Planning a Lapland trip in December? Here is your complete guide to the weather, conditions and best activities at Pyhatunturi during December.
December in Finnish Lapland
The darkest month and the most magical. Kaamos is at its deepest, with just a few hours of blue twilight. The Northern Lights are at their most spectacular against the completely dark sky. Christmas in Lapland is a genuinely special experience, with snow-covered forests and temperatures that make every breath visible.
Weather and Conditions
- Temperatures: -15C to -5C
- Daylight: 2-3 hours of twilight
Deep snow cover and solidly frozen lakes. Temperatures regularly drop below -15C. This is peak season for aurora floating, ice fishing and all winter activities.
Best Activities in December
Here are the experiences offered by Outdoor Artisans at Pyhatunturi during this period:
- Ice Fishing - traditional Arctic ice fishing on frozen lakes with handlines and traps
- Ice Floating - floating in a frozen lake wearing thermal dry suits for deep relaxation
- Aurora Floating - floating under the Northern Lights in a frozen lake at night
- Bushcraft - Arctic survival skills including fire-making and shelter building
- Winter SUP - stand-up paddleboarding on an Arctic river in dry suits during winter
- Snow Surfing - surfing powder snow on handmade Finnish boards through old-growth forest
All activities are professionally guided and suitable for beginners. Outdoor Artisans provides all necessary equipment - you just need to dress warmly and bring a sense of adventure.
What to Pack for December in Lapland
The warmest gear you have. Multiple thermal layers, heavy insulated jacket, snow pants, balaclava or face covering for extreme cold, insulated boots rated to at least -30C, and the thickest mittens you own.
Why Choose Pyhatunturi in December
Pyhatunturi is part of the Pyha-Luosto National Park and offers an authentic Arctic experience away from mass tourism. The local guides at Outdoor Artisans, Antti and Venla, know this region intimately and adapt each experience to the conditions of the moment.
Whether you are chasing Northern Lights, seeking the silence of the polar night, or wanting to try unique activities like snow surfing and aurora floating, December at Pyhatunturi delivers an experience that is hard to match anywhere else in Lapland.
Getting to Pyhatunturi
The easiest route is to fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi (1.5 hours), then drive 130 km north to Pyhatunturi (about 1.5 hours). Alternatively, fly to Kittila airport and drive east (about 1 hour). Both airports have daily connections during the winter season.
Ready to experience December in the real Arctic? Contact Outdoor Artisans to plan your trip, or browse all available experiences.
