Israir Airlines has recently launched direct flights from Israel to Lapland, making it easier than ever for Israeli travelers to experience the wonders of the Arctic. We joined the first flights to explore Lapland’s mesmerizing Northern Lights, and its top winter attractions.
The Northern Lights: A Celestial Spectacle
When night falls over Lapland, the Arctic sky transforms into a mesmerizing canvas of swirling colors. The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) paint the heavens in shades of green, purple, and pink, creating an otherworldly display. This natural phenomenon, caused by solar particles colliding with Earth’s atmosphere, is one of the most sought-after experiences for travelers visiting Lapland.
As we stood beneath the dancing lights, the crisp Arctic air surrounded us, carrying the scent of fresh snow and pine trees. Every step on the frozen ground echoed through the silence, enhancing the magical atmosphere. The cold was intense, but witnessing the celestial show made us forget everything else.
It’s a celestial dance, a silent symphony of movement, like delicate silk floating in an invisible breeze. At times, it resembles a curtain (Parochet) for the Holy Ark swaying on a clothesline in the stillness of the night.
The air is sharp and pure, carrying the crisp scent of fresh snow and distant pines. Every step crunches softly beneath our boots, adding to the immersive magic. The cold seeps through our gloves, nipping at our fingertips, yet in this moment, discomfort is forgotten. As the Aurora begins its mesmerizing dance, our hearts race in quiet exhilaration, awed by the sheer vastness of the cosmos. Time seems to pause. The vast Arctic sky, illuminated by this ethereal glow, instills a profound sense of wonder and serenity. It is as if the universe itself is whispering its secrets, and we are but small witnesses to its grandeur. The experience lingers within us, resonating like a melody long after the lights fade.
Beyond the horizon, the wind hums through the icy expanse, sometimes carrying the distant crackle of frozen lakes shifting under the weight of winter. There is something almost spiritual in the stillness, as if the Northern Lights are nature’s own quiet prayer—an ancient, celestial story unfolding before our eyes.
Breathtaking in its beauty, the Aurora is more than just a spectacle; it is a reminder of nature’s mystery and power. In the frozen air we eagerly inhale, we feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Standing beneath the Northern Lights, many travelers describe a sense of awe and spirituality. The experience feels like a divine masterpiece unfolding in the sky. As we gazed at the celestial dance, we were reminded of the verse from the Shabbat morning prayer: "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims His handiwork" (Psalms 19:2). In Lapland, this verse takes on a whole new meaning as we witness nature’s grandeur in its purest form.
Winter Activities in Lapland – More Than Just the Aurora
While the Northern Lights are a major highlight, Lapland offers a variety of exciting winter activities that make the trip unforgettable:
- Husky dogs Sledding – Feel the thrill of riding a sled pulled by energetic huskies through snow-covered forests.
- Reindeer Safaris – Experience traditional Sami culture and glide through the Arctic wilderness on a sleigh led by reindeer.
- Snowmobile Adventures – Explore the frozen landscapes at high speed on a snowmobile tour.
- Ice Fishing & Igloo Stays – Spend a night in a glass igloo, offering a panoramic view of the Arctic sky, or try your luck at ice fishing.
Dog Sledding – A Fairytale Ride
One of the most exciting experiences in Lapland is dog sledding. Imagine a scene straight from a fairytale: absolute silence, endless expanses of glistening snow, and the crisp Arctic air filling your lungs. The huskies, full of energy, wag their tails and bark in excitement as they prepare to pull the sled.
The moment the sled takes off, a surge of exhilaration rushes through you. The Arctic wind brushes your face, carrying the fresh scent of snow. The rhythmic sound of running paws and the gentle creak of the sled create a perfect harmony between man and nature. Gliding swiftly along a narrow forest trail, past fir trees buried under five meters of snow, makes for an unforgettable experience.
Walking on Frozen Lakes – A Surreal Experience
Another must-try activity in Lapland is walking on frozen lakes. The thick ice is covered by layers of snow, creating an unusual sensation underfoot. Every step sinks nearly to the knees in the soft, untouched powder. The gentle crunch of snow is reminiscent of sugar granules, and the faint creaking beneath the boots adds to the surreal atmosphere.
Reindeer Sled Ride – A Lapland Tradition
Reindeer are one of the the only animals capable of surviving Lapland’s extreme cold. The indigenous Sámi people have relied on them for transportation, fur, and food for centuries. Interestingly, reindeer are a kosher species, but finding a Shochet in Lapland remains a challenge!
Snowmobiling – Speeding Through the Taiga Forest
Another thrilling activity is snowmobiling, racing through snowy trails that weave between towering fir trees. The Taiga forests, known as the "endless forest" in Mongolian, are a breathtaking winter wonderland. Speeding through the pristine landscape sends a surge of adrenaline through the veins. A tea break in the middle of a frozen lake allows travelers to soak in the absolute silence of the Arctic wilderness.
Icebreaker Ship – Sailing Through Frozen Seas
One of the most extraordinary experiences in Lapland is a cruise aboard an icebreaker ship. As the massive vessel plows through thick layers of ice, the deep, thunderous sound of ice shattering echoes around, reminiscent of cracking a hard-boiled egg but amplified a thousand times.
Midway through the cruise, the ship stops, and travelers are invited to step onto the frozen sea. The highlight? Plunging into the icy waters, wearing special flotation suits that provide insulation and buoyancy. Floating in the freezing water under the Arctic sky is both humbling and awe-inspiring, a true encounter with the raw forces of nature.
Best Time to Visit Lapland for the Northern Lights
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Lapland is from September to April, with peak activity during the colder winter months (December to February). During this period, the nights are long and dark, providing optimal conditions for aurora viewing. To increase your chances, choose locations away from city lights, such as Rovaniemi, Saariselkä, or Levi.
Winter daylight hours are short, with the sun rising around 9:00 AM and setting by 2:30 PM. This poses an interesting challenge for Shabbat candle lighting and Havdalah times, but with proper planning, Jewish travelers can adapt.
The Cold Weather in Lapland – No Reason to Worry
Lapland’s winter temperatures can drop below -30°C (-22°F), but with proper clothing, you can stay warm and enjoy every moment. However, as the locals say: "There is no bad weather – only inappropriate clothing." Upon arrival, every organized group is taken to an equipment center, where travelers receive insulated overalls, specialized boots, and high-quality winter gear. These professional snow suits are designed to withstand the harshest Arctic conditions, keeping visitors warm even at -20°C. This means there’s no need to invest in expensive winter clothing before the trip – Lapland has you covered.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Thermal base layers (moisture-wicking fabric)
- Insulated winter jacket and snow pants
- Waterproof boots with thick socks
- Gloves, hat, and a scarf to cover your face
- Hand warmers for extra comfort
Jewish Travel in Lapland – Keeping Kosher
Lapland has no Jewish community, synagogue, or kosher restaurant, but kosher food is available for groups traveling with Kishrei Teufa, which arranges a kosher kitchen in a hotel for February.
For independent kosher travelers, options include:
- Salmon soup or vegetable soup cooked in dedicated pots.
- Bringing disposable utensils from home.
- Using paper cups from local cafés.
- Purchasing a traditional wooden soup bowl (Kopelka) and requesting soup to be served in it to avoid non-kosher contact.
- Most restaurants and hotels offer fresh vegetable salads, boiled potatoes, and steamed carrots.
Jewish Connections to Lapland
Despite the lack of a Jewish presence today, Lapland has some surprising Jewish connections. Chassidic teachings mention the "ice desert", where Jews are challenged to find "a point of light." Rabbi Nachman of Breslov emphasized the spiritual significance of solitude in nature.
During World War II, some Jews fled north to Lapland to escape the Nazis. Historical records suggest that some found refuge among the Sámi people, known for their hospitality.
Levi Ski Resort – Jewish Connection?
Lapland is home to Levi Ski Resort, the largest in Finland. Initially, it seemed to have a Jewish connection, but its name actually comes from the Levitunturi mountain. The resort offers various winter activities such as snow go-karting and tubing, making it ideal for families with children.
Kosher Group Tours to Lapland with Israir
Last week, Israir completed the first of eight group tours to Lapland. Dudi Mordechai, Israir’s tour guides manager, noted that only a few tickets remain available for upcoming tours. He also emphasized that Israir’s trips to Lapland are the most inexpensive in Israel, and revealed that the company is exploring kosher tours for next winter.
Final Thoughts – Why Lapland Should Be on Your Travel List
Lapland is more than just a winter destination. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Lapland offers an unforgettable winter experience, combining breathtaking natural beauty, thrilling adventures. Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights, sledding through snowy landscapes, or immersing yourself in Arctic culture, this region offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
With Israir’s new direct flights, Israeli travelers now have an exciting opportunity to explore this magical land with ease. So pack your warmest clothes, book your ticket, and get ready to witness one of the most stunning natural phenomena on Earth!
If this article has sparked your interest in experiencing Lapland this winter or next, contact Israir's reservations department at +972-3-5115591.
The writer was a guest of Israir Airlines and Natour Travel Company
Photo: Yair Sagi & Shifra Maor
