best lapland santa trips

The Ultimate Lapland Holiday

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Choose your Santa’s Lapland experience

Both of our lapland holiday packages include a reindeer ride, sledging with huskies, tobogganing, lots of snowy activities like snow hockey and mini skidoos, and a private visit with santa., on our santa’s aurora package, your activity centre is exclusive to our santa’s aurora families and you’ll have an additional wilderness dinner, a visit to santa's elves workshop, a longer husky ride and a snowmobile safari..

• SANTA s MAGIC Your choice of four hotels with everything you've dreamed of for a magical Lapland adventure. Explore Santa’s Magic

• Believe your eyes, this is an experience your family will cherish forever. From £1169 per adult See what's included
• SANTA S AURORA Enjoy the ultimate Christmas in Lapland with a little extra Aurora magic sprinkled on top. Explore Santa's Aurora

• The ultimate Lapland experience for your family, even the elves get jealous. From £1549 per adult See what’s included

Get Inspired

Santa and his elves can't wait for your arrival, but before your trip begins, get inspired! Unlock the magic of Lapland with our Santa's Chronicles, learn how to wrap up warm in Lapland or call our Christmas helpers to book your magical getaway.

Don't Miss Out On This Limited-Time Magic

Tick-tock. The magic's on the clock. We're giving the gift of incredible savings with HALF PRICE child places on our  Santa’s Magic package for selected dates in November and December 2024 & 2025.

No one knows how to make Christmas more magical

Flights, transfers, half-board accommodation, a fun-filled activity trip and snowsuits are all included.

A remote spot in the far north of Finland, 200km above the Arctic Circle among the snowy trees of Saariselkä.

If you are yet to book, and you find your Santa’s Lapland holiday cheaper elsewhere, we’ll price match it.

Everything about the holiday was magical. Amazing staff, hotel, organisation of the search for Santa day, the support of the company in the lead up to the trip. Can't recommend this trip and company enough. SANTA'S HOTEL TUNTURI - CHRISTOPHER December 2022

Amazing holiday. Reps were amazing. Programme was well thought through. I loved it as much as the kids. STAR ARCTIC HOTEL - REBECCA January 2022

A once in lifetime trip, magical and full of fun for children and adults. Accomodation practical with everything you needed, staff attentive and organised and the food suited everyone's needs. The adventures were unforgettable and breathtaking! SANTA'S HOTEL TUNTURI - MARY December 2022

We had a truly magical experience enhanced by the enthusiasm of the staff. Our boys 6 and 7 were taken aback by the whole experience and Santa was the icing on the cake. A family trip and memories that we will treasure forever! SANTA'S HOLIDAY CLUB - ALISON December 2021

Fancy more snow fun?

Keep the magic going with an extra day for adventure - the choice is yours. sledding on the toboggan run, the thrill of husky sledding, cruising through the snow by snowmobile or hunting for the northern lights..

• An extra day for family time in the snow. Husky and reindeer rides, thrilling snowmobiles, a spot of skiing, or a hunt for the Northern Lights. The choice is yours. Optional Adventures

• Explore a little more, make magical memories in this other-worldly wilderness. You're spoilt for choice. See for yourself

WAYS TO BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY TO LAPLAND

It's time to book your trip to Lapland and we can't wait for your arrival. Whether you're booking online or giving our Christmas helpers a call on 01483 791 945 , we're just as excited as you are for your magical journey to begin!

• Snow guarantee
• ABTA/ATOL protected
• Experts in Lapland for over 15 years

We are currently closed. Why not try booking online?

PLANNING A LAPLAND CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY TO VISIT SANTA – COMPLETE GUIDE

INSIDE: Roam the Gnome’s Ultimate Guide to a Lapland Christmas Experience Adventure – all you need to know.

Book the ULTIMATE LAPLAND CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE! 

The best Lapland holidays include a visit to Santa in Lapland.

You will NEVER EVER regret a trip to meet Santa in Lapland.

I guarantee it. 

Take a look at all the Christmas activities you can do in Lapland to make this Christmas your best family Christmas yet. 

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links . If you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, we may receive a small commission at NO extra cost to you.

Enjoy Christmas in Lapland 

Planning a Rovaniemi holiday with kids to the Lapland Christmas village?

We have all the tips on the top 16 adventures you can discover, plus comprehensive guides to ALL the activities you must do in Lapland as part of a Christmas in Lapland adventure. 

PS: Check back soon for a PDF Lapland itinerary guide. 

RELATED: Booking LAPLAND 2021 – Helpful Guide

Image credit: Visit Rovaniemi

Should I visit Rovaniemi with Kids? 

Don’t think that Lapland is just for kids.

You definitely don’t need a child of  your own to visit. 

Lapland for ADULTS is just as much fun!  

(There’s an Ice Restaurant and an Ice Bar for goodness sake!)

No.1: Stay at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi Finland Lapland

The best place to stay in Lapland at Christmas is the Santa Claus Holiday Village in Rovaniemi. 

Without doubt, this is the best Lapland Santa experience for the whole shebang. 

Santa Village Lapland is 8km from Rovaniemi city centre. Once you reach Rovaniemi, catch the Santa express bus  from Rovaniemi to Santa Village. 

Staying at Santa Village Rovaniemi is a magical escape from real life. 

See the festive decorations, garlands, and lights at Santa Claus holiday village when you take holidays in Lapland at Christmas.

Look out for a Christmas tree outside your hotel room, AND you can even book a special personal, private family visit from Santa to your cabin! 

Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi is a winter wonderland and a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Book it! 

READ MORE: Roam the Gnome’s Review of Santa Claus Holiday Village Hotel

Image credit:  Snowman Glass Resort Rovaniemi

More Hotels in Santa Village

If the cabins at Santa Village are fully booked, try one of these options. 

No.1: Glass Resort

These posh apartments have a shape inspired by the traditional Kota buildings favoured by the Indigenous Sami people. 

The giant sized windows, and the glass ceiling make you feel like you are in an upmarket glass igloo! 

Each Superior Glass Apartment features a sauna, equipped mini-kitchen AND your own private outdoor spa. 

CHECK LATEST PRICES ON BOOKING.COM

No.2: Nova Skyland Hotel and Restaurant

These exclusive hotel apartments are in semi-detached houses.

Decorated in Scandinavian style , each apartment has a fireplace, sauna, terrace, fully equipped kitchen, high ceilings, and panoramic windows that make you feel you are part of the Rovaniemi forest surrounding you. 

CHECK LATEST PRICES ON BOOKING.COM 

No.3: Santa’s Glass Igloos on the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi

These 71 luxurious glass igloos in the Santa Village are another hotel in Santa Claus Village to enjoy the Winter polar night. 

The hotel-style igloos are glass-roofed, arctic view rooms, similar to Mongolian yurts in appearance, in the centre of Finnish Lapland nature. 

No.2: Visit Santa in Real Life

Normally kids write a letter to Santa, find out Santa’s postal address, pop it into the Santa Post Office box, and then wait for official letters from Santa. 

This year, you don’t need to post your Santa letter. 

Hand deliver your Christmas letter to Santa in perso n at the Main Santa Claus Office in Santa Village. 

Kids have so many questions about Santa.

• Where does Santa live?
• Where is Santa located?
• Does Santa live in Lapland? 

Here you can ask him these questions yourself!

No.3: Visit the Santa Claus Main Post Office Rovaniemi

You may like to write a letter to family and friends back home while you are here, and post it from the official Post Office in Santa Village.

The Lapland Post Office in Rovaniemi is where you can have your letter or postcard franked (stamped) with an official North Pole postmark. 

Santa’s post office is open daily, 365 days a year. 

Take a look inside here

No. 4: Christmas Exhibition at Christmas House

Pop in to see this glorious Christmas exhibition in Rovaniemi featuring the many ways people celebrate Christmas around the world. 

It’s free. 

Hot tip: There’s another Santa here. Skip the queues at the main office and visit Santa here instead. 

Grab all your Christmas ornaments and Christmas souvenirs at Christmas House gift shop here too. 

No. 5: Shopping at Santa Village 

Visit the Santa Village shops.

There’s a Marimekko shop , for those who love this famous designer. 

Plus Santa’s Chocolate and Candy Shop for those with a sweet tooth desperate to try Finnish chocolate. 

Pick up authentic Finnish souvenirs at Arabia Iittala outlet , Balmuir store, Lappituote, Moomin souvenirs , and the famous knife shop, Marttini

Don’t miss picking up a real Finnish Lapland woollen jacket from Saga gifts. 

Or traditional Finnish food including:

• locally made Finnish jam 
• tinned reindeer meat (!) or
• Finnish porridge. 

No. 6 Santa Park Arctic World

Did you know there’s a Santa theme park in Finland?

There is. 

It’s just 2km up the road from Santa Village.

Santa park is an indoor theme park for younger kids. 

Read our review of Santa Park for a sneak peek. 

READ MORE: Roam the Gnome’s Review of Santa Park Lapland

No.7 Ride in a reindeer sleigh or sled

A Lapland Christmas is not complete without a visit to a Reindeer Farm, and   Reindeer sleigh rides or a sledge .

You can also take a short reindeer sleigh ride in the Santa Village but to see a reindeer herd, you need to head out on a tour. 

Try this popular one with Get Your Guide where you can learn about the life of a reindeer on a traditional Sami reindeer farm, try for your Reindeer driving licence, and enjoy blueberry tea and warm cookies inside a kota hut by the fire. 

Or this one where you can watch reindeers eating their breakfast, takes lots of pics up close, and enjoy a short reindeer sleigh trip too 

Here’s a whole day tour alternative for animal lovers:

Rovaniemi Arctic Animals Full Day Tour – Visit Husky Park, Ride in a Reindeer Sledge, & Visit Ranua Wildlife Park

No. 8 Visit Snowman World

Snowman World is the place to go tubing down icy channels. 

The big one is FAST and will take your breath on the corner swing! 

Go ice skating, slip down the indoor ice slide, and possibly meet a “Snow Man” character in real life if you happen to be in Snowman World at the right time. 

Head into the Ice Restaurant and Ice Bar to look at all the ice sculptures. 

Hungry? You will be.

Book a traditional Finnish lunch , or dinner here.

It’s a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Book Now: Snowman World Winter Zone Ticket  (Likely to sell out) 

No. 9: Book Santa Fun Day Rovaniemi tours

This Lapland Experience was one of our favourite things to do in Rovaniemi at Christmas time in the snow.

We are SO happy we were able to leave Santa Village and head out further into the surrounding countryside to see spectacular untamed snowy forests and experience a frozen lake.  

Santa Fun Day is a BIG DAY of Lappish children’s games and activities in a Lapland snowy forest including:

• ice fishing experience 
• mini skidoo for children
• snowmobiling by sledge
• ice fishing
• snowshoeing
• toboggan carousel
• playing ice games
• making your own snow sculpture, and 
• a little snack of the most incredibly delicious sausage, and a hot drink by the campfire.

We had a ball! 

READ MORE: Roam the Gnome’s Insiders Guide to the SANTA FUN DAY (coming soon)

No. 10: See all the Animals in Lapland 

In Rovaniemi on a Lapland holiday, you can meet lots of Lapland animals.

• Visit a Husky farm at the Santa Village and take a Husky sledge ride
• Visit a Reindeer Farm and enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride
• Visit Ranua Zoo to see the polar bears, lynx, red foxes, elk, and eagles
• Visit the Elf Farm to pat reindeer, and say hi to local domestic animals

Read more: The Complete Guide to all the Animals in Lapland you can meet (coming soon!)

No.11: Walk over the Arctic Circle Crossing

Yes, you can do this at Santa Village, and at Santa Park too.

If you visit the Elf Farm in the village, you can borrow their equipment to snow-slide cross the Arctic Circle on traditional Lappish skis. 

No.12: Play in the Rovaniemi Snow

“When does it snow in Rovaniemi?” is a commonly asked question.

The safe bet is not to book your Lapland Christmas trip any earlier than mid-December to be on the safe side. 

Definitely not before the first week of December at a pinch. 

Playing in the deep permanent snow at Rovaniemi is one of the best memories you can make with your kids.

Hot tip: If you stay at Santa Claus Holiday park, they give you a sledge to use on the snow for the duration of your stay! 

Click here to find the latest Rovaniemi snow report.

We encourage you to bookmark the page. 

No.13: Lapland Activities: Snowmobile Tours

Hop on a snowmobile at least once during your Christmas holiday in Lapland.

You can visit the Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park in Santa Claus Village for:

• short snowmobile rides
• longer snowmobile safaris through the Rovaniemi forests, and
• snowmobile sledge rides to the Northern Lights.

(See No.14) 

Kids can try a 10 minute mini snowmobile around the track!

Book now: 5 hour Snowmobile Safari AND Ice Fishing experience (this is a popular tour, and likely to sell out) 

No.14: Northern Lights Christmas Viewing

Cross your fingers and toes when you book a tour to see the Rovaniemi northern lights at Christmas time.

December is one of the best times to view the Northern Lights in Lapland IF they are playing fair, and will shine their magnificence across the sky.

Sadly there’s no guarantees, but that’s half the magic.

Not everyone gets to see the Northern lights , and that means it’s a great story to tell when you do.

Book now: Northern Lights tour via snowmobile sledge  (This is the tour we took.) 

No.15: Meet the REAL Father Christmas in Lapland

As far as we believe, there’s only one place you can meet REAL Lapland Elves, and Father Christmas himself.

The Lapland elves with pointy ears , and adorable outfits reside at Secret Forest of Joulukka , and you can book one of three tours to visit the Joulukka forest.

We booked the Santa’s Toy Factory experience. 

This was one of the most magical days of my life.

It’s not the cheapest Santa experience for the short time you are there, but if you can save up some extra funds, we highly recommend it. 

It’s the best Santa Lapland experience for a whole immersion in the world of Santa , away from hundreds of tourists visiting Santa Claus village. 

READ MORE: Rovaniemi Santa Comparison Guide

No.16: Visit an Amethyst Mine in Winter

Did you know there’s the only amethyst mine in Europe and it’s just a few hours away from Rovaniemi in Luosto?

Visit the Lampivaara amethyst mine to search for your own stone memento. 

An Amethyst mine tour includes learning about amethyst, how it is mined (it’s environmentally friendly), hearing the stories and the myths about this precious purple gemstone.

You’ll be taken on a snow train wagon called a pendolino, pulled by a snow machine. 

Tours also include refreshments including warm berry juice, and a keepsake  of purple amethyst.

Book now: Amethyst Mine Tour to Luosto from Rovaniemi hotels (Get your Guide tour) 

Take a Lapland Day Trip

There’s plenty of trips to Lapland you can book.

A day trip to Lapland from London is doable.

There’s lots you can do in Lapland for a day, and you can definitely experience the magic of Lapland.

But Santa day trips are rushed.

Book at least a one night or two night trip to Lapland if you can. 

It’s a shame to miss out on so much fun. 

Cheap Lapland holidays? 

The cheapest Lapland breaks are the Lapland deals you can book through companies such as:

• Tui Lapland
• Santa Claus Trips
• Santas Lapland tours, and
• Regent Holidays. 

There’s debate over who is the best company for Lapland holidays or Lapland Christmas tours.

Ask around and do your research. 

THE INSIDE SCOOP: Visit Lapland with Kids

Correct at time of publication on Roam the Gnome . Please check with venue for updates. We apologise in advance if there have been any changes we are unaware of. All prices in EURO, unless otherwise stated

How to get from London to Lapland

You can take flights to Lapland Rovaniemi from London via Helsinki. 

Or you can fly to Helsinki, and catch the train there and back. 

Or fly to Helsinki, take the overnight train to Rovaniemi, and fly back to London (as we did.) 

How to get from Helsinki to Lapland on the overnight train

Take a look at our overland adventure on the train from Helsinki to Santa Village. 

Long distance train travel is fabulous fun, and we’d do this sleeper train to Rovaniemi all again in a flash. 

Read this: How to get from Helsinki to Rovaniemi on the overnight Santa train 

How to get from Rovaniemi to Santa Claus Village Lapland

Details here.

Photo by FlightLog ( CC BY 2.0 ) via Flickr

How long is the flight to Lapland? 

From Helsinki, about 1 hour and 20 minutes

From London, 3 hours and 20 minutes on a direct flight. 

READ MORE: Our ultimate guide on how to get to Lapland (coming soon) 

Frequently Asked Questions about Lapland

No.1: where is lapland located .

It’s the northern part of Finland, AND Sweden, Norway, and Russia

No.2: Is Lapland a country? 

No, Lapland is a region, covering the top third of Finland (and stretching across the other Nordic countries and Russia mentioned above). 

No.3: Is Lapland a REAL country?

Well, that sounds like it’s a question for Santa himself. 

The answer is yes and no.

It’s a real place , (and you can visit Santa there at his modern day abode in Rovaniemi these days), but officially Lapland is a region within the four countries mentioned above. 

No.4: When does it snow in Rovaniemi? 

It’s tricky to predict, but historically, there’s permanent snow from early December to early-mid April. 

No.5: What to wear in Lapland? 

LOTS of layers.

Thermal underwear, long sleeved shirts and pants, covered by thermal suits and waterproof boots.

It’s the only way to get around without freezing your bum off. 

READ MORE: Roam the Gnome’s Guide on What to wear in Lapland in Winter

Detailed Guides for Lapland Christmas Experience Activities

Click the blue links below for more Lapland tips

Guide to the Santa Claus Village Post Office Shop

All you need to know about christmas house restaurant and coffee shop, best things to do in rovaniemi in summer and winter.

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Discover The Ultimate Santa Village in Lapland: A Comprehensive Guide

Have you ever dreamed of visiting Santa Claus? Lapland is the perfect place to make your dream a reality. Lapland is a region located in northern Finland, which offers the perfect winter vacation experience for tourists. There are plenty of Santa villages in Lapland to choose from, but which one is the best? In this blog post, we will answer the question: Which is the best Santa village in Lapland?

• 1 The Secrets of Rovaniemi
• 2 The Mystery of Levi
• 3 The Wonders of Saariselkä
• 4.1 Conclusion

The Secrets of Rovaniemi

When it comes to Santa village in Lapland, Rovaniemi cannot be missed. As the capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi offers a wide variety of activities for visitors during the winter season. In Rovaniemi, you can explore the Santa Claus Village, attend the reindeer and husky farm, and even witness the Northern Lights. However, the most popular attraction in Rovaniemi is visiting Santa Claus himself. The Santa Claus Office in Rovaniemi is open every day of the year, and a professional photographer takes amazing photos of you with the jolly man himself.

The Mystery of Levi

If you are looking for the best Santa village in Lapland, you must visit Levi. Levi is the largest ski resort in Finland, located in Kittilä, Lapland. The Santa Claus Office in Levi provides a more authentic and unique experience for visitors. Instead of a queue to see Santa, the elves escort you through a magical ice tunnel, then to Santa’s cabin to have a private meeting with Santa.

You can also explore other activities like skiing, visiting the snow hotel, or taking a reindeer and husky safari. After a long day of adventure, warm up by the fire with a warm cup of cocoa, while the elves entertain guests with Christmas carols, stories and of course, magic tricks.

The Wonders of Saariselkä

Saariselkä is the perfect destination for those looking for a quieter and more private vacation experience. The Santa resort in Saariselkä is perfect for families, who can stay all together in cozy cabins surrounded by snow-covered forests. The Santa resort provides activities like snowshoeing, skiing, and even snowmobile safaris. Children will also love to play in Santa’s workshop, make gingerbread cookies and other Christmas crafts.

And let’s not forget about Santa’s reindeer and huskies, who are always happy to give you a ride. The nearby Urho Kekkonen National Park is also a must-see for those who love outdoor activities, with its pristine snowshoeing and skiing routes.

The Magic of Ylläs

Ylläs is Finland’s second-largest ski resort with more than 50 slopes suitable for beginners and advanced skiers. However, the main attraction in Ylläs is Santa’s cabin where visitors can meet Santa Claus any day of the year. There is also a Reindeer and a Husky Farm nearby where you’ll get the chance to meet Santa’s loyal helpers. As you walk through the enchanted forest, you’ll encounter friendly elves and reindeer who will guide you to Santa’s home. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a photo with Santa Claus himself and take part in a genuine Finnish experience.

These are just a few of the best Santa villages in Lapland that you must visit. Rovaniemi, Levi, Saariselkä, and Ylläs are just some of the many magical places within Lapland that offer unforgettable experiences during the winter season. Whether you want to share an authentic and private moment with Santa Claus, witness the Northern Lights, take a reindeer or husky ride, or simply enjoy a cup of cocoa by the fire, Lapland has something for everyone.

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Snowy adventures in Santa’s hometown

Adventure is calling you to Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. This Arctic wilderness is beautiful beyond belief and you can explore it by snowmobile and husky sled for the thrill of a lifetime. Wander through colourful town streets and learn about traditional Sámi culture. Ride in a sleigh pulled by reindeer and visit the Santa Claus Village to meet the “man in red”. You might even spot the northern lights when you sleep under the stars in a glass igloo!

Please note that this package is subject to availability. Please wait to book your flights until after we have confirmed your reservation.

Secure your Christmas getaway now by booking a spot on our Best of Lapland - Guaranteed Departure tour starting on 18 December 2024.

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Approx 1842 EUR

— why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
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• Specialists in travel to Lapland
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Tour Highlights

• Discover the beauty, history and culture of Lapland
• Meet the famous “ man in red” at the Santa Claus Village
• Feel the wind on your cheeks on a sleigh pulled by huskies
• Spend the night in a glass igloo at the Arctic SnowHotel
• Learn about Sámi culture and meet local reindeer
• Take in the snowy scenery of the Finnish valleys and woodlands
• Walk through the magical streets of Rovaniemi
• Experience the thrill of Arctic excursions and add optional activities
• Have a chance to glimpse the colourful northern lights in the night sky
• Speed through the frozen wilderness on a snowmobile

Travel style

Partially guided i, arctic circle i , dog sled i , glass igloos i , ice/snow hotel i , reindeers and sami culture i , santa claus i, attractions.

Just a few of the majestic sights you’ll take in during your trip.

Santa Claus Village

Arctic snowhotel, glass igloos, dog sledding, the arctic circle, northern lights, reindeer farm, finnish sauna.

A day-by-day plan to guide your northern adventure.

Day 1: ARRIVAL IN ROVANIEMI

Welcome to magical Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland! When you arrive at Rovaniemi Airport a private driver will meet you to take you to your accommodation in town. Then head out to explore the snowy city centre. It is small but charming, with children ice skating and sledging on the main streets. You’ll also find a shopping centre and lots of restaurants to try the local cuisine.

Tonight, you have the option to join a wintry adventure to maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights. Tours range from a family friendly snow train to a thrilling snowmobile ride in the frosty forest.

Spend the night in Rovaniemi.

Day 2: DOG SLEDDING & AN ARCTIC STAY

This morning, you’ll join a 10-kilometre (6-mile) guided dog sledding excursion. When you arrive at the husky farm you’ll hear the excited huskies waiting for their chance to run through the snow-covered forest trail. Following a brief lesson at the kennel, you’ll drive your own sleigh, pulled by a team of energetic huskies, through the woods and over the snowy plains. There will be 2 people sharing each sleigh, taking turns mushing.

In the afternoon you will head to the Arctic SnowHotel. This complex is built entirely of snow and ice each year. Here you’ll enjoy a guided tour* to see the beautiful ice rooms as well the ice restaurant and ice bar.

After the tour, tuck into a 3-course dinner based on local specialties at the rustic Kota. It is modelled after a traditional Sámi structure for a cozy atmosphere. Before staying the night under the stars in a glass igloo, you could end the evening with a traditional Finnish sauna session.

*Guided tours of the Arctic SnowHotel are dependent on opening times. The hotel usually opens its ice-carved doors around 15 December each year.

Spend the night in a glass igloo.

Day 3: SÁMI CULTURE & THE SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE

Start the morning early with a hearty breakfast at the Arctic SnowHotel resort before returning to Rovaniemi. Later that morning you will be joining a tour to a reindeer farm before continuing on to the Santa Claus Village*.

At the reindeer farm, you’ll learn about the Sámi people and their culture. Their way of life includes reindeer herding, so you’ll enjoy a short reindeer sleigh ride. You’ll also join your hosts in a special ceremony of crossing the Arctic Circle.

Next up you’ll travel to the Santa Claus Village. Here you’ll have some time to do some souvenir shopping, send postcards from Santa’s main post office, and of course meet Santa Claus himself! Afterwards you’ll return to Rovaniemi, where you can spend the evening at your leisure.

*For arrivals in December until 6 January the transfer will be by bus. On other dates, you’ll travel via snowmobile to the reindeer farm.

Day 4: DEPARTURE FROM LAPLAND

Today is your last day in Finnish Lapland. After an adventurous winter getaway, a driver will take you back to Rovaniemi Airport in time for your departure flight.

Optional extras

Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Northern Light Hunt on the Arctic Snow Train

Reindeer sledding in the arctic night, husky sledding in the arctic night, snowmobiling in the arctic night, aurora borealis safari by snowmobiles, upgrade: private arctic sauna & jacuzzi at arctic snowhotel, upgrade: private arctic & snow sauna experience with jacuzzi at arctic snowhotel.

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

What's included

Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.

• One private transfer from Rovaniemi Airport to accommodation
• Accommodation (Comfort Plus/Superior) for 2 nights
• Accommodation in a glass igloo for 1 night
• Daily Breakfast
• Dog sledding excursion in Rovaniemi (refreshments included)
• Guided tour of the Arctic SnowHotel
• 3-course dinner at the Kota Restaurant (drinks not included)
• Transfers to/from Arctic SnowHotel
• Visit to a reindeer farm & Santa Claus Village, includes lunch
• One private transfer to Rovaniemi Airport on departure
• Loan of additional outerwear & safety gear
• Carbon offsetting the package
• Detailed personal itinerary
• Nordic Visitor’s Lapland Travel Guide
• 24/7 helpline
• Taxes & service fees

Not included

• Flights to/from Finland & Rovaniemi
• Personal travel insurance
• Drinks during dinner at Arctic SnowHotel
• Meals & drinks (unless otherwise stated)
• Any services not listed above as “Included”

Optional Extras

Photographic evidence of just how stunning Lapland is.

Dog Sledding in Rovaniemi - ©Visitrovaniemi.fi

Santa Claus's Village - ©Visitrovaniemi.fi

The Arctic SnowHotel ©Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos

Reindeer Safari in Lapland©lapland hotels

Santa Claus Post Office ©visitrovaniemi.fi

Northern Lights outside the Kota Restaurant ©Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos

+8 more from this tour

Reindeer farm ©Lapland Hotels

Northern Lights in Lapland

Glass Igloos ©Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos

Husky safari ©Lapland Hotels

Kota Restaurant ©Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos

Winter in Finland

Northern Lights from the Glass Igloos ©Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos

Reindeer in Lapland

We don’t like to brag, so we’ll let our happy customers do it for us.

I will use Nordic Visitor again

I will absolutely use Nordic Visitor again, and I have recommended your organisation to family and friends. I was particularly struck by the attentiveness of Juliana. I note here that she saved me over $3,000 in travel expenses because she caught an error I made while making my flight arrangements to Finland. She is one of the most professional, and helpful people I have ever encountered.

Edward, United States

Best of lapland express - rovaniemi, december 2023, excellent experience.

Cannot fault our experience. Everything was made very easy from start to finish. Thank you so much. Loads included but still had enough time to do other things and explore on our own. Excellent experience. No glitches so no negative memories of the experience. Loved equally by child and adults!

Angela, United Kingdom

Best of lapland express - rovaniemi, december 2022, we were well looked after.

We had a fantastic time. We were well looked after. Our activities were well laid out. Liza our Nordic Visitor agent was really good keeping us informed as well.

John, Australia

Holiday of a lifetime.

Professional, well organised, friendly and extremely helpful consultant helped plan a holiday of a lifetime. Instructions were very clear and all activities were planned perfectly.

Natalie, Netherlands

Everything was perfect.

Knowledgeable and customised our tour perfectly. Everything was perfect.

Amelia, United States

Accommodation.

Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.

Comfort Plus

Rooms with private shower or bath and WC. These are in three-star hotels and are all centrally located within towns. All provide ..

Rooms with private shower or bath and WC. These are in four-star hotels and are all centrally located within towns. All hotels pro..

Price per person from

Tour Information

We recommend that you read carefully through the following section about travelling to Rovaniemi, Lapland. It includes some important information about what the tour includes, accommodation, and more about your thrilling activities.

Please note that this package is subject to availability. Please wait to book your flights until after we have confirmed your reservation. If the accommodation in Rovaniemi or at the glass igloo is fully booked on your preferred travel dates, your travel consultant will be in touch with information about the next available dates.

INFORMATION ABOUT OUR MULTI-DAY TOURS On a multi-day tour, Nordic Visitor books your accommodation and excursions for a self-guided travel experience. That means you’ll enjoy some free time to explore on your own as well as planned, guided day tours.

Each activity is run by a different tour operator, so you’ll get to meet a few local guides throughout your trip.

You can rest assured that Nordic Visitor only works with a small number of handpicked suppliers that meet our high standards. The activities you’ll participate in are all extremely well rated so you’re sure to have a memorable time.

During your tour, we’re with you every step of the way. Plus, you’ll always be able to reach us on your trip by calling our 24/7 helpline.

ACCOMMODATION On your multi-day tour, you’ll stay in accommodation that’s been hand-picked by our Lapland travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels and guesthouses in Rovaniemi based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.

During the booking process, you can choose from single, double or triple rooms. Please note that in Lapland room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America.

Included in this package is a 1-night stay in a glass igloo at the Arctic SnowHotel complex. If these are fully booked during your travel dates, we have wonderful glass igloo options in the nearby Apukka Resort or Santa Claus Village area.

FITNESS LEVEL AND ADVENTURE PACKAGES You should have moderate to good physical fitness to take part comfortably in this tour. This is because packages set in the Arctic are considered adventure travel due to the specific conditions you’ll experience. Arctic travel can sometimes involve extreme weather conditions as well as vigorous activity and animals (like huskies and reindeer) on many excursions.

TRANSFERS TO/FROM ACTIVITIES Please note that transfers between your hotel and tour meeting locations are not included. You will need to check your vouchers and itinerary information carefully. It is your responsibility to be on time to meet tour guides at meeting locations. Thankfully, Rovaniemi is a charming, small, and very walkable city.

ARCTIC SNOWHOTEL Included in your package is a stay in a glass igloo at the Arctic SnowHotel, use of the traditional Finnish sauna, a 3-course dinner and breakfast. The SnowHotel offers a northern lights wake-up call service at your glass igloo if you want.

Between 20 November – 20 December, there is ongoing construction work to finalise the building of the Arctic SnowHotel (as it is rebuilt every year). Please note that the Arctic SnowHotel does not open until 15 December.

Entrance ticket to the Snowman World at the Santa Claus Village is included with your stay at the Arctic SnowHotel. The Snowman World usually opens around 6 December each year.

DOGSLEDDING TOUR The dog sledding tour on this package is a 10-kilometre (6-mile) husky safari.

Each sleigh is shared by 2 people, meaning you’ll take turn sitting and mushing. When controlling the sleigh, you’ll need to stand, kick and sometimes run to assist the dogs, depending on the terrain.

Children will be travelling safely with the tour guide on a large sleigh.

SNOWMOBILE TRANSFER TO THE REINDEER FARM If you travel between 1 December and 6 January, you'll hop on a bus transfer to the reindeer farm. If you arrive between 7 January and 31 March, you'll enjoy a snowmobile transfer to the farm instead.

Each snowmobile is shared by 2 guests taking turns driving. The driver of the snowmobile has to be at least 18 years old and hold a driver’s licence valid in Finland on the tour. You should be able to present your driving licence at the excursion as there may be checks during the snowmobile safari. Under Finnish law, you cannot drive a snowmobile under the influence of alcohol.

There is a height restriction for children. Children measuring under 140 centimetres (4.5 feet) will usually be seated in a sleigh pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. Children over 140 cm are allowed to sit on the snowmobile behind an adult.

SAFETY AND WEATHER CONDITIONS Please note that sightseeing and tours are dependent on weather and road conditions and might need to be altered if they are not favourable. If something unexpected occurs, you can call our 24-hour helpline to speak directly with Nordic Visitor staff.

As you’re visiting Lapland in winter, there will be snow and ice on the ground. This can sometimes make it difficult to walk. Please note that there are no luggage handling services available in Lapland. You must be able and prepared to carry your own luggage in snowy conditions.

NORTHERN LIGHTS & DAYLIGHT HOURS The northern lights are a natural phenomenon, which means that sightings cannot be guaranteed. Evening excursions will operate according to the tour schedule, even in unfavourable viewing conditions. Your guide will do their utmost to determine the best possible location for sightings and make this an enjoyable experience for you.

Please be advised that because of its northerly location close to and inside the Arctic Circle, Lapland has limited daylight in winter. Usually you can expect daylight between 10 AM and 2 PM. The advantage of the snowy surroundings is that the light reflects off the snow making the days seem brighter.

TRAVELLING WITH YOUNG CHILDREN As it is a top family travel destination, generally our Lapland packages are child friendly. That said, many activities (e.g., snowmobile and dog sled tours) have an age limit of 4 years old.

On snowmobile excursions, height restrictions also apply. Children measuring under 140 centimetres (4.5 feet) will usually be seated in a sleigh pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. Children over 140 cm are allowed to sit on the snowmobile behind an adult, when paying the adult price.

TRAVELLING WHILE PREGNANT If you are pregnant we do not recommend taking part in dog sledding and snowmobiling excursions due to safety concerns. Please let us know in advance and we can offer alternative options.

DEPOSIT PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION CHARGES This tour requires a non-refundable deposit payment of 50% of the total price at the time of booking. You can view more about the deposit and cancellation fees here.

ADD-ONS & OPTIONAL UPGRADES You can customise this tour online. During the booking process, you can add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades. You are also welcome to combine this tour with any of our Scandinavian packages.

If you have something specific in mind, get in touch with your travel consultant and they’ll create your dream trip.

AFTER BOOKING WITH NORDIC VISITOR After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip.

We aim to complete bookings within a few weeks. During this time we take care of booking your accommodation, activities, and transport, confirming all parts of your journey. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip.

CARBON OFFSETTING YOUR TOUR Nordic Visitor is working on offsetting the estimated carbon footprint of your package. We’ve partnered with an environmental fund in Iceland to carbon offset all our tours. Carbon offsetting your international flights is not included, but we highly recommend you look into possibilities with your airline or directly through a local environment fund.

OTHER SUGGESTED TOURS

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Great winter lapland, private tour, winter norway & finland, lapland vacation packages.

See the land of the Polar Night and Midnight Sun, Lapland! Pure wilderness and cozy houses attract travelers from all around the world. Would you like to visit the home of Santa Claus and the Sami family? Then do not hesitate to choose one of our winter tours to Lapland. Our Lapland vacations boast must-experience traditional activities, rich sightseeing with professional guides, and centrally located accommodations. Learn more about Lapland below, travel tips, and highlights of the itineraries.

Lapland Tour Highlights

Savor legendary Lapland, its colorful Aurora Borealis, and Arctic cities.

Learn more about snow-covered cities in Lapland, which activities and landmarks are worth adding to your Lapland itinerary. Arrange your dream tour together with a destination specialist.

• Aurora Trail, Rovaniemi
• Snowmobile Safari, Rovaniemi
• Santa Claus Village , Rovaniemi
• Husky Safari, Rovaniemi
• Reindeer Sledge , Rovaniemi
• Reindeer farm, Rovaniemi
• Visit to a Sami Family , Inari
• Sami Museum, Inari
• The Glass Igloo Resort
• The Snowman World, Rovaniemi

Tips for Lapland Travel

Prepare for your Lapland tour with expert tips and relish your time.

What to pack

Make sure to pack warm shoes and clothes such as gloves, a hat, and a warm coat.

Make sure to try moose, raspberries, fish, mushrooms, Västerbotten cheese, and bread cheese.

It useful to have some local currency in cash for small purchase, you will need Euro for Lapland.

How much to tip

Usually, service is included in a bill. However, it's acceptable to add about 10-15%.

Lapland in winter is snowy and cold. An average temperature range of - 16 °C (3 °F) to 3 °C (37 °F).

Some of the most popular souvenirs from Lapland are warm socks, hats, reindeer horns, and spirits.

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9 of the best Lapland tours

Get the inside scoop on the best lapland holidays, from snowy trips to see santa to full-on adventures into the high arctic wilderness.

L apland is often billed as “once in a lifetime”, but once the Arctic bug bites, you’ll be back. The pull of the north is strongest in the dark, Narnia-like depths of winter, when the snow falls thick and fast on the remote fells and forests of Finland , Norway and Lapland . And boy is it cold, with temperatures dipping as low as -30C (making the Alps feel positively tropical by comparison).

You might have come all this way to whisper your Christmas wish list in Santa’s attentive ear, but the festive sparkle of big-hitting resorts such as Rovaniemi really is just the tip of the iceberg. Stray away from the crowds on snowshoes or cross-country skis through the silent white night as northern lights flash overhead, embrace the spirit of Sami reindeer herders with legends told around a hissing fire in a lavvu tent, or feel weightless as huskies pull you on a sleigh ride across the frozen tundra.

Read on for our pick of the holiday companies that wing you straight to the heart of Lapland’s winter action.

Main photo: People on a reindeer sleigh in Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland (Getty Images)

1. Finnish Lapland in winter, Intrepid

Best for active couples Diving straight in at the Arctic deep end in Finnish Lapland, this winter classic gives you a whole gleeful week to play in the snow. You’ll kick off with a couple of culture-packed days in the capital Helsinki, before boarding the overnight Santa Claus Express to Rovaniemi, HQ of Father Christmas and his grotto-dwelling elves, in the Arctic Circle. From here, things take a dramatic turn for the wilder, as you’re whisked to a family-run guesthouse snuggled deep in remote forest — your base for the next few nights.

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The outdoor action centres around the 718m fell of Yllas, a wondrous place to ski on uncrowded slopes, with pristine and abundant powder. There are 1,001 ways to go full-on winter wonderland here and you’ll be trying out several: husky rides, northern lights gazing and hanging out with Sami reindeer herders at a 19th-century farm. There’s a free day in the mix, where you can perhaps slip on snowshoes, go ice fishing or sizzle in the sauna. The seven-night trip includes accommodation (twin share), breakfast, transport and most activities. Dates run from December to March.

Group size 1-12 Price ££

2. Lapland for adults, Untold Story

Best for luxe-loving grown-ups Who says Lapland holidays are only for kids? Upping the luxury ante, this bespoke tour of the Arctic is strictly for grown-ups, revealing a side to Finnish Lapland beyond the Santa hype. Breathing in the crystal-clear air as you make virgin tracks through ice-sculpted forests, standing in quiet wonder as the northern lights put on a private show and listening to the stories of Sami reindeer herders while huddled around an open fire in the middle of nowhere are moments you will be raving about long after you return.

Each day brings fresh adventures: reindeer and husky sleigh rides into the great white wilderness, say, or bombing across a frozen lake on a snowmobile. The final night is pure magic, as you trek into the frozen hush of the forest with Icelandic horses, dine at the Aurora Sky Restaurant and spend the night in a glass igloo on the slopes of a fell. A six-night sample itinerary includes accommodation, breakfast, private guide, activities and transport. Travel between November and March to see the region at its winter-wonderland best.

Group size private tour Price £££

untoldstorytravel.com

3. Cross-country skiing in Lapland, Exodus

Best for off-the-radar adventure Scientists have proven that the world’s cleanest air is found in the fells, high tundra and old-growth taiga forests of Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park, which unfurls in all its wild, peaceful glory close to the Norwegian border in western Finnish Lapland. In summer, Sami reindeer graze these wild lands, while in the blue-pink light of winter, the landscape is a readymade Christmas card, with trees bent heavy with snow and the northern lights blazing in night skies.

On this week-long Lapland trip, you can glide and skate along tracks at your own pace, with 190 miles of signposted trails to explore (25 miles of which are floodlit). You’ll often find yourself alone with nature, with little sign of civilisation, bar the odd kota hut where you can refuel over pulla (sticky cardamom bread) and hot blueberry juice before carving an onward path through the glistening snow. Slip on snowshoes to pad through forest and over fell and frozen lake in quiet exhilaration, returning to the village of Akaslompolo as the aurora lights up the horizon. Fancy a change? Visit the nearby Snow Village, sculpted afresh each winter, or take a cable car to float to the top of Yllas for arresting views and dinner at Finland’s highest restaurant. The eight-day tour including accommodation, use of cross-country ski trails, transfers and all breakfasts and evening meals; ski hire and tuition are available for an extra fee.

Group size 2-30 Price £

4. Lapland wilderness week, Exodus

Best for solitude seekers Shining a light on a spectacularly unsung, thrillingly forgotten corner of Swedish Lapland, this week-long escapade delivers the big wilderness it promises. At about 125 miles north of the Arctic Circle, you might expect biting cold, waist-deep snow, phenomenal displays of northern lights and off-the-charts scenery. And you’d be right. But what really grabs you is the silence. The kind of silence that only comes in a village such as Rajamaa (population: seven), plonked on a remote island in the Muonio River and gazing wistfully across the white beauty of Sweden and Finland. Hole up in a wooden cabin and let your hosts, the Malmstrom family, organise the rest.

This trip wholly embraces nature and Sami culture, with days spent dogsledding, snowshoeing, forest skiing, learning about reindeer-herding traditions, and slipping into dark nights warmed by saunas, campfires and stirring views of the aurora dancing high above. The holiday ends on an Arctic high, with a two-day forest skiing expedition over pine-stippled hill and frozen lake, and a night in a back-of-beyond logger’s cabin. As you ski back to Rajamaa, keeping an eye out for reindeer, moose and the tracks of wolverine and lynx, you might just want to press the pause button so the moment never ends. The six-night trip including accommodation with shared facilities, all meals, transport, tour leaders and equipment.

Group size 6-16 Price ££

5. A polar night, Off the Map

Best for would-be Arctic explorers Turning up the Arctic adventure several notches, this expedition-style trip to the great white wilderness of Svalbard is one you’ll never forget. At 78 degrees north, midway between Norway and the North Pole, this archipelago is a place of bone-chilling cold and soul-reviving beauty, with its dramatic icescapes, pearl-white mountains and wildlife (cue reindeer, snow-white Arctic foxes, walruses lolling on icebergs, whales and, of course, polar bears).

This trip has all the thrill of a mighty expedition, albeit with minimal effort. Kicking off with a night in Oslo, you’ll fly to Spitsbergen and spend a night at Funken Lodge on Longyearbyen, where you can jump on a snowcat for the first flickers of the aurora. A dog sled will then whisk you over the frozen tundra to the new Juva Lodge. With front-row views of ice and rock, this slickly Scandi cabin adds a blast of luxury to the Arctic experience, with comfortable beds, a fireplace and barrel sauna. It’s so remote and dark that the northern lights don’t dance here, they rave. Visit during the polar night in January, when the sun never rises, and you double your chances of seeing them. Spot wild reindeer as you fly across the snow on a husky-drawn sled back to Longyearbyen for a gourmet dinner — and perhaps another light show — before flying home. Departures are from January to May. Tours are generally four nights, including accommodation, private transfers, all activities and meals.

offthemap.travel

6. Senja — island auroras, Aurora Zone

Best for aurora hunters Everyone raves about the Lofoten Islands, but the dramatically mountainous, fjord-woven, surf-smashed island of Senja, just north, is just as ravishing yet far less busy. This trip is a rare and special one. You’ll stay in a tiny, lighthouse-topped hamlet right by the water’s edge, with optimum conditions for seeing the northern lights cascade in dark night skies. By day, a wildlife boat safari will take you out to spot seals, sea eagles and perhaps even a whale. And you’ll have plentiful chances to glimpse the northern lights — whether snowshoeing through the white wilderness or bubbling in a hot tub. Prices include four nights’ accommodation, meals, transfers, guided activities and cold-weather gear.

Group size private tour Price ££

theaurorazone.com

7. See the northern lights in Finland, Aurora Zone

Best for bucket-list Lapland The northern lights hold you in their thrall on this eight-night trip to Finnish Lapland. But a well-aimed snowball throw from Sweden, Harriniva, high above the Arctic Circle, is your woody base for the first four days. The family-run hotel is brilliantly placed for snow fun. Civilisation seems far away as you dogsled and snowmobile into the wilderness, or crunch through a frozen forest on snowshoes into Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park. Stop for a lakeside sauna and — if you dare — a heart-stopping Finnish-style dip in an avanto (ice hole) in subzero temperatures. As darkness falls, all the focus is on the heavens and the northern lights.

The lights also shimmer on thenext leg of your trip at the northern lights Village in Levi. And as you’ll be staying in a glass-roofed Aurora Cabin open to the skies, you don’t even have to get out of bed to see them. By day you can hit the village’s ski and cross-country slopes, dash through snowy woods on a reindeer sleigh and discover more about Sami culture, while by night it’s back out into the darkness in search of the aurora’s wizard-wand flashes. Prices include flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, activities, cold-weather clothing and guides.

8. Christmas sparkle, Canterbury Travel

Best for families There’s nothing like a massive dump of snow, reindeer and a visit to see Santa in his twinkly, elf-filled grotto to put you in the festive spirit — and Canterbury Travel’s Lapland trips are a kid’s Christmas dream . This three-day break packs in a heck of a lot: reindeer sleigh rides, dogsledding and the chance to sit on Santa’s knee (gift included) in a private family session with the jolly red-robed dude. Children are in heaven at Elf School and visiting Santa’s magic post office (manned by more elves).

The backdrop of frozen fells and forests is pure winter wonderland stuff, and you’ll be staying in a log cabin or lodge in the rustic ski resort of Suomu or Ruka Valley near the Arctic Circle. But what sets this Lapland trip apart is ease of access, with regional departures from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Dublin. The price is for two nights including flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, activities and cold-weather clothing.

Group size private tour Price £

canterburytravel.com

9. Icehotel break, Discover the World

Best for ice magic Nothing says Lapland like snuggling under a reindeer hide on a bed of ice in a chamber of ethereal blue, with the northern lights dancing in the chill night skies outside. The Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi in Swedish Lapland was the first of its kind when it opened in 1989 and it hasn’t lost a jot of its frosty magic. Every year, some of the world’s top ice artists are enlisted to build it from scratch using ice hauled from the Torne River, unleashing their creativity in a fantasy of glittering ice sculptures and chandeliers.

The Icehotel is your bewitching base on this three-night Arctic adventure, where you’ll get to spend a night on ice (as well as two others in warmer digs). Hot lingonberry juice and a pre-breakfast sauna fire you up for a flurry of optional activities, from ice sculpting to husky rides, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. By night the aurora will shine if you’re lucky. Departures are from November to March and it’s well worth booking your activities in advance. The standard tour is for three nights, including accommodation, breakfast, morning sauna and cold-weather clothing.

discover-the-world.com

• Staying at the Icehotel: everything you need to know

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