You choose how to spend the day: a 2-hour snowmobile safari into the Arctic Circle forest, a 1.5-hour guided walking tour of Santa Claus Village, or both. Every option includes a warming lunch in Rovaniemi and comfortable transport there and back.
Snowmobiling from Oulu, the easy way
Oulu is a wonderful winter base, and visitors often ask about snowmobiling in Oulu. The deepest snow and the longest forest trails, though, are found further north in Lapland. That is why we built this trip: you stay by the sea in Oulu and still ride real Arctic Circle snowmobile trails the same day.
The drive to Rovaniemi takes about 2.5–3 hours each way. Along the road the coastal plain gives way to snowy forest as you cross into Lapland, and your guide shares stories about life in the North.
Choose your day
Snowmobile day: this option suits travellers who want adventure and wilderness. You ride the 2-hour snowmobile safari, then enjoy lunch in Rovaniemi before heading back to Oulu.
Santa Claus Village day: this option is for families and anyone who loves the Christmas spirit. You have lunch, then join the 1.5-hour guided walking tour of Santa’s hometown.
The full Lapland day: this is the most complete way to see Lapland in one day. You start with the snowmobile safari in the morning, have lunch, and finish with the Santa Claus Village walking tour in the afternoon.
Snowmobile Safari into the Arctic Circle Forest (2 hours)
This is a step beyond the basics. The 2-hour safari rides deeper into Arctic Circle forest trails than shorter entry-level tours, so you get more time in the saddle without having to work for it.
Every safari starts at the Safari Center with driving instruction and a safety briefing. No previous snowmobiling experience is needed. Then we head out at a comfortable, unhurried pace. The trails wind through dense, snow-heavy spruce forest and open onto wide, frozen clearings.
The longer route means you cover noticeably more ground. Long straight stretches let you settle into a rhythm, and gentle curves through the trees keep things interesting. In places the forest falls away to reveal the flat white expanse of the Arctic Circle stretching toward the horizon. Keep an eye out for wildlife tracks: hare, fox and reindeer prints often cross the trail.
The safari sits in a sweet spot. It is substantial enough to feel like a real wilderness adventure, yet paced for beginners, couples and families. Two people can share a snowmobile. If you’d rather have your own, choose the solo-driving option. Children ride comfortably in a guide-pulled sleigh throughout the safari.
Santa Claus Village Guided Walking Tour (1.5 hours)
Santa Claus Village sits right on the Arctic Circle, a short drive from Rovaniemi city centre. A walking tour is an excellent, affordable and environmentally friendly way to explore its lively, wintery mystique.
Your guide tells the story of the great man himself, Santa Claus, and how Rovaniemi became his official hometown. You also learn about the history of the area, life in the village today and its plans for the future. Along a leisurely route we peek inside a few doors to see what the magnificent buildings hold.
A guided tour also means good company. Unlike exploring alone, you can ask questions and hear the stories behind what you see. Afterwards there is time to send a postcard from Santa’s Main Post Office or pick up a gift before the drive home.
Good to know
Who it suits: couples, families, friends and small groups staying in Oulu. No previous snowmobiling experience is needed.
Snowmobile drivers need a valid driving licence. Children ride in the sleigh.
What to wear: dress in warm layers, with a wool or synthetic base layer, a warm mid-layer and wool socks. Avoid cotton next to the skin.
What to bring: a camera and a power bank, because phone batteries drain quickly in the cold.
Weather: Lapland winters can be very cold, with temperatures sometimes below −20 °C. Our guides follow the conditions and adjust the route and pace when needed.
Why choose Nallikari Safaris
Nallikari Safaris has guided outdoor experiences in Oulu since 2017. Our home base is the Nallikari Experience Center by Nallikari beach, in the lower floor of the Nallikari Aalto hotel building.
Our guides know Northern Finland in every season. In summer we lead kayaking, SUP and fatbike tours. In winter we offer frozen-sea fatbiking, snowshoeing and Northern Lights tours. One booking covers your transport, guiding and lunch, and we keep groups small so the pace suits everyone.
Staying longer? Pair your Lapland day with an Aurora Hunting safari or a Frozen Sea Fatbike Experience in Nallikari. Together they show both sides of the North: Oulu’s frozen coastline and Lapland’s snowy forests.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go snowmobiling from Oulu?
Yes. Our day trip takes you from Oulu to the snowmobile trails of the Arctic Circle forest near Rovaniemi and back the same day.
How long is the drive from Oulu to Rovaniemi?
About 2.5–3 hours each way, depending on road and weather conditions.
Do I have to book both activities?
No. You can choose the snowmobile safari, the Santa Claus Village tour, or combine both into a full Lapland day.
Do I need experience to drive a snowmobile?
No. You get driving instruction and a safety briefing before setting off, and the pace is beginner-friendly.
Can children join?
Yes. On the snowmobile safari, children ride in a sleigh pulled by the guide. The Santa Claus Village tour suits all ages.
Book your Lapland day from Oulu
Snowmobile trails through Arctic Circle forest, a guided walk through Santa’s hometown, or both, with a comfortable ride back to Oulu at the end of the day. Book online or contact us for private groups:
info@nallikarisafaris.fi · +358 20 731 0110 · Nallikari Experience Center, Nallikarinranta 10, Oulu
