Capitals of the Northern Lights

DAY 1 Tromso
Welcome to Tromso! Upon arrival, make your way to the meeting point for your transfer to the city centre. After check in at your hotel, the rest of your day is at leisure to begin exploring Tromso at your own pace.

Stay at: Radisson Blu Tromso or similar (4 star) or similar

DAY 2 Tromso
This morning, you will discover the magic of Tromso, the vibrant "Gateway to the Arctic," on an immersive sightseeing experience that blends pristine natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Your journey begins at the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the striking Arctic Cathedral, where you can admire the bold, modernist architecture inspired by the surrounding polar landscapes. You will then visit Polaria, the world’s northernmost aquarium and Arctic experience centre, to gain engaging insights into the fragile polar ecosystem and regional wildlife. Throughout the tour, your guide will bring Tromso’s fascinating history to life, sharing stories of legendary Arctic expeditions, the enduring traditions of the Sami people, and the enchanting folklore of the Northern Lights.

This afternoon is at your leisure. You have the opportunity to join an optional tour, taking the Tromso Cable Car up Mount Storsteinen, where a four-minute gondola ride whisks you 421 metres above sea level to Tromso’s premier vantage point. From the summit, you will enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city’s skyline, the surrounding islands, and the dramatic Arctic fjords and mountains.

In the evening, you may join an optional Aurora Dinner Cruise to glide silently through the Arctic night while enjoying a carefully prepared dinner crafted from fresh, local ingredients. As you sail past dramatic landscapes, your hosts will share insights into the region’s maritime heritage and fishing industry. Under favourable conditions, the journey may be illuminated by the Northern Lights, casting a captivating glow across the calm fjord waters.

Stay at: Radisson Blu Tromso or similar (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 3 Tromso – Alta
After breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on a scenic journey from to Alta, a route known for its breathtaking beauty and dramatic Arctic scenery. Throughout the day, you will be accompanied by views of pristine fjords and rugged coastlines as you travel approximately 300 kilometres across the heart of the north. The eight-hour drive includes two picturesque ferry crossings, providing a unique opportunity to admire the surrounding landscapes from the water. Lunch will be en route, with an afternoon arrival into Alta. The town centre is located just below the 70th latitude and is closer to the North Pole than it is to Central Europe. Being at a very high latitude, midnight sun or polar nights are present for majority of the year.

Tonight offers another unique chance to experience the Northern Lights. Join an optional Sleigh Ride that follows the Alta River travelling through the magical forest at night. On a sleigh pulled by a Norwegian Fjord Horse, you will be taken to a wilderness shelter where a traditional dinner will be served around a warm fire.

Stay at: Thon Hotel Alta (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

DAY 4 Alta
This morning, a short drive to the countryside will take you to visit the the family-owned Sorrisniva Ice hotel, meticulously rebuilt each year from pure snow and ice. Inside, you can wander through a frozen gallery of handcrafted sculptures and intricate carvings, all beautifully illuminated to create an enchanting atmosphere. Take a moment to enjoy the unique serenity of this icy masterpiece, perhaps pausing at the bar for a signature drink served in a glass made of ice. Every detail, from the walls to the decor, offers a rare glimpse into a world sculpted entirely from the Arctic winter.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure, and you can choose to join an optional Husky Tour. Drive out of town to the husky camp, where you will be served a traditional Norwegian meal in a cosy Gamme hut (turf home), while you receive clear and concise instructions on how to drive a dog sled. Afterwards, meet the friendly and excitable Alaskan huskies that are waiting to greet you, and experience the feeling of being fully in control and driving the dog sled yourself.

Stay at: Thon Hotel Alta (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 5 Alta – Saariselka
You will depart Alta early today as you begin the journey toward the Finnish Lapland, making a stop at Juhls’ Silver Gallery before crossing the border. Over the years, this remarkable site has evolved into a true gem of personal architecture, reflecting a deep commitment to beauty and an enduring passion for craftsmanship. The Juhls family expresses its creativity through a variety of artistic forms, with jewellery design becoming its most celebrated focus. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to admire a curated selection of unique pieces, each still meticulously handcrafted in their workshop to preserve traditions passed down through generations.

After the tour, you will have some free time to enjoy lunch in Kautokeino before continuing your journey onwards to Levi. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel for dinner and your overnight stay. To ensure you are fully prepared for the Arctic climate, your guide will assist you with the collection of your thermal clothing, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable for the adventures ahead.

This evening, there will be an optional tour on offer to go Aurora Hunting by Heated Sleigh. This tour is the best option if you do not wish to ride a snowmobile and would rather sit in the comfort of a heated sleigh pulled by the guide. Travel into the forest through the snowy, moonlit landscape away from the light pollution. Arrive at a fire and enjoy warm drinks and prepare your camera to take photographs of the northern night sky and if you are lucky, the Northern Lights will appear.

Stay at: Galdu Hotel & Spa (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

DAY 6 Saariselka
The natural beauty, diverse wildlife, varying terrain and, of course, the Northern Lights make Lapland. Today, you will have the opportunity to get familiar with Lappish animals, the life of the locals and enjoy the magical tranquillity the Arctic nature offers.

After breakfast, you have time at leisure to relax or join a couple of activities. First an optional snowmobile safari, where you will receive a good understanding of the nature of Lapland during the winter. The breathtakingly beautiful landscape of the forest, the powdery snowdrifts, and the trees bowing down under the weight of the snow line your route that takes you comfortably away from the bustle of the village of Saariselka. Along the way, you will stop to take photographs of the beautiful scenery and to enjoy a hot drink.

You may also choose to join an optional wellness experience at Galdu Spa, the northernmost outdoor spa of its kind. Inspired by the Nordic ritual of heat and ice, you can alternate between heated outdoor pools and a revitalising cold plunge beneath the open northern sky, or explore three distinct saunas, including a traditional Finnish sauna and a panoramic wood-burning option. Between sessions, you can unwind by the fireplace in the elegant indoor lounge bar.

This afternoon, you will get acquainted with the Sami reindeer as you visit a local farm to learn about the ancient traditions of herding. Your guide will share insights into how this lifestyle has been sustained for generations, offering a deeper understanding of daily life in the North. You will also have the opportunity to observe these remarkable animals up close and hand-feed them for a truly authentic Arctic experience.

In the evening, take a snowshoe tour through the Arctic landscape, where your guide will provide information on the nature and animals of Lapland. At a nearby fell, warm up inside a hut and indulge in snacks and drinks while you keep watch for the Northern Lights.

Stay at: Galdu Hotel & Spa (4 star) or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

DAY 7 Saariselka
Enjoy breakfast and your day at leisure until your transfer to Ivalo Airport for your onward journey. Hope you have had a wonderful time exploring the Capitals of the Northern Lights!

Meals included: Breakfast

Please note: All the optional tours require pre-booking as they are not available to be booked once on tour.