FAQ : Questions & Answers

 

PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO LAPLAND?

WELCOME TO OUR FAQ!

 

Here, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about planning, booking, preparing for your trip and of course enjoying your Nordic Odyssey adventure in Lapland.

If you don’t see what you’re looking for here, contact us to info@nordicodyssey.net!  Our friendly team is always happy to offer personalized advice and support.

BOOKING, PAYMENTS & CANCELLATION

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What experiences and tours does Nordic Odyssey offer?

Nordic Odyssey provides high-quality guided trips and authentic experiences from Rovaniemi and tailored travel packages in Ylläs. All our small-group and private experiences are led by professional guides fluent in English and French, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience. 

Our popular tours in winter season include:

In summer and autumn, we offer nature-based activities designed to showcase the beauty of Lapland’s landscapes under the Midnight Sun or vibrant autumn foliage, such as:

Whether you are visiting Lapland in winter, summer or autumn, we arecommitted to offering responsible tours that bring you closer to nature, local culture, and Arctic life.

For snowmobile tours in Rovaniemi and other destinations such as Saariselkä, Levi, or Pyhä-Luosto, we collaborate with trusted local partners to ensure seamless service and quality. This way, you can enjoy the best of Lapland and beyond through carefully curated adventures.

How do I book a tour?

Booking a tour: All our experiences are listed on our website. Each tour has its own page with a detailed description, photos, pricing, and information about what’s included. Scroll down the page to find the booking calendar, where you can check availability and select your preferred date, time, and number of participants.

Finalizing your booking: To complete the reservation, click the Checkout button, fill in your details, and proceed with payment by credit or debit card. You’ll receive a confirmation email once your booking is confirmed.

Tailored programs and special requests: if you have a special request or would like a custom itinerary, feel free to contact us at info@nordicodyssey.net. We’ll be happy to build a personalized program with you and send a quote.

Booking in advance: we strongly recommend booking ahead of time, especially during busy periods such as Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and winter holidays, as availability may be limited. 

Walk-in bookings: you’re welcome to visit our office, but please note that we cannot guarantee availability without a prior reservation.

How can I pay for my reservation? Is my payment secure?

Online bookings: The price for each tour is listed on its dedicated webpage and includes all fees and applicable VAT. To secure your booking, we kindly ask for full payment at the time of reservation. You can conveniently pay by credit or debit card directly on our website, or we can send you a secure payment link or an invoice payable by bank transfer via email.

In office payments: At our office, we accept credit/debit cards and cash payments.

Payment in advance: for activity packages booked well in advance, payment can be made in two parts: 30% is required as a deposit at the time of booking, and the remaining 70% must be paid no later than one month before the start of the activity. Our billing details are available on our website and on the invoice shared during our email exchanges.

Accepted payment methods: we accept most major cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, and American Express. We also support contactless payments via Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Booking confirmation: you will receive a booking confirmation and voucher by email.

Payment security: All payments made through our website or via the secure payment link are encrypted and processed through trusted and certified payment providers. Whether you pay by credit card, debit card, or bank transfer, your personal and financial information is protected. We do not store any payment details.

How can I amend or modify my booking?

Booking changes: if you would like to make any changes to your booking, please contact us by email at info@nordicodyssey.net. We will do our best to accommodate your request, but please make sure to contact us sufficiently in advance, as we may not be able to accept last-minute changes.

What is your cancellation policy and how can I cancel my tour?

Booking changes: if you would like to make any changes to your booking, please contact us by email at info@nordicodyssey.net. We will do our best to accommodate your request, but please make sure to contact us sufficiently in advance, as we may not be able to accept last-minute changes.

Cancellations: all cancellation requests must be made by email. Our standard cancellation policy can be found in our Commercial Terms and Conditions, and is as follows:

  • 10% of the booking amount if cancelled 7 days or more before the tour
  • 50% if cancelled between 7 days and 24 hours before the tour
  • 100% if cancelled less than 24 hours before the tour

Flexible cancellation: Northern Lights tours: Our Northern Lights Photography Tour, Northern Lights Family Tour, and Private Northern Lights Tour include a flexible cancellation option. You can cancel your tour until 14:00 (local time) on the same day and receive a refund, minus a small cancellation assurance fee (detailed in the tour description).

Cancellation policies when third-party providers are involved and experiences organised by our trusted partners: Some tours or packages may have stricter cancellation policies than our standard terms. The exact conditions are always specified in the service description on each tour page. If a subcontractor or third-party supplier (e.g. for accommodation or transport) is involved, their cancellation terms will apply. For accommodation bookings, third-party cancellation policies are followed. A minimum cancellation fee of 10% will always apply to cover administrative and transaction costs.

When I will receive my refund and how?

Once your cancellation or refund request has been approved, we will process your refund within 3 working days.  The refund will be issued using the same payment method you used when making the original booking or purchase. Please note that depending on your bank or payment provider, it may take additional time for the funds to appear in your account.

If you have not received your refund after the expected processing time, feel free to contact us by email for assistance.

I got sick and cannot participate in my scheduled tour. What should I do

If you become ill and are unable to attend your scheduled tour, please notify us as soon as possible. In such cases, we recommend contacting your travel insurance provider, as many policies cover cancellations due to illness. We are happy to assist by providing any necessary documentation to support your claim. Please note that our standard cancellation policy still applies.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes, we offer various discounts to make your travel to Lapland more accessible:

  • Group pricing tiers: our prices per person decrease with larger group sizes.
  • Children rates: reduced rates apply for children up to 12 years old, provided they are accompanied by at least two paying adults. Conditions may vary depending on the activity.
  • Promotional Discounts: please visit our dedicated discounts page on our website.
  • Special Offers for multiple bookings: we offer special discounts on our selected experiences when you book multiple tours with us. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or colleagues, get in touch to find out about our tailored packages and savings.
  • Make it a combo experience: combining multiple tours into one is a great way to enjoy more activities during your trip while getting better value. One of our most popular combos in winter time is our Full Arctic Adventure, which includes snowshoeing, ice fishing, and more (a family version). Alternatively, you can combine experiences such as ski trekking, snowshoeing, or relaxing sauna while observing the northern lights.
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EXPERIENCE & LOGISTICS 

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What pick-up services are included?

Pick-up service area: For our experiences (except for electric fatbike tours and Aurora Workshop) we offer pick-up within an 8 km radius of Rovaniemi city centre, including most accommodations nearby such as hotel, Aibnb apartments, hostel or private accomoddation, and Santa Claus Village. Pick-up beyond this area (8km around the city center) may incur an additional fee. This includes places such as: Apukka Resort, Arctic Snow Hotel, Pohtimo, Motelli, Norvajärvi, Arctic Wilderness Lodge.

Meeting at our Nordic Odyssey office:
– If your accommodation is located within a short walking distance from our office (less than 750m), we may kindly ask you to meet us directly at our office, for ecological and logistical reasons. Examples of such accommodations include: Scandic Rovaniemi City, Arctic City Hotel, Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus, Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna, Scandic Pohjanhovi, Scandic Polar, Arctic Penthouse City Suite. We will gladly come to pick you up if you have limited mobility.
– For our electric fatbike experiences, such as Private Electric Fatbike Tour or Electric Fatbike Trip to the Reindeer farm, departure is always from our Nordic Odyssey office. Hotel pick ups outside the city centre can be arranged at extra costs.

Meeting point if no pick-up address is provided at the time of booking: Our default meeting point is our office at Jaakonkatu 4–6, 96200 Rovaniemi. You can send your accommodation details later by email at info@nordicodyssey.net to update your booking.

Airport transfers: We do not arrange airport transfers directly but recommend our trusted partner Menevä for taxi services.You can book your taxi transfer via their website: https://book.meneva.fi/access/, or directly at our office. The airport shuttle and bus line number 11 also offer convenient connections to the city centre.

Meeting time and places for experiences organized by our trusted partners: our trusted partners may use different meeting points and pick-up zones depending on their service. The exact meeting time and location are always specified in the service description on each tour page. If you’re unsure or need assistance, feel free to contact us. 

Are there any extra charges for pick-ups outside the pick-up zone?

Yes, for accommodations located more than 8 km from Rovaniemi city center, an additional transfer fee applies. This fee is charged per transfer and depends on your location. Here are the rates for some common pick-up points:

Apukka Resort – 50€
Nova Galaxy Village – 40€
Arctic Snow Hotel & Glass Igloos– 70€
Lapland Hotel Bear´s Lodge (Pohtimo) – 70€
Motelli Rovaniemi – 25€
Norvajärvi area – 50€
Rovaniemi Airport – 35€
Arctic Vaatunki Wilderness Lodge – 60€

We can gladly arrange a pick-up from your accommodation and it can be easily booked by email. 

What vehicle do you use for transportation?

For all our our experiences, we typically use quality vans with up to 9 seats, as our groups are limited to small groups of a maximum of 8 people to guarantee comfort.

The exact type of vehicle depends on the number of participants in the group. We always ensure that vehicles used for both private and shared group tours are safe, comfortable and heated. 

How and when will I be informed about the meeting time for my tour?

The exact meeting time will be sent to you by email either the day before your tour or in the morning of the tour for evening excursions. Please make sure to check your email before your tour to receive this important information.

How many people are in a tour ?

We keep our tour groups small, with a maximum of 8 participants per activity. This helps us provide high-quality service and a more personal, immersive experience for everyone. If you’re interested in a larger group or a private tour, we can arrange custom experiences upon request.

Do you offer private and customised experiences?

Yes! Many of our tours are available as private experiences, and we are happy to customise them to match your unique interests and preferences. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a small group, we will tailor the itinerary to create a more personal and memorable adventure. Private tours are also a great choice for special occasions such as team-building events, honeymoon trips, or wedding proposal.

You can explore our Premium and Private tour options on our website, or contact us directly.

Can I join the tours if I am travelling alone?

Absolutely! You are warmly welcome to join any confirmed group departure at the standard price. Our tours are designed to be fun and inclusive, so you’ll have a great time meeting new people and exploring, even when travelling alone.

Check our tour list on the website to see which tours are available for solo travellers.

What language may I speak with guides and staff?

Our entire team is happy to assist you in English. Additionally, all of our guides and staff speak French fluently, so they’re more than happy to answer your questions and guide you in French as well. 

ACCESSIBILITY

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Are your tours suitable for children?

Yes, children can join many of our tours, but age requirements vary depending on the activity. The minimum age is indicated on each tour’s dedicated page.

Some experiences are suitable for children as young as 4 years old, while others are designed for those aged 8 or 12 and up. For electric fatbike tours, a minimum height of 155 cm is required to ensure safe and comfortable use of the equipment.

Due to the harsh Arctic conditions in winter, where temperatures often range from -15°C to -20°C or even lower, younger children are more sensitive to the cold and may not recognize their physical limits. As a result, we do not offer tours for infants or toddlers during winter. If you are considering other providers, we recommend choosing experiences that include access to a warm shelter or campfire, and ensuring that guides are trained in first aid and experienced with young children in cold conditions.

During the summer and low season, age limits may  be more flexible.  Feel free to contact us directly to find the most suitable options for your family.

For more ideas on visiting Lapland with children, you can also read our blog post: Family Trip to Lapland: Things to Do in Rovaniemi with Kids

Who can ride the electric fatbike? Are they suitable for children?

Our electric fatbikes are suitable for most adults and teenagers who are at least 155 cm tall (160 cm recommended for better comfort). The bikes have 26” wheels, equivalent to standard 28” bikes, and are easy to handle with electric assistance.

For young children under 22 kg, we offer rental bike trailers (upon request), which can fit up to two small children. Please note that if using a trailer, the route will be adapted to easier paths around Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village, as forest trails are not suitable.

I have a physical impairment or special needs, can I still participate in your tours?

We are committed to making our tours as accessible as possible. If you have a physical impairment or specific accessibility requirements, we kindly invite you to contact us directly at info@nordicodyssey.net.

Our team will carefully assess your individual needs and provide recommendations on the most suitable options. Whenever possible, we are happy to adapt our experiences to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment.

Are there toilets available during the tours

For many outdoor experiences like Northern Lights hunts or nature hikes, toilet facilities are limited.

Some locations, such as Korouoma Canyon, the Amethyst Mine, or during husky and reindeer safaris, may have basic dry toilets. For our wilderness sauna experiences and overnight stay in a wooden cottage, dry toilets are available on site. These facilities are simple but functional and suitable for use throughout your stay.

In all cases, we recommend using the restroom at your accommodation before departure.

PREPARATION & PLANNING

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What should I wear for winter activities?

In winter, temperatures in Lapland can drop as low as -30°C, especially between December and February — the coldest months of the year. It’s essential to wear clothing suited for extreme cold to stay safe and avoid serious discomfort or injury.

We highly recommend dressing in three warm layers, along with waterproof, insulated boots, a thermal hat, and gloves designed for Arctic conditions. You can find detailed clothing guidelines in our winter manual below:

Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. As guides, we are responsible for ensuring the well-being of the whole group. For this reason, we kindly remind you that appropriate winter clothing and equipment are essential to join our tours, especially in extreme Arctic conditions.

Please note that if a participant arrives insufficiently equipped, we may unfortunately need to refuse participation without refund, in order to protect their safety and that of the group.

If you are unsure whether your clothing is suitable, or if you need to rent or purchase additional items, we are happy to assist. Simply contact us in advance at info@nordicodyssey.net, and we’ll help you prepare everything for your adventure.

Can I rent the winter clothing ? And how?

We offer a complete winter clothing set for rent, including high-quality thermal overalls (suitable for temperatures down to -20 °C) and winter boots with thick soles and an insulating double lining. Clothing sets can be booked directly via our website. 

Please note: Our rental stock is limited during the high season, especially for children’s sizes, so we strongly recommend booking your gear in advance.

The winter set can be added as an optional extra for €5 per person when booking certain activities. Some experiences, such as private tours and snowmobile safaris, automatically include the winter set for added safety and comfort.

You can also rent the set for the entire duration of your stay, at the following rates: €20 per set / per day (or discounted €10 per set / per day when booking a multi-day program with us). 

Important notes:
– Our thermal overalls are designed to be worn over your own base layers, so please dress accordingly.
– For hygiene reasons, we do not rent gloves, hats, or socks. Woolen socks are available for purchase at our office.
– All rental gear must be picked up and returned at our main office: Nordic Odyssey, Jaakonkatu 4–6, 96200 Rovaniemi. We are open daily during the high season from 08:30 to 20:30.

What other equipment can I rent from you? And how?

During our guided activities, all necessary gear, such as snowshoes, skis, ice fishing equipment, etc., is included when specified in the tour description.

If you’d like to explore on your own without a guide, we also offer rental options for a wide range of equipment: snowshoes, cross-country skis, fatbikes, electric fatbikes, camping gear, strollers, and more in winter time; and canoes, camping and outdoor equipment, SUP, e-bikes in summer months. You can find all the details on our rental page.

Our team will be happy to give you a quick introduction on how to use the equipment and offer local tips on where to go; whether you’re heading out on fatbikes, skis, or simply enjoying the Arctic wilderness on your own!

All equipment must be collected and returned from our office Nordic Odyssey located in the city centre of Rovaniemi at the following address : Jaakonkatu 4-6, 96200 Rovaniemi. During the peak season, we are open from 08:30 to 20:30.

Are meals included in the tour? What about dietary restrictions?

Some of our tours include a meal or snack, which is always mentioned on the dedicated tour page.

If you have any dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, allergies, etc.), we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs. Please inform us when booking so we can plan accordingly.

SPECIFIC TOUR INFORMATION

HUSKY ADVENTURES

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Is it difficult to drive a dog sled, especially for a beginner?

Not at all! Driving the sled is accessible even for beginners. Our guides will provide full instructions and accompany you throughout the ride to ensure your comfort and safety. Usually, there are two people per sled: one driving and one as a passenger. You can (but don’t have to) switch roles halfway through the safari.

Is the husky sled (cart) experience possible in summer?

The husky sled (cart) experience is not available during summer, as it can be too warm for the dogs to run safely.

We usually start husky cart rides from October, or late September if the weather permits, when temperatures are cool enough to ensure the well-being of the huskies. However, during the summer months, you can still visit the husky kennel, meet the dogs, and learn more about their life, care, and training.

ELECTRIC FATBIKE 

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I want to try an electric fatbike ride, but I’m not sure where to go, what do you recommend?

You don’t have to worry! Our team will gladly advise you on the best trails based on your skill level, interests, and current trail conditions. We will also guide you on how to safely use the bikes and introduce you to different itineraries you can explore (feel free to check out our blog post here for inspiration).

If you’re unsure which route to choose, we recommend joining one of our guided experiences. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy scenic, safe trails while learning how to make the most of your electric fatbike.

VISITING SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE

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Do I need a guide to visit Santa Claus Village?

Not at all. Visiting Santa Claus Village is completely free. You can meet Santa Claus, cross the Arctic Circle, and explore the village on your own without paying for an overpriced guided tour.

It’s easy to reach from Rovaniemi city centre either by local bus n°8 (approx. 4€ each way) or taxi (10–15 min). Going independently is much cheaper, more flexible, and allows you to spend as much time there as you wish.

SNOWMOBILE EXPERIENCES

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Are snowmobile tours worth it? And how do I choose the right one?

Absolutely! Snowmobile tours are one of the most popular and thrilling ways to discover the beautiful landscapes of Lapland. When done with the right guide and in the right conditions, it’s a truly memorable experience that takes you far beyond the city and into the heart of the Arctic wilderness.

To make the most of it, we recommend choosing a small-group or private tour. These offer a more relaxed pace, quieter trails, and a more personal experience compared to larger tours that can sometimes feel crowded and less flexible. Look for tours that prioritize quality over quantity, you’ll appreciate the difference on the trail.

Do I need a driving licence to drive a snowmobile in Finland?

Yes, to drive a snowmobile in Finland, you must hold a valid driving licence. A car licence category B is sufficient and the driver must be at least 18 years old. The licence must be carried with you during the tour and shown if requested by the guide or local authorities.

If you don’t have a driving licence, you can still join the tour as a passenger on the snowmobile, either behind your travel companion or the guide (depending on the tour format).

Can kids participate in snowmobile tours?

Yes, children can join snowmobile tours!
For safety reasons, those under 140 cm in height will sit comfortably in a heated sleigh pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. Children taller than 140 cm may ride as passengers behind a parent or adult driver and will be charged the adult rate.

For the best experience, especially with younger children, we recommend choosing a private tour or a family-focused ride, which offers more flexibility and a pace suited to all ages.

AFTER YOUR TOUR  & FEEDBACK

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How can I provide feedback or leave a review about my tour experience?

Your satisfaction means a lot to us, and we’re always looking to improve.

If you have a moment, we would love to hear your thoughts; what you enjoyed, and what we could do better. You can leave a review directly on our Google page or TripAdvisor, or simply write us an email with your feedback. 

Where can I find photos or videos taken by the tour guide / company during my trip?

For our Northern Lights experiences, your guide will be equipped with a professional camera specially designed to capture the night sky and auroras. All photos taken during the tour will be sent to you by email in high resolution within the next few working days.

You can download the photos in high quality via a link that will be available for 4 weeks.

Is it customary to tip guides in Finland?

Tipping is not mandatory in Finland, as good service is already included in the price. However, if you feel your guide provided exceptional service, a small tip is always greatly appreciated.

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