Oulu: Santa Claus Village Day Tour Included Lunch

Key Points

• Includes round-trip transportation from Oulu in a comfortable vehicle or minibus
• Meet Santa Claus in his official office and cross the Arctic Circle
• Visit a local reindeer farm and learn about Sámi culture with stories and coffee by the fire
• Enjoy a hearty Lappish buffet lunch at Santa Claus Village
• Small group experience limited to 7 participants for personalized service
• Optional photo of your meeting with Santa available for purchase

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A Complete Day Trip from Oulu to Rovaniemi’s Santa Claus Village

This 10-hour tour costs $235 per person and takes you from Oulu to Rovaniemi, where the magic of Christmas is alive year-round. The tour is suitable for those seeking a full Arctic experience with cultural insights, scenic drives, and iconic Santa attractions. The journey begins with a comfortable pickup from your accommodation, followed by a 2.53-hour scenic drive through Finnish Lapland’s landscapes.

Once you arrive, the adventure kicks off at Santa Claus Village, a place famous for its festive charm and Arctic magic. With a small group size of only 7 participants, the tour offers a personalized experience that balances guided exploration with free time for photos and shopping. The tour guides, who speak English and Bengali, make sure every detail is smooth and enjoyable.

Crossing the Arctic Circle: A Must-Experience Moment

A key highlight of this tour is crossing the Arctic Circle, a milestone that adds a sense of achievement and adventure. When you step across this line, you are officially in the Arctic zone, a feat that many travelers cherish. The guides provide explanations about this region’s significance, making the moment both informative and memorable.

You also have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus in his official office, where the atmosphere is truly festive. For those wanting a keepsake, purchasing a photo of the Santa meeting is an option at the photo desk, allowing you to take home a special memory. The Santa Claus Village also features the Official Post Office, where you can send postcards stamped with the exclusive Arctic Circle postmark—a charming souvenir.

Experiencing Lappish Cuisine at the Santa Claus Village

After meeting Santa, the tour includes a hearty buffet lunch at a cozy village restaurant. The Lappish lunch buffet offers a variety of dishes blending local flavors with international favorites, perfect for refueling after a busy morning. The relaxed setting provides a chance to unwind and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere of Santa’s village.

This meal is a key part of the experience, giving visitors a taste of traditional Lapland cuisine, and it’s included in the tour price. The restaurant’s warm ambiance complements the scenic surroundings, making the lunch both satisfying and immersive.

Visiting a Reindeer Farm: Insights into Sámi Culture

Post-lunch, the tour heads to a nearby reindeer farm, where real reindeer roam in their peaceful summer home. Visitors can meet the reindeer, learn about their role in Sámi culture, and listen to stories shared by local herders. These stories are shared every hour around a traditional Lappish fireplace, adding cultural depth to the visit.

The reindeer farm visit provides an authentic chance to observe these iconic Arctic animals up close and absorb the stories behind their significance. The experience emphasizes the harmony between people and reindeer, offering insights into traditional livelihoods.

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Optional Visit to Santa’s Pets Animal Park

For those interested, there’s an optional visit to Santa’s Pets, an animal park featuring Arctic and domestic animals. Entrance tickets are available at an extra charge. This adds a fun, family-friendly element to the trip, with the chance to see animals native to or associated with Lapland in a relaxed setting.

Exploring the Scenic Landscapes of Finnish Lapland

The scenic drive between Oulu and Rovaniemi offers beautiful views of Lapland’s wilderness, with snow-capped forests and open tundra (depending on the season). The comfortable minibus ensures a smooth ride, and the small group size helps keep the atmosphere intimate and engaging.

The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories and insights into Lapland’s geography and culture during the journey, making the drive both informative and pleasant. This part of the tour suits those who enjoy scenic routes and a peaceful atmosphere.

Return to Oulu and Drop-off Convenience

Around 16:00, the group begins the return drive to Oulu. The drop-off is arranged at your preferred location, making the day convenient and flexible. The return journey allows time to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the scenic landscapes one last time.

The entire experience emphasizes comfort, cultural richness, and the magic of Lapland, all within a well-paced 10-hour schedule.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers craving a comprehensive Arctic adventure with cultural insights and festive fun. The small group size, included lunch, and personalized stops make it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Participants should be prepared for moderate walking around Santa Claus Village and the reindeer farm, and appreciate the relaxed pace of the day. The English and Bengali guides ensure clear communication and engaging storytelling for a diverse audience.

Final Thoughts on the Santa Claus Village Day Tour

This $235 tour offers a solid value for anyone wanting to combine scenic travel, culture, and iconic Arctic experiences in a single day. The round-trip transportation, meeting Santa, crossing the Arctic Circle, reindeer farm visit, and Lappish buffet lunch are all included, making it a convenient and enriching option.

While the focus remains on the Santa Claus experience and Sámi culture, the flexibility to include optional visits like Santa’s Pets adds extra fun. This tour suits travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided Arctic adventure with personal touches and memorable moments, all in a well-organized, small-group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 10 hours, starting from pickup in Oulu and returning in the late afternoon.

Is lunch included in the price?
Yes, a hearty Lappish buffet lunch at a village restaurant is included.

Can I purchase a photo of my meeting with Santa?
Yes, photos of your Santa Claus meeting are available for purchase at the photo desk.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include Santa Claus Village, crossing the Arctic Circle, Santa’s Official Post Office, and a reindeer farm.

Is there an option to visit Santa’s Pets animal park?
Yes, entrance tickets are available at an extra charge if you wish to visit Santa’s Pets.

What languages do the guides speak?
Guides speak English and Bengali, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby