Kemijarvi offers a unique window into Arctic life, with its expansive snowy landscapes and long, dark winter nights. Unlike more tourist-heavy destinations, Kemijarvi’s smaller scale means you can enjoy authentic, immersive experiences. We especially love the chance to drive your own husky sled — an activity that combines adventure, connection with the dogs, and a true sense of Lapland’s rugged beauty. Plus, the Santa Claus Village visit puts you right in the middle of Christmas magic, perfect for families or anyone wanting to feel festive. If chasing the Northern Lights is your thing, the guided tour from Rovaniemi guarantees a memorable night, with professional photos and a money-back promise if the auroras stay hidden.
Kemijarvi’s tours stand out for their focus on genuine Arctic experiences, whether that’s driving a sled, fishing on frozen lakes, or meeting Santa himself. They’re designed for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — you’ll get hands-on, authentic moments that make your trip truly memorable.
Brief Overview
Our list includes five of the best tours in Kemijarvi, each offering a different slice of Lapland life. From 10 km self-drive husky sledding and 5 km husky safaris (see details) to a full day at Santa Claus Village (more info), these experiences showcase the region’s outdoor charm and cultural highlights. For those seeking cold-weather thrills, the ice fishing tour (see here) offers peace and simplicity, while the Northern Lights tour (details here) promises stunning sky shows and professional photography. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Kemijärvi: Insider 10 km Self-Drive Husky Sledding Adventure
For around $235 per person, this self-drive husky sledding tour offers a rare chance to take the reins of your own sled. It lasts about 2.5 hours and is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of controlling a team of energetic huskies through pristine Lapland wilderness. The tour includes winter clothing, drinks, and snacks, making sure you’re comfortable in the cold.
What makes this adventure stand out is the intimate setting — you share the experience with a small group, connect directly with the huskies and handlers, and learn about their training and lives in Arctic conditions. The highlight is feeling the rush as you maneuver your sled across snow-covered forests, with plenty of opportunities to stop, chat, and take photos. Afterward, you relax in a cozy cabin, swapping stories over hot drinks.
This tour is ideal for active travelers, dog lovers, or families ready for a hands-on adventure. While it’s not the cheapest option, the personal interaction and sense of achievement make it worth every penny. Bottom line: If you want to drive a sled yourself and enjoy an authentic husky experience, this is a top pick.
$235 per person
2. Kemijärvi: Insider Guided Visit to the Santa Claus Village
For $200 per person, this guided Santa visit combines transportation, sightseeing, and festive cheer in one 5-hour package. It’s perfect for families or anyone eager to enjoy Christmas magic outside the holiday season. The tour includes round-trip transport from Kemijarvi, warm winter clothing, and a delicious lunch, ensuring comfort throughout.
The real magic happens at Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa in his cozy cabin, share your wishes, and take photos. The village itself is charming, with reindeer, elves, and plenty of holiday-themed shops. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about Lapland’s holiday traditions, making the experience more meaningful than just sightseeing. Plus, the included winter gear lets you explore without worrying about cold hands or feet.
Guests say this tour offers a stress-free way to enjoy Santa’s home, with the added bonus of a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience. It’s best suited for families, Christmas lovers, and those looking for an easy, joyful day out. Bottom line: This is a festive and memorable way to meet Santa and soak up Lapland’s Christmas spirit.
$200 per person
3. Kemijärvi: Insider Husky Self-Drive 5km Safari
This 2-hour self-drive husky safari costs about $211 per person and offers a shorter but equally engaging alternative to the longer sledding tour. You’ll drive your own sled for about 5 km, making it perfect for a quick Arctic thrill. The experience begins with warming up in a cozy cabin, where you’ll learn about husky training and care from the handlers. Then, it’s your turn to take control of the team and navigate through snow-dusted forests and open vistas.
What makes this tour appealing is the personal aspect — you’re not just riding along, but actively involved in steering your sled. The tour includes warm drinks and stories about life in Lapland, giving you a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at the region’s dog-powered winter life. The group size is small, ensuring personalized attention and plenty of opportunities for photos.
This experience suits travelers short on time but eager for a hands-on adventure. It’s less intense than the 10 km trip but still packs a punch in terms of fun and authenticity. Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a quick, engaging husky adventure with a focus on connection.
$211 per person
4. Kemijärvi: Insider Ice Fishing Experience
At just $93 per person, this ice fishing tour is an affordable way to experience a traditional Finnish winter activity. Lasting about 2 hours, it takes you to a quiet Arctic lake where you learn the basics of fishing through a hole in the ice. The tour includes all gear, warm clothing, and equipment, removing any hassle from your experience.
What makes this tour special is the peaceful setting. You’ll stand or sit on the frozen lake, surrounded by snow and silence, with only the clink of your fishing line to break the stillness. The guide shares insights into the history and techniques of Finnish ice fishing, making it more than just a pastime — it’s a cultural lesson. After catching (or not catching) fish, you enjoy hot drinks and snacks, soaking in the tranquil landscape.
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking serenity and simplicity, especially those interested in Finnish traditions. Keep in mind, ice fishing depends on weather conditions and ice safety, so it’s best in mid-winter. Bottom line: An affordable, peaceful activity that offers a true taste of Arctic life.
$93 per person
5. Rovaniemi: Insider Guaranteed Northern Lights Tour + Photos
For $177, this Northern Lights tour from Rovaniemi is a full 12-hour adventure, with the added peace of mind thanks to a money-back guarantee if the auroras don’t appear. The tour includes full winter clothing, hot drinks, and snacks, plus professional photos of your experience, making it perfect for photographers and sky-watchers alike.
The itinerary involves pickups in Rovaniemi, stops at scenic viewpoints, and secret locations for optimal aurora viewing. The guide is experienced and knows the best spots for catching the Northern Lights, often away from artificial light pollution. During the night, you’ll learn how to photograph the auroras with your phone or camera, ensuring you leave with memorable images.
Many travelers praise the reliability of this tour, noting that the professional photos are a highlight. It’s suitable for travelers who want a high chance of seeing the auroras, without having to chase them alone or worry about missing out. Bottom line: If seeing the Northern Lights is your priority, this tour offers the best chance combined with convenience and professional photos.
$177 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Selecting the best tour in Kemijarvi depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you’re an active type who wants control, the self-drive husky sledding or the shorter 5 km husky safari are excellent choices. For families and those craving holiday cheer, the Santa Claus Village tour offers a festive, all-inclusive experience.
If you’re after a quiet, traditional activity, the ice fishing provides serenity and cultural insight. For sky enthusiasts, the Northern Lights tour guarantees a high chance of witnessing the auroras with professional photography included.
When booking, consider the season and weather conditions, especially for outdoor activities like ice fishing or husky safaris. Early reservations are recommended during peak winter months, as these popular experiences tend to fill quickly.
To sum it up, Kemijarvi offers a diverse range of Arctic adventures that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you prefer bonding with huskies, meeting Santa, or chasing Northern Lights, you’ll find an option that fits your style. For the best experience, plan ahead and book early — these memorable experiences are best enjoyed with a bit of preparation. Happy travels in this winter wonderland!