Exploring Lapland: Is 2 days enough for an unforgettable experience?

Lapland, the largest and northernmost region of Finland, is a winter wonderland visited by thousands of travelers from all over the world. With landscapes ranging from frozen forests and lakes to reindeer farms, it is an immersive and unique experience for anyone who loves snow and outdoor activities. But, is 2 days enough to fully enjoy Lapland? Let’s explore the possibilities.

Day 1: Exploring the Wilderness

As soon as you arrive in Lapland, you’ll be greeted by a serene and magical atmosphere. The first day can be dedicated to exploring the vast wilderness of the region, which is filled with adventure. You can choose from several options such as snowmobiling through the snowy forests, visiting the husky farms and going for a sled dog ride, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

One of the highlights of Lapland is the Northern Lights. The Auroras are a natural phenomenon that can be seen in numerous locations in Lapland. Abisko National Park in Sweden is considered one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights and has plenty of tours on offer. The Saariselkä fell in Finland is another great option, which also has other winter activities such as snowboarding and skiing.

Day 2: Immersing into Lapland’s Culture and Traditions

The second day in Lapland can be a cultural one. You can visit traditional Sami villages and get to know their way of life. The Sami people have inhabited Lapland for centuries, and their culture and traditions are deeply rooted in the region. You can visit the Sami museum, see a traditional reindeer herd, and even try reindeer sledding!

For the ultimate Lapland experience, you should visit Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and the official hometown of Santa Claus. Rovaniemi is a city filled with Christmas spirit, and besides the Santa Claus Village, it is also home to Arktikum, which is a museum and science center dedicated to the Arctic world.

Other Activities

If you have extra time, there are numerous other activities to enjoy in Lapland. For instance, you can visit an ice hotel, go ice-fishing, or even take a dip in a frozen lake! Another option is to visit the Levi Ski Resort in Sirkka, which is the largest ski resort in Finland.

Tips for Traveling to Lapland

Now that you have an idea of what 2 days in Lapland can look like, here are some tips to help you make your trip more enjoyable:

• Dress warmly: temperatures in Lapland can drop below -30°C, so it’s important to pack warm clothing and gear.
• Plan ahead: most of Lapland’s winter activities require pre-booking, and they can fill up quickly during peak season (December-February).
• Get travel insurance: medical assistance can be costly in Lapland due to its remote location, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
• Experience local cuisine: Lapland’s cuisine is unique and includes dishes such as reindeer meat, salmon, and traditional Finnish dishes such as Karjalanpiirakka.

Conclusion

There you have it! Even though Lapland has a lot to offer, two days can be enough to get a taste of Lapland’s winter magic and unique culture. Remember to plan ahead, dress warmly, and immerse yourself in the local culture for an unforgettable trip. If you’ve been to Lapland, what are some must-see activities you would recommend?