
Overview
What's included?
ALL OF THE ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES LISTED BELOW ARE INCLUDED IN THE HOLIDAY PRICE
- Flights: return from London to Ivalo (via Helsinki). Flight routes are subject to change.
- Transfers: return scheduled group shuttle airport transfers
- Accommodation: 4 nights accommodation in twin/double hotel rooms. Log suite with Sauna and Cabin upgrades available (supplements apply)
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
- The following activities are included in the holiday: Northern Lights presentation and Aurora stake-out, visit to Inari*, Aurora Camp, nature walk and Aurora hunt by car (the order of activities is subject to change)
- Fully qualified guides and instructors during activities
Muotka is located deep within the forest in Northern Lapland. The setting is perfect for an autumn getaway, particularly as the nights grow darker and the Aurora Borealis returns to the northern skies. There is very little light pollution in the area and the hotel is very close to Urho Kekkonen National Park, which becomes a spectacle of vibrant colours during the short autumn season known as ‘Ruska’.
Autumn hails the beginning of the Aurora season when the night sky grows dark enough for the lights to be visible and this trip will allow you plenty of opportunities to seek out the Northern Lights. A presentation will give you an insight into the science behind the Aurora from a knowledgeable, local guide. You will then visit a nearby Aurora Camp which provides unobstructed views of the night sky. Once here, you can keep warm by the fire and enjoy listening to your guide’s stories as you keep a lookout for any flickers of light in the sky above. You will also hunt the lights via car or minibus. This will hopefully enable you to outrun any localised cloud cover as your guide seeks out the best spots for potential Aurora activity.
The autumn season in Lapland brings vibrant, colourful landscapes and a guided nature walk is the perfect introduction. Wildlife is more active at this time of year, so you may be lucky enough to spot reindeer and various species of bird. Your guide will also point out edible berries which are in season and give you an insight into the forest’s flora. In November, you may witness the first snow of winter and in this case, you may swap your hiking boots for snowshoes.
Muotka itself is close to Inari which is the heart of Sámi culture. A visit to the Siida Museum offers an engaging insight into this ancient indigenous culture and how the local people have adapted to the changeable seasons north of the Arctic Circle. A Northern Lights photography presentation set to music is also played throughout the day.
In short, autumn is both colourful and peaceful as you are travelling ahead of the winter crowds. Some of the best Northern Lights displays can be witnessed at this time of year and the scenery is spectacular.
Image credits: WIlderness Hotel Muotka, Markku Inkila, Tarja Manninen & Inari-Saariselkä Tourism Ltd
Dates & Prices
Thank you for your interest in this Aurora Zone experience.
We have found that this holiday is better tailored exactly to your requirements, so please email our Travel Experts at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact us on 01670 785 012 to discuss the various options available to you.
Our Travel Experts have been to all the destinations we feature and love to share their experiences and insight. We want to match you with your perfect trip, so if you have any questions please get in touch; we will be happy to talk through the destinations and itineraries with you.
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Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Arrival
After arriving into Finland’s most northerly airport you will be transferred* to the stunning region of Muotka, which is a true Lappish wilderness location. Following check in you will enjoy an evening meal whilst settling into your picturesque surroundings.
* Transfers are based on a scheduled group shuttle to a few nearby hotels. If you would prefer to upgrade to private taxi transfers please ask our Travel Experts for a quotation.
Included Meals: Dinner -
DAY 2
Northern Lights Presentation and Aurora Stake Out
Following breakfast, the morning will be yours to spend at your leisure. Settle into your new surroundings with a walk amidst the stunning terrain or relax in the hotel sauna. Alternatively, if you would like to enjoy an authentic Lappish experience then an optional visit to a husky farm is available. Please see the 'personalise' tab for details.
Following a delicious dinner, you will be given an introduction to the science behind the Northern Lights in addition to some of the local legends associated with the Aurora Borealis. You will then venture to a specially created Aurora Camp amidst the beautiful autumn nature. The camp locations have been carefully selected to provide unobstructed views of the night sky with minimal artificial light. You will spend time at the camp (warm drinks and fire provided) and hopefully, you will get your first sighting of the majestic and unforgettable Northern Lights.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 3
Sámi Siida Museum and Aurora Camp
After breakfast, you will join a local guide and visit Inari which is the capital of Sámi culture in Finnish Lapland. In Inari, you will visit the Sámi Siida Museum, which will give you a fascinating insight into the culture of the indigenous people who reside north of the Arctic Circle. The museum has a Northern Lights photo presentation and there is a small gift shop displaying a range of Sámi handicrafts made by the local people which are ideal for those looking to pick up some authentic souvenirs.
Following your trip to the museum, you will be driven back to Muotka where you can enjoy an evening meal before heading out once more in search of the Aurora. You will once again visit an Aurora camp away from artificial light. Keep an eye out for any flickers of colour as you enjoy the warmth of an open fire.
*Please note: The Sámi Siida Museum will sadly be closed for renovation for the 2021/2022 season so the main exhibitions are not accessible. Guests will be able to visit the gift shop and the open-air museum – an outdoor trail showcasing exhibits on the cultural heritage, architectural heritage and livelihoods of Finland’s three Sámi cultures. Guests are also welcome to visit Sajos, an architecturally beautiful building in the heart of Inari which is home to the Sámi Parliament and is the centre of Sámi culture and administration. Guided tours and an informative video are offered throughout the day and there is also a shop selling Sámi handicraft, books and music.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 4
Nature Hike and Aurora Hunt
Following breakfast, you will have an opportunity to explore the vibrant autumn landscapes surrounding Muotka. Your expert guide will lead you through pine forest and over sweeping fields highlighting any edible berries and giving you an insight into the local flora and fauna. You may encounter wildlife as they are generally more active at this time of year.
For those travelling in November, you may arrive just in time to witness the first snow of an Arctic winter. In this case, you will swap your hiking boots for snowshoes.
After returning from your walk, you will enjoy a delicious meal before heading out for your final Aurora hunt. On this occasion, you will travel via mini bus or car which will enable you to venture further into the wilderness, hopefully outrunning any cloud cover. In addition, the use of a vehicle allows you to reach some of the best spots for potentially spotting the Northern Lights.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 5
Departure
Following breakfast, unfortunately, it will be time to leave this stunning region and you will be transferred back to the airport in preparation for your flight. Alternatively, you may wish to extend your stay or enjoy a city break in Helsinki. Please speak to one of our Travel Experts for more details
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Wilderness Hotel Muotka
Nights: 1-4
Muotkan Maja Wilderness Hotel resides around 40km from the main town of Ivalo, tucked away in the corner of North-East Finland. Recently renovated and restored it is owned and run by the same couple as the popular Nellim Wilderness Hotel, Mari and Jouko Lappalainen. They run the hotel with the same hard-working ethos and it exudes the same warmth and charm for its much-welcomed guests.
The hotel boasts some wonderful scenery, tucked away in the forested fells with roaming reindeer frequently seen amongst the trees.
Hotel facilities
- The focal point of the main building is the restaurant which is where you will have the majority of your meals. Food will be served buffet style with a variety of continental and cooked food for breakfast and the choice of two or three options for each course at dinner. The menu has been designed with a focus on both traditional and international cuisine using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
- There is a bar which is usually open until 1 am and serves a variety of spirits, wines and beers and a lounge area with comfortable armchairs to relax in during your free time
- There is a sauna in the main building which is heated daily for guest use
- Free Wi-Fi is available in the main building (at the bar and in the restaurant)
- In the main building, you will also find two fireplaces, games and books, which makes it a perfect place to relax
- The standard rooms do not have tea and coffee making facilities but tea and coffee are available free of charge and available in the restaurant area
- Hairdryers are available, if they are not in the room then they can be requested at the main hotel reception
Room types
All rooms are en-suite with a shower room, wardrobe, hairdryer and nightstand and can be made up as either a double or twin and offer lovely Scandinavian décor and charm.
©Jouko Lappalainen, Markku Inkila
Other options
Wilderness Hotel Muotka - Superior Sauna Rooms
The Superior Sauna rooms are located a short distance from the main hotel building. These rooms are designed to offer rustic luxury and are ideal for small families and groups or those that simply wish for more space to relax in during their stay at Muotka. The rooms are approximately 33m² and each separate building has four superior sauna rooms inside. Please contact our Aurora Experts for a quotation.
Facilities
- All rooms will contain their own private sauna, sofa and an electric kettle to make your stay as comfortable as possible
- Each has a queen-size bed within and space for 1-2 extra beds
- All meals will be served in the hotel restaurant which is just a short walk away
Wilderness Hotel Muotka - Log Cabin
Situated not far from the main hotel, the log cabins at Muotka are a wonderful upgrade option for those looking for a little more space during their stay or if you are travelling as a small group or family.
Each log cabin is approximately 50m² and is fully equipped to make your stay cosy and comfortable. Please contact our Aurora Experts for a quotation.
Log cabin facilities
- All cabins have their own log burner and private sauna - ideal for warming up after a day in the snow!
- Each has a double bed and space for 1-2 extra beds
- All cabins have a small kitchenette and a kettle
- The log cabins are equipped with large north-facing windows so you can easily keep watch for a potential Aurora display
- All meals will be served in the hotel restaurant which is just a short walk away
Special Nights

A night in an Aurora Cabin
As ever, Muotka leads the way in Aurora viewing innovation and we are therefore proud to offer our guests the chance to spend the night in one of the magnificent Aurora Cabins. These stunning, part-cabin, part-glass tepee buildings, offer guests an exceptional overnight Aurora hunting experience.
Guests get the space and feel of a cabin during the day and the Aurora viewing benefits of a glass igloo at night, as you sleep under a glass tepee. This means that you are provided with the most wonderful views of the night sky from the comfort of your bed.
These part-cabin and part-glass tepee buildings, are self-contained and situated a short distance from the hotel, next to the annexe. They combine the space and atmosphere of a cosy cabin with a glass roof above the bed. Each cabin faces north so ideal for guests to gaze upon the night sky every night of their holiday, from the comfort of their duvet. The cabins are all 25m² with their own private sauna, double bed and en-suite bathroom, making them an excellent base.
Please note an additional supplement will apply on our Christmas and New Year departures and that all prices are based on guests spending their final night in a cabin and checking out of their hotel room the day before departure.
Please note: Prices are based on you spending the first or last night of your holiday in this unique accommodation and not keeping your original accommodation. If you would like to do this on any other night during your holiday you will need to keep your accommodation and supplements will apply.
Credit: Anthony Oberlin and Minttu Mantynen
Personalise
Personalise this tour
Our pick
A night in an Aurora Cabin
As ever, Muotka leads the way in Aurora viewing innovation and we are therefore proud to offer our guests the chance to spend the night in one of the magnificent Aurora Cabins. These stunning, part-cabin, part-glass tepee buildings, offer guests an exceptional overnight Aurora hunting experience.
Guests get the space and feel of a cabin during the day and the Aurora viewing benefits of a glass igloo at night, as you sleep under a glass tepee. This means that you are provided with the most wonderful views of the night sky from the comfort of your bed.
Read moreThese part-cabin and part-glass tepee buildings, are self-contained and situated a short distance from the hotel, next to the annexe. They combine the space and atmosphere of a cosy cabin with a glass roof above the bed. Each cabin faces north so ideal for guests to gaze upon the night sky every night of their holiday, from the comfort of their duvet. The cabins are all 25m² with their own private sauna, double bed and en-suite bathroom, making them an excellent base.
Please note an additional supplement will apply on our Christmas and New Year departures and that all prices are based on guests spending their final night in a cabin and checking out of their hotel room the day before departure.
Please note: Prices are based on you spending the first or last night of your holiday in this unique accommodation and not keeping your original accommodation. If you would like to do this on any other night during your holiday you will need to keep your accommodation and supplements will apply.
Credit: Anthony Oberlin and Minttu Mantynen
Other options
Activities

Husky farm visit
The autumn months are quiet and peaceful in Muotka but the huskies are always eager for visitors. A tour to a nearby husky farm is a fantastic way in which to meet these lovable dogs whilst also learning about their importance to the culture of this region. Your guide will explain the history behind the husky whilst also giving you an insight into his life during the long winters. Following this, you will meet the dogs yourself before enjoying a 1km ride on a sled with wheels. You may even get to cuddle some puppies.
Trip Extensions

Helsinki city break
With our destinations being so remote, the majority of flights to Finnish Lapland are operated by Finnair and therefore involve connecting through Helsinki Airport. Many of our guests choose to extend this stop and spend some time in the Finnish capital, either at the start or end of their holiday.
We can arrange a wide variety of city centre hotel accommodation for guests to choose from and some options closer to the airport should you prefer. We know that everyone tends to be looking for something different so please contact our Travel Experts for their opinion on the hotels which may best suit you and your party.
Read more about this activityLocated on the peninsula of the Baltic Sea, Helsinki enjoys a charming coastal location and has much to offer its guests. This thriving city has a rich culture and arts scene with many museums and galleries to enjoy alongside the exciting gastronomy.
Despite its cool urbanism and reputation for cutting-edge design, Helsinki also retains its charm and visitors will enjoy this city's very friendly atmosphere.
In the city itself, Senate Square is the main feature, showcasing neoclassical architecture and offering easy access to the surrounding shops. Helsinki offers striking architecture, with wide streets and bold facades. For those looking for more of an insight into the city's past, we would suggest visiting the Ateneum Art Museum which houses over 20,000 pieces of art or the Helsinki Design Museum which showcases the history of design in the country from traditional folklore to postmodernism.
A 15-minute ferry ride from the main city is the UNESCO-listed Suomenlinna Sea Fortress which was constructed in 1748. As well as being a unique monument, it is also a lovely day trip, as the island has numerous shops and parks to explore.
Helsinki's food scene has seen a recent evolution, with a growth in street food which showcases the city's multicultural population. Helsinki is famed also for its specialist dishes of seafood so there is much to sample!
Finland is famed for its coffee consumption so you can be sure of a thriving café culture here. Be sure to include an obligatory stop for a coffee and a cinnamon roll during your explorations!
Whether you add your city break to the start or the end of your holiday, spending a night or two in Helsinki is not something that you will regret.
Please contact our Travel Experts for a full quotation. All city breaks are subject to flight availability.