A secret location known only to Santa and his elves is the setting for your evening together.
Deep within Lapland’s wintry landscape lies Santa’s Secret Forest, where Saint Nicholas comes for a moment of peace between his year-round Christmas duties— a place he invites your family to experience with him, too. This privately guided tour is designed to make your children feel like Santa has taken time out of his busy schedule just for them.
One of Santa’s elves will meet you at your hotel in Rovaniemi and drive you to the forest, around 20 minutes away. Upon arrival, they’ll lead you through the snowy forest to a campfire, where together you’ll uncover the secrets and mythology of the Arctic night. If you’re lucky, you might also witness the shimmer of the northern lights overhead.
It’s then time for the grand finale — a private meeting with Santa himself. The first sign of his presence will be the glow of his lantern among the trees as he walks toward you. After a cheery greeting, he’ll spend time sharing stories about Finnish traditions and Christmas, before getting to know each child in turn and giving them a gift. Meanwhile, his elf will prepare pancakes and hot drinks for you over the fire.
The entire experience is available from September to early April and lasts around three hours, including private transfers to and from your hotel. You’ll spend approximately 30 minutes meeting Santa. To make the experience extra special, we suggest sharing information, such as your children’s ages and hobbies, with us prior to your trip so that Santa’s conversations are even more personal.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Finland specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
A glimpse into the life of a reindeer herder
On this two-hour visit to an authentic working reindeer farm, you’ll meet a reindeer herder and learn about their way of life, master how to lasso a reindeer, and ride a sled through Lapland’s snowy wilderness.
Chasing the northern lights in Finnish Lapland
Heading into Finnish Lapland’s remote wilderness, you’ll join a private guide in search of the northern lights. Then, as the display shifts and unfolds above you, enjoy a meal that has been cooked over a campfire.
Family snowmobiling experience
Experience the thrill of snowmobiling as a family, taking in forest scenery as you go. Adults can drive their own vehicle while children are pulled along in a sled by your guide. Then, it’s time for younger riders to drive their own smaller snowmobile on a dedicated track.
Husky sledding through Finnish Lapland
After getting to know your team of huskies at a family-run farm, you’ll set off by dog sled into Finnish Lapland’s snow-covered winter wilderness. Guided by a musher, you’ll learn all the commands and techniques of the classic Finnish pastime.
