Finland’s Northern Lights 2026

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to see the shimmering Northern Lights dancing overhead? To find out, join Sky & Telescope on a week-long journey (November 6-13, 2026) above the Arctic Circle deep in Finnish Lapland for a Northern Lights tour.

The trip kicks off with a couple of days in Helsinki, Finland’s capital city, where you’ll see unique architecture, Finland’s own brand of Jugendstil known as the National Romantic style. You’ll then fly northward to the small town of Ivalo, located well north of the Arctic Circle, and begin your exploration of the ruggedness of Finnish Lapland, learning all about the local Sámi culture, and enjoying a sauna the traditional, Finnish way. Reindeer sleigh rides and husky safaris — as well as a visit to Santa Claus’s lair — are all in the program. But all of this is just added bonus — on clear November nights, there is a good chance of witnessing the Northern Lights.

Here’s a recap of the essential experiences you’ll get to enjoy:

• Experience the wilderness of Lapland during a 3-night stay north of the Arctic Circle!
• Learn about Sámi cultural traditions from a local inhabitant!
• Lead your very own dog sled team on a husky safari!
• Meet majestic Lappish reindeer before they take you for an evening sled ride!
• Spend one night in a cozy glass igloo to watch the northern lights dance overhead!

Click below to get the full details:
• Itinerary for our 7-day tour of Helsinki and Lapland
• What is and isn’t included; what conditions to expect
• Pricing, Payments, and Terms

If you’re ready to join the tour, click here to make a reservation!

Amazing Accommodations

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Itinerary for Finland Aurora Adventure 2026

Date	Itinerary at a Glance	Accommodation	Meals
Friday, Nov. 6	Depart for Helsinki	—	(aloft)
Saturday, Nov. 7	Arrive in Helsinki	Hotel Haven	D
Sunday, Nov. 8	Helsinki City Tour	Hotel Haven	B
Monday, Nov. 9	Fly to Kakslauttanen / aurora watch	Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort	B, L, D
Tuesday, Nov. 10	Kakslauttanen / aurora watch	Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort	B, D
Wednesday, Nov. 11	Kakslauttanen / aurora watch	Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort	B, D
Thursday, Nov. 12	Return to Helsinki / free time	Hotel Haven	B, D
Friday, Nov. 13	Depart Helsinki/ arrive home	—	B

Day 1 (Friday, November 6, 2026): Depart for Helsinki
Embark on a winter adventure to the magical landscapes of Finnish Lapland. Under pristine Arctic skies, you’ll have the chance to search for the breathtaking northern lights dancing above the snowy wilderness. The journey kicks off from charming Helsinki, the “Daughter of the Baltic.”
(meals aloft)

Day 2 (Saturday, November 7): Arrive in Helsinki
Finland’s vibrant capital, where history converges with architectural style and combines with a laid-back vibe across beautiful islands and pristine public parks, welcomes you. With no scheduled activities through the afternoon, spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. This evening, gather with new friends for a welcome dinner in the city center, taking a 20-minute stroll to a local restaurant. Hyvää ruokahalua! (“bon appetit!”)
Hotel Haven (D)

Day 3: Sunday, November 8): Sightseeing in Helsinki
Join a local expert for an engaging city tour. If Finland’s heart beats in Helsinki, then Helsinki’s core is the Empire-style Senate Square, home of the iconic Helsinki Cathedral. Take a 90-minute walking tour of the historic Tori Quarters before enjoying some free time in Market Square, the city’s famous international market. See the steel monument dedicated to the composer Sibelius. This afternoon, take time to explore more of Helsinki independently. Lunch and dinner on your own.
Hotel Haven (B)

Day 4 (Monday, November 9): Fly to Kakslauttanen / Aurora Watch
Escape to northernmost Finland’s winter wonderland on board a flight to Ivalo and magical Lapland. Like a storybook come to life, Lapland’s culture is steeped in myth and legend. Relish a sled ride with reindeer and unspoiled views of the northern lights. You’ll spend two nights in your very own log cabin, complete with a fireplace and your own Finnish sauna. At dinner you’ll be joined by an indigenous Laplander, who’ll describe Sámi traditions and why the aurora is known as “the light you can hear.” Then take a motor coach north toward Inari on a chase for the northern lights. (Since seeing auroras depends on solar activity and local weather, sightings are not guaranteed.)
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (B, L, D)

Day 5 (Tuesday, November 10): Kakslauttanen / Aurora Watch
Hit the snow and mush yourself to breakfast aboard your own authentic Finnish sleigh. After a leisurely breakfast, meet Santa’s elves, who will take you to meet Santa Claus in his own home. Learn about Santa’s origins during a warm and friendly conversation at his house. Lunch is on your own, and enjoy free time this afternoon. After dinner, meet the friendly Lappish reindeer that will power an exhilarating safari through remote Kakslauttanen. Then step inside a Lappish teepee, or kota, and sip warm berry juice (a Finnish tradition) around an open fire while gaining insight into the importance of reindeer herding to the Sámi indigenous culture. The search for the elusive northern lights continues via motor-coach transport into the surrounding wilderness.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (B, D)

Day 6 (Wednesday, November 11): Kakslauttanen / Aurora Watch
Breathe in the fresh Arctic air this morning and step into the role as leader of your own dog sled team. Zoom through the wilderness on a husky safari, driving your husky guides that are as fast as they are adorable. Spend some time getting to know these amazing dogs and learn about their different commands. You’ll also be introduced to the equipment you’ll need to experience this incredible Arctic adventure at its best. Lunch is on your own, with free time this afternoon. Enjoy your last night in the heart of the Lappish wilderness nestled in your incredible and unique glass igloo. (Your overnight in a glass igloo may occur on either the first or last night at the resort.) You may even see the northern lights dancing overhead from the comfort of your own bed.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (B, D)

Day 7 (Thursday, November 12): Return to Helsinki / free time
Say goodbye to enchanting Lapland and fly back to Helsinki. After lunch on your own, spend the afternoon at leisure while exploring the city’s central squares or the latest Finnish trends in charming shops. Tonight, in downtown Helsinki, toast to grand adventures and new friends at a group farewell dinner.
Hotel Haven (B, D)

Day 8 (Friday, November 13):  Depart Helsinki / Arrive Home
Sadly, the tour ends this morning. Following breakfast, transfer to the airport to depart Helsinki and return home — with incredible memories and a longing to return to Lapland. (B, meals aloft)

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What the Tour Does/Doesn’t Include

The tour to Finland includes:
• Flights between Helsinki and Ivalo
• Nightly accommodation in high-quality hotels
• English-speaking tour director
• Daily sightseeing tours with expert English-speaking guides
• Private coach for ground transportation (including off-site aurora watches)
• Lecture and discussion from a S&T representative
• 12 meals (see itinerary), including gratuities and including welcome and farewell dinners
• Baggage handling at hotels (porterage)
• Admission to attractions detailed in the itinerary
• Service charges and taxes
• Customized luggage tags and name tags with Sky & Telescope logo
• Pre-trip planning information and resources

The tour to Finland does not include:
• International airfare to/from Helsinki (available from Collette at additional cost)
• Trip Cancellation and Travel Insurance (available from Collette at additional cost)
• Medical insurance; medical or quarantine expenses; COVID-19 testing (if applicable)
• Passport and visa fees (including the European Union’s ETIAS)
• Airport transfers if not arriving or departing with the group
• Hotel accommodation for extra nights before or after the tour dates
• Individual excursions or deviations from the scheduled tour
• Meals or beverages not listed in the detailed itinerary
• Personal expenses (room service, laundry, telephone calls, etc.)
• Excess-baggage fees
• Tips for the Tour Director, local guides, drivers, and housekeeping

What Conditions to Expect on the Tour

This exclusive Sky & Telescope expedition is designed for travelers who are interested in visiting Helsinki, learning about the lifestyle and customs of Lapland, and experiencing displays of the aurora from a remote, dark, moonlight-free location.

Note that passports are required for this tour, acquired at your expense, and should be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your travel. ETIAS visa-waiver requirements are anticipated to begin during the last quarter of 2026, for a fee, when visiting Finland.

To enjoy this experience, you must be in good physical and mental health and be able to keep up with the pace of the group. This tour is not wheelchair or stroller accessible, nor is it suitable for travelers who require mobility-assistance devices. Daily excursions will often involve walking or hiking for 1 mile or more over hills and uneven surfaces, including walking and waiting outdoors at night while looking for auroral displays and climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (such as motorcoach, dog sled, and sleigh).

November is early winter in Finland. Temperatures in Helsinki average between 39°F during the day and 30°F at night. Temperatures in Kakslauttanen are considerably colder, averaging between 28°F during the day and 16°F at night. Usually Lapland gets its first snowfall in late September, and typically by early November snow completely covers the ground. So bring clothing, thermals, hat, gloves, and sturdy, non-slip footwear appropriate for cold weather.

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Pricing, Payments, and Terms for Finland Aurora Adventure 2026

Pricing (per person)	Two per room	One per room	Three per room
Finland Aurora Adventure	$5,990	$6,990	$5,890
Two-night cabin upgrade	$600	$1,200	$400
Collette “Travel Protection Plan”	$549	$549	$549

• To make a reservation: A reservation request can be made by calling 1-800-581-8942 (reference booking #1368745) or by completing this online reservation form. Reservations are recorded and acknowledged in order of receipt. Collette (CST #2006766-20) handles all invoicing. Single accommodations are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. All names submitted to Collette must appear exactly as shown on the government-issued identification for each Participant that will be used at time of travel. All tour prices are based on costs and U.S. dollar exchange rates in effect at the time of posting. As such, prices listed here are subject to change. AAS Sky Publishing LLC and/or Collette will inform clients of any changes prior to departure.
• Deposits: A deposit of $698 per person is due upon reservation. Reservations made after the deposit due date of February 28, 2026, are based upon availability. Deposits are fully refundable until March 7, 2026. Final payment is due by August 9, 2026.
• To cancel a reservation: For a cancellation made 90 to16 days prior to departure: the cancellation fee is 40% of the tour’s total price. For a cancellation made 15 days to 1 day prior to departure: the cancellation fee is 75% of the tour’s total price. For a cancellation made on the day of departure and thereafter: the cancellation fee is 100% of the tour’s total price. Airline reservations made through Collette are 100% nonrefundable once paid in full; additionally, penalties may apply for air reservations canceled within 120 days of departure.
• Itinerary: As this tour is weather dependent, sightings of the northern lights are not guaranteed. The itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of AAS Sky Publishing LLC and Collette. The days and order of sightseeing may change to best utilize your time on tour and may vary depending on snowfall. There are no refunds for unused meals, accommodations, or other trip features or for any part of the program in which you choose not to participate.
• Tour size: This tour is exclusively designed for AAS Sky Publishing LLC. The group size is 19 to 24. Should the minimum group of 19 not be met by March 7, 2026, Collette reserves the right to offer this tour to others.
• Travel insurance: We highly recommend the purchase of trip-cancellation insurance, including “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage, which can provide a refund for tour-related costs (including international airfare and your deposit) due to unexpected illness, injury, or other “covered reasons” in the policy. Note: Most insurance plans need to be purchased within 14 days of paying the initial deposit in order to waive preexisting medical conditions as well as to purchase “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage.
  Collette recommends the purchase of its “Travel Protection Plan” (insurance coverage) when you make your reservation and pay the initial deposit. This includes "Cancel for Any Reason” coverage, which guarantees a full refund of all payments (including your deposit) except for the Travel Protection Plan fee itself, in case of cancellation of travel plans for any reason until 24 hours departure. However, if you choose not to purchase the tour’s airfare package from Collette, the air portion of your trip is not covered under the “Travel Protection Plan;” in such cases, neither AAS Sky Publishing LLC nor Collette accepts liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by your purchase of a non-refundable airline ticket or other expenses incurred in preparing for the tour. Review coverage details of Collette’s Travel Protection Plan here.
• Disclaimer: Every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented here. AAS Sky Publishing LLC and Collette are not responsible for errors in or damages resulting from use of the information contained herein. Information contained herein is subject to change.
• Responsibility: Collette (CST #2009579-40), its owners, and employees act only as agents for the various independent suppliers and contractors providing transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurant, and other services connected with this tour. Such travel and services are subject to the terms and conditions under which such accommodations, services, and transportation are offered or provided; AAS Sky Publishing LLC and the American Astronomical Society (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Sky”) and Collette and each entity’s respective board of directors or trustees, officers, shareholders, members, employees, agents, representatives, and assigns accept no liability therefor. Sky and Collette assume no liability for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or other irregularity which may be caused by the defect of any aircraft or vehicle or the negligence or default of any company or person engaged in carrying out or performing any of the services involved. Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages, or expenses of any kind due to sickness, epidemics, pandemics, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, quarantine, force majeure, animal or insect bites, or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws of the country in which they are provided. Sky and Collette reserve the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the tour participants. Sky and/or Collette shall not be deemed to be in breach of these terms and conditions or otherwise be liable to you, and shall not provide any refund, by reason of delay in performance, or by non-performance, of any of our obligations hereunder to the extent that any such delay or non-performance is due to any force majeure event. A force majeure event, in relation to this tour, shall mean any circumstances beyond our control, including, but without limitation, to acts of God, explosion, flood, forceful wind, fire or accident, war or threat of war declared or undeclared, acts of terrorism, sabotage, insurrection, riots, strikes, civil disturbance, sickness, epidemics, pandemics, quarantines, government intervention or other unforeseeable events. Limitations on travel arising from the COVID-19 pandemic shall be considered a force majeure event. If this tour is affected by a force majeure event, Sky and Collette shall be entitled to, and may in their sole and absolute discretion, vary, cancel or postpone any itinerary or arrangement in relation to this trip. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour or to substitute another qualified leader or special guest. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. The price of the program is given in good faith based on current tariffs and rates and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, security surcharge or fuel increases will be passed on to participants.
• Questions: Please contact Collette at [email protected] or call 800-581-8942 (Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time). Please reference booking #1368745.