Huskies & the Northern Lights

Day 1

London & Tromsø
Depart home area and travel to London Heathrow where Karen will help us get checked in and through security. Time at leisure before our flight to Oslo (flight time is approx. 2hrs). In the Norwegian capital, we connect with our onward flight to Tromsø (flight time approx. 2hrs). Situated in the Arctic Circle, Tromsø stands on its own forest-covered island and is known as the 'polar capital of Norway'. At this time of year, the attractive city is characterised by its polar nights, where the sun only briefly breaks over the horizon. From the airport we will be transferred to the Moxy Tromsø Hotel where we will be staying for the next 2 nights. Time to unpack and relax before our evening meal.

Day 2

Tromsø & Sami Experience
After breakfast we discover more of Tromsø on this morning's guided tour, and visit the Arctic Cathedral, Polaria Museum and the charming Polar Museum. Housed in the city's former Customs House on the quayside, it tells us the story of numerous polar expeditions that took place from Tromsø, as well as giving an insight into the hardy wildlife that populates this region. This evening, we enjoy an authentic and fascinating Sami experience in a nearby village, learning about the lives and culture of Scandinavia's indigenous people. During our visit meet reindeer before a wilderness dinner in a 'lavvu' tent. While we eat, we're regaled with local folk tales. Afterwards we try to and view the captivating Northern Lights - the world's most spectacular natural phenomenon. Officially called Aurora Borealis, seeing this magical dance across the night sky is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Day 3

Narvik & The Northern Lights Train
After breakfast we check out of our hotel in Tromsø and drive to Narvik, a journey filled with Norway's dramatic scenery as we travel down steep valleys to the striking fjords below. On arrival in Narvik, we visit the Narvik War Museum which documents the occupation of the city in WWII and the bitter air and sea battles that took place. We enjoy some free time in Narvik before checking into our overnight hotel, the Quality Grand Royal Narvik Hotel. After dinner, we chase the Aurora Borealis while travelling on Norway's northernmost railway on board the Northern Lights Train. The Northern Lights Train will take us far up in the mountains, away from the bright city lights where we have a great chance of catching the Green Lady dancing in the sky. Guides welcome us on board the Arctic Train, once we're comfortable in our seats we will start our journey along the Ofoten line passing beautiful fjords and landscapes. Our first stop on this journey is Bjørnfjell, which is the border station to Sweden. After a short stay at Bjørnfjell, we continue 374 metres above sea level to Katterat station. Here our guides will make a campfire and serve pastries and warm beverages whilst we enjoy a once in a lifetime view. Afterwards we return to our hotel.

Day 4

Kiruna, Sweden
After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and make our way to Kiruna in northern Sweden by coach. Kiruna is situated north of the Arctic Circle on the eastern shore of Lake Luossa and the Luossa mountains. On arrival we enjoy a city tour by coach where we will learn about Kirunas history, culture and way of life in this beautiful city. The Kiruna Church, built in 1912, is particularly impressive and is one of Sweden's largest wooden buildings. We check into the Scandic Hotel Kiruna where we will be staying for the next two nights, we have time to relax before our evening meal.

Day 5

Husky Safari & Ice Hotel
After breakfast we travel to a nearby husky camp for an informative tour of the kennels and a thrilling husky-hauled sled journey through the snow-covered countryside. This afternoon we visit Kiruna's famous Ice Hotel, the first and largest hotel made of ice and snow in the world. First formed in 1989, it needs to be reconstructed at the beginning of each cold season, meaning each year's design is different. Explore the spectacular frozen structure and perhaps enjoy a drink in the ice bar, where everything, including the glasses, are made from ice. After dark, attempt to spot the Northern Lights once again by coach. The countryside around Kiruna is one of the world's best places to get a sighting, so hopefully a clear night will permit a good show. Afterwards we return to our hotel for our evening meal.

Day 6

Kiruna & London
After breakfast we bid farewell to Kiruna and will be transferred to the airport, flying from Kiruna to Stockholm and then catching our connecting flight from Stockholm to London Heathrow. Upon our arrival at Heathrow our coach will be waiting for us to return us to home area.

B=Breakfast Included, D=Dinner Included