Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort lies amid the vast taiga of Finnish Lapland, about 150 miles (240 km) north of the Arctic Circle. Founded by entrepreneur Jussi Eiramo in 1973 as a humble wilderness rest stop, the resort is best known today for its transparent glass igloos and luxuriously rustic cabins. Eiramo himself oversaw the design of most buildings, embracing local crafts – even inventing the first thermal-glass igloo in 1999. The result is a blend of traditional kelo log architecture and modern arctic innovation.
Over 150 lodging units are spread across two village clusters along the Kakslauttanen River – roughly 65 standard glass igloos, 65+ wooden chalets (each with sauna and fireplace), and 40 “Kelo-Glass” suites (log cabins with built-in glass ceilings). Each glass igloo’s ceiling or dome is made of insulated, double-pane glass, keeping guests warm as they gaze skyward. Kakslauttanen has earned bucket-list fame for allowing travelers to lie in bed under the Northern Lights – a unique vantage few places on Earth provide. The resort functions year-round (Aurora season is late August–April), offering four seasons of wilderness splendor.
Kakslauttanen’s name (pronounced KAHKS-low-tah-nen) comes from Sámi roots and reflects the region’s indigenous heritage. Today, the resort is recognized globally through travel media and guides as an embodiment of Finnish Lapland’s charms – from its aged kelo pine architecture to its panoramic Aurora displays.
The Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) is Earth’s upper-atmosphere light show: charged solar particles strike our magnetic field, energizing oxygen and nitrogen high above. This celestial phenomenon requires three things: solar activity, a dark clear sky, and a high latitude. Kakslauttanen sits near 68°N, well inside the auroral oval (the northern ring of persistent auroras). Space weather experts note that we are currently in Solar Cycle 25 (peaking circa 2025), meaning solar flares and geomagnetic storms – the raw fuel for auroras – should be above average in the next few years. In fact, NASA and NOAA confirmed in late 2024 that the Sun has entered its maximum active phase. Practically, this means more frequent and intense auroras: as one scientist put it, “when the Sun is most active…solar activity has led to increased aurora visibility”.
Lapland is one of the world’s best inhabited places for aurora viewing. The Finnish Meteorological Institute reports that under dark clear skies, northern Lapland (e.g. Saariselkä, near Kakslauttanen) sees auroral displays roughly 50% of the nights – markedly higher than southern Finland. (For context, at Norway’s Kilpisjärvi it’s ~75%, central Finland ~25%.) Auroras can appear any time it’s fully dark, but are most common around local midnight. In practice this means roughly 9 pm–2 am, peaking near the small hours. The season is unusually long at Kakslauttanen – auroras may appear on any moonless night from late August until late April. Winter months (Dec–Jan) bring longest nights but also coldest temperatures and often cloudy skies; by contrast early spring (Mar–Apr) has slightly fewer long nights but often clearer weather, giving a strong chance at a sighting.
Statistically, a brief stay doesn’t guarantee a show. Even if you only consider dark, cloud-free nights, Kakslauttanen’s chance of clear skies is only about half of them. A 2025-era visitor should thus budget multiple nights for the best odds. (The resort offers aurora wake-up calls when the lights appear, so restless guests don’t miss sudden flares.) In short, expect awe but plan well: solar max conditions in 2025–2027 improve chances, but Mother Nature still has the final say.
Kakslauttanen’s core attraction is, of course, the Glass Igloo lodging. In addition to the roughly 65 stand-alone glass igloos (all wood-panelled at the base, with a curved glass roof panel overhead), the resort offers an innovative Kelo-Glass Igloo category. These Kelo-Glass units are cozy kelo log chalets (2–3 bedrooms) with an attached glass dome or loft, combining warm wooden interiors with celestial views. Traditional log cabins (built of ancient fallen pines, or kelo wood) range from simple 1-room chalets to multi-bedroom suites – the largest is Sivakka, a 60 m² kelo cabin that sleeps up to 10 people, complete with sauna and a large bathtub. All accommodations emphasize Finnish design: fireplaces, hand-crafted furniture, no TVs (to encourage outdoor activity!), and en-suite saunas or hot tubs in most cases.
Key differences by lodging type:
– Standard Glass Igloos: Typically 2–3 person capacity. Each has two single beds (or a king bed) under the glass ceiling, plus a private bathroom and sauna. They are fully winterized (heated, with insulated glass) so the interior stays comfortable even in –30°C. The glass is optically treated: in practice others cannot see in at night, but you enjoy an unobstructed skyview.
– Kelo-Glass Igloos: These are premium cabins. For example, a 3-bedroom Kelo-Glass has wood walls for the bedrooms, but one room or loft has a transparent domed roof. Guests here sleep in beds by a panoramic ceiling, then retire to the warm log lounge with fireplace. These units are ideal for families or couples wanting extra space.
– Traditional Log Chalets: Scattered in the East Village, these classic Lappish cabins (built from dried old-growth pine) vary from one-room suites to multi-bedroom houses (like Sivakka). All feature private sauna and often a fireplace, but with solid wood roofs instead of glass. They blend into the forest and offer full privacy. (Photo: Local craftsmen etched the Glass Igloos and kelo chalets into the landscape.)
Thermal technology in the igloos is impressive: each dome uses specially coated double-glass, with heated floors and curtains. In practice, guests report the igloos stay warm without frost even as outside dips below –30°F. At dusk and dawn, the igloos’ interior lights create a softly glowing effect against the snow.
Accommodation | Capacity | Features |
Glass Igloo | 2–3 adults | Glass ceiling, ensuite sauna, small dining area |
Kelo-Glass Igloo | 4–6 adults | Log cabin with integrated glass dome, sauna, 2+ bedrooms |
Log Cabin (Kelo) | 2–10 adults | Rustic pine cabin, private sauna, fireplace |
All bookings include hot breakfast buffet and full access to resort facilities (saunas, ice pool, activity gear). For the best northern-light views, requesting an East Village igloo can help (darker horizons); however, every glass unit enjoys a wide sky angle.
One of the most common queries is “How much does Kakslauttanen cost?” Rates vary by season and unit type. As of 2026, base nightly rates (for two adults) start around $600–650 (USD) in peak winter for a simple glass igloo. High-season holidays can push that to $800+ per night. By contrast, in shoulder seasons (October or March) and for lesser accommodations, prices may be 30–50% lower. Kelo-Glass cabins and large kelo chalets are several times more expensive (often €1000–€2000 per night in winter). These figures exclude taxes, service fees and optional extras.
Here’s the breakdown of typical costs for a mid-winter trip from North America:
A useful reference: an Expedia search in Jan 2026 shows a one-night stay for two starting at about $612 (USD) (low-season igloo). Using that as a baseline, travelers can anticipate roughly USD 3000–5000 total per person for a 3–4 night winter package from North America or Europe (including flights and activities). In short, Kakslauttanen is premium-priced – but it bundles lodging, saunas, breakfast, and that priceless aurora-vue.
Budget Planning: When tallying your trip, remember that some costs (alcohol, souvenirs) can add up in the remote Arctic. Many guests opt to pre-buy an activity package or meal plans to control costs.
Demand at Kakslauttanen is extreme in peak winter. Reservations for Christmas and New Year often fill up 1–2 years in advance. The resort’s booking calendar typically opens for summer through winter a year ahead (for example, winter 2026 slots opened in early 2025). The season runs late August–April, with two main windows: shoulder (Sept–Nov, Mar–Apr) and deep winter (Dec–Feb).
Step-by-Step Booking:
1. Choose Dates & Room Type: Use the official Kakslauttanen website for full availability. The homepage allows selecting year-month. Glass igloos will show as “sold out” quickly for popular dates.
2. Check Third-Party Options: If direct availability is gone, sites like Booking.com or Expedia may have rooms via agents. However, prices may be higher.
3. Advance Booking: Aim to book by late summer of the prior year for winter visits. If you must visit spontaneously, check for last-minute cancellations in off-peak (early season or shoulder).
4. Payment & Deposit: The resort requires a deposit (often 25–50%) at booking; the rest is due before arrival. Cancellation rules are strict in high season (e.g. non-refundable or first-night charge).
5. Packages: Consider an All-Inclusive package (lodging + activities + meals) for simplicity. The resort occasionally offers combos (e.g. husky plus sauna package) at a discount.
Insider Tip: Book a standby Aurora wake-up call! If the Northern Lights erupt, Kakslauttanen staff will call your cabin. It’s a standard service to ensure you never miss a midnight show.
Navigating third-party vs. direct booking: Going direct (via the resort’s site or email) means access to the full range of cabins and special offers. Some guests use loyalty points or agency vouchers, but availability varies. Regardless, once booked, confirm details (airport transfers, ski gear rental, etc.) at least a month prior, and note that deposit is typically non-refundable in December/January.
Peak Season (Dec–Feb): This is high Arctic winter: 24-hour darkness or twilight, deep snow cover, and very cold nights. Northern Lights viewing probability is highest (long nights), but heavy snowfall and frequent clouds can also occur. Temperatures often dip below –20°C (–4°F), so pack extreme cold-weather gear. Resorts operate full schedule: all activities and restaurants open (weekends sell out fast). Expect highest prices and crowds. Christmas and New Year are especially popular (festive programs run).
Shoulder Seasons:
– Autumn (Sept–Nov): Crisp, gradually darkening nights and snowy landscape. By late September, darkness yields early auroras (after 10pm). October brings colorful ruska foliage fading into snow. Crowds are smaller; pricing drops significantly. By November, nights are long and snow arrives, but check that all facilities are open (usually they are by Nov 1).
– Spring (Mar–Apr): Long daylight returns (midnight sun imminent), but nights are still dark enough for auroras. March often has clearer skies and lots of daylight (ideal for day activities). Mid/late April sees big changes: days get very long and the last auroras fade by late April. Offers mild cold, but no guarantee of lights by mid-April.
Summer (May–July): No Northern Lights. The midnight sun rules (sleepy sunsets). The resort transforms into a hiking and nature center (canoeing, berry foraging, mountain biking). Glass igloos are closed in summer, but the lodges operate. Prices drop to lowest. While not for aurora chasers, summer stays highlight the unique midnight-sun phenomenon, long hikes in Urho Kekkonen National Park, and 24-hour daylight.
Month-by-Month Highlights:
Seasonal Chart (Aurora & Conditions):
Month | Daylight | Aurora Odds | Weather Note | Price & Crowds |
Sep–Oct | 6–12 hrs | Medium | Cold nights, first snow | Shoulder (lower) |
Nov | 3–6 hrs | High | Deep cold, snow deepens | Moderate |
Dec–Jan | 0–4 hrs | High (long night) | Extreme cold, dark | Peak (holidays) |
Feb | 4–8 hrs | High | Cold, slightly milder | Peak |
Mar | 8–12 hrs | Medium–High | Cold but sunny often | Moderate |
Apr | 12–16 hrs | Low (dusk only) | Daytime warm, nights cool | Low season |
May–Jul | 16–24 hrs | None | Mild, midnight sun | Lowest |
In summary: Late February through March often hits the sweet spot—long dark hours, still snow-covered, and gradually warming days. Autumn (Oct–Nov) is a good compromise for light and price. Summer is unrelated to lights, so plan then only if aurora is not your goal.
The nearest airport is Ivalo (IVL), just ~40 km away (about a 30-minute drive). Ivalo is a small regional airport with direct flights from Helsinki, and seasonal charters from other European cities. Alternatively, Rovaniemi Airport (200+ km south) is an option: it’s larger (more flight routes) but a 3–4 hour drive or 1.5-hour train plus bus. A common itinerary is to fly into Helsinki and connect northward: e.g. Finnair or Norwegian to Ivalo (from Oulu or Helsinki), then bus or shuttle.
From Ivalo airport, transfer options include:
– Airport Shuttle: Kakslauttanen offers a shared shuttle (~€30 per person each way). Advance booking is recommended to coordinate with flight times.
– Taxi: Private taxi (about €80 one-way); available but limited service in deep winter unless pre-booked.
– Car Rental: Ivalo has several rental companies. Driving in Lapland requires winter tires and confidence on snow/ice roads, but gives ultimate freedom (and may save money for groups). The route is straightforward: follow Highway 4 (E75) south to Saariselkä, then a marked forest road to the resort.
Public transport: There is a bus line from Ivalo to Saariselkä village (daily schedule), plus a short taxi or local bus onward to Kakslauttanen. Trains do not reach Kakslauttanen directly; the nearest train station is Kolari, 3 hours away on a branch line from Rovaniemi.
Driving Tips: In winter, carry snow chains, blankets and a charged phone. Road conditions are generally well-maintained, but blizzards can occur. Gas stations are scarce between Ivalo and Kakslauttanen (fill up in Ivalo or Saariselkä). GPS coordinates for planning: 68.4181° N, 28.0789° E (see resort contact info).
For those combining Finland travel: Kakslauttanen works well as a 2-3 day extension from Rovaniemi (Santa Claus Village) or Helsinki. Domestic flight or overnight train (Santa Claus Express) to Rovaniemi, then drive/bus north. The journey itself – through endless boreal forest – is part of the arctic adventure.
Beyond the magical lights, Kakslauttanen offers dozens of Arctic experiences. Many activities run year-round, while some are seasonal. Highlights include:
Sample itinerary snippets:
– 2-Night Stay: Day 1 – Arrival, sauna, Aurora safety briefing. Night 1 – Self-watch from igloo; Aurora alarm on. Day 2 – Husky safari; midnight sky tour.
– 3-Night Stay: Add reindeer farm + sauna plunge. Daytime short hike. Bonus: Aurora tour by heated wagon under stars.
– 5-Night Stay: Full program: husky + reindeer + snowmobile + ski on one day; spa/sauna day; church/lapland town excursion; and three nights for Northern Lights.
Activity costs range ~$100–$200 per outing. Families should note: children under 8 often ride with parent in sleds for free, but age/weight limits apply on fast rides. Advance booking for popular tours (like huskies) is wise.
Kakslauttanen’s dining scene blends rustic Finnish charm with hearty Arctic fare. There are multiple on-site restaurants: the Aurora Restaurant (a grand log-hall with vaulted ceiling) and the original Log Restaurant (cozy, historic, with a piano bar) both serve daily buffet and à la carte menus. The Aurora Restaurant is noted for its high wooden ceilings and local art; the Log Restaurant highlights wood-fired oven dishes and a warm, storybook atmosphere. For something unique, the Igloo Bar (a heated glass-dome lounge) allows sipping cocktails under starry skies, and Korsu, the underground “forest” restaurant, can be reserved for private dinners.
Menu highlights draw on Lapland ingredients: reindeer (grilled or smoked), fresh salmon or Arctic char, wild berries (especially cloudberry jam on desserts), and wild mushrooms. Traditional soups like ruskakeitto (bread soup) and creamy poronnugetit (reindeer stew) are popular. Breads often incorporate local grains and berries. Vegetarians will find root-vegetable casseroles and fresh salads. Specialty drinkwise, Finnish “long drink,” berry beers, and artisanal spirits (e.g. local cloudberry liqueur) are available. Strict dietary needs (gluten-free, dairy-free) can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
Meals are a significant cost ($25–50 per person for dinner), so many guests opt to pre-purchase a meal plan or at least breakfast buffet (often included). Evening wear is casual (layers encouraged, as it’s warm inside). Tipping is not expected in Finland, though rounding up a bill is always appreciated.
Preparing for Arctic Lapland is non-negotiable – under-dressing can severely hamper your trip. Focus on layering:
Electronics: A good camera (see Section 11) with extra batteries (cold drains battery fast), tripod (for Aurora shots), and fast memory cards. A smartphone works but consider a clip-on fisheye lens for wide shots. Include a headlamp (for tasks at night) and portable power banks (the cold drains phone).
Kakslauttanen provides blankets, jackets, and boots for some activities, but do not expect the resort to outfit you fully. If your trip includes skiing or snowmobiling, bring or rent appropriate gear (helmets may be rented on-site). Swim suit is needed for sauna use. Backpack for day trips (with snacks, water). Lip balm and moisturizer to protect from the dry cold.
What NOT to pack: Heavy cotton (sweats), as they stay damp. Down vests (they leave neck exposed). Non-insulated shoes. If you normally run cold, add one more wool layer than you think you need.
Packing Checklist: Thermal base layers; wool sweater; heavy parka; snow pants; insulated boots; 2x wool socks; warm hat; gloves/mittens; cameras + chargers; headlamp; toiletries (no open water). Keep electronics warm (inner jacket pocket) to extend battery life.
For many visitors, photographing the aurora is as important as seeing it. Here are camera tips for capturing the full experience:
After shooting, warm your batteries! Keep your spare batteries in an inside pocket and swap quickly when needed. And most importantly: take breaks to look up. No photo rivals actually watching an aurora swirl overhead.
Planning Note: Always monitor the weather forecast (for clear sky) and Kp-index (for geomagnetic activity) a week before travel. Sites like SpaceWeatherLive or FMI can help fine-tune your nightly plans.
Kakslauttanen’s broad appeal extends to many traveler types, though it excels for some more than others:
Each traveler type will have different priorities: the peace-and-quiet seeker will love the remote stillness, while an Instagram-savvy pair may feel pressure to catch “the” perfect aurora photo. In all cases, the top advice is go in with managed expectations.
Even here at “Aurora central,” the lights cannot be guaranteed. The resort cannot promise the Northern Lights – there is no official “Lights Guarantee” on booking. Statistically, Kakslauttanen guests should expect auroras on roughly 1–2 nights out of 3 in prime season (based on Lapland’s ~50% clear-night rate and strong solar activity). Realistically:
Aurora Backup Plan: If a clear forecast seems unlikely on your main night, the resort can often reschedule guided activities free-of-charge for a later night. Keep an open mind – many travelers find that sledding through the silent white forest or soaking in an outdoor hot tub under gray dawn light becomes an equally memorable highlight.
In summary, the best-case aurora experience happens if luck, science and planning align. But even at its worst (aurora-less), Kakslauttanen delivers a unique Arctic retreat: the cozy glow of log fires, crackling smoke saunas, husky barks, and perhaps a chance at the Midnight Sun in a future summer. Understanding the unpredictability prevents disappointment and lets you enjoy all the resort’s charms, lights or not.
For travelers comparing options, here is how Kakslauttanen stacks up against other Northern Lights stays:
Comparison Table (Top Glass-Igloo Resorts):
Resort / Hotel | Location | Latitude | Aurora Season | Unique Feature | Best For |
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort | Saariselkä, Finland | 68°N | Aug–Apr | Thermal glass igloos; in-cabin saunas; smoke sauna | Arctic authenticity, 4-season experience |
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel | Rovaniemi, FI | 66.5°N | Sep–Mar | Modern wood villas on stilts; eco-design | Comfort and accessibility, Christmas tourism |
Levin Iglut Arctic Resort | Levi, Finland | 68°N | Aug–Apr | Geodesic igloo domes; summer cabin village | Winter sports + lights |
Tromsø Glass Lodge | Tromsø, Norway | 69°N | Oct–Mar | Dome pods on hillside; northern Norwegian fjord view | Northern Lights photo ops, fish kitchen |
Ion Adventure Hotel (Iceland) | Nesjavellir | 64°N | Sep–Mar | Geothermal spa on site; volcanic plateau | Aurora + Southern Lights combos (0) |
SnowVillage (Kemi, FI) | Kemi, Finland | 65°N | Dec–Apr | Snow hotel + glass-top winter chalets | Snow architecture; Santa Claus proximity |
Each property has trade-offs: Finnmark and northern Sweden boast higher latitudes but fewer amenities; Kakslauttanen is more established (inventor of the glass igloo) and run by Lappish family tradition. Regardless, Kakslauttanen remains one of the highest-rated for its complete experience — Arctic living and sky-watching under one (literal) roof.
Q: Can you really see the Northern Lights from your bed at Kakslauttanen?
A: If conditions cooperate, yes. The glass igloos have transparent ceilings and minimal light pollution, so lying in bed gives a direct sky-view. Clear, aurora-active nights often allow guests to watch the curtains of green or red dance directly overhead. However, remember that if clouds roll in, you may need to bundle up and step outside (or use the resort’s wake-up call).
Q: What is a Kelo-Glass Igloo?
A: It’s a hybrid of log cabin and glass igloo. Imagine a cozy wooden chalet bedroom that has one wall/ceiling made of the same sturdy thermal glass used in the igloos. You sleep in a regular bed inside the cabin, then walk into a small attached dome to watch the sky. It offers both arctic sky views and the warm comfort of a forest cabin.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: As early as possible, especially for winter holidays. For December–January travel, booking 9–12 months out is common. Off-season weeks (e.g., November or March) open up more availability, but even then popular dates fill quickly. Waiting until the last minute is risky if you must go on specific dates.
Q: How to get from the airport to the resort?
A: Fly into Ivalo (the nearest airport, 40 km away) then take a scheduled shuttle or taxi. In high season, Kakslauttanen also sells seat reservations on a shared transfer van. Alternatively, rent a car (with winter tires) at Ivalo or Saariselkä. The road is straightforward, though winter driving experience is needed.
Q: Is Kakslauttanen good for children and families?
A: Yes, children are welcome. Many igloos have bunk beds or space for rollaways. Kids enjoy husky and reindeer rides (ages 3+ usually), and there’s even a playroom in the main lodge. On the other hand, the environment is very dark and cold at night, so be prepared: “bedtime” is early. Families often appreciate the larger kelo cabins.
Q: What clothing do I need?
A: Warm, layered, waterproof winter gear. At minimum: thermal underwear, insulated winter boots, thick socks, warm hat, scarf/balaclava, insulated mittens, and a heavy down coat. The resort will loan you boots and outerwear for excursions, but packing your own high-quality clothing ensures comfort. Remember to protect face and eyes from wind and glare (sunglasses for daytime).
Q: Can Kakslauttanen arrange tours and activities for us?
A: Absolutely. The resort has an on-site activity desk. They offer everything from short local snowshoe walks to multi-day wilderness expeditions. While many tours run directly from the resort, they can also book day trips into Urho Kekkonen National Park and beyond. Booking activities at least a few weeks in advance is recommended during peak season.
Q: Why is Kakslauttanen so expensive?
A: Price reflects its remoteness, unique lodging, and bundled services. You’re paying for all of: a guaranteed sauna and hot tub, gourmet Nordic cuisine, personal attention (few guests per staff), plus the once-in-a-lifetime igloo experience under the Arctic sky. If that’s not your priority, cheaper lodgings are available in the region – but none combines sky-view comfort with log-cabin luxury the way this resort does.
At some point every traveler asks, “Is it worth the cost and effort?” The answer is: It depends on your priorities. For aurora enthusiasts and lovers of remote nature, Kakslauttanen delivers a level of immersion unmatched by cruise ships or city tours. The experience is genuinely distinctive: sleeping in a glass bubble under the Arctic sky is literally once-in-a-lifetime. If budget is flexible, and your trip’s goal is a high-chance lights sighting plus an unforgettable Finnish experience, then yes – Kakslauttanen lives up to its hype.
It’s perfect for: – Couples or friends celebrating a special occasion who value novelty and privacy.
– Photographers and naturalists seeking top-tier conditions.
– Families who have long wanted a “real Lapland” getaway (kids are often amazed by dogs, reindeer, and snow forts).
It’s harder for: – Tight budgets or those on a strict itinerary (flights and transfers consume time/money).
– Travelers wanting resort nightlife or nightlife – Kakslauttanen is about disconnection by design.
– Those who must see the Lights on a fixed date.
If budget is a concern, consider traveling in shoulder season (savings in pricing) or booking a shorter stay. Alternatively, other Lapland hotels (like Saariselkä’s cabins or Rovaniemi treehouses) offer milder versions of the experience at lower cost – though with trade-offs in location and authenticity.
Ultimately, the bottom line is straightforward: Kakslauttanen is the place to stay for an Arctic lights adventure if you can swing it. The spectacle of nature plus the warmth of Finnish hospitality makes for a compelling gamble. Even if only one aurora appears in the sky all trip, the memory of that translucent glow through your igloo roof is indelible. In the words of a longtime visitor: “It’s expensive, yes – but moments like waking up to green lights in silence are priceless.”
