Arrival in Rovaniemi: A Gateway to the Arctic

The moment I stepped off the plane in Rovaniemi, the crisp Arctic air hit me like a refreshing slap to the senses. This was the beginning of an adventure that promised to be as harsh as it was beautiful. Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is a place where the modern world meets the ancient, and the landscape is a testament to the raw power of nature. The snow-covered streets and the warm glow of the streetlights created a scene straight out of a winter fairy tale.

My first stop was the Arktikum museum, a place that resonated with my past as an Arctic researcher. The exhibits on the Sami people and the challenges of life in the North were both enlightening and humbling. It was a reminder of the resilience required to thrive in such an unforgiving environment. As I wandered through the museum, I couldn’t help but reflect on the years I spent studying the impact of climate change in these regions. The knowledge that these cultures have survived for centuries in such conditions is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

The day concluded with a visit to the Santa Claus Village, a whimsical place that brought out the child in me. As the night fell, the sky was set ablaze by the Aurora Borealis, a sight that never fails to leave me breathless. Sitting by a crackling fire in a Lavvu shelter, I indulged in local delicacies, feeling the warmth of the fire seep into my bones as the Northern Lights danced above.

Wildlife and Wilderness: The Heart of Lapland

The next leg of the journey took me to the Ranua Wildlife Park, a sanctuary for the rare and majestic creatures of the North. Walking through the park, I encountered polar bears, arctic foxes, and wolverines, each adapted to the harsh realities of Arctic life. It was a stark reminder of the delicate balance of this ecosystem, one that is increasingly threatened by the encroaching effects of climate change.

The guided trek through the Arctic Circle region was a test of endurance and spirit. The panoramic vistas of the endless tundra were both humbling and exhilarating. As I ascended to breathtaking viewpoints, the vastness of the landscape stretched out before me, a reminder of the insignificance of man in the face of nature’s grandeur. The traditional outdoor meal, complete with Makkara sausages and tea in Kuksa cups, was a welcome respite, offering a taste of the local culture amidst the serene forest setting.

The day was a testament to the raw beauty of Lapland’s wilderness, a place where life clings to the edges of survival, and every moment is a battle against the elements. It was a reminder of why I fell in love with the Arctic all those years ago, and why I continue to return, time and again.

Sleds and Saunas: A Journey Through Tradition

The final chapter of this adventure was a journey through the traditions of the Arctic, beginning with a visit to a reindeer farm in Porohaka. The thrill of sled rides through the picturesque tundra, pulled by spirited huskies and graceful reindeer, was an experience that connected me to the land and its people. The local farmers shared their knowledge of these magnificent animals, offering insights into the traditions and culture that have been passed down through generations.

The transfer to Saariselka marked the beginning of a new adventure, one that involved snowmobiling through the rugged terrain of this remote Arctic region. The adrenaline rush of speeding through snow-covered pine forests was matched only by the tranquility of the surrounding landscape. The Sami Cultural Center Sajos and the Siida Museum in Inari offered a deeper understanding of the indigenous culture, a fitting conclusion to a journey that was as much about discovery as it was about adventure.

As the trip came to an end, I found solace in a traditional Finnish sauna, the heat a welcome contrast to the biting cold outside. The dinner that followed was a celebration of Lapland’s cuisine, a fitting end to an unforgettable journey. As I boarded my flight from Kirkenes to Oslo, I carried with me memories of an Arctic adventure that had touched my soul and reignited my passion for the polar regions.