a sleigh ride, a northern reindeer experience with a safari, and a dark sky hunt for the Northern Lights.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, optional activities in Ranua include a Husky Sledge Ride, Downhill Sledding and Ice Skating, and a Guided Northern Lights Hunt. There's also a Riisitunturi National Park Guided Day Excursion. It's recommended to book popular optional activities in advance during high season.

• Are international flights included in the tour package?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The tour is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, and local guides are also used for specific knowledge.

• What currency should I bring and how should I manage money?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Cirrus, Plus) are widely accepted, but it's best to bring a combination of Euros and one or two cards. Ensure you have new, crisp bills if bringing USD or EUR for exchange, as money exchanges are particular. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent) is recommended.

• What is the policy for tipping on this tour?

  Tipping is customary in Europe. A general guideline is 10% for wait staff and €1-€2 for other service providers. For local guides, €3-€5 per day is recommended. For the tour's Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a tip of €6-€8 per person per day, or €30-€40 per person per week, is expected and appreciated.

• Are there any specific health considerations for this trip?

  There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information before departure. Carrying a first aid kit and hand sanitizers is recommended.

• What should I know about safety and security on the trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and to leave valuable jewelry at home. Hotels often have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is also advised. The CEO has the authority to amend the itinerary for safety concerns. During free time, use good judgment when choosing optional activities and consider staying in small groups or taking taxis for night excursions.

• Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. You may also need to do your own laundry, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.