Overview
What's included?
- Transfers: return airport transfers between Rovaniemi and Ranua
- Accommodation: minimum of 3 nights apartment accommodation
- Meals: Breakfast only* (half or full board upgrade available for a supplement.)
- Activities: choose from our extensive range which is detailed in the ‘Activities’ section of the holiday page (activities are all priced individually). The order of activities you select is subject to change
- Unlimited access to Ranua Wildlife Park
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
- Fully qualified wilderness guides and instructors for any activities
- A note on flights: whilst flights are not included in the holiday price, our team will happily provide a quote and arrange them for you. Simply ask one of our Travel Experts for details of the available options for you
*Half board meal upgrade is mandatory if you are travelling between 13th December and 6th January, and will be included in the price of your holiday
Ranua offers a tantalising combination of excellent accommodation, a range of exceptional activities and some truly unique opportunities at Ranua Wildlife Park.
Ranua Wildlife Park is the main base for all activities here and it is just a short walk from the accommodation. All of the key winter activity options are possible and as this is a tailor-made holiday option, you can pick and choose from the activities listed in the ‘Activities’ section of the holiday page. You can snowmobile, dog sled, enjoy reindeer encounters and horse-drawn sleigh rides, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing all within easy reach of your delightful accommodation. You will also receive unlimited access to the park throughout your stay too.
The main thing, however, which helps Ranua stand out from other destinations, is Ranua Wildlife Park. Home to some of the Arctic’s, if not the world’s, most endangered animals it is a place that adds a lot of unique experiences to your winter escape. Here you can see wolves, brown bears, wolverine, wild boar, lynx and even polar bears amongst an array of over 50 species that live at the park. The park is dedicated to the conservation of these endangered animals as well as the protection of their natural habitats. The park also takes in a range of injured or orphaned animals to either rehabilitate and release them or care for them if that is not an option.
Read moreRanua is an ideal destination for a tailor-made holiday as there is simply so much on offer. So, whether you are looking for an active holiday or are to take things at a more leisurely pace, there is something for you. The spacious, modern and well-equipped apartments have their own private saunas and are a fabulous base to return to. We’ve opted to include breakfast only* as each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, giving you the freedom to decide whether to eat in the comfort of your accommodation. There is a nearby supermarket, accessible by taxi which can be prebooked or arranged locally, to stock up on supplies for eating in. Alternatively, the Wild Arctic Restaurant at Ranua Resort offers buffet or a la carte options, as well as light bite options within the wildlife park itself.
This tailor-made holiday is based on a minimum of three nights at Ranua. The package includes accommodation with breakfast, airport transfers and cold-weather clothing for the duration of your stay. You can then add in additional nights and the activities that you would like from the full range listed in the ‘activities’ section of this holiday page.
*Half board meal upgrade is mandatory if you are travelling between 13th December and 6th January, and will be included in the price of your holiday. From December through to 10th January, we will not be offering a full board upgrade to include lunch, but guests can arrange and pay for this locally. In our experience, the restaurant can become busy during the festive lunchtimes, with outside visitors to the park, and we have found that most guests prefer to make their own lunch arrangements in their wonderfully equipped apartment kitchens.
Please note: Activity schedules are subject to change. Duration of activity includes transfer times and breaks, and all distances are approximate. Some activities require a minimum number of participants to operate and are subject to availability.
Single snowmobiles: All snowmobile safaris are based on two people sharing. If this is not possible in your party, then you will be paired with someone else taking part in the activity. If you wish to guarantee your own snowmobile you must pay a single snowmobile supplement - please ask our Travel Experts for a quotation.
Image credits: Gulo Gulo Holiday Village
/26.5159,65.9295091,4/380x315.png?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoibXJ6ZW4iLCJhIjoieEplY044byJ9.tLmUFQLGRW3IziiK7fl9hA)
Key facts
| Duration: | 3 nights |
| Pace: | Set your own |
Dates & Prices
We include more, no hidden costs
Activities: please note that if you are travelling early in the winter season and there is not enough snowfall, then some activities may be adapted by the local team, or alternatives provided, to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort. For more information on this, please see our booking terms and conditions.
Prices
| Departure dates between | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Sun 01 Dec 2024
to Thu 12 Dec 2024 |
Adults £ 635 To £ 715 | |
|
Fri 13 Dec 2024
to Mon 06 Jan 2025 |
Adults £ 795 To £ 890 | |
|
Mon 06 Jan 2025
to Tue 18 Mar 2025 |
Adults £ 635 To £ 715 |
Next season’s dates and prices
You can make a pre-reservation to secure your holiday at this stage by paying an initial deposit of only £50pp. The provisional departure dates, prices and itineraries remain subject to change. We will contact you when the final dates, prices and itineraries are confirmed, and you will have 14 days to decide if you would like to go ahead. You will then need to pay the remainder of your deposit to confirm your booking in full. If you decide not to travel, we will refund your initial £50pp payment. Our Travel Experts will happily provide you with full terms and a complete quotation.
Please note: where listed in the What’s Included section, pre-sales prices include return UK flights.
Please note that the prices below are subject to change due to availability at the respective hotels; supplements may apply.
| Departure dates between | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Mon 01 Dec 2025
to Fri 12 Dec 2025 |
Adults £ 715 To £ 795 | |
|
Sat 13 Dec 2025
to Tue 06 Jan 2026 |
Adults £ 895 To £ 995 | |
|
Tue 06 Jan 2026
to Wed 18 Mar 2026 |
Adults £ 715 To £ 795 |
Supplements |
Adult |
|---|---|
| Christmas Eve supplement: £46 per adult | |
| New Year's Eve supplement: £46 per adult |
Terms
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
The Specifics
Holiday group size (approximate)
Minimum numbers required for this holiday to run vary from 2 to 8 people (depending on departure date). Maximum 42 people (approximately). Please speak to our Travel Experts for further information.
Group Size
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Minimum and maximum age
If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.
Unless otherwise stated in the in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Artisan holiday is typically 8 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.
Medical History and Advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
The UK Foreign Office Advice
Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Booking activities locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.
In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
Brexit information for British Passport holders
For the most up to date information on how the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your holiday please click here to view our Brexit information for British Passport holders.
Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
Terms and Conditions
Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions
Minimum travellers 10, Maximum travellers 20
Agenda
Agenda
-
DAY 1
Arrival
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your accommodation at Ranua, where you can settle into your cosy apartment.
The great thing about our tailor-made option is that you can choose exactly what you want your trip to involve.
The base price includes your, transfers, accommodation for three nights, cold-weather clothing for the duration of your stay, and fully qualified wilderness guides and instructors during your chosen activities. You select the activities you would like to do from the list shown in the 'Activities' section, ensuring your holiday can be as active or gentle as you wish.
Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you craft the ideal itinerary.
Included Meals: None -
DAY 2 - 3
Design Your Own Holiday
Fill these days with as many or as few activities as you wish, selecting from the options listed in our 'Personalise' section.
There are many activities to choose from and should you need advice on the best options for you please speak to one of our Travel Experts. They will be happy to help prepare the perfect itinerary for you.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 4
Departure
Today, you will be transferred to the airport ready for your flights home unless you choose to extend your sty here at Ranua or one of our other fantastic destinations. Please ask our Travel Experts for more information or recommendations.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Ranua Holiday Village
Nights: 1-3
Located around 4km from the small town centre, Ranua Holiday Village boasts close proximity to the Ranua Wildlife Park which guests have unlimited access to throughout their stay.
The holiday village offers guests modern, comfortable and wonderfully equipped apartments which are self-contained and very spacious.
The simple, yet convivial restaurant at the wildlife park is where breakfasts and dinners* will be served. Breakfasts are served buffet-style and evening meals consist of both Finnish dishes and more continental dishes, also served in a buffet format. Drinks are available for purchase with meals.
* Depending on board basis
Room types
apartments
The apartments are modern, spacious, airy and extremely comfortable. In total, there are thirty superior holiday apartments at Ranua, which are housed within fifteen semi-detached buildings. All of the buildings back onto the snowy forest and are within easy walking distance of the Wildlife Park and its restaurant (it’s just across the road).
The ground floor accommodation comprises an open-plan living room with flat-screen TV, kitchen and dining area. The kitchen is well equipped with a stove, microwave, dishwasher, fridge, coffee maker and kettle (you may want to take your own tea and coffee to enjoy in your apartment).
There is one twin bedroom downstairs as well as the bathroom which includes a shower, toilet and drying cabinet for clothes. There is also a private sauna which is a real treat. The accommodation also offers hairdryers and ironing facilities.
On the first floor, there is a second twin bedroom as well as an open loft area with two smaller extra beds (suitable for children) as well as a shower and toilet. All linen and towels are of course provided.
The apartments have their own decking area which can come in very handy for viewing the local wildlife or (fingers crossed!) maybe even the Northern Lights.
Special Nights
Arctic Igloo
Add a special touch to your winter holiday in Ranua with a night in a fantastic glass igloo.
Located in an idyllic lakeside setting with very little light pollution and uninterrupted views to the North, the igloos give you the incredible opportunity to hunt for the Northern Lights from your bed.
There are 20 igloos in total (10 twin igloos and 10 family/lakeside igloos) which are located around 8km from Ranua Wildlife Park.
Twin Igloos
The igloos include a twin bed and have a small kitchenette and a bathroom with a private sauna for the ultimate Finnish experience.
Family/lakeside igloos
These igloos have the same facilities as the twin igloos but have a double bed and space for two small extra beds for children (4-14 years old) and a lake view. Please note that the maximum occupancy is 2 adults and 2 children (4-14 years old).
Guests will normally be transferred to the igloos after their evening meal at Ranua and will be picked up the following morning in time for breakfast back at the main restaurant. Whilst there is no reception building at the igloo camp, all guests receive a contact number in case of any questions or issues.
Please note that the example price listed is based on guests spending the final night of their holiday in an igloo, and checking out of their apartment accommodation. If guests wish to spend any other night during their stay in a glass igloo, they must retain their apartment accommodation. Our Travel Experts will happily provide you with a quotation.
Image credit: Marko Junttila & Jari Romppainen
Personalise
Personalise this tour
Our pick
Ice Fishing via Snowmobile
Ice fishing is a real passion for the locals and during this activity, you can find out what all of the fuss is about. You will enjoy a snowmobile safari (full instruction and a safety briefing will be provided) in order to reach a nearby frozen lake. Upon arrival, your guide will help you drill a hole in the ice and you will lower your line into the dark waters below, trying your hand at this unique form of fishing.
Warm drinks will be served and, if you are lucky enough to land a catch, you can cook it there and then.
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Please note: the driver of a snowmobile must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving licence. You will travel two people per snowmobile. Single driver supplement applies.
Other options
Activities
Lappish Workshop Arts and Crafts With Ms. Paula
Join local handicraft artist Ms. Paula in her workshop, where you’ll make a traditional Lappish souvenir to take home with you. You can choose between different sessions depending on the item you want to make. From genuine reindeer leather shoulder bags and pouches to a traditional wooden cup the choice is yours! Children can also take part by making a red-nosed reindeer using a variety of materials.
Snowshoe Walk in the Korouoma National Park
Experience the traditional way of travelling over thick snow (without sinking up to your waist!). This walk is led by a guide who will take you into the Korouoma National Park area, renowned for its spectacular scenery and beautiful views. Lunch is included and will be enjoyed in one of the parks wilderness huts. Duration: approximately 6 hours in total (including lunch)
Snowmobile Safari to the Farm
Following driving instructions, you will set out on snowmobiles towards Ranua Villages traditional farm.
Here you can meet typical Lappish farm animals, before enjoying a short Finn horse sled ride (approximately 15 minutes).
Back at the farm, you will enjoy a hot snack and learn more about life on the farm as well as more about these peaceful animals. The activity will end with a snowmobile trip back to the hotel.
Duration: approximately 2 hours
Please note: the driver of a snowmobile must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving licence. Children will travel in a sled pulled by the guide’s snowmobile on selected safaris where this is offered. Older children may be able to travel as pillion on the snowmobile but this is at the discretion of the guide. Single driver supplement applies.
Cross-Country Skis, Snowshoe and Fat Bike Rentals
If you enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or cycling, you can rent the equipment for some independent exploration. Talk to the staff at the hotel for trail guides and best locations.
Rental:
Snowshoes and Cross-Country Skis: £20 per person per day
Fatbikes: £60 per person day
Finnish Horse Sleigh Ride
Get snug under the sleigh’s warm blankets for this relaxing winter sleigh ride through the peaceful forest. Listen to the sound of sleigh bells tinkling and the patter of hooves as you experience this traditional ride on a Finnhorse-pulled sleigh.
Duration: approximately 1 hour
Aurora Borealis Trip to Lappish Hut by Snowmobile
Lake Ranuanjarvi is one of the best locations in the area in terms of Northern Lights' potential, away from any light pollution and offering unobstructed views across the frozen water. Even better, you can make the most of this natural vantage point from a cosy lavvu, a traditional Sami tent built on the shore where snacks and warm drinks are served whilst you keep an eye on the skies above. To reach the lavvu you will travel through the snow-blanketed forest on snowmobiles, with just your headlights picking out your path through the trees – a very atmospheric experience!
Duration: approximately 3 hours
Please note: the driver of a snowmobile must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving licence.
Northern Lights Safari with Finn Horses
Go on the hunt for the Northern Lights during a horse-drawn sleigh ride (6-8 people per sleigh) with Finn horses. You’ll be wrapped up warm in your sleigh as you listen to stories about Lapland. Take in the magic of the wintry surroundings at night and if conditions are favourable, the magic will extend into the skies as the Northern Lights make their appearances.
Duration: approximately 2 hours in total
©Jari Romppainen
Snowmobile Safaris
Perhaps one of the most thrilling ways in which to explore Ranua’s surrounding wilderness is via snowmobile. Enjoy the landscapes of Lapland as you pass through snow-covered forests and along trails that cut across frozen waterways. Your guide will give you full instructions before departure and a full safety briefing. You will travel two people per snowmobile throughout.
There is a range of durations to choose from:
Approximately 1 hour - £112 per person
Approximately 2 hours - £144 per person
Approximately 4 hours - £187 per person
The distance covered on each safari will vary and will be determined by the group’s ability and a snack will be provided during the 4-hour safari.
Please note: the driver of a snowmobile must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving licence. Single driver supplement applies.
Duration: various available
Searching for the Aurora Borealis by snowmobile
A snowmobile tour under the night sky is a truly magical experience, particularly when seeking out the Aurora Borealis. Heading out into the darkness, you will explore the wilderness with your guide leading the way along the dark forest trails. There will be breaks to enjoy a hot drink and keep a keen watch on the sky in anticipation of a potential Northern Lights display. The tour will take you deeper into the wilderness, away from the village and any artificial light.
Please note: the driver of a snowmobile must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving licence. You will travel two people per snowmobile. Single driver supplement applies.
Duration: approximately 3 hours in total
©Gulo Gulo Holiday Village
Snowshoeing
Perhaps one of the best ways to enjoy the tranquil, snow-covered forest neighbouring the wildlife park is to strap on a pair of snowshoes and head into the untouched, deep snow, off the beaten track. Your guide will offer lots of interesting information about the local flora and fauna and how they survive in Lapland during the winter months.
Duration: approximately 2 hours in total
Cross Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is a hugely popular activity in Finland and the trails criss-cross the countryside pretty much wherever there is snow.
Your guide will give you instruction on how to succeed in cross-country skiing before you head onto the trails to put your skills into practice. The ski tracks begin close to Ranua Wildlife Park and you will cover around 3km in total.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours in total
Snowmobile Safari to Reindeer Farm
Following driving instructions from your guide, you will set out to snowmobile towards Laivala, a small and traditional reindeer farm, which is approximately 15km away. Here you will be welcomed by the herder and taken to see their reindeer, before enjoying a short reindeer sled ride (15 minutes).
Back at the farm you will enjoy a hot snack and learn more about the life of the reindeer herders and their long history in this region. The activity will end with a snowmobile trip back to the hotel.
Duration: approximately 3 Hours in total
Please note: the driver of a snowmobile must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving licence.
You will travel two people per snowmobile. Single driver supplement applies.
Short Reindeer Sleigh Ride
Reindeer-pulled sleighs have been used throughout the centuries in Lapland. Reindeer are ideally suited to their environment and have always been central to the culture and traditions of Lapland. This short journey via reindeer-pulled sled leads you out from Ranua and into the snow-covered landscape in a peaceful way.
Duration: approximately 40 minutes in total
Day Trip to Rovaniemi
Following breakfast, your minibus will take you directly to Rovaniemi which is approximately one hour away.
Your first stop will be the Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle where you can immerse yourself in the festive cheer! Here you can enjoy shopping for a wide range of locally crafted souvenirs or simply admire the beautiful festive colours and atmosphere. After lunch at the Santa Claus Village, you will head towards Arktikum, a wonderful local museum exhibiting the unique culture of the Arctic. Alternatively, you can head to the city centre and explore independently before heading back to Ranua.
Duration: approximately 6 Hours in total (transfer 2 hours)
Husky Safaris
One of the most memorable and enchanting ways in which to explore the Arctic is on a husky safari, they provide an unforgettable experience.
The huskies epitomise enthusiasm when you meet them and are always eager for the trail. Full instruction and safety instruction is always provided prior to setting off on the snowy trails, travelling two people per sled. The duration of the journey varies from 30 minutes to 5 hours, depending on your preference and after the tour, you can meet the dogs and take pictures as well as ask any questions you may have.
Approximately 30 minutes - £70 per person
Approximately 1 hour 50-60 mins - £109 per person
Approximately 2 hours - £139 per person
Approximately 5 hours (includes lunch) - £248 per person
Special Nights
Arctic Igloo
Add a special touch to your winter holiday in Ranua with a night in a fantastic glass igloo.
Located in an idyllic lakeside setting with very little light pollution and uninterrupted views to the North, the igloos give you the incredible opportunity to hunt for the Northern Lights from your bed.
There are 20 igloos in total (10 twin igloos and 10 family/lakeside igloos) which are located around 8km from Ranua Wildlife Park.
Twin Igloos
The igloos include a twin bed and have a small kitchenette and a bathroom with a private sauna for the ultimate Finnish experience.
Family/lakeside igloos
These igloos have the same facilities as the twin igloos but have a double bed and space for two small extra beds for children (4-14 years old) and a lake view. Please note that the maximum occupancy is 2 adults and 2 children (4-14 years old).
Guests will normally be transferred to the igloos after their evening meal at Ranua and will be picked up the following morning in time for breakfast back at the main restaurant. Whilst there is no reception building at the igloo camp, all guests receive a contact number in case of any questions or issues.
Please note that the example price listed is based on guests spending the final night of their holiday in an igloo, and checking out of their apartment accommodation. If guests wish to spend any other night during their stay in a glass igloo, they must retain their apartment accommodation. Our Travel Experts will happily provide you with a quotation.
Image credit: Marko Junttila & Jari Romppainen
Reviews
Traveller Reviews
The quality of all services that were provided during our stay was absolutely faultless. The staff at Gulo Gulo village were so professional and amazing, they simply ticked all boxes.
The igloos were brilliant and staff there were great. The trip was wonderful.
Everything was great. Lapland is such a wonderful and magical place. We enjoyed everything!
The guides are all excellent, really helpful, encouraging and knowledgeable. It was an excellent trip and so glad we did it. I’ve already recommended it!!
We went to Lapland with our children when they were small to see Santa - which was a hugely memorable experience. This time we went back as adults. It was still a totally magical holiday together as a family. That is in part because all the practicalities were very smoothly handled by Artisan and the local team. Everyone we dealt with throughout the whole trip was friendly, helpful and…
Read more
knowledgeable. If you have the chance to go - just go.
Read less
I booked this as a surprise xmas present for my husband and as a special birthday holiday for myself. Loved it, so well organised from start to finish, can't fault Artisan travel at all, so glad I read the reviews and decided to book with Artisan (I hadn't heard of you before). The accommodation was brilliant as was the staff, food and the activities.
The overall experience was tremendous and for us, We loved the Huskies but the icing on the cake was the night safari on the snow mobile and seeing the Northern Lights. For us everything worked like clockwork no faults , all timings adhered to and a very enjoyable experience.
Our 5 day experience at Ranua was fantastic from start to finish. Guide met us at Rovaniemi Airport and transported us directly to the Holiday Village Gulo Gulo. Everything went very smoothly. Accommodation great and guides and staff very very helpful. We had not pre-booked a snow mobile safari looking for the Northern Lights as we wanted to see the conditions when we arrived. The guides were so…
Read more
confident that on Thursday night the 28th Feb. the conditions for seeing the lights were forecast to be good we decided to go. We were not disappointed. Even before we arrived at the destination the lights appeared all around us so we stopped for about 1/2 hr. before continuing on. Absolutely amazing spectacle with all the colours greens, purples, yellows etc. dancing in the sky. We continued on to reach our stop for a fire, hot drinks and to cook sausages and of course the lights appeared again. We were so lucky and I know our guides Jani and Marcelo had not seen them so good for a couple of years. We have some amazing photos and even managed to capture the lights on my IPhone which was good with no tripod!! We had one night at the Fox Igloos and again we saw the lights. Even managed to get the lights above the igloo which was amazing.
Read less
Overall the holiday was fantastic and magical and well organised by Artisan Travel. Dawn especially was very helpful, went above and beyond to organise and answer our questions. Dawn reassured us following a number of queries we had, not having experienced a winter snow holiday previously. Dawn comes across as a genuine and helpful person and has real knowledge of the subject matter. Flights were…
Read more
on time, staff were helpful. Accommodation was superb. Warm and cosy but modern and had everything we needed. All guides from the coach to the activities were really helpful and obviously had extensive knowledge of their subject.
Read less
The husky sledding was fun, exciting, informative and the dogs had great personalities. The ice fishing was most enjoyable for my partner it was something he'd always wanted to do and successfully catching fish made it all the better.
I’ve never booked with Artisan travel and it was a great easy experience. I spoke with Andy about visiting Gulo Gulo in Ranua Finland . Andy told me he had stayed there with his family and had a great time. Andy managed to answer all my questions and was very knowledgeable. When we arrived the transfer was waiting they gave us all are lodge keys and itinerary so we knew what we were doing. No…
Read more
waiting around at reception checking in. They took us to a local supermarket and dropped us off at Gulo Gulo. The place is stunning a few minutes walk to a 24hr reception ans restaurant for your meals. Breakfast and dinner was lovely and I’m fussy about good food. I wasn’t expecting it to be so nice I didn’t need any of my back up food I got from the supermarket. They had a good variety and was very filling buffet starter and a choice between two mains. One yummy dessert a night as much as you wanted. Breakfast hot and cold buffet which was all you needed great variety. I did think the restaurant looked a bit cold and canteen feel in the pictures before I went. I read a review saying it’s packed and so noisy. It couldn’t have been the opposite. It was cosy at night with fur a saved table for each loadge with candles. It was so much prettier I was pleasantly surprised. The lodge is big, clean, comfy and well equipped. Plain bedrooms loads of wardrobes. Sofa comfy and clean just not that luxury feel and quite ugly if I really need to find anything bad. I’d go back in a heartbeat it’s by far my favourite holiday. I booked two snowmobile trips one looking for Northern Lights which we saw slightly and the reindeer farm in the day which wasn’t so cold which made it more enjoyable. Feeding the bears was well worth it as the bears come close and you get a good view and can take videos and pictures. When I went back in the day to see the bears they were so far away I could hardly see them so catch them when they are hungry and waiting for breakfast just incase. Trips are great lots of time spent on them and well worth the money. All warm clothing and boots provided if you need them. I’d love to visit again and would highly recommend this holiday. I heard from many guests the husky ride is amazing and you get to guide them yourself and have loads of time so if I go back I will definitely try it.
Read less
Excellent not strong enough rating for Graham Hughes who helped me choose the right holiday for me (I have difficulties with mobility) and always there with his expertise and knowledge. I felt totally secure and reassured thanks Graham! I felt like I had a friend not a holiday rep.Felt very personal it was a pleasure booking with you, I'm so very glad I found your website and Graham started the…
Read more
online chat. Feel lucky. Also can't give high enough rating to the staff at the village and the holiday as a whole. The guides were excellent, giving clear instruction and keeping us safe at the same time as making sure we had a great time and getting the most out of it. Fantastic magical unforgettable experiences. Every single thing we did was so fab - we did huskies twice, reindeer sleigh, snowmobile, feed the polar bear, finn horse sleigh at night and visited the wildlife park. The accomodation was superb, immaculate with everything you need and more - so cosy and warm when you returned from an activity. And mobility problems or not I made the most of the sauna in the bathroom too and jumped in the snow with Gary! It had to be done. But if I have to choose I will say the husky sleds. This holiday was a special surprise for my husband who loves huskies and it was a dream for him to experience this. The dogs are so wonderful and it was magical. That word keeps coming into my mind as I think about the holiday. This experience will stay in my heart forever. I feel quite emotional thinking about it. The staff at the village were lovely and really looked after me. They went the extra mile for me to make sure I could do everything and it wasn't too difficult for me - I had plenty of sleigh rides or snowmobile lifts to activities to help me get to and from activities that were a bit too far for me to manage! Wonderful people. One of the guides, Yesse, even insisted on driving me to the top of the wildlife park to see the wolves and wolverine, then came and picked me up and took me home when I was ready. For the feed the polar bear activity they took the whole group there and back on a sleigh so that was easy for me too.I did everything. Gary made the most of his time too, sledging in every spare minute! Totally unforgettable, the best holiday ever and I've had some good ones. Thank you thank you thank you
Read less
I loved the excitement of the huskies barking and leaping about. The scenery was fantastic just like a Christmas card! made all the better by the blue skies and sunshine. Speaking to the owners afterwards and being able to have wonderful photos taken with the huskies.
Everything was excellent with great accommodation & very helpful staff at Gulo Gulo where nothing was too much trouble.
The holiday was very good, and as always we enjoyed the activities booked especially the huskeys, each time we go for this activity we book a longer one. Sooooo enjoyable and in some cases relaxing. Thanks to all who made our holiday so enjoyable.
OMG, the best experience!! Every year we go somewhere 'different' - different as in not our usual beach lay around the pool holiday. So far we have visited Iceland, Moscow and Budapest but Finland is our firm favourite. Everything you need is there, just pack your thermals and go! No need for expensive clothes literally everything is given to you. A few base layers and thermals are all you need to…
Read more
pack and something to eat dinner in if you go to the restaurant i.e. some jeans rather than your thermals! The lodges are lovely, again everything you need is there. The beds were super comfy after a long day of activities and the sauna helped those aching muscles. All the staff and instructors were super friendly and made every activity really enjoyable. We squashed 7 activities into our 3-day stay (we didn't get there until lunchtime on the first day) but never felt rushed from one to another as everything is so laid back. We went with another couple and got chatting to so many other people everyone was commenting on what a great time they were having and swapping stories. During each activity, you get a rest period where you make a campfire, cook sausages and get a hot berry juice. Such a lovely touch and when new friendships were made. Any criticism? They could do with a bar/lounge area for after the last activities which end around 10 pm to sit and chill out and chat with your new friends; everything is shut when you come back. Best bit? The 4hr snowmobile safari, we covered over 70km. Would we recommend it? YES!!!!
Read less
The best experience was the husky sledding closely followed by ice fishing. The guide we had for ice fishing was very experienced and knowledgeable and it made it even better that we were the only two people on the tour so we got a very personal service! Normally on a package holiday, the tours wouldn’t run with only two people booked on so we were very impressed.The reception team were very…
Read more
friendly and helpful.
Read less
Gallery
Photos (11)
Travel Website Development
