Äkäslompolo Santa Breaks
The Festive Season in the Heart of Real Lapland
Experience the magic of Christmas-time, where reindeer wander through snow-covered streets and the Arctic wilderness begins just beyond your door. With our wonderful elf guides accompanying you throughout, every moment feels personal, relaxed and wonderfully special.
Breaks available on selected dates in December.
Our Äkäslompolo Santa Breaks combine classic Arctic adventures with an authentic and carefully considered Christmas experience.
Travel through the snowy wilderness by husky sled and snowmobile, meet the reindeer and enjoy time playing in the snow, all surrounded by the forests and fells of Finnish Lapland.
Throughout your stay, our warm and engaging elf guides help bring the experience to life. They are there to guide your activities, entertain the children and make sure everything runs smoothly, creating a magical atmosphere without ever feeling staged or overly theatrical.
The highlight is, of course, your private family meeting with Santa. Children can send their letters ahead of their visit, receive a personalised invitation before travelling and journey through the forest to Santa’s secluded cabin. With thoughtful details, beautiful natural surroundings and plenty of time to enjoy each experience, these breaks offer the magic children dream of.
What's Included
- direct charter flights with British Airways
- accommodation
- meals on full board basis*
- private meeting with Santa with a reindeer sleigh ride to his cabin
- snow-fun day including tobganning, snow shoe walking, BBQ sausages, make decoration and more
- husky safari
- snowmobile safari
- reindeer safari (4 night & Christmas Break)
- ice-fishing (Christmas Break)
- transfers
- thermal clothing
* At Lodge 67°N Hotel, meals are served buffet-style, while cabin guests have meals delivered and set out for them in the comfort of their own accommodation.
Itinerary
Please note that the sample itinerary is intended as a guide only; the order and days of activities may change.
Day 1
Welcome to Your Arctic Home
Arrive in Lapland and settle into your new Arctic home, surrounded by snow-covered wilderness. Take your first steps into the snow, enjoy some tobogganing and breathe in the crisp, fresh air as your adventure begins. As the early dusk settles, the landscape is transformed by the soft colours of Arctic twilight, while the snow seems to glow in the darkness. You may even catch your first glimpse of the Northern Lights, or simply pause to enjoy the remarkable silence of softly falling snow.
Day 2
Adventures in the Wild & a Private Meeting with Santa
In the morning travel to the secluded wilderness for an Arctic Circle ceremony and various snow activities, including tandem skiing, snowshoe walking, kick sledging, tobogganing, and children’s snowmobiling. Indoors, you can enjoy decorating gingerbread cookies and making Christmas decorations. Each family recieves an invitation from Santa with your scheduled time for a private visit. A reindeer sleigh ride will take you to Santa’s cabin, located in a secluded forest setting.
Time to Relax and Recharge
Return to your accommodation in the mid-afternoon with time to relax, warm up and perhaps enjoy a well-earned nap. Those with energy to spare can wrap up and head back outside for a little more fun in the snow.
Day 3
Meet More Huskies than You Can Count
In the morning experience the thrill of a husky safari at a working husky farm, where you’ll meet some of the friendly and energetic dogs that call Lapland home. After an introduction to mushing, you’ll take the lead and embark on an unforgettable 5km husky safari through the breathtaking Arctic wilderness.
After your ride, warm up with a hot drink by the fire and take the opportunity to ask the mushers about the lives of these incredible sled dogs—how they train, race, and thrive in the snowy landscapes of Lapland.
Unwind with the family
After lunch, your afternoon is free for you to enjoy as you wish—relax, go downhill skiing just 10 minutes away by taxi, or explore additional activities available to book in Lapland, such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing, or a reindeer safari.
Day 4
Into the Wilderness by Snowmobile
In the morning embark on a snowmobile safari through the untouched Lappish wilderness. After receiving driving instructions, safety equipment, and advice, you’ll set off on the safari. Two adults will share a snowmobile, and children (or those who do not wish to drive) will ride in a sleigh pulled behind the guide’s snowmobiles.
The safari covers 25 km, with a stop halfway in the forest for warm drinks and snacks. As two adults share each snowmobile, you can swap drivers after the break.
A Final Taste of Lapland Before Home
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before making time for a little souvenir shopping. Afterwards, continue to the airport for your journey home, taking with you plenty of special memories from Lapland.
Day 1
Welcome to Your Arctic Home
Arrive in Lapland and settle into your new Arctic home, surrounded by snow-covered wilderness. Take your first steps into the snow, enjoy some tobogganing and breathe in the crisp, fresh air as your adventure begins. As the early dusk settles, the landscape is transformed by the soft colours of Arctic twilight, while the snow seems to glow in the darkness. You may even catch your first glimpse of the Northern Lights, or simply pause to enjoy the remarkable silence of softly falling snow.
Day 2
Adventures in the Wild & a Private Meeting with Santa
In the morning travel to the secluded wilderness for an Arctic Circle ceremony and various snow activities, including tandem skiing, snowshoe walking, kick sledging, tobogganing, and children’s snowmobiling. Indoors, you can enjoy decorating gingerbread cookies and making Christmas decorations. Each family recieves an invitation from Santa with your scheduled time for a private visit. A reindeer sleigh ride will take you to Santa’s cabin, located in a secluded forest setting.
Time to Relax and Recharge
Return to your accommodation in the mid-afternoon with time to relax, warm up and perhaps enjoy a well-earned nap. Those with energy to spare can wrap up and head back outside for a little more fun in the snow.
Day 3
Meet More Huskies than You Can Count
In the morning experience the thrill of a husky safari at a working husky farm, where you’ll meet some of the friendly and energetic dogs that call Lapland home. After an introduction to mushing, you’ll take the lead and embark on an unforgettable 5km husky safari through the breathtaking Arctic wilderness.
After your ride, warm up with a hot drink by the fire and take the opportunity to ask the mushers about the lives of these incredible sled dogs—how they train, race, and thrive in the snowy landscapes of Lapland.
Unwind with the family
After lunch, your afternoon is free for you to enjoy as you wish—relax, go downhill skiing just 10 minutes away by taxi, or explore additional activities available to book in Lapland, such as ice fishing or cross-country skiing.
Day 4
Meet the Reindeer and Their Herders
Visit a traditional reindeer farm and gain insight into the lives of these majestic animals from a local reindeer herder. Reindeer have been at the heart of life in Lapland for centuries, playing a vital role in the region’s culture and traditions. During your visit, enjoy a peaceful and leisurely reindeer sleigh ride, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the Arctic landscape.
An Afternoon at Your Own Pace
After lunch, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy however you choose. Take some time to relax, head to the nearby ski slopes, or add another Arctic experience such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing or a reindeer safari.
Day 5
Into the Wilderness by Snowmobile
In the morning embark on a snowmobile safari through the untouched Lappish wilderness. After receiving driving instructions, safety equipment, and advice, you’ll set off on the safari. Two adults will share a snowmobile, and children (or those who do not wish to drive) will ride in a sleigh pulled behind the guide’s snowmobiles.
The safari covers 25 km, with a stop halfway in the forest for warm drinks and snacks. As two adults share each snowmobile, you can swap drivers after the break.
A Final Taste of Lapland Before Home
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before making time for a little souvenir shopping. Afterwards, continue to the airport for your journey home, taking with you plenty of special memories from Lapland.
23rd December
Welcome to Your Arctic Home
Arrive in Lapland and settle into your new Arctic home, surrounded by snow-covered wilderness. Take your first steps into the snow, enjoy some tobogganing and breathe in the crisp, fresh air as your adventure begins. As the early dusk settles, the landscape is transformed by the soft colours of Arctic twilight, while the snow seems to glow in the darkness. You may even catch your first glimpse of the Northern Lights, or simply pause to enjoy the remarkable silence of softly falling snow.
24th December
Adventures in the Wild & a Private Meeting with Santa
In the morning travel to the secluded wilderness for an Arctic Circle ceremony and various snow activities, including tandem skiing, snowshoe walking, kick sledging, tobogganing, and children’s snowmobiling. Indoors, you can enjoy decorating gingerbread cookies and making Christmas decorations. Each family recieves an invitation from Santa with your scheduled time for a private visit. A reindeer sleigh ride will take you to Santa’s cabin, located in a secluded forest setting.
Time to Relax and Recharge
Return to your accommodation in the mid-afternoon with time to relax, warm up and perhaps enjoy a well-earned nap. Those with energy to spare can wrap up and head back outside for a little more fun in the snow.
25th December
Into the Wilderness by Snowmobile
In the morning embark on a snowmobile safari through the untouched Lappish wilderness. After receiving driving instructions, safety equipment, and advice, you’ll set off on the safari. Two adults will share a snowmobile, and children (or those who do not wish to drive) will ride in a sleigh pulled behind the guide’s snowmobiles.
The safari covers 25 km, with a stop halfway in the forest for warm drinks and snacks. As two adults share each snowmobile, you can swap drivers after the break.
Meet More Huskies than You Can Count
In the evening experience the thrill of a husky safari at a working husky farm, where you’ll meet some of the friendly and energetic dogs that call Lapland home. After an introduction to mushing, you’ll take the lead and embark on an unforgettable 5km husky safari through the breathtaking Arctic wilderness.
After your ride, warm up with a hot drink by the fire and take the opportunity to ask the mushers about the lives of these incredible sled dogs—how they train, race, and thrive in the snowy landscapes of Lapland.
26th December
Meet the Reindeer and Their Herders
Visit a traditional reindeer farm and gain insight into the lives of these majestic animals from a local reindeer herder. Reindeer have been at the heart of life in Lapland for centuries, playing a vital role in the region’s culture and traditions. During your visit, enjoy a peaceful and leisurely reindeer sleigh ride, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the Arctic landscape.
An Afternoon at Your Own Pace
After lunch, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy however you choose. Take some time to relax, head to the nearby ski slopes, or add another Arctic experience such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing or a reindeer safari.
27th December
Try Your Hand at Arctic Ice Fishing
At the serene Luosu Lake, surrounded by snow-laden trees and the vast Arctic wilderness, you’ll experience the peaceful art of ice fishing. Step onto the thick, glistening ice and drill a hole, feeling the crisp winter air as you lower your line into the dark, icy waters below. Patience is key as you wait in anticipation, watching for the slightest movement that signals a catch. Whether you reel in a fish or simply soak in the tranquillity of the frozen landscape, this traditional Nordic pastime offers a moment of quiet reflection and a true taste of life in Lapland.
A Final Taste of Lapland Before Home
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before making time for a little souvenir shopping. Afterwards, continue to the airport for your journey home, taking with you plenty of special memories from Lapland.
Find the right place for you
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our Lapland breaks, from suitable ages and the weather to travel arrangements and what to expect during your stay.
Our festive breaks are designed with families in mind, and we find that children aged 4 and over tend to enjoy the experience most. We understand, however, that many families travel with siblings of different ages. We do not recommend travelling with infants under six months old, and if our local guides consider the weather or conditions unsuitable for a child under two to join an activity, one adult will need to remain behind with them.
We charter British Airways aircraft to offer direct flights from London Heathrow to Kittilä Airport in Finnish Lapland, with a flight time of approximately three and a half hours. We also pre-allocate seats across the entire aircraft, helping to ensure that families are seated together.
The price of your holiday includes flights, transfers, thermal clothing, local guiding and all of the activities shown in the itinerary for your chosen break. Extras may include alcoholic or additional drinks, souvenirs and any optional activities you decide to add during your stay, such as ice fishing or cross-country ski school. These can usually be booked once you are in Lapland, giving you the flexibility to decide whether you would like to include anything further.
Each of our festive breaks offers a slightly different journey to meet Santa, but every family enjoys a private visit. You can send your children’s letters to Santa us before travelling, or discreetly hand them to your local guide on arrival, so they can be passed on to Santa in time for the meeting. We also send each child a personalised invitation from Santa before departure, helping the magic begin long before you reach Lapland.
Our Santa breaks operate throughout December, with a choice of three- and four-night stays leading up to Christmas. Our departure dates for 2026 and 2027 are:
- 4–7 December
- 7–11 December
- 11–14 December
- 14–17 December
- 17–20 December
- 20–23 December
- 23–27 December
Snow usually arrives in Lapland by the middle of November, and we have never had difficulty operating our festive breaks from the beginning of December onwards. Because we work with small groups, we have greater flexibility to adapt timings and itineraries where necessary, helping us to continue delivering the included activities. In the unlikely event that a complete lack of snow made it impossible for us to operate any of the activities, you would be entitled to a full refund.
We can cater for most dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, coeliac and lactose-free diets. Please let us know about any specific requirements at the time of enquiry, and we will be very happy to help. While every reasonable care is taken, we cannot guarantee that food will be completely free from cross-contamination.
For guests with a life-threatening allergy that may require immediate, time-sensitive medical intervention, we do not recommend travelling to the part of Lapland in which we operate. While medical assistance is available locally, the nearest full hospital is in Rovaniemi, approximately 200 kilometres away.