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Exploring Lapland: Your Guide to a Winter Wonderland Adventure

Travel Den • December 10, 2024

At Travel Den, we’ve had the pleasure of helping many families experience the magic of Lapland and have even enjoyed its wonders firsthand. As the home of Santa Claus, Lapland offers unforgettable memories for travelers of all ages. Planning a festive getaway to Lapland can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’re here to guide you. 

With so many incredible options to choose from, it can be hard to know which Lapland holiday provider best suits you and your family. Keep reading as we dive deeper into what each option has to offer, as well as some firsthand experiences and reviews, helping you choose the perfect winter adventure!

1. Not in the Guidebooks

‘Uncover Lapland's Winter Wonderland Experiences you won't find anywhere.’


For those who want something truly unique, Not in the Guidebooks creates highly personalised itineraries that lets you explore Lapland in your own way, away from the usual tourist trails. Not in the Guidebooks also offers Santa breaks all the way through to March as well as breaks more suited to older children, adults only or more northern light hunting styles, as well as the traditional Santa holidays.


Highlights:

  • Trips run from November through to Easter in some of their more northerly resorts.
  • Exclusive accommodations, like glass-roof igloos and secluded lodges.
  • Tailored activities designed to reflect your interests.
  • A focus on privacy and creating one-of-a-kind experiences.


Ideal For:  Couples and families looking for a quieter, personalised Lapland getaway.


Our very own Gilli experienced the Northern Lights Village in Pyha through Not in the Guidebooks on its opening weekend.


“During my stay at the Northern Lights Village in Pyhä, arranged through Not in the Guidebooks, the flexibility and convenience of the trip stood out. Most activities began right at the village’s activity center, just a short walk from our accommodation. Snowmobiling through snowy forests and reindeer sleigh rides were highlights, with only the husky safari requiring a brief drive.


When we weren’t out exploring, it was easy to unwind in our glass-roof igloo, grab a hot chocolate at the restaurant, or even go sledging nearby. The full-board meals meant everything was taken care of, making it a stress-free and enjoyable way to experience the beauty of Lapland." - Gilli Knight


2. Canterbury Travel

‘Award-winning Lapland holidays, day trips and short breaks.’


As specialists in Lapland holidays, Canterbury Travel crafts magical itineraries for families. You can choose from day trips or 3-nights breaks from the end of November, or even their specialist 4-night break over Christmas itself. From chartered flights with festive onboard entertainment to thoughtfully planned excursions, every detail is taken care of.


Highlights:

  • Trips run from November to December.
  • Exclusive flights that immerse you in the holiday spirit from the moment you board.
  • Full-board packages with meals, full-day excursions, and plenty of festive fun.
  • Log cabin accommodations for a cozy, authentic experience.


Ideal For:  Those who want an engaging and fully immersive Lapland experience - perfect for families with young children.


Check out Gilli and Phil's trip to Lapland with Canterbury Travel in 2002 - just as magical then as it is now!


3. Santa’s Lapland

‘No one knows how to make Christmas more magical.’


With nearly two decades of experience, Santa’s Lapland delivers the perfect balance of festive charm and adventure. Choose from the Santa’s Magic package for a classic holiday or the Santa’s Aurora package for a more serene and elevated experience.


Highlights:

  • Trips run from end of November to December.
  • Immersive activities such as husky sledding, reindeer sleigh rides, and a private Santa visit included in your package.
  • Two package options designed to suit different styles of travel, including flights and transfers.
  • Snowsuits provided for all the wintery activities.


Ideal For: Families seeking a well-rounded Lapland adventure filled with magic and wonder.


4. Inghams

‘The ski, walking and Lapland experts’


With Inghams, you have the freedom to design your holiday your way. Begin with great accommodations and then select the activities that pique your interest. It’s a flexible approach that lets you craft a trip perfectly suited to you and your family. 


Highlights:

  • Trips run from end of November to December.
  • The freedom to choose from a variety of excursions to create your ideal trip.
  • Thoughtful touches such as a welcome pack featuring luggage tags and a private letter for Santa, adding a special touch.
  • User-friendly booking tools and excellent customer care for stress-free planning.
  • Add skiing to your trip for the ultimate holiday combination.


Ideal For: Families with young children looking to create a tailored Lapland holiday with unique experiences.


From witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights to meeting Father Christmas himself, our wonderful agent Sian’s family had a magical trip with Inghams. Check out some highlights below.

Nothern Lights trip to Lapland
Family holiday to meet Santa Claus in Laplan
Family trip to Lapland
Family holiday to Lapland

5. Transun

‘Lapland holidays as you always wished they could be.’


Transun provides a peaceful escape into Lapland’s wilderness, offering a balance of magical activities and serene surroundings. It’s a great choice for those seeking a more intimate and relaxed experience.


Highlights:

  • Trips run from November through to March.
  • Secluded accommodations, including log cabins and the option to upgrade to glass domes.
  • Small-group experiences that allow for a quieter, more personalised trip.
  • Unique activities, including cookie baking and a private Santa visit across a frozen lake.
  • Adult only breaks also available, as well as breaks suitable for older children through January - March.


Ideal For: Families with older children or those seeking a calm, magical holiday in Lapland.


Take a look at Lapland through the eyes of our agent Rebecca. Her trip with Transun was a mix of festive fun and stunning scenery, from baking cookies to relaxing in a glass igloo and taking a reindeer sleigh ride through snowy forests. It’s a great glimpse into the magic this destination has to offer!

Husky sleigh ride in Lapland
Glass dome igloo in Lapland
Cookie baking activity Lapland holiday
Reindeer sleigh ride in Lapland

6. TUI

‘From meeting Santa on his home turf, to husky-led sleigh rides, festive fun is firmly on the agenda on holidays to Lapland.’


TUI combines the essentials of a Lapland experience at a lower cost with the option to add on your own trips. Their offerings allow you to enjoy traditional winter activities while still giving you the choice of which activities you would like to add on top. 


Highlights:

  • Trips run from end of November to December.
  • Village or town accommodations offering convenience and comfort.
  • The option to choose from a variety of activities, creating a trip that suits your style.


Ideal For:  Travelers seeking a flexible, straightforward Lapland holiday with the freedom to add on their preferred experiences.


Your Lapland Adventure Awaits

No matter what your dream Lapland holiday looks like, Travel Den is here to help make it a reality. From festive magic to serene winter landscapes, we’ll craft a trip that brings your vision to life.

Some of our agents are heading to Lapland in the next few weeks to experience the destination firsthand, so stay tuned for their insights and updates when they’re back!

Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable Lapland experience!

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