Please see the frequently asked questions below, and if you still can’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to send us a question under the FAQ.

See & do

Where and when can I see the northen lights in Utsjoki?

Situated at the extreme northern latitude of 70° North, and often having the perfect weather conditions, the Utsjoki area is one of the best places in the world to experience the Northern Lights. From September until the end of March, the nights are dark enough to witness this beautiful natural phenomenon.

The Northern Lights are created by solar wind, which is a stream of charged particles ejected from the corona of the sun. The Northern Lights appear in the sky when these charged particles hit the Earth’s atmosphere, are trapped by Earth’s magnetic field and gravitate towards the poles. So if there has been solar wind and the sky is clear then your change to see the northern lights in Utsjoki area is good. The villages are so small here that there is almost no light pollution so it doesn’t really matter where you stay. Just be patient and look up to the sky: the northern lights come and go, they are not visible all the time.

What are the weather and temperatures like in Utsjoki in winter/spring/summer/autumn?

Annual temperatures in Utsjoki vary between as cold as -30 degrees Celsius in the winter to 25 degrees Celsius in the summer. There are stark contrasts between seasons this far north, and each of them have their own characteristics.

When is the best time to travel to Utsjoki?

The best time for travelling to Utsjoki depends on what you would like to experience when you get here. All seasons have big contrasts between them and come with different weather and light conditions, being ideal for different kind activities.

 

 

Is it easy to go to Norway?

Normally there is no border control needed between the border of Norway and Finland. You should still carry your passport and remember that Norway is not part of the EU and that’s why there are some custom regulations.

Accomodation

Should I book accommodation in advance?

It is recommended, especially for the high seasons in winter (December-March) and in summer (June-August).

How should I book accommodation in Utsjoki?

Since Utsjoki does not have a central booking system, we recommend you contact accommodation providers directly.

Services

How can I book an activity tour?

 You can buy directly from the activity company in Utsjoki area. For advance bookings, please contact the activity company directly.

Where can I exchange money?

You can ask that at the local supermarkets in Karigasniemi, Utsjoki and Nuorgam – normally they exchange at least Norwegian krones and euros.

Connections

How do I get from Ivalo airport to Utsjoki?

At the moment there isn’t a direct bus from the airport but you have to go first either to Ivalo or Saariselkä and you can take a bus from there to Utsjoki. Many accomodation companies have a pick up services from/to airport.

Is there a car rental in Utsjoki?

No, the nearest car rentals are in Ivalo.