Lapland is a dream destination for many, offering breathtaking snowy landscapes, the allure of the Northern Lights, and a deep connection to Sami culture. If you're planning your first visit, here are five essential tips to help you make the most of this unforgettable experience. Tips are provided by Ivalo born local private guide, Sami Kauppinen.
Proper Clothing for Arctic Temperatures
A tip that will likely have the greatest impact on your comfort during your visit to Lapland is wearing appropriate clothing. Lapland's winter weather is extreme, with temperatures often dropping below -30°C (-22°F). Proper clothing will make your experience enjoyable. Otherwise you only remember the feeling when your toes and fingers are frozen.
Start with thermal base layers, add insulating mid-layers, and finish with windproof outer layers. Merinowool base layers are the best in my opinion.
Don’t forget accessories like thermal socks, gloves, and a quality beanie.
Insulated, non-slip boots are a must for navigating snowy terrain. I like to use winter barefoot shoes because of the groundy feeling but those aren't very warm as the sole is quite thin. If you stay in motion, even thermal barefootshoes are enough. For snowmobile trip I would put high-soled thermal rubber boots.
Pro Tip: Many local services, like Winterent, offer high-quality clothing rentals so you can travel light without compromising comfort.
2. Maximize Your Northern Lights Viewing
Seeing the aurora borealis is at the top of most Lapland visitors' lists. Here's top tips how to improve your chances:
Before it, I want to tell the truth. You can see the Northern Lights almost anywhere as long as the sky is clear and the auroras are active. Only light pollution might interfere. This means you have just as much chance of seeing them from the front door of your accommodation as you do by spending hundreds on an aurora tour.
However, if you’re seeking adventure and want to experience the thrill of hunting the auroras, booking a tour is a fantastic option.
Book a guided tour with experts like Ivalo Guide, who know the best spots and techniques for spotting the lights. Sometimes the auroras could stay unseen if you aren't sharp-eyed. You might check on the sky and note that there isn't any auroras even though there would have been and they would have been got stronger if you would have been patient enough.
Monitor aurora forecasts but don't rely on them. Check for clear skies. When the sky is clear, there is always chances to see the auroras.
You can always take a picture of starry sky. A camera can see colours what eyes can't see. If you see the northern lights on a screen, you should wait if the auroras gets stronger.
Dress warmly—it’s a waiting game, but worth every second!
Even if the lights don’t appear, the adventure of stargazing in the Arctic wilderness is magical on its own.
3. Dive into local Lappish Culture
The Sami people are the indigenous inhabitants of Lapland, offering a rich cultural heritage for you to explore during your visit. There are also non-Sami locals who have lived there for decades and have created their own unique Lappish culture, shaped by leisure activities, a peaceful lifestyle, and a close connection to nature.
Visit authentic reindeer farms to learn about traditional Sami livelihoods.
Choose souvenirs crafted by Sami and other local artisans to support local communities rather than mass products made in outside Finland. They might be cheap but not authentic. I think you want to be an authentic, not a fake.
Remember to treat the environment and wildlife with the respect.
By embracing the culture, you’ll gain a deeper connection to Lapland's unique way of life.
4. Taste the Arctic Flavors
Lapland’s food is as much a part of the experience as the landscape. Some dishes to try:
Reindeer stew (Poronkäristys): Served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries, it’s hearty and flavorful.
Salmon soup (Lohikeitto): Perfect for warming up after outdoor adventures.
Cloudberries: Rare golden berries found in the Arctic, used in desserts and jams.
Many restaurants incorporate Sami traditions into their menus, offering a true taste of Lapland. Many guides cooks these delicious dinners outdoor by an open fire. That would add a speciality to the culinary experience. Ivalo Guide is one of them.
5. Savor the Silence
One of Lapland’s most striking features is its tranquility. Step into the wilderness, and you’ll find a world devoid of noise pollution.
Take time to pause during your adventures and absorb the stillness.
Whether you're in a snow-covered forest or on a frozen lake, this silence is an unforgettable part of the Lapland experience.
This is one of the most popular reason of why Finnish people is moving up here. They escape the hassle and dassle of the city life that is exhausting and stressful for many people.
Sami Laitinen
Discover Lapland with Confidence with These 5 Tips
Lapland offers an incredible mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. With these tips in hand, you're ready to experience the magic. For personalized tours and unique insights, visit Ivalo Guide or book a private adventure tailored to your interests.
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