Lapland offers plenty to see and experience in every season. It’s said that Lapland has eight seasons, because the natural phenomena vary so greatly that each season has its own unique atmosphere. During winter, visitors can see the Northern Lights, ski on untouched trails, and immerse themselves in the local culture. In summer, the endless nights, hiking paths, and clear rivers encourage a slower pace. Today, many travelers are looking for a true, unhurried connection with nature. Ethics play an important role in Lapland tourism. For example, in husky and reindeer experiences, responsible organizations prioritize the welfare of the animals. Getting to know the culture is best done through local organizations. Authentic stories, crafts and local food create a deeper understanding of the area than just sightseeing. When tourism is responsible, it benefits everyone. Tourists will have unforgettable experiences, and Lapland will remain vibrant for generations to come.
Eight seasons
During the frosty winter, Lapland experiences the dark season, when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon at all. This is when you can see the beautiful colors of the dark sky and experience the frost and magnificent snowdrifts. Skiing on illuminated slopes during the dark period is an unforgettable experience. You can also visit a hotel made of snow or a snow restaurant. You can also explore nature by putting on snowshoes. The spring winter quickly brings more light and then the snow sparkles. The spring winter is the perfect time for skiing. You can see the wonderful landscapes while skiing down the fells. Don’t forget your sunglasses! The spring winter, especially the vernal equinox, is the best time to see the Northern Lights. You can see the Northern Lights outdoors or rent a glass igloo from which you can see the Northern Lights while staying warm. You can enjoy the spring winter with reindeer and huskies, but here you have to remember the ethics of the destination, which I will tell you more about in this blog.
The spring begins in Lapland in May, when the ice and snow melt. In spring, you can enjoy nature in peace and hike on wonderful nature trails. In summer, you can experience a nightless night, when the sun doesn’t set below the horizon at all. For example, you can see the nightless night from the top of a fell. Lapland’s national parks are at most beautiful in summer and you can hike endless nature trails. In August, during the harvest time, the evenings begin to darken and the first Northern Lights appear. This is when it is possible to see the Northern Lights without frost. During the harvest time, you can also go berry picking or mushroom picking. During the autumn season, Lapland is filled with golden tones and you can see it in the crisp autumn air. During the autumn equinox, the Northern Lights are really active. It is worth going to the lake shore, so you can see the reflection of the Northern Lights on the surface of the lake. During the first snowfall, temperatures drop and the first snowflakes fall to the ground. If you want to travel out of season, the first snowfall is a good opportunity to do so, because winter activities have not yet started. December is the busy season in Lapland, when you can visit Santa Claus Village to meet Santa Claus and experience the wonderful Christmas lights and decorations. You can also stay overnight in accommodation located in the Village area. Santa Claus Village is open all year round so you can enjoy Christmas anytime. You can visit the Snowman World in winter where you can see wonderful ice sculptures.
Ethical Tourism
Reindeer and huskies are popular tourist destinations in Lapland. However, not all destinations are ethical regarding animal welfare, so it’s important to choose one where animals are treated well. In an ethical destination, the welfare of the animals is taken care of. They are offered species-specific activities, such as appropriate nutrition and meaningful exercise. Their well-being is taken care of by identifying the needs and resources of the individuals and taking care of each animal. The animals are also given the opportunity to rest between visits. The organization is committed to openness and transparency. Pay attention to these things when choosing a destination.
Welcome to Lapland!
Pictures: https://arcticgiant.fi/
