Full Day Lapland Tour, including Lunch and Dinner

Discover the Magic of Rovaniemi with a Full Day Lapland Tour

Imagine spending a day exploring Lapland’s wild beauty, getting close to Arctic animals, and experiencing the cozy tradition of a Finnish sauna—all in just 8 to 9 hours. This Full Day Lapland Tour, offered from Rovaniemi, Finland, combines visits to the Ranua Wildlife Park, a traditional wood-burning sauna, and a lakeside cottage where you’ll enjoy local cuisine cooked over an open fire. For around $688 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded taste of Arctic life, with many happy travelers rating it a perfect 5 stars.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guide (we’ll call him Alex, as some reviews suggest) makes all the difference, sharing fascinating insights into Lapland’s wildlife and Finnish traditions. Second, the authentic experiences—from walking through the Arctic zoo to cooling off in the lake after a sauna—are genuine and memorable. You’ll love the chance to see polar bears and arctic foxes up close, and the meal at the lakeside cottage, where salmon is cooked directly over the fire, is both delicious and atmospheric.

One thing to consider is the full day’s commitment—be prepared for a busy schedule, and dress warmly, as outdoor activities and weather in Lapland can be unpredictable. This tour suits travelers who appreciate wildlife, local culture, and authentic Finnish traditions. If you’re after a comprehensive, hassle-free way to experience Rovaniemi’s highlights in one day, this tour is a great choice.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Up-close views of arctic foxes, polar bears, and other northern animals at Ranua Zoo.
• Authentic Finnish Sauna: Experience the health benefits of a traditional sauna, including lake swimming.
• Cultural Insights: Guided conversations about Lapland’s nature and Finnish lifestyle.
• Gourmet Local Food: Enjoy a buffet lunch and a lakeside dinner featuring smoked salmon cooked over an open fire.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Entrance fees, transportation, and equipment like towels and slippers are included.
• Flexible & Reliable: Operates year-round in all weather, with free cancellation if needed.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Schedule

Your day begins at the Rovaniemi Tourist Information center at 9:00 am, where friendly guides will gather your group. The small size—max 15 travelers—means a more intimate experience, with the guide’s local knowledge shining through. From here, the journey to Ranua Wildlife Park begins, an hour’s drive through the snowy or forested scenery that perfectly sets the Arctic tone.

Ranua Wildlife Park

Once at the zoo, your entry is prebooked, so no waiting in line. The zoo is notable for being the northernmost zoo in the world, and it’s home to around 50 species that thrive in Lapland’s climate. Expect to see arctic foxes, minks, otters, and, yes, the famous polar bears—which many reviews highlight as a major highlight, with one traveler calling a polar bear encounter “incredible.”

The zoo’s layout encourages a walk of about 3 km through the forest, giving you a chance to spot animals in a habitat designed to mimic their natural environment. The walk can be chilly, so dress in layers, but the experience of seeing these animals in a setting that feels genuine is well worth the effort.

Nature and Wildlife Reflection

What we loved about the zoo visit is how well it balances animal viewing with forest walking, giving us a feel for Arctic wildlife and the landscape. As one traveler put it, the experience was “beautiful and educational,” perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Lunch Break

After the zoo, everyone heads to a cozy restaurant where a buffet lunch awaits. The reviews consistently mention the variety of options and the quality of the food, which helps refuel you for the afternoon. It’s a good chance to relax, share impressions, and warm up before the next adventure.

Finnish Sauna & Lake Swimming

The highlight for many is the Finnish sauna experience—a true taste of local tradition. Your guide teaches you how to light the sauna, then you step inside to enjoy the soothing heat. Once sufficiently warm, it’s time to cool off with lake swimming or ice hole bathing—a refreshing, invigorating ritual that’s believed to offer numerous health benefits.

The guides stress safety and moderation, emphasizing that this is a healthful process, not a crazy stunt. Many reviews describe it as “spectacular,” with one reviewer noting the “water at 2°C” but feeling surprisingly revitalized afterward. Towels and slippers are provided, making the experience more comfortable.

Lakeside Dinner

As the day winds down, the group gathers at a lakeside cottage for dinner—a cozy affair featuring smoked salmon cooked over an open fire. The setting, with crackling fire and peaceful waters, makes for an authentic and memorable meal. This offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s culinary traditions and the chance to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price tag might seem high, including lunch, dinner, entrance fees, and sauna experience, the value lies in the convenience and authenticity. Booking all these activities yourself could be more complicated and costly, especially considering transportation and equipment rentals. The guided format ensures you see the best bits of Lapland while learning about its culture from someone who knows the area well.

Insights from Travelers

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides—”very knowledgeable of the animals and Finnish history,” as one reviewer put it. Others appreciate the stunning views and how the experience feels personal rather than a generic tour. The small group size allows for interaction and tailored insights, making it more than just a sightseeing day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and those curious about Finnish traditions. If you want a balanced day—a bit of wildlife, outdoor activity, culture, and hearty food—this tour covers it all. It’s also a great introduction to Lapland for first-timers, offering a compact snapshot of what makes this region special.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Lapland Tour offers a well-rounded adventure suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, expert guidance, and a taste of Arctic life. Whether you’re marveling at polar bears, cooling off in icy lakes, or enjoying a fireside meal, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Lapland’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Given the glowing reviews and balanced itinerary, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a meaningful, hassle-free day in the Arctic. It’s especially recommended if you’re eager to combine wildlife, outdoor activities, and Finnish traditions into one memorable experience.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers transportation, pickup and drop-off from Rovaniemi hotels, entrance to Ranua Wildlife Park, the buffet lunch, sauna session, towels and slippers, and dinner with smoked salmon.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Is it suitable for children?
Children under 10 are not accepted on this tour, but older kids with accompanying adults can enjoy most activities.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, especially for outdoor activities like walking and lake swimming. Bring a bathing suit for the lake experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people participate?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, making it intimate and well-paced.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need to prebook?
Yes, the tour requires prebooking, and your spot is secured once confirmed.

Are meals included?
Yes, both lunch and dinner are included in the price, featuring local dishes and smoked salmon over fire.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels in Rovaniemi are included.

This carefully curated experience balances wildlife, culture, outdoor fun, and genuine Finnish traditions, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a full day of Arctic adventure with everything taken care of.