Wilderness Hotel Muotka – Tailor Made
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Details
Tailor your Northern Lights break and set the perfect pace in the forests and fells of Finnish Lapland. The wintery surroundings of Muotka provide an incredible playground where you can enjoy thrilling activities and, of course, hunt for the Northern Lights.
Muotka Wilderness Hotel sits among the forests and fells of Finnish Lapland, offering a peaceful retreat for a tailor-made holiday. Choose as many or as few activities as you like, with the flexibility to vary your holiday duration. A minimum of three nights and two pre-booked activities are required (or three activities for longer stays). If your group has different activity levels, this option provides the perfect solution. Tailor your northern lights short break to your preferred pace and interests, ensuring you select the most meaningful excursions.
Experience exceptional Lappish adventures with expert local guides who ensure you make the most of your stay. A variety of Aurora hunting options help maximise your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights while enjoying unforgettable activities.
Before booking, find full details of the available activities in the Personalise Tour section of the holiday page. Highlights include snowmobiling, reindeer encounters, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. The Aurora activities range from hunts on foot, by snowmobile or minibus, to visits at dedicated Northern Lights camps deep in the wilderness. Although not guaranteed, observing the ethereal hues of the Aurora Borealis is certainly a must for any travellers bucket list.
For an unforgettable experience, upgrade to a night in one of the unique Aurora Kotas at Muotka. Our standard base package includes return flights from London to Ivalo, return airport transfers, three nights' accommodation on a full-board basis in a comfortable hotel room, cold-weather clothing for your northern lights break, and the services of our local representative and expert guides.
Important Information
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 will be emailed to you around a week prior to departure), or upon arrival.
If you are travelling in the winter 2024/25 season Wilderness Hotels requires a minimum of 2 activities to be pre-booked at the time of reservation for 3 night stays, or a minimum of 3 activities to be pre-booked at the time of reservation for 4-7 night stays. For winter season 2025/26 this will increase to a minimum of 3 activities to be pre-booked for a 3-night stay and 4 activities for a stay of 4+ nights.
Itinerary
What's included?
- Return flights from London to Ivalo (either direct or via Helsinki) are included. Flight routes are subject to change.
- Return scheduled group shuttle airport transfers
- Twin or double room at Muotka Wilderness Lodge (minimum of three nights stay)
- Full board meals
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
- Fully qualified guides and instructors during activities
- 24/7 assistance from our UK based operations team and in destination support from our local partners
- Aurora Alert for the duration of your stay
Accommodation
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| Wilderness Hotel Muotka 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. It consists of two main accommodation buildings, one with the majority of the bedrooms and another with hosts additional bedrooms, the main restaurant and the reception area. Hotel facilities
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Wilderness Room
These double or twin bedrooms sleep a maximum of 2 people and are split across the two main buildings at Muotka. All rooms are en-suite with shower and hair dryer. The décor offers Scandinavian charm, and these rooms are a warm and comfortable base after a day of adventure. They are approximately 20m² in size.
Premium Wilderness Room
These double rooms are more spacious (approx. 25m2) and feature stylish, modern décor. They are ideal for couples and have the added bonus of tea and coffee making facilities. They are situated in their own building (which offers its own sauna for guests to enjoy), just a short distance from the main restaurant.
Superior Sauna Room
Muotka Wilderness Hotel has 16 Superior Sauna rooms, located a short distance from the main hotel building. These rooms offer modern Scandinavian interiors and plenty of space. They are ideal for small families as they have a double bed and a convertible sofa bed (so they sleep a max of 3 – 4 people). The rooms are approximately 33m² and each separate building has four superior sauna rooms inside.
As the name suggests, each room has its own private sauna which provides a wonderful way to relax after a day of activities. They also offer tea and coffee facilities.
The Riverside Room
The Riverside Room at Muotka is a real favourite with guests. As the name suggests it is right next the stream which gently flows through the grounds and the setting is incredibly peaceful. The room has its own entrance and is log built, giving it a unique interior. There is a shower room with private sauna, hair dryer and tea and coffee making facilities. Featuring a double bed it is a wonderful rustic retreat for couples.
Panorama Log Cabin
Situated not far from the main hotel, these traditional log-built cabins are a wonderful upgrade option and provide a self-contained base with incredible views, making them very popular for couples. They are just a short distance from the main building.
Each log cabin is approximately 42m² and has a double bed (log built!) and space for extra beds (sleeping a maximum of 4 guests).
The real gem is the shower room with private sauna which coupled with the log burning stove offers the ideal way to warm up after a day in the wilds.
The cabins also offer a small kitchenette (meals are all served in the main restaurant), fridge, seating area, tea and coffee facilities and hairdryer.
Riverside Log Cabin
The most exclusive accommodation available at Muotka, these stunning rustic log-built cabins are perfectly situated with views over the stream, a short walk from the main building. Beautifully appointed, with a fireplace in the living room, a shower room with private sauna, and kitchenette (and fridge), the cabins have sleeping space for 5 people and are around 72 m². There is a double bedroom downstairs and three single beds in the loft (accessed by very steep steps). There is also a second toilet in the loft. The cabins also contain a hairdryer and tea and coffee making facilities. Please note that these cabins require a minimum number of 4 guests in order to be booked.
Aurora Cabin
Guests have the chance to spend the night in one of their 20 magnificent Aurora Cabins, just a short walk from the main building. These stunning partially glass-roofed buildings, offer guests an exceptional overnight Aurora hunting experience.
You can enjoy 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 heated glass roof. This means that you are provided with the most wonderful views of the night sky from the comfort of your bed.
The cabins are all approx. 30m² with double bed (there is space for additional beds so these can sleep a maximum of 4 people, but we recommend no more than 3 adults) and en-suite shower room. There are tea and coffee facilities provided.
Personalise This Tour
The Aurora Camp at Muotka is situated deep within the forest, which makes it a remote place and far away from any light pollution. This location creates the perfect spot from which to gaze skywards in the hope of seeing the Northern Lights.
You will travel to the camp in a snowmobile-pulled sleigh and you will be offered warm drinks during your Aurora stake-out.
Duration: approximately 2.5 hours in total
During this activity, your guides will use their local knowledge, as well as the Aurora and weather forecasts to lead you to a prime Aurora viewpoint. Your guide will impart some of the extensive knowledge and you will enjoy an evening out in wilds, hopefully gazing at the Northern Lights.
Duration: approximately 3 hours in total
Searching for the Northern Lights by snowmobile is great fun as the landscape takes on a totally different atmosphere after darkness falls. The machines provide you with the mobility to hopefully evade any localised cloud cover and your guide will lead you to the best possible location for a potential sighting of the Northern Lights.
You will travel two people per snowmobile throughout and there will be the chance to swap drivers (the driver must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving licence) and you will stop along the way for a hot drink.
Duration: approximately 2.5 hours in total
During this Aurora snowshoeing activity, you will walk through snowy forests away from light pollution in search of the Northern Lights. Your experienced guide will lead you to a nearby camp where you can enjoy a hot drink whilst waiting for the Northern Lights to appear.
Duration: approximately 2.5 hours in total
Cross-country skiing is one of the most popular Scandinavian activities and this is your chance to learn the basic skills. You will be taught the fundamentals before heading out on a ski tour on the local trails.
Duration: approximately 2 hours in total
This activity is a gentle introduction for complete beginners to a popular activity in Finnish Lapland. Your guide will give you full tuition and help you fit your snowshoes before you head out to explore around the hotel along a trail which really shows how remote this hotel is. There is something really special about exploring the pristine winter wilderness under your own steam before heading back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest in the cosy lounge area.
Duration: approximately 2 hours in total
A husky safari is almost a ‘must-do’ activity when staying at Muotka.
After a short transfer, you’ll arrive at the husky farm to meet the dogs. You will hear their excitement before you will see them! They are always so eager to get out and onto the trail so they can run.
You will be shown how to handle the sled before heading out on your safari which will take you through the beautiful wintery forests.
Two people will share a husky sled, allowing you to try both controlling the sled and relaxing as a passenger. You will travel for roughly one hour with the dogs.
Duration: approximately 2 hours in total
On this excursion, you will hop into a sleigh and your guide will pull you along behind his or her snowmobile.
Once you reach the lake and your guide has chosen an ideal spot for fishing, you will stop there and your guide will set up. After showing you how to drill a hole in the ice and use the equipment, you will wait patiently in the hope of a catch.
After fishing, you will also enjoy hot drinks and lunch around a campfire; hopefully, you will be eating fresh fish!
Duration: approximately 4 hours in total
Today, you will gain an insight into the traditions of a reindeer herder. You will be transferred to a reindeer farm and during your visit, you will learn about the importance of the reindeer to a rural economy and have the opportunity to feed the reindeer.
Duration: approximately 2 hours in total
Take to the fells in this two-hour snowmobile safari.
Firstly, you will be given a full safety briefing and the chance to familiarise yourself with the controls before venturing out into the wilderness, travelling two people per snowmobile.
The distance you cover will depend on the group, but the activity will last for around two hours in total and you will have the opportunity to swap drivers halfway.
Please note that you must be at least 18 years old and hold a full driving license to drive a snowmobile.
Duration: approximately 2 hours in total
Adventure and tradition are combined during this activity as you travel by snowmobile to a reindeer herder’s farm and gain an insight into the Sámi culture.
After full instruction and a safety briefing, you will set off on your snowmobiles (travelling two people per machine) and journey to meet with the reindeer herder.
After an introduction to the reindeer, you will enjoy a short sleigh ride and be shown how to lasso a reindeer, a tradition which remains part of herding today. You will have the chance to ask questions throughout and are sure to gain an understanding of the importance of the reindeer and the role they play in Lapland.
The total duration of this activity is 4 hours and a soup lunch is included.
Please note that you must be at least 18 years old and hold a full driving license to drive a snowmobile.
Duration: approximately 4 hours in total (including soup lunch)
After a full safety briefing and instructions on how to drive and handle the snowmobile, you will head out for a snowmobile safari lasting approximately four hours (including outdoor lunch).
You will travel two people per snowmobile and journey through snow-covered forests and over fells during this thrilling and exciting snowmobile tour.
Please note: you must be at least 18 years old and hold a full driving licence to drive a snowmobile.
Duration: approximately 4 hours in total (including outdoor lunch)
Snowshoeing allows you to explore the remote forest areas around the hotel in peace and tranquillity and gives access to areas of the forest which remain out of bounds to those who travel without them.
Your experienced guide will provide you with warm drinks and snacks en route. Lunch by an open fire is included.
Duration: approximately 4 hours in total
You can hire cross-country skis or snowshoes for some independent exploration. Talk to the staff at the hotel for trail guides and the best locations.
Rental per day
Head to the biking trails of Urho Kekkonen National park, and get up close with the beauty of the Lappish Taiga forests and fells. It is recommended that you bring your own water bottle and good shoes for biking, there will be a light lunch provided however.
The trip includes guide, bike rental, helmet and a light lunch.
This trip is available for guests 14 years old and older and although pitched at a beginner's level, a moderate fitness level is required.
Duration: approximately 2-3 hours in total
Discover pure relaxation with Muotka's exclusive Sauna experience - a meeting of tranquillity with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Arctic landscape.
The electric sauna has a riverside location, built in an old smoke sauna building, and will be reserved for your private use for an hour - allowing you to unwind in blissful peace and quiet.
What's included:
Towels, woollen socks, shampoo and soap, bottles of water.
After your sauna session, we recommend taking a quick plunge in the invigorating river waters. The contrast between the warm sauna and the chilling waters will leave you feeling revitalized, both in body and spirit.
Duration: approximately 1 hour in total
Muotka's expert guides will tell you everything you need to know about Northern Lights. They will give you a clear explanation of the science behind the phenomenon, as well as the ancient stories and beliefs associated with the Auroras. Feel free to take your own camera or phone with you and get the settings optimised to capture the Northern Lights. You will then step outside to practice what you have learned.
Duration: approximately 1 hour in total
Deep in the frozen forest through wintery landscapes lays the very special home of Father Christmas. To find him you will set off by snowmobile sled driven by your guide who for sure knows the route to the secret hideout. Once there you will enjoy your private family visit with ample time to talk with the grand old man and a small gift for all. To make the experience even more special you have the chance to hand in your Christmas letters before the visit, so Father Christmas has them ready for your arrival.
Duration: approximately 40 mins full experience
Minimum 4 persons
| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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| Tour Loaction: | Saariselka,Finland |
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Tour Map
Additional Info
Price is based on 2 persons travelling
Tour terms, click here
Booking conditions click here
Snow coverage in early December
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 section 11 of our booking terms and conditions.
Payment and Cancellation Terms:
Key Facts
For your best chance to see the Northern Lights, contact the UK’s only Aurora specialists
