House of Father Frost/Santa Claus
Jätkänkynttilä Bridge, Lapland. Static display from the camera, will update itself in the near future
Ounasvaara, panoramic view. The picture will be updated very soon
Downtown. The update occurs automatically after some time
Lord’s Square. The image changes automatically after a while
Library of the University of Lapland. The frame-by-frame image changes automatically
Lapland, Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Camera footage is updated automatically at a specified time interval
Ski slope in Lapland. The image is updated at some intervals
Rovaniemi live streaming web cameras
Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi stands as a captivating gateway to the Arctic wilderness and a haven for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature, culture, and adventure. As the official hometown of Santa Claus and the northernmost city in Finland, Rovaniemi offers visitors a unique blend of enchanting winter landscapes, vibrant cultural attractions, and thrilling outdoor activities that promise an unforgettable Arctic experience. From the magical spectacle of the Northern Lights to exhilarating husky safaris and serene reindeer sleigh rides, Rovaniemi invites travelers to embark on a journey into the heart of Finland’s Arctic wonderland.
1. Santa Claus Village: Experience the magic of Christmas year-round at Santa Claus Village, a charming holiday-themed attraction located just a short drive from Rovaniemi city center. Meet Santa Claus himself in his cozy cottage, where you can share your Christmas wishes, pose for photos, and receive a special gift. Explore the village’s enchanting shops, where you can purchase unique gifts, souvenirs, and traditional Finnish handicrafts, and visit the Santa Claus Main Post Office, where you can send postcards and letters stamped with the official Arctic Circle postmark. Don’t miss the opportunity to cross the magical Arctic Circle line and receive a certificate commemorating your visit to Santa’s hometown.
2. Arctic Wildlife Park: Encounter the majestic beauty of Finland’s native wildlife at the Arctic Wildlife Park, a unique nature reserve located in the scenic countryside surrounding Rovaniemi. Embark on a guided safari tour through the park’s pristine forests and wetlands, where you can observe and photograph native Arctic animals such as reindeer, elk, Arctic foxes, and snowy owls in their natural habitat. Learn about the park’s conservation efforts to protect endangered species and promote biodiversity in the Arctic ecosystem, and gain insight into the delicate balance between humans and wildlife in this remote northern wilderness.
3. Ranua Wildlife Park: Discover the wonders of Arctic wildlife at Ranua Wildlife Park, one of Finland’s premier wildlife attractions located just a short drive from Rovaniemi. Home to over 50 species of animals native to the Arctic region, including polar bears, lynx, wolves, and wolverines, Ranua Wildlife Park offers visitors the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close in spacious and naturalistic habitats. Wander along scenic walking trails that wind through the park’s forests and wetlands, and encounter native Finnish wildlife such as brown bears, moose, and Arctic birds along the way. Visit the park’s cozy café and souvenir shop, where you can warm up with a hot drink and purchase unique gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
4. Northern Lights Tours: Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights, one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, on a guided Aurora hunting tour in the Rovaniemi region. Join experienced local guides who will take you to prime viewing spots away from city lights, where you can marvel at the shimmering curtains of green, pink, and purple dancing across the Arctic sky. Learn about the science and folklore behind the Northern Lights from knowledgeable guides, who will share stories and legends passed down through generations by the indigenous Sámi people. Capture stunning photographs of the Aurora Borealis and create memories that will last a lifetime on this magical Arctic adventure.
5. Husky Safaris: Feel the thrill of mushing your own team of eager huskies through the snow-covered wilderness surrounding Rovaniemi on a husky safari adventure. Join experienced mushers who will teach you the art of dog sledding and lead you on an exhilarating journey through the Arctic landscape, where you can traverse frozen lakes, weave through snow-covered forests, and experience the serene beauty of the Finnish wilderness. Learn about the history and traditions of dog sledding in Lapland, and forge a special bond with your husky team as you navigate the snowy trails together.
6. Reindeer Farm Visits: Immerse yourself in the traditional culture of the Sámi people with a visit to a local reindeer farm near Rovaniemi. Learn about the importance of reindeer herding in Sámi culture and livelihood, and participate in activities such as reindeer sleigh rides, reindeer feeding, and lasso throwing. Visit a traditional Sámi lavvu (tent) and enjoy hot drinks and snacks by the fire as you listen to fascinating stories and legends shared by your Sámi hosts. Experience the unique bond between humans and reindeer and gain insight into the daily life and traditions of Finland’s indigenous inhabitants.
7. Arctic Circle Hiking Trails: Explore the pristine wilderness surrounding Rovaniemi on a guided hiking adventure along the Arctic Circle hiking trails. Discover rugged landscapes, dense forests, and sparkling rivers as you traverse scenic trails that wind through the Arctic wilderness, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to encounter native wildlife such as reindeer, moose, and Arctic birds. Learn about the unique flora and fauna of the Arctic region from knowledgeable guides, who will share their expertise and passion for the natural world on this immersive outdoor experience.
In conclusion, Rovaniemi offers a wealth of attractions and experiences that celebrate the beauty, culture, and adventure of Finland’s Arctic region. Whether exploring its enchanting Santa Claus Village, witnessing the magical Northern Lights, or embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures, visitors to Rovaniemi are sure to be captivated by the city’s unique charm and timeless allure.