Lapland tours: taiga forests, frozen lakes and Northern Lights

Why does Lapland fascinate travellers?

Lapland is not a country but a vast Arctic territory stretching across the northern regions of Finland, Sweden and Norway, as well as part of Russia. Each border reveals a different side of the Far North, yet silence, polar light and an almost unreal sense of space shape the entire region. Travelling by snowmobile makes it possible to enter these landscapes when the roads disappear beneath the snow.

• The taiga unfolds through pine and spruce forests heavy with snow.
• Frozen lakes create long crossings across open white expanses.
• The Scandinavian Mountains bring valleys, elevation and more technical riding.
• Sámi lands reveal a culture closely connected to reindeer and the seasons.
• The Northern Lights may illuminate the night when weather and solar activity are favourable.

Finland, Sweden or Norway: which Lapland should you choose?

Finnish Lapland appeals through its deep forests, Lake Inari and extensive trail network. Sweden offers vast wilderness beneath the Kebnekaise massif. On the Norwegian side, the mountains open towards fjords and the Arctic Ocean. Several itineraries cross national borders to reveal the region’s full diversity.

• Choose Finland for taiga forests, lakes and long marked snowmobile trails.
• Select Sweden for mountain scenery and vast wilderness areas.
• Head towards Norway if you dream of fjords and Arctic coastlines.
• Choose a cross-border expedition for a more demanding adventure.

A first snowmobile experience or a winter escape

Several journeys provide an accessible introduction to Lapland, with a guide and gradual progression adapted to the group. Into the heart of the Lapland taiga combines Nordic wilderness, nights surrounded by forest and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. The conquest of Lapland’s white wilderness explores the area around Ruka beneath the distinctive glow of the polar night.

A five-day snowmobile escape in Finland covers approximately 300 kilometres through the forests. Travellers wishing to combine riding with festive winter experiences can choose a magical Christmas in the polar lands, complete with a dog-sled outing.

• Shorter stays are suitable for a first snowmobile experience.
• Eight-day journeys allow travellers to venture deeper into the wilderness.
• Fitness and desired riding intensity should influence the choice as much as the landscapes.

Discovering Sámi culture around Lake Inari

In northern Finland, Inari is a natural gateway to Sámi lands. Across the lands of the reindeer herders travels through Muotkatunturi and Lemmenjoki while giving an important place to encounters with the people who live in the region.

From the 3,000 islands to the Sámi lands crosses the vast frozen surface of Lake Inari and includes a meal with a local family and a sauna beside the lake. Further north, From the fjords to the frozen sea leaves the taiga behind to reach the shores of the Arctic Ocean.

• Approach cultural encounters with attention and respect.
• Do not reduce Sámi culture to reindeer herding: it includes distinct languages, traditions and knowledge.
• Accept that weather conditions may alter the route or pace of a day.

Major expeditions across the Far North

Riders seeking longer distances and more varied terrain can join expeditions crossing several countries. These journeys combine full days of riding, remote passages and dramatic changes of scenery.

• Snowmobiling to the North Cape connects Finland with Norway’s fjords and the Arctic port of Mehamn.
• The expedition across the Arctic lands crosses the Scandinavian Mountains between fjords and national parks.
• Beyond the borders of the Far North offers a shorter adventure between Finland and Norway.
• Snowmobiling towards Kebnekaise is designed for travellers seeking a sportier mountain journey.
• Following the northern smugglers’ trails explores wild routes near the Arctic borders.

When should you travel and how should you prepare?

The snowmobile season generally runs through winter, when snow depth and ice conditions permit safe travel. Midwinter creates an intense polar atmosphere, while the later season brings longer daylight hours. The Northern Lights remain a natural phenomenon and can never be guaranteed.

• Wear breathable base layers beneath the cold-weather equipment provided.
• Follow the guide’s instructions concerning safety distances and riding on ice.
• Check the driving-licence requirements for your chosen itinerary.
• Select an expedition suited to your fitness and previous riding experience.

Why choose Planet Ride for a journey through Lapland?

Planet Ride works with experts who understand the demands and subtleties of Arctic travel. Philippe leads major expeditions through Sweden, Finland and Norway, Kevin shares his knowledge of the territories surrounding Inari, and Nils offers shorter escapes in Finnish Lapland. Each snowmobile journey combines professional guidance, equipment suited to extreme cold, welcoming accommodation and a route prepared according to current conditions. Travellers can therefore focus on what matters most: the riding, the encounters and the emotion of moving through the Far North.