Average daily temperatures in Finland range from -5C to -25C, although lows of -45C are not unheard of. Late November and early December tend to be slightly warmer than the later trips.

Thermal clothing is provided on all of our Lapland holidays, but it is important to note that this is generally only during scheduled outdoor activities and excursions. You should also bring a reasonable amount of your own thermal garments and make sure to wrap up warmly in light layers at all times. It’s also important to note that thermal clothing for infants is not available on most trips.

Lapland receives four to five hours of daylight each day, much of which is a more greyish light than we are accustomed to in Ireland. However all parts of the resorts will be illuminated with lanterns, outdoor fires and candles when darkness falls, lending a flickering ambience to all activities.

As light conditions are different in Lapland you may require specific camera settings for clear photos to be taken. Make sure to bring spare batteries and ask at your local photography or camera shop for advice.

The Northern Lights are a spectacular natural phenomenon often seen in Finland. While we can’t guarantee they will appear during your trip, do keep an eye out just in case.

Finland is a perfectly safe destination and great care is taken to ensure the safety of all parties on our trips. Given that Finland is an Arctic country and weather conditions can be particularly icy, it is recommended that caution be exercised during activities and instructor’s directions are adhered to at all times. Please make sure to keep a close eye on children throughout the trip.

Yes. Travel insurance is essential for Lapland Holidays and you may not be permitted to travel without it. Please check with your insurer that you are covered specifically for the activities included in your trip, as snowmobilingand other rides/sports are generally not included in standard policies. You may be asked to produce evidence of insurance before travelling.

The minimum age for operating a snowmobile in Finland is 15 years. However this is only the case on private land and on many tours a valid driving licence may be required.  Please also make sure that you are insured to drive a snowmobile while on holiday, as you may not be permitted to do so if not.

It may take some searching, but you will most certainly get to meet Father Christmas during your trip.

All Visit Santa Holidays include a small gift for each child aged between 2-12. For any requests for a gift for older children please contact us in advance.

All of our Lapland Holidays include meals during your stay, and every effort is made to keep food as close as possible to what you are used to eating at home. Breakfast and dinner is usually served in a buffet style, with children’s favourites such as chips, chicken nuggets and pizzas available. Most packages will also have a vegetarian option at meal times.

Finland can reach severely cold temperatures, and it is essential that you bring adequate thermal clothing for any children less than two years of age as it is not included on most packages. It is recommended that you consult your doctor before booking and seek advice on the suitability of such harsh conditions for your child. It is also worth noting that buggies will not be suitable for use in the deep snow found in most areas.

We realise that a trip to see Santa in Lapland is a dream come true for many children with an illness or disability. We will do everything we can to accommodate your individual needs, please contact us for more information.

Direct flights from Dublin, Cork or Shannon to Lapland (Finland)
Activities as specified on each tour
Transfers, tours and overnights stays at your chosen accommodation
Meals as per your itinerary
Thermal suits and boots
Private meeting with Santa &  gift for the children

All Irish citizens can only travel to Lapland with a valid Irish Passport. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. Visas are not required for Irish citizens. All other nationalities should check what travel documentation is required by contacting the Finnish Embassy in Dublin on 01-4781344. The department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Ireland provides travel advice which helps you to make informed decisions when you’re planning a trip overseas and offers you an objective assessment of the risks you could face. For the latest travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and trade, check: www.dfa.ie/travel-advice/

Lapland is two hours ahead of Ireland.

Flight time from Ireland to Lapland is approximately 3-3 & a half hours. We fly into a number of airports in  Finland, please see Getting to Lapland for more information on flight and transfer times.