Kemi-Tornio: Evening campfire on the island

Traveling to Finland’s Lapland isn’t just about checking off the Northern Lights or meeting reindeer — it’s about embracing the quiet magic of the Arctic night. The “Evening campfire on the island” tour offered by Sea Lapland Safaris promises a cozy, authentic taste of Lapland’s wilderness with an added dash of adventure. While it’s a relatively short experience, just two hours, what you get in that time can feel surprisingly expansive — a quiet night under the stars, a sleigh ride over a frozen sea, and a warm campfire inside a traditional Lappish hut.

Two things we particularly love about this experience? First, the combination of outdoor adventure and indoor warmth — it’s perfect for those who want to experience Lapland’s natural beauty but also value comfort. Second, the chance to possibly see the Northern Lights is a genuine highlight, making this a memorable, bucket-list-worthy outing.

One thing to consider is that the experience takes place in darkness far from city lights, so if you’re not comfortable in cold, snowy night conditions or if you’re expecting a lot of time outdoors, plan accordingly. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and a taste of local Sami culture. If you enjoy quiet, scenic evenings in winter, this is a lovely way to spend an Arctic night.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Combines outdoor sleigh rides, forest walks, and cozy indoor campfire.
• Northern Lights Opportunity: Weather permitting, you might catch a glimpse of this elusive natural phenomenon.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Warm winter clothing, hot drinks, and grilled sausages are provided, ensuring comfort amid the cold.
• Flexible Planning: Book now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Small Group: Offers a more intimate experience, perfect for those who prefer personalized attention.
• Ideal for Nature Lovers: Suits travelers craving a peaceful, scenic, and culturally immersive Arctic night.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Genuine Look at the Arctic Night Experience

Starting Point: Ease and Convenience

The tour begins at the Sea Lapland Safaris safari house in Kemi, conveniently located at Lumilinnankatu 15c. Here, you’ll be greeted and outfitted in warm winter clothing — an essential for comfort and safety — including overall, shoes, wool socks, gloves, and a helmet. This proactive approach is one of the tour’s strengths; it takes the guesswork out of dressing appropriately for Arctic conditions, which can be severe even in winter.

The Sleigh Ride over the Frozen Sea

Once dressed, you hop aboard a snowmobile sleigh for a scenic ride across the frozen waters that characterize this part of Lapland. The experience of gliding over ice is mesmerizing, especially with the silence of snow-covered landscapes around you. The guide’s expertise ensures a smooth ride, and the ride itself offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the vastness and stillness of the Arctic.

While some reviews highlight the ride as “beautiful” and “peaceful,” it’s worth noting that the actual duration isn’t specified but is enough to set the tone for an authentic Arctic outing. The ride over the ice is a great way to connect with the environment, feeling the crisp air and the expansive, starry sky above.

Inside the Lappish Hut: Warmth and Cultural Touches

Upon arrival, the guide builds a campfire inside a traditional Lappish hut, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in the midst of winter’s chill. Here, you sit down to enjoy hot drinks and grilled sausages, which are included in the tour. The warmth of the fire paired with hearty Sami-style food makes for a cozy experience, perfect for sharing stories or simply soaking in the quiet atmosphere.

The hut’s interior offers a glimpse into Sami culture, with traditional elements that add a layer of authenticity. Many guests appreciate this part of the tour as a peaceful retreat from the cold, a chance to sit and reflect while surrounded by Arctic nature.

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An Optional Forest Walk and Northern Lights Chance

After the campfire, you’re encouraged to take a walk through the snow-covered forest surrounding the island. This peaceful exploration allows you to breathe in the crisp Arctic air and enjoy the snow-laden trees. If the skies are clear and you’re lucky, the darkness might reveal the Northern Lights, a rare but magical bonus. Several reviews mention the “light show” as a highlight, though it’s dependent on weather and solar activity — so a clear, cold night is your best bet for a sighting.

Return Journey and Overall Experience

The return sleigh ride takes you back to the safari house, completing a balanced, enriching outing. Given the two-hour duration, it’s a perfect half-evening activity that combines adventure, comfort, and a touch of Arctic magic.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

The tour includes all necessary winter gear — a thoughtful inclusion that saves you money and hassle. The hot drink and grilled sausage are also included, providing warmth and sustenance after the outdoor activities. These small comforts go a long way in making the experience enjoyable, especially in Arctic temperatures.

The small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized interaction with the guide and fellow travelers. Plus, the flexibility of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind, especially in unpredictable winter weather.

Transportation and Logistics

Starting at the safari house, the tour is accessible via a short walk or pickup from selected hotels in Tornio-Haparanda. The pickup service, if included, makes logistics straightforward — especially helpful if you’re not keen on navigating icy roads or arranging your own transport in a remote part of Lapland.

How Does This Tour Stack Up in Value?

Compared to longer, more elaborate excursions, this two-hour experience offers a focused taste of Arctic life. The all-inclusive nature — warm clothing, food, and the outdoor adventure — provides good value, especially considering the scenic setting and culture. For travelers with limited time but a desire for a genuine Arctic experience, this outing hits the mark.

While it might not be for those seeking intense outdoor activities or extended wilderness adventures, it’s perfect for those who want a cozy, scenic, and authentic taste of Lapland’s night sky and natural landscape.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy quiet, scenic evenings and want a balanced mix of outdoor adventure and cultural authenticity. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a manageable, memorable Arctic outing. If you’re curious about Sami traditions, love starry skies, or simply want to experience the Arctic in a relaxed way, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile addition to your Lapland itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Transportation is optional — if you select the pickup option, it’s included from certain hotels. Otherwise, you’ll meet at the safari house in Kemi.

What should I wear?
The tour provides warm winter clothing, including overall, shoes, wool socks, gloves, and a helmet. It’s advised to dress warmly underneath and wear thermal layers for added comfort.

How long is the sleigh ride?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it’s long enough to enjoy the scenery and set a magical Arctic tone.

Can I see the Northern Lights?
Yes, if the sky is clear and solar activity is high, you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights during the night.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the outdoor and indoor cozy nature suggests it could suit older children comfortable with cold weather and outdoor activity.

What is included in the price?
Warm winter clothing, hot drinks, grilled sausage, and the guided outdoor experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes — cancellation is free if made up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your trip planning.

Final Thoughts

The “Evening campfire on the island” tour offers a charming, well-rounded slice of Arctic life. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, authentic experience that balances outdoor adventure with cozy comfort. The combination of a sleigh ride, a warm campfire inside a traditional hut, and the possibility of viewing the Northern Lights makes it a memorable activity.

While it’s not an exhaustive Arctic expedition, it provides meaningful insight into local culture and natural beauty in a manageable timeframe. The inclusions and small-group format add value, making it suitable for those who prefer a personal touch in their Lapland adventures.

If you’re craving a tranquil, scenic evening in the snowy wilderness with a chance to witness nature’s most spectacular light show, this tour is worth considering. It’s a gentle, authentic way to experience the quiet splendors of the Arctic night.

You can check availability for your dates here: