Exploring Lapland’s Hidden Gems: Private Guided Tour from Rovaniemi to Kakslauttanen and Saariselkä
If you’re after an authentic Arctic experience, this private guided tour from Rovaniemi to Kakslauttanen and Saariselkä offers a well-rounded taste of Finland’s northern wilderness. For around $386 per person, you’ll spend about 6 hours discovering spectacular sights, hearing stories of local traditions, and getting a glimpse of Arctic life with a personal guide.
What truly sets this trip apart is the ability to tailor your day with flexible stops like the famous glass igloos at Kakslauttanen, and the picturesque village of Saariselkä, known for its pristine nature and outdoor fun. Two things we particularly appreciate are the small-group intimacy, making for a more personalized experience, and the opportunity to visit unique attractions like the Gold Village-Gold Museum.
One consideration to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include meals or additional activities, so you might want to plan for lunch separately or bring a packed meal. Also, since it’s a private tour, departure times vary, so checking availability in advance is wise.
This tour is perfect for travelers who love a blend of cultural storytelling, scenic drives, and outdoor exploration — ideal if you’re seeking an intimate, flexible Arctic adventure that highlights the region’s most iconic sights.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Private guide ensures tailored attention and flexibility.
- Visit Iconic Spots: Explore Kakslauttanen’s famous glass igloos and Saariselkä’s natural beauty.
- Cultural Insights: Your guide shares stories about Finnish culture and Lapland traditions.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy a beautiful journey through Lapland’s stunning wilderness.
- Optional Activities: Opportunities for husky safaris or reindeer rides at extra cost.
- Food & Extras: Lunch and additional activities are not included but can be arranged separately.
Discovering Lapland: A Full Breakdown of the Tour
Start of the Journey: Rovaniemi to Kakslauttanen
Your day begins with a private pickup right from your accommodation in Rovaniemi. Your guide, whose stories and local knowledge we found engaging, will greet you warmly and outline the day ahead. We appreciated the free Wi-Fi on board, which allowed us to share photos and check messages comfortably as we headed north.
The drive to Kakslauttanen takes you through serene Finnish landscapes—a patchwork of snow-blanketed forests, frozen lakes, and quiet villages. This scenery alone is worth the trip, offering a gentle reminder of just how vast and unspoiled Lapland truly is.
The Magic of Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Arriving at Kakslauttanen is like stepping into a winter fairy tale. Known for its famous glass igloos, the resort promises an experience where you can watch the Northern Lights right from your bed if the conditions are right. While the tour’s focus is on exploration, many travelers enjoy a guided tour of the igloos, learning about their unique design and the local traditions that inspired them.
A highlight is the chance to learn about local Sami culture, which your guide will gladly share. If you’re interested in extra activities like husky safaris or reindeer sleigh rides, these are available at additional costs, so you can tailor your visit based on your interests.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Stops and Photo Opportunities
Throughout the drive, we stopped frequently for stunning photo opportunities. Our guide shared stories about the region’s history and wildlife, adding depth to the visual beauty. One guest said, “We loved the way our guide made the scenery come alive with stories about Lapland’s culture and nature.”
Lunch in the Arctic Wilderness
While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, travelers have options. You might choose a traditional Finnish meal at a cozy local restaurant or pack a picnic to enjoy amid the Arctic scenery. Whether you prefer a warm bowl of salmon soup or simple sandwiches, this flexibility ensures you can customize your midday break.
The Village of Saariselkä
After exploring Kakslauttanen, the journey continues north to Saariselkä. Known for its pristine wilderness and outdoor activities, this village offers a chance to stretch your legs and absorb more of Lapland’s natural allure.
Here, you might visit the famous Gold Museum, a fascinating stop that provides insight into the region’s historic gold prospecting. Many visitors enjoyed the charming shops and boutiques, which often sell handmade crafts and local products. One reviewer noted, “The Gold Museum gave us a deeper understanding of the area’s history, and the shops were delightful.”
Snow Fun at Kaunispää Hill
In Saariselkä, you’ll have time for snow activities. Whether you want to sledge, ski, or simply marvel at the panoramic views from Kaunispää Hill, there’s plenty of fun to be had. The hill’s vantage point offers sweeping vistas across the Arctic landscape—a perfect spot for photos and reflection.
End of the Day: Return to Rovaniemi
After a full day of sightseeing and outdoor adventure, your guide will escort you back to your hotel or accommodation in Rovaniemi. The comfort of a private transfer means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worry, ending your Arctic journey with memories of unforgettable sights and stories.
What We Love About This Tour
The personalized guidance makes all the difference, transforming a sightseeing trip into an engaging story-telling experience. We also appreciated the balance of nature, culture, and scenic beauty—each stop offers something distinct, yet connected. The opportunity to visit the famous glass igloos and experience local traditions enriches the trip beyond just sightseeing.
The flexibility to include optional activities or customize the itinerary to your interests makes this tour a good value for those seeking a tailored Arctic adventure. Plus, the small-group setting ensures a more intimate experience, away from the crowds.
What Could Be Better
While the tour covers many highlights, it does not include lunch or additional activities, which could add to the overall cost if you want a full-day experience. Travelers should also check availability and starting times in advance, as this varies seasonally and may affect your plans.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip is ideal for independent travelers or small groups looking for a personalized Arctic day trip. It suits those interested in cultural stories, scenic drives, and outdoor fun—but who also want the flexibility to add optional activities like husky sledding at their own expense. It’s perfect if you value a balanced mix of scenery, authentic experiences, and comfortable transport.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
Absolutely. For the price, you’re getting a well-organized, flexible, and engaging way to experience some of Finland’s most beloved Arctic sites. The combination of scenic drives, cultural stories, and visits to iconic locations creates a full day that’s both enriching and fun.
While it doesn’t include meals or extra activities, those can be easily added, making this a versatile choice for travelers who want a personalized Arctic adventure without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re looking to understand more about Lapland’s nature and culture, and to see its famous sights in a relaxed, private setting, this tour fits the bill well.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.
What is included in the price?
A private guide, scenic stops, visits to Kakslauttanen and Saariselkä, free Wi-Fi on board, and pick-up and drop-off.
Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You can purchase lunch at local restaurants or bring a packed meal.
Can I add extra activities?
Yes, activities like husky safaris or reindeer sleigh rides are available at additional costs.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families who enjoy outdoor scenery, cultural stories, and flexible plans will find it engaging.
Do I need to worry about language?
The guide speaks English, making communication easy.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, especially if you plan to spend time outside at the igloo or hill sites.
Is the tour suitable during winter?
Yes, it’s designed for winter conditions, and the scenery is particularly stunning in snow.
This private tour from Rovaniemi offers a balanced, authentic taste of Lapland’s wilderness, culture, and iconic sights—a rewarding choice for those looking to see the region at a relaxed pace, with the comfort of a personal guide.
You can check availability for your dates here: