Rovaniemi: Snowmobile Safari to Arctic Snow Hotel
This full-day adventure from Rovaniemi costs around $292 per person and lasts approximately six hours. It combines thrilling snowmobile riding, a guided tour of the stunning Arctic Snow Hotel, and a cozy meal of fire-glow fried salmon. During the trip, you’ll ride through snow-covered forests and wilderness tracks, culminating in a visit to an extraordinary hotel constructed entirely of ice and snow.
What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to see the Arctic Snow Hotel up close, with its intricate ice sculptures and unique architecture. Plus, the snowmobile ride through pristine wilderness offers a true sense of adventure—and a chance to experience Lapland’s tranquil beauty firsthand.
A potential drawback is the dependence on weather conditions, which can influence the ride’s safety and comfort. Also, since the ride involves snowmobiling on icy tracks, it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor winter activities. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty—and for those looking for a memorable Arctic experience in a small-group setting.
Key Points
- Adventure and Comfort: Snowmobile riding combined with warm gear and guided instructions makes for a safe and exhilarating experience.
- Unique Attraction: The Arctic Snow Hotel is a one-of-a-kind ice sculpture masterpiece, worth seeing at least once.
- Authentic Meal: Enjoy a traditional fire-glow fried salmon, served in a cozy wooden Kota tepee—adding cultural flavor.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Valentina, Elisei, Raul, and Zusa receive high praise for their helpfulness, humor, and safety briefings.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve without immediate payment offers peace of mind.
- Inclusive: Equipment, warm clothes, helmet, and guided tours are all included, making logistics easier.
The Experience in Detail
Starting Point and Transportation
The adventure begins at the Safartica Office (Koskikatu 9) in Rovaniemi, where you’ll meet your guides at least 25 minutes before departure. Precise meeting times are confirmed via email. The pickup and drop-off service makes it convenient, especially if you’re staying in or near the city. Expect to be in a group of around 2 or more people sharing a snowmobile, with options to pay extra for a single drive.
The Snowmobile Ride: Wilderness Through Icy Landscapes
The highlight here is the snowmobile safari—a 3-hour ride through spectacular Lapland wilderness. Guides like Raul and Zusa are praised for their organization, safety briefings, and good humor, making even a -35°C day feel manageable. You’ll pass through icy forests, open snowfields, and scenic tracks—perfect for those seeking an outdoor thrill.
The driving experience varies with weather and individual skill, but guides adapt the route accordingly. A demo and instructions are provided, ensuring everyone feels confident. Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the pristine Arctic landscape—an ideal setting for nature lovers and photography buffs alike.
Arctic Snow Hotel Tour
Once you arrive at the Arctic Snow Hotel, you’ll embark on a guided visit. This ice construction is truly astonishing—full of intricate sculptures and icy rooms. Guides are knowledgeable and happy to explain how the hotel is built, maintained, and used. Visitors mention feeling safe and well-informed, thanks to the professionalism and friendliness of the guides.
Some reviews highlight how “superbly organized” the visit is, with well-timed routes and a good balance between sightseeing and free time. The snow sauna offers an extra chance to relax and experience the Arctic’s unique thermal features.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch: Fire-Glow Fried Salmon
After touring the hotel, it’s time to warm up in a traditional Kota tepee, where a two-course lunch of locally glow-fried salmon is served. The meal is hearty and delicious, often described as a highlight—so much so that one reviewer admitted they’d order another if they’d known how good it was beforehand.
This meal not only sustains you but also provides a genuine taste of local Sami culture. The setting in a cozy wooden tepee enhances the experience, making it feel intimate and authentic.
Return Journey and Reflection
The day concludes with the snowmobile ride back to Rovaniemi, where guides ensure everyone is safely returned. As you head back, you’ll likely reflect on the adventure-filled day—the thrill of driving, the wonder of the ice sculptures, and the serenity of the snowy landscape.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits adventurers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with winter conditions. It’s perfect for those interested in Arctic culture and architecture, especially the allure of the ice hotel. The guides’ helpfulness has earned high praise, making it suitable for travelers who value expert local insights.
It’s also a good fit if you’re seeking a small-group, personalized experience with flexible booking options. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, children under 13 (or those under 140cm tall), or anyone with fragile musculoskeletal health. You’ll need a valid driver’s license if you plan to drive, and be prepared for cold weather.
In-Depth Breakdown of the Tour
Itinerary and Highlights
1. Pickup and Meeting
Your adventure begins at Safartica’s office in Rovaniemi, where guides like Valentina and Elisei greet you with friendly professionalism. Confirmed at least 25 minutes before departure, the meeting point is straightforward and accessible.
2. Snowmobile Ride through Wilderness
The ride is approximately three hours, with routes depending on weather conditions and driver skills. You’ll pass through forested tracks and open fields, experiencing the quiet majesty of Lapland’s winter landscape. Guides ensure everyone’s safety, offering instructions and demonstrations. As one reviewer put it, the guides “knew what they were doing” and added humor, making the experience fun and reassuring.
3. Arctic Snow Hotel Tour
Arriving at the Ice Hotel, you’ll be led on a guided tour. The hotel is a marvel of icy architecture, with detailed sculptures and atmospherically lit rooms. Guides like Raul and Zusa are praised for their knowledge and ability to make the visit both safe and fascinating. Some reviewers appreciated the well-paced tour and the opportunity to learn about its construction and purpose.
4. Ice Sauna and Free Time
You might have time to see how the snow sauna works, adding a warm contrast to the icy surroundings. These moments of relaxation help balance the day’s physical activity.
5. Lunch in the Kota
The meal of glow-fried salmon is served in a traditional wooden tepee, creating a cozy, authentic Arctic atmosphere. Reviewers say this was a highlight, with some wishing they’d ordered more because of its deliciousness.
6. Return Snowmobile Ride
The journey home offers time for reflection and photos, with guides ensuring a safe and timely return. The experience wraps up with memories of adventure, stunning scenery, and Arctic hospitality.
Practical Considerations and Tips
- Clothing and Gear: The tour supplies warm overall suits, woolen socks, boots, mittens, and scarves. Still, dress warmly in layers underneath.
- Driver’s License: Required if you plan to drive your snowmobile. A single drive supplement can be purchased if you prefer to drive alone.
- Weather Dependence: Snow conditions influence routes and safety. Check the forecast and be prepared for cold, possibly windy weather.
- Group Size: Usually small groups, making coordination and safety easier.
- Age and Physical Limitations: Not suitable for kids under 13 and pregnant women. Drivers must be at least 18 years old with a valid license.
- Cost and Value: At $292, the tour offers a well-rounded experience that includes transportation, gear, guides, the hotel tour, and lunch—making it a good value for immersive Arctic adventure.
Authenticity and Customer Experience
The reviews reveal a consistent theme: knowledgeable guides like Valentina, Elisei, Raul, and Zusa make the experience smooth, safe, and enjoyable. One reviewer noted that the atmosphere created by guides “had a huge impact” on their day, highlighting how important good leadership is in outdoor tours.
While most guests expressed high satisfaction, some found the activity less appealing for the price, suggesting it’s best suited for those seeking a full-day, adventure-packed Arctic experience rather than a quick visit.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?
If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenery, this snowmobile safari delivers. It offers the chance to ride through pristine wilderness, see the remarkable Arctic Snow Hotel, and enjoy a hearty, traditional meal—all guided by professionals who truly care about your safety and experience. The inclusion of warm clothing, equipment, and a knowledgeable guide helps create a comfortable and immersive Arctic adventure.
This experience is ideal for adventure-minded travelers who want to explore Lapland beyond the usual sights. If you enjoy small-group tours with personalized attention, you’ll find this a rewarding way to connect with the Arctic landscape and local culture. However, it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.
This tour represents a fantastic value for anyone eager to embrace the true spirit of Lapland—cold, beautiful, and full of surprises. It’s the kind of day that leaves you with stories to tell and memories to cherish.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickups and drop-offs from the designated meeting point are included, making logistics straightforward.
What should I wear?
Warm clothes are provided, including overall suits, woolen socks, boots, mittens, and scarves. Still, dressing in layers underneath is recommended.
Can I drive the snowmobile?
Yes, drivers need a valid driver’s license and must be 18 or older. You can also purchase a supplement for a single drive if you prefer to be the sole driver.
Is it suitable for children?
Not for children under 13. Taller kids (over 140cm) can join as passengers when paying the adult rate.
What if I’m pregnant or have health issues?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with fragile musculoskeletal systems.
How long is the snowmobile ride?
Approximately 3 hours, with route variations depending on conditions and driver experience.
What does the lunch include?
A traditional fire-glow fried salmon served in a cozy Kota tepee.
How can I cancel?
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather conditions can influence the route and safety; it’s wise to check the forecast before booking.
This snowmobile safari to the Arctic Snow Hotel offers a truly Arctic adventure with a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and outdoor fun. It’s a memorable way to experience Lapland’s winter magic while enjoying the comforts of guided support and authentic cuisine.
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