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Winter Dream
Experience Frozen Beauty & Wonder
Independent holiday with guided small group experiences
Dates
On request from
January to March
Duration
5 days/4 nights
Suitable
For travellers wanting to experience the magic of winter away from the crowds
Price
From AUD 5055 per person
"Welcome, weary traveller - make yourself at home!"
Here at Nivunki Village, nature is not just a backdrop - it’s a way of life. Breathe in the world's purest air, let the silence wash over you, and discover stunning landscapes alongside expert local guides, whose stories will enrich your experience and bring new layers of meaning to your adventure. Escape to this hidden gem deep in the Arctic wilderness, where the skies come alive with the dance of the Northern Lights. Nestled on a private 250-hectare property, home to over 100 reindeer, this is more than a destination - it's an immersion into the heart of Arctic life.
The founder of Nivunki Village invites you to experience the same warm hospitality his grandparents offered nearly a century ago to the first visitors of nearby Äkäslompolo. Back then, guests arrived by horse-drawn carriages and stayed in humble homes, sharing quarters with their hosts. Despite the simple comforts, the untouched wilderness and stunning landscapes left a lasting impression. Today, you'll enjoy modern amenities, but the welcoming warmth and natural beauty remain unchanged.
You’ll be staying in a cosy Northern Lights Hut, inspired by the traditional Lappish kota. The kota is a conical structure historically used by the indigenous Sámi people of Lapland as a portable shelter, allowing them to follow their reindeer herds across the Arctic. Traditionally made from wooden poles and covered with reindeer hides or bark, today's kotas use modern materials while maintaining their distinctive shape. This unique accommodation offers a connection to the Sámi way of life, while perfectly designed for viewing the Northern Lights.
Experience true Arctic hospitality at this exclusive resort as you step into its cosy dining space, where each meal is a celebration of the land. Indulge in a menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, and savour the flavours of the Arctic in every bite.
The heart of the village is the sauna, a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the frozen lake. For the adventurous, a plunge into the icy waters offers a refreshing boost. For Finns, the sauna is a centuries-old tradition - a space for relaxation, cleansing, and connection with oneself and others.
Tour Highlights
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Multiple winter activities including snowshoeing, husky sleigh ride & meeting the reindeer
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Northern Lights hunt on a snowmobile
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Private sauna experience with ice swimming
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Sleep under the stars in a Northern Lights Hut
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Enjoy delicious Arctic Cuisine prepared from local produce
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival
Upon arrival at Kittilä (KTT) - or Kolari Railway Station, if you arrived by night train from Helsinki - transfer to Nivunki Village. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the resort restaurant before retreating to your cosy Northern Lights Hut.
Day 2: Husky Experience
After a leisurely breakfast, embark on an unforgettable half-day husky safari, where you'll harness the strength of these magnificent Arctic dogs and venture deep into the snowy wilderness.
After a brief orientation and safety briefing, you'll be introduced to your eager husky team, ready to whisk you away on your Arctic adventure. You’ll feel the thrill of gliding through the frozen landscape, guided by the expertise of an experienced musher. Midway through the journey, we'll pause at a cosy Lappish hut, or kota, to warm up with traditional snacks and hot drinks. During this break, you'll have the chance to learn more about your incredible canine companions and their vital role in Arctic life. As your adventure concludes and you return to the husky farm, you’ll leave with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the unique bond between humans and these remarkable dogs. (Two people will share a husky sled - one mushing and the one sitting in the sled. You can swap along the way if you wish.)
Later on indulge in a traditional Finnish sauna experience, where you can unwind while gazing through large panoramic windows at the serene beauty of a frozen lake. Let the soothing heat envelop you as the steam melts away any tension. Afterward, for the ultimate Finnish ritual, take the plunge into the icy waters of a lake through a specially carved hole - an invigorating contrast that leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalised. This is a private sauna session for you.
Enjoy dinner at the resort restaurant.
Day 3: Meet the Reindeer & Northern Lights Hunt
Enjoy breakfast at the resort restaurant.
At Nivunki Village, home to over a hundred reindeer, you'll have the opportunity to experience the timeless tradition of traversing the Arctic wilderness with these gentle creatures. As you glide through the pristine snow, the only sound you’ll hear is the soft rhythm of reindeer hooves against the snow. Your expert guide will share captivating stories of the locals and their deep bond with the reindeer, revealing the vital role these beautiful animals play in sustaining life in the Arctic. This is more than a ride - it's a journey into the rich heritage and traditions of Lapland, where nature and culture are intertwined.
After dinner join us for an exhilarating snowmobile adventure under the Arctic sky in search of the Northern Lights. Our journey takes you to Fell Särkitunturi, far from any artificial lights, offering an ideal setting for spotting this natural wonder. Along the way, we’ll pause at a traditional Lappish kota, a cosy tepee nestled in the snow-covered landscape. Here, we'll take a break to enjoy local delicacies, warming up before continuing our journey through some of nature’s most beautiful scenery. (Two people will be sharing a snowmobile - you can swap drivers along the way.)
Day 4: Snowshoe Adventure
Enjoy breakfast at the resort restaurant.
Today you will discover the magic of winter on a snowshoe trek through pristine nature, leading us to the historic Äkäsmylly, an ancient mill nestled in the heart of wilderness. This storied site has been a cherished place for travellers over the centuries, once serving as a peaceful resting spot and a hub for fishing. As we pause at Äkäsmylly, surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature, you’ll breathe in some of the purest air in the world, a reminder of our deep connection to the natural world. Along the way, we’ll take a break to enjoy a snack of local delicacies.
Enjoy dinner at the resort restaurant.
Day 5: Departure
After breakfast, it's time to say your goodbyes as your transfer to Kittilä Airport is waiting. Transfers to other locations can be arranged - let us know where you are heading (surcharges may apply).
Images by Destination Lapland
Prices
Tour price when 2 adults sharing a Northern Lights Hut
January 6-24, 2025: AUD 5280 per person
January 25-February 14, 2025: AUD 5435 per person
February 15-28, 2025: AUD 5615 per person
March 1-7, 2025: AUD 5435 per person
March 8-21, 2025: AUD 5225 per person
March 22-30, 2025: AUD 5055 per person
Single supplement between AUD 2740 - AUD 2175 depending on the dates of your stay
Details about your Northern Lights Hut 'Kota'
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Size 30m2
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Suitable for max 2 people
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Comfortable double beds that can be used separately or combined to form a spacious bed for two
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Premium bed & bath linens
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Bathroom with a rain shower
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Complimentary premium toiletries made in Finland
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Complimentary coffee & tea (Nespresso machine & tea kettle)
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Minibar (charged based on consumption)
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Complimentary high speed wi-fi
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Room service
What's included
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4 nights' accommodation in luxurious 'Kota' Northern Lights Hut
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Daily breakfast
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4 x half board dinner (3 courses)
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Shared return airport transfers (Kittilä Airport) - about 45 mins one way
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Winter outdoor clothing
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Private sauna experience 1 hr
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Husky Experience 3 hrs - small group tour
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Reindeer Experience 2.5hrs - small group tour
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Aurora Snowmobile Tour 3 hrs - small group tour
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Snowshoe Experience 3 hrs - small group tour
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Complimentary use of snow shoes
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A daily shared sauna session available to all guests
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A donation on your behalf for protection of the endangered Arctic Fox - read more >
What's not included
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Meals other than described
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Alcoholic beverages during meals unless mentioned
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Tips or any other items of personal nature
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Flights
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Travel Insurance
Please note
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This is a remote location with no shops or other restaurants near-by
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Minimum age for guests is 16 years
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Your daily itinerary is subject to change and a detailed itinerary will be provided upon arrival
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All snowmobile safaris have a self-liability of maximum 1200 €/snowmobile.
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The driver of the snowmobile must be at least 18 years of age with a driver’s license valid in Finland
Your Health & Activities
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Activities like snowmobile and husky safaris can be physically demanding and the participants may be exposed to different kinds of physical strain. If you suffer from any illnesses or disabilities (for instance heart disease, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, back or hip problems) they can affect your ability to take part in these activities.
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The speed of the dog team might be a surprise and mushing (driving) the team requires concentration. Taking part in a husky safari requires good physical condition (a person should be able to run short distances with ease). Driving a dog team is not suitable for persons with missing limbs, suffering back, hip, knee, or any leg problems. You have to be 18 years old to mush a dog team.
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A person suffering any illnesses or disabilities, above mentioned or heart disease, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, recent surgical operation, should be aware that she/he is participating at her/his own risk. Please consult your doctor prior to booking or participating in these activities.
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Activities, especially snowshoeing, skiing, snowmobile, husky and reindeer excursions can be physically demanding and participants may be exposed to different kinds of physical strain, vibration or carbon monoxide (in case of snowmobiling). Therefore, in order to avoid any complications and to guarantee the safety of all participants, we do not recommend husky, reindeer and snowmobile programmes to pregnant women.
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Make sure your comprehensive travel insurance covers winter activities including husky sled and snowmobile tours and any other activities you want to participate in.
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Please consult your doctor about sauna and ice swimming, particularly if you suffer from any heart issues or high blood pressure.
Ask us about
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Creating a tailor-made pre and/or post tours
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Adding extra activities to your travel package, eg. ice fishing, longer snowmobile tours or a traditional handicrafts session
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About a shorter 3 night package
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Arrangements for special celebrations or milestones during your stay
Booking Conditions
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SAFETY & TRAVEL INSURANCE
All outdoor activities carry an element of risk and a comprehensive travel insurance covering winter activities is strongly recommended for this holiday. You warrant that the information you provide regarding your health & fitness is accurate and there are no other medical issues (both physical/mental) that may impact your ability to participate in this holiday without the need for special assistance.
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WEATHER
If the organisers do not deem one of the activities safe, they reserve the right to change the order of the activities or the content of the program if necessary due to the weather. In extreme conditions they might have to reschedule or cancel.
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ALTERATIONS BY ORGANISER
Sometimes the organiser has to make changes, usually because of circumstances out of their control. If this happens, they reserve the right at any time to substitute accommodation or activities. If this means extra cost to you, we’ll let you know.
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ACCEPTANCE OF RISK
You acknowledge that travel involves personal risks which may be greater than those present in your everyday life. This could be as a result of the adventurous nature of your trip or the visiting of destinations which present geographical risks and dangers.
Our full terms & conditions (link).
Weather
During the winter, temperature can vary between -10˚C and -25˚C and on the coldest days the temperature may drop all the way to -40 ˚C.
Please note that weather conditions vary from year to year and it is advisable to check the weather conditions before your arrival. You can check the weather on weather service sites such as http://www.yr.no/.
Daylight
Check daylight hours for this region via this link.
Polar Night, or Kaamos in Finnish, is the period in the polar regions when the sun stays below the horizon, but this doesn’t mean it’s completely dark all day. While the sun never fully rises, there are a few hours of soft, atmospheric light around noon, and the snow-covered landscape reflects this light, making it feel much brighter than expected.
During Polar Night, the sky comes alive with stunning colors, as sunlight interacts with the upper atmosphere to create hues reminiscent of a sunset. The midday brings unique blue tones, offering a truly magical and photogenic experience.
Payment & cancellations
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20% deposit is required within 7 days after your participation is confirmed
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Balance due 65 days prior to travel
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Cancellations:
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More than 66 days prior to departure - loss of deposit
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From 65 to 31 days prior to departure – loss of 50% of total cost
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Less than 30 days prior to departure - loss of 100% of total cost
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Please arrange a comprehensive travel insurance which covers winter activities and any cancellation costs, should you not be able to travel
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Our full terms & conditions can be found here (link)
Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are a mesmerising yet unpredictable natural phenomenon. While evening tours are designed to give you the best chance to witness the Aurora, we cannot guarantee its appearance. However, the nighttime experience itself is unforgettable, and if the Aurora graces the sky, it will make the moment even more magical.
Researchers have discovered that auroral activity follows an 11-year cycle, with peaks during what's known as the Solar Maximum. The next peak is expected around 2025-26, and the lead-up to this period offers an excellent opportunity for Aurora sightings. This year has already seen some spectacular displays, both in the North and even in the Southern Hemisphere (Aurora Australis).