Lapland · January 2027
At a glance
About the expedition
Hey! Our Guide Gabriel Santos has just returned from his second trip to this region and brought back some incredible shots!
Itinerary
Day by day
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1
Arrival in Kuusamo
Arrival in Kuusamo The journey begins in Kuusamo, in the very heart of Finnish Lapland. The dry, biting Arctic air is our first welcome, while snow-covered conifer forests immediately set the tone for the magical week ahead. From…
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Arrival in Kuusamo
The journey begins in Kuusamo, in the very heart of Finnish Lapland. The dry, biting Arctic air is our first welcome, while snow-covered conifer forests immediately set the tone for the magical week ahead. From the very first moments, the landscape conveys a strong sense of isolation, silence, and untouched wilderness.
We settle into Ruka Village, a base that combines the facilities of a mountain resort with the warm, cozy atmosphere of a small northern village. This will be our starting point for the first days of exploration. During the welcome dinner, we will have time to get to know each other, review the itinerary, fine-tune our photographic gear, and prepare for the days ahead.
In January, the sun barely rises a few degrees above the horizon, gifting us around six continuous hours of soft, low-angle light, as if the entire day unfolded between an extended sunrise and sunset. This unique light is one of the great highlights of the Arctic winter and sets the rhythm for our photographic work. That very night, weather permitting, we will head outdoors to watch the sky and see whether the aurora borealis decides to make its first appearance, opening the expedition with one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles on Earth.
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![Aurora boreal verde y roja sobre bosque nevado de coníferas en Laponia durante la noche ártica]()
Iso-Syöte, the Snowiest Peak
Iso-Syöte, the Snowiest Peak We move on to Iso-Syöte, considered the snowiest place in all of Finland. The hills here are covered in such a thick white mantle that it feels like stepping into Narnia. The local hotel and cabins…
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Iso-Syöte, the Snowiest Peak
We move on to Iso-Syöte, considered the snowiest place in all of Finland. The hills here are covered in such a thick white mantle that it feels like stepping into Narnia. The local hotel and cabins are photographic subjects themselves: wooden structures half-buried under snow, radiating calm and isolation.
In 2019, Iso-Syöte was officially named the snowiest spot in Finland — and it’s easy to see why. If fortune favors us, by nightfall we might capture the northern lights dancing above the ice-covered cabins.
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Riisitunturi, the Enchanted Forest
Riisitunturi, the Enchanted Forest Our first dawn surprises us in Riisitunturi National Park, home to the iconic tykky trees: spruces that, under the immense weight of snow and ice, are transformed into true natural sculptures…
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Riisitunturi, the Enchanted Forest
Our first dawn surprises us in Riisitunturi National Park, home to the iconic tykky trees: spruces that, under the immense weight of snow and ice, are transformed into true natural sculptures. Their twisted, ghostly silhouettes—shaped by accumulations that can exceed two tons of snow per tree—create an unreal, almost otherworldly landscape.
We move through the forest on snowshoes, exploring the area in search of the best compositions as the low winter sun bathes the scene in soft golden and pink tones. The silence is deep and immersive, broken only by the crunch of snow beneath our feet. As night falls, weather permitting, we will return to this unique setting to try to capture the aurora borealis dancing above one of the most magical landscapes in the European Arctic.
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![Río con rápidos congelados, cabaña de madera y puente en bosque nevado de Laponia]()
Oulanka and the Frozen Rivers
Leaving the ghostly forests behind, we make our way to Oulanka National Park. Here, the main protagonist is no longer the trees, but the water. The Kitka River winds its way through snow and ice, forming powerful rapids such as…
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Leaving the ghostly forests behind, we make our way to Oulanka National Park. Here, the main protagonist is no longer the trees, but the water. The Kitka River winds its way through snow and ice, forming powerful rapids such as Myllykoski, where an old wooden mill has withstood decades of harsh winters. Suspension bridges provide elevated and privileged viewpoints, perfect for photographing the striking contrast between the pure white snow and the dark, fast-moving water below.
Oulanka is well known in summer for the Karhunkierros Trail, which stretches for more than 80 kilometers, but in winter the landscape is transformed into a fairytale-like setting. The frozen riverbanks, snow-covered forests, and flowing rapids create an ideal environment for minimalist compositions and visually powerful winter landscapes, offering a completely different photographic experience in the heart of the Arctic.
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Kuntivaara, Guardians of the Border
Kuntivaara, Guardians of the Border Today we experience one of the true highlights of the journey. We ascend by snowmobile sled to the summit of Mount Kuntivaara, close to the Russian border. From the top, a spectacular…
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Kuntivaara, Guardians of the Border
Today we experience one of the true highlights of the journey. We ascend by snowmobile sled to the summit of Mount Kuntivaara, close to the Russian border. From the top, a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view unfolds, with endless forests and frozen landscapes stretching to the horizon. Here, the iconic tykky trees stand like silent guardians, watching over the Arctic wilderness.
The wind is stronger at this altitude, further sculpting the snow-covered trees into dramatic, otherworldly forms. Between photographic sessions, we take shelter in a traditional wooden cabin, warming up and sharing impressions while waiting for the best light. On clear days, it is even possible to glimpse Russian territory in the distance, reinforcing the powerful feeling of remoteness and of standing at the very edge of the world.
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![Águila real en vuelo sobre nieve con bosque nevado de fondo en Varanger, Noruega]()
Golden Eagle and Stoat
Golden Eagle and the Stoat Hide. During this day we will have the opportunity to visit two exclusive hides: one focused on Golden Eagle photography and stoats, two of the most elusive and photogenic mammals in the region. A…
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Golden Eagle and the Stoat Hide.
During this day we will have the opportunity to visit two exclusive hides: one focused on Golden Eagle photography and stoats, two of the most elusive and photogenic mammals in the region. A combination that adds an extra dimension of excitement and uniqueness to the trip.
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Flexible Day, a Second Chance
This day is kept open for repetition. Perhaps we return to Riisitunturi if the weather was unkind, or back to Oulanka to capture that misty water shot we missed, or once again to Kuntivaara in search of auroras. Weather in…
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This day is kept open for repetition. Perhaps we return to Riisitunturi if the weather was unkind, or back to Oulanka to capture that misty water shot we missed, or once again to Kuntivaara in search of auroras.
Weather in Lapland changes quickly — within hours you can move from a snowstorm to clear skies. This flexibility ensures we don’t leave without making the most of the most photogenic places.
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Farewell to Lapland
Farewell to Lapland The final day dawns quietly. We say goodbye to Ruka and Kuusamo, perhaps with one last short walk through nearby forests, to engrave in memory the crunch of snow and the icy air filling our lungs. After…
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Farewell to Lapland
The final day dawns quietly. We say goodbye to Ruka and Kuusamo, perhaps with one last short walk through nearby forests, to engrave in memory the crunch of snow and the icy air filling our lungs. After breakfast, we head back to Kuusamo airport for our flights home — memory cards full and hearts carrying the magic of a week immersed in Lapland’s white winter.
Gallery
What's included
Included
- Accommodation in a 3-star hotel, on a bed and breakfast (BB) basis.
- International photography guide, with all guiding services included throughout the trip.
- Private transportation during the entire expedition, covering all transfers between locations.
- Golden Eagle Hide
- Ermine Hide
- Snowmobile Tour
- Reindeer Tour
Not included
- International and domestic flights to/from Lapland.
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses of any kind.
- Tips, which are entirely optional.
Your guide
Gabriel Santos
Gabriel Santos Álvarez es un fotógrafo de paisaje y bodas afincado en León, España. Con estudios en Empresariales y formación avanzada en EFTI, canaliza su pasión guiando viajes fotográficos por todo el mundo. Fundador de Boga Estudio, combina entornos naturales con una narración íntima a través de bodas y retratos de pareja. Su trabajo captura la esencia de la aventura y la belleza, desde las montañas locales hasta paisajes icónicos a nivel global.
View profileFrequently asked questions
Do I need previous experience in winter or Arctic photography?
No previous Arctic experience is required. However, a basic understanding of your camera and photography fundamentals is recommended. The expedition is designed to adapt to different skill levels, with guidance provided throughout the trip.
What photographic equipment should I bring?
A DSLR or mirrorless camera, wide-angle and mid-range lenses, spare batteries, tripod, and appropriate memory cards are recommended. Cold weather affects batteries, so carrying extras is essential.
How cold will it be, and what clothing is required?
Temperatures can range from -10°C to -30°C. Proper winter clothing is essential: insulated boots, thermal layers, windproof outerwear, gloves suitable for photography, and a warm hat.
Will we have opportunities to photograph the Northern Lights?
Yes. Several nights are dedicated to aurora photography, weather and solar activity permitting. While auroras cannot be guaranteed, Lapland offers excellent conditions, and we will actively seek them when skies are clear.
How flexible is the itinerary if weather conditions change?
Very flexible. Weather in Lapland changes quickly, and one full day is kept open to revisit key locations, ensuring the best possible photographic conditions.
What are the accommodation and meals like?
Accommodation is in comfortable hotels and lodges typical of the region. Breakfasts and selected dinners are included, offering local and international cuisine suitable for winter conditions.
How many participants are there in the group?
Group size is limited to ensure personalized guidance, comfortable logistics, and optimal photographic opportunities at each location. Maximum 8.
Another question? Ask the assistant or write to us on WhatsApp.