
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
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
- The following activities and equipment are included: Aurora workshop, cross-country skiing, Aurora camp, snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm, Aurora snowshoe hike, husky safari and Aurora hunt by minibus (the order of activities is subject to change)
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
- Aurora alert until approximately 1 am
- 24/7 assistance from our UK based operations team and in destination support from our local partners
Our Northern Lights Adventure packs a real activity punch in just four days and you will spend a great deal of time exploring the wilds of Lapland, both during the day and at night.
On this trip, you will travel across the snow-covered landscape in a variety of ways. From the much-loved Finnish pastime of cross-country skiing to the exhilaration of snowmobiling and the thrill of driving a team of huskies across the wilderness.
Your nocturnal activities will be dedicated to seeking out Northern Light displays and with the guide's local knowledge, and a wide variety of vantage points to choose from, your chances couldn't be higher. You will search for the lights by minibus, using snowshoes and in a sleigh pulled by a snowmobile.
Your base at Muotkan Maja Wilderness Hotel can be found amongst the forested-fells in North-East Finland. Muotka's secluded setting provides guests with an idyllic retreat.
The welcoming hotel is decorated in typical Scandinavian décor and offers cosy accommodation and excellent hospitality.
Muotka also has another attraction up its sleeve; the exceptional Aurora Kotas. The Kotas offer guests the chance to spend the night under the Arctic sky and guests can spend their entire stay in a Kota should they wish. Details of these unforgettable options can be found in the 'Accommodation' and 'Personalise' section of the holiday page.
It's hard to narrow down the reasons why we love Muotka; whether it's the wonderful welcome, the fabulous Aurora prospects, the array of activities or the spectacular location. We recommend that you simply go and see for yourself.
Please note if you are travelling over New Year, you will enjoy a festive dinner and celebrations on the 31st of December.
© WIlderness Hotel Muotka, Markku Inkila and Matt Robinson
Dates & Prices
Price Comparison Guarantee

Activities: please note that if you are travelling early in the winter season and there is not enough snowfall, then some activities may be adapted by the local team, or alternatives provided, to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort. For more information on this, please see our booking terms and conditions.
Prices
Departure dates between | ||
---|---|---|
Tue 05 Dec 2023
to Tue 26 Dec 2023 |
Adults £ 2,295 To £ 2,570 | |
Tue 02 Jan 2024
to Tue 30 Jan 2024 |
Adults £ 2,065 To £ 2,310 | |
Tue 06 Feb 2024
to Tue 27 Feb 2024 |
Adults £ 2,180 To £ 2,665 | |
Tue 05 Mar 2024
to Tue 19 Mar 2024 |
Adults £ 2,065 To £ 2,310 |
Departure day: Tuesday
Prices are based on 2 people sharing. Our holiday prices are based on the lowest available airline fares. These fares can sell out quickly and, as a result, prices may increase and supplements may be applicable. We recommend booking at the earliest opportunity to secure the best possible fares and flight times.
Terms
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
The Specifics
Holiday group size (approximate)
This holiday requires a minimum of 2 people to run, however, on some dates we require a minimum of 8 people for our flight allocation. Maximum 24 people (approximately). Please speak to our Travel Experts for further information.
Group Size
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Minimum numbers required for a holiday to operate
Some of our holidays require a minimum number of participants to operate (as listed in the ‘Group Size’ section). If your holiday departure has not yet reached the minimum number, you will be told at the time of booking. In the unlikely event that your chosen date is not guaranteed by nine weeks before your scheduled departure date, we will contact you to discuss the available options as per our booking conditions.
Minimum and maximum age
If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.
Unless otherwise stated in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Aurora Zone holiday is typically 12 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com.
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.
Medical History and Advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this, we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
Booking Activities Locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.
In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
The UK Foreign Office Advice
Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade https://www.mfat.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Brexit information for British Passport holders
Information for British Passport Holders
It is your responsibility to ensure that your passport and/or any required visas are up to date for your holiday. Please take special note of rules relating to passport validity as these have changed since Brexit. You can find more general advice from the UK government on their Passport rules for travel to Europe and then country specific advice on the Foreign Travel Advice page under the entry requirements section.
Please also check the UK Governments ‘Get Travel Smart’ campaign for up to date information on travel advice by country, information on Travel Insurance and information on how to renew your passport if required.
Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
Terms and Conditions
Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.theaurorazone.com/booking-conditions
Payment and Cancellation Terms
Please note that the following cancellation terms supersede in part those mentioned in section 7 of our general booking terms and conditions.
If you are travelling between, and including, the dates of 14.12-06.01, the following cancellation terms apply:
- Prior to 25.09 – Loss of deposit (including the full cost of the flights or other services where paid at the time of booking)
- 26.09 up until departure date – 100%
For all other travel dates that do not include 14.12-06.01, the following cancellation terms apply:
- More than 63 days prior to departure - Loss of deposit (including the full cost of flights or other services where paid at the time of booking)
- 63 to 45 days prior to departure - 40%
- 44 to 31 days prior to departure - 60%
- 30 to 16 days prior to departure - 80%
- 15 or less days - 100%
Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Flights and Transfers
You will be greeted at the airport before being transferred* the 40km to the Muotkan Maja Wilderness Hotel ready to begin your exciting adventure.
Your schedule will be keeping you pretty busy for the next few days, so you may wish to get an early night once you have finished your evening meal. However, you should also keep an eye on the sky. The remoteness of the hotel means you don't have to go far to witness the Northern Lights should a display begin.
The Aurora Kotas here at Muotka are an exceptional upgrade option and provide very comfortable Aurora accommodation either for one night or your whole stay. Details of these options can be found in the 'Accommodation' and 'Personalise' sections of the holiday page.
* Transfers are based on a scheduled group shuttle that sometimes stops at 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
Cross-Country Skiing, Aurora Workshop and Aurora Camp
Following breakfast this morning, you will be out exploring the beautiful wilderness traversing the landscape with cross-country skis (approximately two hours), navigating the trails which surround the hotel. Cross-country skiing is something of a national obsession in this part of the world and an activity we think that everyone should try at least once. It can be addictive and so, if you would like to explore independently later on in the week, you can hire the equipment at the hotel. Lunch will be served at the hotel.
In the late afternoon, your guide will talk through the phenomenon of the Northern Lights in detail and describe some of the science and legends behind them. As photographing the Aurora has become increasingly popular they will also aim to discuss the optimal camera settings that will help you capture a potential image.
Tonight you will head out on your first of three nocturnal excursions in search of the Northern Lights. The guides here are all local experts and their knowledge and enthusiasm for the Aurora are unsurpassed. Tonight your guide will lead you in a sled pulled by their snowmobile to the Aurora Camp, where you will sit around a campfire, listen to stories your guide has to tell and watch the skies for a potential Northern Lights display. You will be out for around two and a half hours.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 3
Snowmobile Safari to Reindeer Farm and Northern Lights Snowshoe Trek
Snowmobiling is one of the most thrilling ways to explore the Arctic, allowing you to cover a lot of ground and gain a sense of the scale of the wilderness. Full instruction and a safety briefing will be given before you set off, travelling two people per snowmobile. Providing you both have a full driving licence and are over 18, you will have the chance to take it in turns to either drive or be the passenger.
Your destination is a reindeer farm around 20km away, where you will meet with the local herder and his reindeer. Here you will gain an understanding of the history of herding and the importance of the reindeer to the region.
There will be time to enjoy a short sleigh ride and take some pictures of these gentle animals before embarking on your snowmobiles for the return trip to Muotka. You will be out for around four to five hours in total and a soup lunch is included.
Following dinner this evening, you will strap on your snowshoes for a hike with your guide. Snowshoeing at night is a different experience to doing so in the day, and the scenery will look very different by torchlight. It is a wonderful experience and with any luck, the Northern Lights will help guide your path. This activity will last for approximately two and a half hours.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 4
Husky Safari and Aurora Hunt by Minibus
Your last day in this remote corner of the world is sure to be a memorable one as you experience a husky safari across the fells. The dogs here love nothing more than to pull a sled and their enthusiasm is a joy to witness. You will travel two people per sled with a team of four to six dogs. Once the dogs' initial excited barking has abated, they will pull you enthusiastically across the snow and the experience becomes an altogether tranquil one. The peacefulness of the activity will allow you to really appreciate the awe-inspiring wilderness that provides the backdrop to the experience.
The distance travelled will be determined by the conditions on the trail but you will be driving for around one hour with the dogs. This activity last around two hours and you will take lunch back at the hotel.
After your final dinner with the group at Muotka tonight, you will be travelling in a minibus and on the hunt for the Aurora one last time. Utilising the mobility, your guide will locate the best viewpoint and the Northern Lights will hopefully come to bid you farewell. You will be out for around two and a half hours.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 5
Departure
Today you will bid farewell to Muotka as you are transferred to the airport for your flights home. If you are departing on an early flight, you will be provided with a breakfast box.
We can arrange for you to extend your stay in Finland and enjoy the sights and sounds of Helsinki on your way home. Please see the 'Personalise' section for 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 Cabins
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 Travel 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 only 20 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 a double bed and en-suite bathroom, making them an excellent base (most of them have a private sauna).
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.
Please contact our Travel Experts for a quote.
©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 only 20 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 a double bed and en-suite bathroom, making them an excellent base (most of them have a private sauna).
Read morePlease 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.
Please contact our Travel Experts for a quote.
©Anthony Oberlin and Minttu Mantynen
Reviews
Traveller Reviews
All activities were very well organised and all creature comforts were taken care of. Probably the Reindeer visit was my favourite. We appreciated the expert knowledge in helping us to choose this particular holiday and the comprehensive information provided before the trip. Muotka was fantastic and lived up to our expectations. The manager and staff are super friendly and create a very relaxed…
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atmosphere. The activities were extremely well organised and well led. In short we were blessed with great weather, good aurora activity and had a great holiday. Many thanks
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I had a great time, Nikii is an excellent host. I thought all the activities were of a good duration, long enough to get some practice but not so long that you got cold etc. very well run.
The snow mobiling was a wonderful experience in nature. Amazing and will be back.
No complaints at all - it was perfect! My wife enjoyed cross country skiing the most, because it was so peaceful, while I liked the aurora camp (we got lucky!) and snowmobiling. Everything else was great as well.
Undoubtedly the most enjoyable aspect was Northern Lights camp 7 hunt. We were blessed with fantastic conditions.
Husky ride was really great - the dogs were so enthusiastic
Having mentioned our holiday was to celebrate my wife’s 50th birthday, the company organised a room upgrade, free bottle of wine and even helped arrange for a cake. Thanks so much for your attention and assistance. Definitely will book again.
The overall experience was excellent.
I loved this trip. We enjoyed all the activities (main reason I booked this trip). We used the sauna every day. Lovely snowy landscapes and we were so lucky the northern lights came out dancing on our final night! Overall very happy with this holiday. Everything was well planned, the room was good, the food was plenty, we were always provided with hot drinks and cookies during activities, the…
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sauna was great, guides were friendly.
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Husky sledding and snowmobiling - just great fun moving quickly through such a stunning environment.
The reindeer farm, was so beautiful and so interesting. I loved hearing about the Sami people and their culture. So happy I chose your company
Just back from Muotka, a fantastic recommendation by Amy, thank you. It was exactly what my son wanted, remote and full of excellent outdoor activities, we had a brilliant time. I thought the accommodation and facilities were outstanding and we even got a glimpse of the lights on our final night in a kota thanks to their excellent Aurora alarm system.
We had a fantastic holiday and wouldn't hesitate to return. We've provided feedback on things we think could be improved but our overall experience was very good and we are very happy, thank you.
I cannot praise The Aurora Zone too highly and am busy telling all my friends and family what a wonderful holiday I had and how good your customer service is. Cross-country skiing was a discovery for me and the guide let me enjoy it to the full, even though I was out longer than planned. She gave me expert advice and I had the best possible experience. Everything about this trip was…
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wonderful, from start to finish. The customer service from the Aurora Zone team was extraordinary; we asked to postpone our trip not long before we were due to go in November because there was no snow and they not only offered us a choice of alternative dates without any hesitation but then refunded us some money as the March trips were slightly cheaper. The Finnair flights were great, we were met by a very friendly and cheerful driver for the transfer to the Muotka Wilderness Hotel and then given a warm welcome by the Manager. The hotel was comfortable, fed us very well indeed and organised all of the activities beautifully, providing first-rate equipment and excellent guides. We were very fortunate to see the Northern Lights three nights running and that felt like the icing on the cake, we enjoyed the activities so much that even if the lights had not appeared, we would have had a wonderful trip. I am now recommending your company to my family and friends!
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The whole experience of visiting Finland and participating in the superbly organised activities exceeded our expectations.If there was any down side to the holiday, it was not seeing the Northern Lights. This we knew was a hit and miss situation and typically, they were visible 2 days after we left.
Everyone we met was very friendly and helpful so it seems unfair to mention individuals. But, I wanted to say how extremely impressed I was by all the activity guides. So very competent, professional and friendly. They made the trip for me. Please pass on if you can.
Nina welcomed us beautifully upon our arrival. My partner's dietary requirements were well looked after. The hotel facilities were great. All of the staff were professional, friendly and helpful. Especially the activity guides - they were amazing and just wanted everyone to have a great experience. The food was great. The rooms and facilities were great.
We enjoyed all the activities but the most exileratiing was the dog sledding. The noise and excitement of the dogs before they got going and the silence when they were running- fabulous. We took our family away to celebrate our 40th wedding Anniversary and we were not disappointed. Flowers, chocolates and Prosecco in the room for us when we arrived. A lovely touch. Thank you
An amazing adventure which was extremely well organised and will give us memories to cherish forever. We felt very well looked after by everybody at the hotel and the guides were wonderful people to learn from and share our experiences with. I would recommend this to anyone - it will easily go down as one of the best trips we've ever taken and will take some beating. Unfortunately, we never met…
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our rep but we did have useful paperwork when we arrived from Ben and maybe we were just having such a good time to worry or have any need to speak to him. any time we had a question or needed anything the staff at the hotel were always there to help. Seeing the Northern Lights on our last night as part of the Night Snowmobiling Trip was something I will never forget and will never be replicated, it was an incredibly unique experience! But the Gentle Snow Booting during an afternoon was arguable just as enjoyable for very different reasons. Thank you to you and the staff at Muotka for an amazing Honeymoon! It was everything and more than what we hoped for. The chocolates, Wine, card and rooms were the extra special touches which made it really feel like a Honeymoon! Thankyou!
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The activity guides were wonderful. They worked such long hours not finishing till after midnight and were always cheerful. They were so knowledgeable and helpful and always made sure no one was left behind.
Fantastic holiday. Excellent organisation. Activities were very well run with friendly and informative guides. Topped off by an amazing show of the Lights on the final night.
In no particular order; the guides were full of really interesting info and happy to chat with us; the scenery was outstanding, breathtaking, peaceful; the food was great, filling, warm and lots; the interior of the hotel was cosy, lovely lighting and roaring fires; the group activities were fun, even with differing ages/abilities in the group; being able to take the equipment out whenever we…
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wanted to with no extra charge was great, so we did cross-country skiing three times; transfers were like clockwork, there was no waiting around anywhere, except to see the lights!; we saw the lights on 2 of 4 nights, which was enough for us! The trip for us was very expensive and the first time we have done a fully organised holiday, but it was totally the right decision. Having it all arranged, told when to do what was great, a real change for us. Met some great people, a real mix. And finally, the organisation pre-trip from The Aurora Zone was fantastic, easy, detailed, I knew what to take, where to go and it felt super easy. Thank you to your guys and thank you to the Muotka crew who made this trip for my and my husband’s 40th birthdays a totally amazing trip that we will never forget. We have travelled loads, but this felt really special.
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The husky safari was the best. 7km was a bit short for us - but to be fair, without ant prior knowledge and such a short break this is nit picking. Overall it was excellent. The guides were great - and passionate about what they do and most engaging. What was good about this selection of activities over a short timeframe is that we know now what to do more of and less of the next time, because we…
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will be back!
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Just wanted to drop you a line to say thanks for helping us book the recent winter activity trip to Muotka. We had a fabulous time and we both managed to do all the activities and see the Northern Lights on 2 of the 4 nights we were there! I’ve attached one of the night shots taken during our trip. I’ve already recommended you to a couple of friends. A bit of constructive…
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feedback for those with lower back issues like me…. Obviously, every individual has to assess the risk but I thought I would pass on my views. I found that riding pillion on the snowmobile was better than driving for 2 reasons: the side handles and backrest can be used to brace yourself over the bumpy ground, so I found it possible to participate quite easily and without too much trouble. I found that the fact I stood up to drive the husky sled meant there was no pressure on my lower back, as with the snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. If the client was in any doubt, I would suggest they schedule a short snowmobile trip first up in the trip as a taster of what it’s like before plunging into the all-day run to the reindeer farm! I hope this feedback helps other similarly afflicted clients with their decision.
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Apart from the flights home which went wrong and we ended up having to go through Heathrow the actual trip was fantastic from the people to the accommodation, food and to top it off seeing the Northern Lights.
We didn't meet the local rep, but all hotel staff and the aurora workshop presenter were excellent, very well informed and helpful. All the activity guides were charming, knowledgeable and very friendly. The birthday cake was delicious - thank you. And the decorations, including chocolates and sparkling wine, were lovely, all very thoughtful.
The log cabin and Aurora cabin were both fabulous. The cold weather suits, boots, helmets etc. were all of high standard and kept us warm. The setting of the lodge and activities, away from civilisation, in beautiful scenery was magical. All the guides and lodge staff were lovely and eager to help with any queries, putting on equipment and extremely cheerful and friendly. There was a great,…
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“family,” atmosphere, even though we were only there for four nights.
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Seeing the Aurora 3 nights out of 4 - WOW!!!!
Loved it all, so hard to choose. I think the husky sledging (was the favourite) as it was so peaceful and fun.
A wonderful time was had by both. The only improvement would be to have a map/route planner for occasions when you went out on your own. Thank you to all involved in making the short break an unforgettable experience. Helped particularly by the Aurora joining us on 3 nights out of 4!! Not something you can control!!
All activities were enjoyed
Muotka was amazing. The whole trip was faultless and we’re grateful for Barry Nolan giving us great advice on our room choice - the log cabin was perfect for us. Also, Matt the rep was brilliant whilst we were out aurora hunting - his knowledge was exceptional! All of the guides were extremely friendly and welcoming making each activity truly memorable. The icing on the cake was seeing the…
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northern lights but even if we hadn’t the trip would have still been amazing.
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The guides were all so friendly and helpful and you could tell they went out of their way to make sure all the guests had a great time..
Thanks once again, Finland in January glistened like a magic kingdom just as I had read.
The Wilderness Lodge was the most perfect accommodation, welcoming and relaxing after a busy day of activities. Hard to choose a favourite activity really as each was such a truly wonderful experience. All the guides from the hotel were so knowledgeable, friendly and supportive making the activity a real joy to be part off. My stand out moments were the snowmobiling to reindeer farm, snowshoeing…
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and Aurora camp where we were lucky to see the Northern Lights.
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An Excellent holiday. Matt the local rep was excellent - always attentive and ensuring everyone had a good time. Really helpful with cameras, taking pictures of us and general info on the Northern LIghts.
The hotel is fantastic and everyone was very friendly and helpful. Relaxed atmosphere and the most beautiful location. My husband loved the snowmobile and dog sledding - anything with an engine ;) I really enjoyed the dogs - driving the sledge through snow covered forest was magical but I thought the cross country skiing was also brilliant. I would like to say a very big Thank You for the wine you…
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gave us for his 60th birthday and the local rep, Matt, had also left a birthday card for him. Your attention to detail is to be commended and I will tell everyone who will listen to use The Aurora Zone if they are considering a trip to Lapland. The holiday exceeded our expectations and they were very high to start with so well done and thank you once again for making this a birthday to remember.
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Had an amazing time all staff were exceptional and nothing was too much trouble, the hotel and food was fantastic especially the night in the Kota
The husky safari was our favourite . We love dogs and when we were moving the silence in the wild beautiful landscape was amazing.
This has been a fantastic holiday. Our neighbours went on the same holiday last year and told us that we had to go! The staff were so helpful, friendly and fun. The guides were professional and encouraging. The food was lovely at Muotka, plenty of choice at breakfast and dinner. We thoroughly enjoyed all of the activities, highlight was the husky sledging which was absolutely fantastic. The dogs…
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are so noisy until they can run, then the peace whilst travelling at speed through the snow is amazing...I just felt so lucky to have the experience of being there. The snowmobiles and cross-country skiing were also wonderful. The snowshoeing is last on the list but that was also good fun. All the guides were professional and friendly. Loved all the berry juice and camp fires.
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Overall great experience using Aurora Zone... salesperson was helpful and honest and the account folks were very quick to respond. It's a great mix of activities and downtime.
We chose your company because we wanted to see the Northern Lights we believed you would give us the best chance of seeing it, it turns out we were right, how much of that was location or luck we will never know, but if any of our friends say they want to see the northern lights I wouldn't hesitate but to recommend your company.
Everything went very well and all the people in sales, admin and Muotka were all polite and efficient.
From start to finish this really was an amazing trip. We were slightly worried that we would somehow feel it wasn't value for money with the cost being higher than we would normally spend. However, we thought it was very good value; the accommodation was lovely and the food very good. The activities were well organised and the guides were great. We went snowmobiling (day and night), Aurora camp,…
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skiing, snowshoeing and husky sledding. On our second night, we saw the most amazing Aurora from the Aurora camp, the sky filled with green and purple. Special mention to all the staff who made the holiday even better.
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The husky sledding was an incredible experience because it was such a quiet way to travel through the wilderness and the dogs were lovely.
The holiday was awesome and we saw the Northern Lights so that was a bonus. Enjoyed the husky safari the best. It felt very real. The guides were very helpful and best of all very natural. The dogs are gorgeous! Loved every minute. The food was delicious. Every meal!
We'd never done any sort of winter holiday before and we must say that we found the whole experience magical.
I really enjoyed being able to land at the airport and everything was already planned out. I never had any issues with the accommodations, food, guides, or activities. I personally like cross country skiing, as I really enjoyed being out in the nature and being active. I really enjoyed getting to learn about the culture, reindeer activities food, and being able to book out the sauna instead of…
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having to share it with multiple people.
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Everything was brilliant. Most enjoyable activity? All of it! But especially the snowmobiling and husky sleds; Least enjoyable? Nothing!; Improvements: Hmm... not really
Everything was brilliant – especially the snowmobiling and husky sleds. Any improvements? Hmm... not really
Well organised trip both in the UK and in Finland. Our room was disappointing and rather tired and was not cleaned or made up every day as in a hotel. New accommodation is being built which may be better. The hotel staff are all welcoming, knowledgeable and friendly. All the excursions and activities were excellent and we saw the Aurora on 2 nights! Food courtesy of Gilles & Marco was one of…
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the highlights. We had a night in one of the Aurora Bubbles which was great though they would be a bit small to stay in for any longer and there were no wardrobes or mirrors. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip and would recommend it to anyone.
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This holiday actually exceeded our expectations. This is a fantastic trip provided you like a very active winter holiday.
Bucket List #1 - Checked! The trip had been the best vacation ever taken. The tour activities were well planned and fun to be a part of. Managed to see the Northern Lights for 3 nights in a row (solar activity was at its highest with kp-5 on most nights) and bonus of light drift snow. Snowmobile, husky ride, snow-shoeing, reindeer ride and Aurora chase were superb! No regrets at all staying in the…
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dark & cold nights in chase of the Lights and gathering around the camp fires with wonderful tour mates. Many thanks for the great vacation to the Aurora Zone and all in Muotkan Maja for the memorable experience.
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Everything went really well and there was a clear sky on the first night so we were able to see the Northern Lights. Looking back the activities were excellent and made up 99% of our memories, the lights were really just a very small part. You also need a clear sky, which is quite rare, so you need a lot of luck to see them. But in our minds, all the activities are the main thing. One thing which…
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exceeded our expectations was that the snowmobiling and husky safaris were much longer than we expected, which was great. They weren't just "round the block", they were proper treks of an hour or so each way. The accommodation and food were excellent, as was the thermal gear provided. Although it was -9C there was no wind, so no wind chill factor, so once you were wrapped up and warm you stayed warm.
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We had a fantastic holiday and overall found it very well organized, with smooth flights and transfers, good food and accommodation, an excellent program of activities in a great wilderness location. We enjoyed all the activities enormously and were extremely lucky to have a wonderful Aurora display on our third night.
We loved every minute and can't wait to go back. Everything ran smoothly and everyone we met was friendly and helpful.
Excellent holiday all round. The staff at Muotka were all brilliant and made us so welcome. We met some really nice people while we were there and enjoyed our adventures together. Difficult to pinpoint a favourite activity. The husky sledding was amazing. Loved being out in the wilderness and it's something we have never experienced before. The only slight negative for us was the transfer from…
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Rovaniemi rather than Ivalo which took a lot longer but didn't spoil the trip in any way. Appreciate on the day we flew the option of flying to Ivalo was not available. All in all though the whole experience was excellent and something neither of us has ever done before.
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Great holiday from the booking of it to the holiday and activities in Finland. Great knowledge and always helpful on the phone. The staff at the hotel and the guides were all very friendly.
Absolutely fantastic experience! Could not have asked for anything better. Everything went smoothly, no problems at all with travel. BRILLIANT holiday. Excellently looked after throughout, absolutely nothing to worry or even think about at any point. All activities were excellent, the lodge is just perfect. Not 5 star service, but everything you need and a VERY friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The…
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Northern Lights aren't guaranteed, but on this trip everything possible is done to help you see them. A wonderful, wonderful experience.
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Most enjoyable: All of it. It was by far one of the most amazing holidays we have ever had; Just wish I was still there! We saw the Northern Lights four nights on the trot. The activities were so much fun and the guides were excellent and we made lovely new friends. Will definately go back.... A holiday of a lifetime.
Most enjoyable activity: Seeing the Lights from the Aurora Camp - why is pretty obvious! Huskies and snowmobiles and reindeer sledding also great fun.
We were delighted that we saw the Aurora Lights for five nights in total, exceptionally well on three. The organisation and administration of the holiday were great. Muotka was smaller, more intimate, less sophisticated but somehow more attractive, and easy to enjoy between activities going for walks etc. Most enjoyable : Seeing the Aurora Lights (the bit that you can't guarantee!!),…
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Snowshoeing in the National Park at Muotka. Snowmobiling on the lake at Nellim. Husky dogs in a snow blizzard!
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We have had the most marvellous few days at Muotka, it's remote and idyllic. The staff are superb hosts and always friendly and helpful. Food great, rooms and facilites excellent, I don't think there is much that could improve this place.
The trips and activities were well organised and brilliant fun, we particularly enjoyed the dog sledding on Sunday. The guides were knowledgable and…
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alway punctual and we appreciated the time and effort put into talks given at Muotka and at the reindeer and husky farms. Just to add icing to the cake we were treated to two nights of glorious Northern Lights, it was truely magical.
Our only problem was a 7+ hours flight delay at Heathrow with Finnair, a missed connection and an overnighter in Helsinki. Aurora Zone were quickly on the case and had started our compensation claim with Finnair by the following day, informing us by letter personally delivered by Quincy the tour rep. We felt we were in really good hands. Kevin and Lesley
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The husky safari was by far the most enjoyable thing! We had a brilliant sunny day, and setting off across the deserted landscape with not a cloud in the sky was just the most amazing experience. The dogs themselves were so friendly as well and just wanted to run! I wouldn't say it was un-enjoyable, but I found the cross-country skiing hard work! It might just be because I had only slept…
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four hours that night because of the flight delay, and had not long done two hours of snowshoeing, but if I had to choose, it would be the skiing. In all honesty, I don't think there are any improvements to make. We had the seven hour delay at Heathrow, and you guys were onto Finnair and updating us with information more than the airline was! You also started enquiring about compensation before we'd even got home! So although there were problems which were out of your control, the way you guys handled them all was just amazing. Couldn't have asked for more.
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Pre-trip inquiries/assistance was excellent, prompt and informative. Information was thorough and easy to find/use. Organisation of flights/transfers etc was smooth. Accommodation was nice, comfortable, with friendly helpful staff at the accommodation and on the tours/activites. Activities were great, nice and small group sizes, and very fun/great experiences. One of the best trips I've ever been…
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on. Husky sled riding - incredible way to travel, beautiful scenery.
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I have quite a number of food intolerances and the lodge catered for me really well, with varied and tasty dishes. Husky sledding - I love dogs and it was such a unique way to see Lapland, lots of fun steering the sled too! Loved it!
Absolutely incredible trip! We stayed for four nights and in this time we were lucky enough to see the beautiful Aurora Borealis every night. During our stay our activities included snowmobiling both during the day and at night, a trip to a reindeer farm, a husky safari, snowshoe walking and cross-country skiing. All of these activities were absolutely fantastic and I can’t begin to thank our…
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guides Viktor, Antti and Otto enough as they were incredibly friendly and great fun to be around. Maija was also very friendly and incredibly helpful throughout our stay. The accommodation was great, it was very clean and comfortable. We also upgraded to stay in the Aurora Bubble for one of the nights, which I would highly recommend as the views of the starry night are truly amazing. The food was also very nice, it had a very homely feel to it and there always more than you could possibly eat! Thanks to all those involved in making this a truly incredible experience and I would without a doubt recommend the trip to anyone.
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We had a great time & loved the accommodation & activities. The staff & instructors were very helpful & knowledgeable. We both enjoyed the Husky Dog Sled trip - great fun - good guide - dogs adorable. I enjoyed driving Snow Mobiles (petrol head!). My wife loved cross-country skiing (fitness fanatic).
Most enjoyable was dog sledding. Always wanted to do it, it was awesome. Would go back again just to do dog sledding and snowmobiling AND we saw the Northern Lights on the last night.
(The) husky safari – gave a great sense of freedom. You felt like you were in control without actually having to have any skill. Dogs were adorable and the guide clearly loved what he did. Our four nights and the daily schedule seemed like the perfect amount of time and set of activities to really feel as though we'd experienced Lapland. Fantastic holiday, only marred by a wait at Helsinki on…
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the way back (but we'll get over that!). All staff and guides at the lodge were extremely helpful, friendly and enthusiastic. When we booked we mentioned that Fran had an intolerance of onion - we were amazed when not only the lodge staff but also third party staff on activities were aware of this and went to significant lengths to accommodate this.
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Ticked all boxes. Very good location, diverse activities, good and caring guides. Excellent food.
This holiday, including accommodation, activities and lodge staff surpassed all expectations and suffice to say we had an awe inspiring time! Every day was a wonderful, new experience that we will treasure forever!! The husky sledding was amazing! I also loved being able to have close contact with the dogs after the sledding. I absolutely loved all of it... can't fault any of it! All the…
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staff from chefs, front of house, waitresses, guides etc were incredible! They created such a wonderful environment; relaxed but professional, scoring 10+ out of 10!
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This was a wonderful holiday - we were delighted with it in every respect. The accommodation was warm and cosy, and the staff were helpful and friendly. Our guide was excellent and did a very good job adapting the day's agenda to suit us and the weather - this meant that we actually had longer than was originally scheduled for snowmobiling and skiing.
The highlights for us were the husky sledding…
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and the Aurora expeditions - we were lucky enough to see the Aurora twice, and the second time was a fantastic display. We had booked an Aurora bubble for our last night and this was an unforgettable experience as we were able to watch the Aurora from within for hours - probably one of the best things we've ever done. Of course it is a matter of luck as to whether you will see the Aurora, but I would say that travelling later in the season, as we did, might give you a better chance of clear skies.
This holiday is described as 'very active' - we are both reasonably fit, and I would say that you would have to have at least some level of fitness to handle the cross-country skiing, and have at least some balance to handle the huskies (but this isn't too hard), but we found that we had quite a lot of recovery time during the day so no-one who does at least some regular exercise should find the trip too hard. I would thoroughly recommend it.
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What a fun adventure - four absolutely packed days and all the activites we did were hugely enjoyable. The lodge was comfortable & the hospitality great. The guides were very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about all the activities. The coveralls and boots were brilliant and I'd thoroughly recommend using them as they kept you dry, warm and protected - I should know given the number of times I…
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fell over trying to do the cross-country skiing - so funny. We didn't get to see any Northern Lights due to the cloud cover which was a real pity but we went out there to enjoy what we found and we did that. The Northern Lights would have been the icing on the cake, maybe another time.
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