“Follow the Lights” Hosted Tour
16 Days | Departs Oslo 26 Nov 2027 | Private tour of Max. 24
Follow the Lights
16 Day Tour – 26 Nov 2027
Join Mind & Body Travel Founders, Mark & Kasie Hodgson, on this ultimate winter adventure exploring Norway and Finland. We’ve secured a private group just for Mind & Body Travel clients departing on 26th November so this is an amazing opportunity to experience everything a Nordic Winter offers!
Ride the Flåm Railway to Bergen discovering inland Norway before joining our iconic Coastal Express voyage to Kirkenes. Search for the Northern Lights as you travel by train across Finland’s Arctic interior, sleeping in a glass igloo and visiting the Santa Claus Village before visiting Helsinki.
Areas Visited
Oslo
Flåm
Bergen
Ålesund
Trondheim
Bodø
Tromsø
Honningsvåg
Kirkenes
Saariselkä
Sinettä, Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi
Helsinki
Explore the Region
Key Inclusions
- Hosted by Mark & Kasie Hodgson, Mind & Body Travel
- Many opportunities of seeing the Northern Lights!
- 10 nights’ 4-star hotel accommodation (1 night in glass igloo) & 6 nights’ cruise accommodation
- Daily breakfast, 7 lunches (5 on Hurtigruten)
- 10 dinners (6 on Hurtigruten) & 1 farewell dinner in Helsinki including a glass of beer, wine, soft drink
- Norway in a Nutshell: Flåm Railway journey and fjord cruise on UNESCO listed Nærøyfjord
- Scenic Coach & Train Transfers
- English-speaking tour manager from start to finish
- City tours of Oslo and Bergen
- Husky Safari (cart or sled ride, depending on weather)
- Santa Claus Village visit
- Sámi culture day with museum and outing
- King Crab Experience
- Siida Museum visit in Inari
- Aurora hike and workshop in the park
Click to view Detailed Itinerary
Itinerary
The day-by-day programme will give you some ideas about what you can see during your voyage, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary.
Day 1: 26 Nov 27
Arrive in Oslo – Oslo
Welcome to Oslo! Despite its compact size, the capital offers a wide range of experiences, from contemporary architecture to long-standing cultural traditions. On arrival at Oslo Airport, you’ll be transferred from the airport to your centrally located hotel and settle in.
The city is easy to explore on foot. Grünerløkka is known for its independent cafés and relaxed atmosphere, while the Barcode district showcases modern waterfront design. Art is central to Oslo’s identity, so pay a visit the Munch Museum, home to an extensive collection of works by famed Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, including The Scream. Ekeberg Park combines outdoor art with elevated views across the city and fjord.
For a broader insight into Norwegian history, the Bygdøy Peninsula is home to several museums, including the Norsk Folkemuseum, where traditional buildings and a preserved stave church illustrate life through the centuries.
This evening, we’ll meet our guide and fellow travellers before enjoying a welcome dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Oslo.
Day 2: 27 Nov 27
Discover Norway’s capital – Oslo
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before boarding our private coach and meeting our English-speaking local guide for a three-hour city sightseeing tour.
This guided introduction to Oslo takes us past some of the capital’s most recognisable landmarks. Visit Vigeland Sculpture Park, home to more than 200 sculptures set within Frogner Park. Continue to the Oslo Opera House, where contemporary architecture rises directly from the waterfront, and to Holmenkollen Ski Jump, a symbol of Norway’s deep-rooted skiing tradition. (Please note that entrance fees are not included.)
The tour offers a broader perspective on the city – from historic districts to modern developments – while our guide provides context on Oslo’s culture and daily life.
The afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore further, or perhaps enjoy one of the city’s restaurants.
Day 3: 28 Nov 27
Norway In a Nutshell – Flåm
After breakfast at the hotel, take a short walk to Oslo Central Station to begin the renowned Norway in a Nutshell journey.
We’ll travel by train to Myrdal, passing through farmland, forests and increasingly dramatic mountain scenery as we climb inland.
At Myrdal, we’ll change trains for the iconic Flåm Railway, one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world. The descent towards the fjord is striking, with waterfalls, steep valley walls and wide views unfolding along the route.
On arrival in Flåm, walk the short distance to our hotel and check in. The afternoon is at leisure to explore this small fjord-side village at your own pace, perhaps along the waterfront or in the surrounding landscape.
Dinner is served in the hotel restaurant this evening.
Overnight in Flåm..
Day 4: 29 Nov 27
Fjord and rail to Bergen
After breakfast, depart Flåm and begin today’s fjord journey. Cruise through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, one of the narrowest arms of the Sognefjord. Sheer mountain walls rise from the water, waterfalls thread down the rock face and small farms cling to the slopes, offering a sense of scale that is distinctly Norwegian.
On arrival in Gudvangen, continue by coach through a valley landscape shaped by rivers and cascading falls. Travel onward to Voss, where you board the train for the final stretch to Bergen.
Once we arrive in Bergen, transfer by private coach to our hotel and check in. The remainder of the evening is at leisure to explore Norway’s second-largest city or enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants along the harbour.
Overnight in Bergen.
Day 5: 30 Nov 27
Bergen and Cruise Embarkation
After breakfast, meet our local guide for a walking tour of Bergen, Norway’s historic gateway to the fjords. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen, where colourful wooden warehouses line the harbour and reflect the city’s Hanseatic heritage. Continue to St Mary’s Church and Håkon’s Hall, both reminders of Bergen’s importance during the medieval period.
Our tour concludes with a return journey on the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen. From here, enjoy wide views across the city, surrounding mountains and open sea.
Later, we’ll transfer to the Hurtigruten terminal for check-in and embarkation procedures. In the evening, your ship departs Bergen and we begin our northbound voyage along the Norwegian coast.
Dinner tonight is served on board.
Day 6: 1 Dec 27
Art Nouveau by the sea – Ålesund
Wake early as the ship sails through Nordfjord near Torvik, where steep mountains and sheltered waters signal your continued journey north. Later, pass Stadlandet and West Cape before approaching Ålesund, one of Norway’s most distinctive coastal towns.
Rebuilt in Art Nouveau style after a fire in 1904, Ålesund is known for its decorative façades, curved lines and detailed stonework. Pastel-coloured buildings line the harbour, and towers, turrets and ornamented windows reflect a period of confident design. You’ll have much of the day to explore at your own pace – perhaps wandering through the town centre, visiting a museum, or climbing the steps to Mount Aksla for wide views across the archipelago and surrounding peaks. The Atlantic Sea Park is another option, offering insight into marine life along this stretch of coast.
In the evening, the ship calls at Molde. From the water, you may glimpse the Molde Panorama, a sweeping chain of mountain peaks rising across the fjord.
Day 7: 2 Dec 27
Trondheim and coastal sailing
Arrive in Trondheim early in the morning, giving you ample time to explore Norway’s first capital independently or join an optional excursion.
Founded in 997 by Viking king Olav Tryggvason, Trondheim blends medieval heritage with the energy of a modern university city. At its heart stands Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s national sanctuary and an important pilgrimage site. Its Gothic façade and intricate stonework dominate the skyline and reflect centuries of history.
Cross the red-painted Gamle Bybro over the River Nid and enter Bakklandet, the old Hanseatic district. Today, its colourful wooden warehouses on stilts house cafés and small shops. For wider views over the city and fjord, walk up to Kristiansten Fortress.
In the afternoon, we resume our northbound voyage. Sailing northwest, we pass the ochre-coloured Kjeungskjær Lighthouse before continuing towards Rørvik.
Day 8: 3 Dec 27
Into the Arctic- Bodø
Early this morning, we cross the Arctic Circle, marking your entry into Arctic Norway. The moment is traditionally celebrated on board – a light-hearted ceremony that signals the start of a new chapter in the voyage.
In winter, daylight is brief and the quality of light changes quickly. Above the Arctic Circle, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights increase, particularly on clear evenings when the sky is dark and open.
Later in the morning, the ship calls at Ørnes, close to Svartisen, Norway’s second-largest glacier. Continue to Bodø, Northern Norway’s second-largest city, framed by the Børvass peaks and exposed to the open sea.
In the afternoon, we enter the Lofoten archipelago. The dramatic mountain chain known as the Lofoten Wall rises sharply from the water, forming a striking horizon line. Calls at Stamsund and later Svolvær reveal a landscape shaped by the cod fisheries, where traditional rorbuer stand along the harbour and fishing boats gather in season.
Day 9: 4 Dec 27
Tromsø and the Lyngen Alps
We call at Harstad in the early morning, offering the option of a quiet walk ashore before continuing north. The voyage then takes us to Finnsnes, gateway to the island of Senja, connected to the mainland by the Gisund Bridge.
By midday, we arrive in Tromsø, often referred to as the Arctic capital. You have several hours to explore independently or join an optional excursion. The compact city centre is easy to navigate, with shops, cafés and restaurants clustered around the harbour. Visit Polaria to learn more about Arctic research and marine life or stop by Mack Brewery and the historic pub of Ølhallen, for a taste of local brewing traditions.
Across the water stands the striking Arctic Cathedral, its angular form and stained-glass window reflecting the Nordic light.
In the early evening, we depart Tromsø and sail north towards Skjervøy, passing the jagged peaks of the Lyngen Alps rising directly from the sea.
Day 10: 5 Dec 27
Norway’s Northern Frontier
Honningsvåg – gateway to the North Cape
During the early morning we stop at Hammerfest and Havøysund before arriving in Honningsvåg, one of the northernmost towns on the mainland.
Honningsvåg serves as the gateway to the North Cape, where a globe monument stands on the cliffs high above the Barents Sea, marking the northern edge of continental Europe. An optional excursion takes you by coach across the stark plateau to the North Cape. Along the way, you may see reindeer grazing across the open landscape.
Continuing north, we approach Kjøllefjord. Near the entrance to the harbour, look for the distinctive rock formation Finnkirka, an ancient sacred site for the Sámi people.
By evening, we reach Mehamn. In February and March, wooden racks known as hjell may be lined with drying cod, part of a fishing tradition that remains central to life along this coast. Later, we sail past Slettnes Lighthouse, the northernmost mainland lighthouse in the world, en route to Berlevåg.
Day 11: 6 Dec 27
Kirkenes to Saariselkä
After a final breakfast on board, we arrive in Kirkenes and disembark, marking the end of the sea voyage and the beginning of the land journey. From the quay, you’ll continue by long-distance coach to the Snowhotel Kirkenes.
Here, you can join the included King Crab Experience. The excursion begins with an expert introduction to the Arctic king crab, offering insight into its habitat and importance along this stretch of coast. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting featuring freshly prepared king crab, served in a simple, seasonal style that highlights the quality of the ingredients.
Later, we continue by coach across the border into Finland, travelling through open Arctic landscapes and forested terrain. By late afternoon, arrive in Saariselkä, a small village set deep within Finnish Lapland. Check in to your hotel before dinner in the restaurant.
The evening is at leisure. Optional excursions may be available, including Northern Lights experiences, depending on the conditions.
Day 12: 7 Dec 27
Inari and Sámi culture
This morning we travel to Inari, widely regarded as the cultural centre of Finland’s Sámi community. Here, traditions remain closely connected to the land, lakes and forests that shape daily life in the north.
Accompanied by a local guide, spend the day learning more about Sámi history and contemporary culture. At the Siida – Sámi Museum and Nature Centre, exhibitions explore reindeer herding, seasonal rhythms and the deep relationship between people and the Arctic environment. Set beside Lake Inari, the museum’s location reflects how closely culture and landscape are intertwined.
Later, head out onto frozen Lake Inari by snowmobile sleigh and try your hand at traditional ice-fishing – a quiet, hands-on experience that offers a glimpse into everyday northern life. During the excursion, enjoy lunch at a local wilderness hotel, where simple regional dishes are served in warm surroundings.
Return to Saariselkä in the afternoon. Dinner is at your own leisure this evening.
Day 13: 8 Dec 27
Saariselkä and Aurora Hike
Today is a day at your leisure in Saariselkä. This small village sits on the edge of Urho Kekkonen National Park, where forests and open fell landscapes stretch far beyond the last houses. You may choose to explore independently, relax at the hotel, or join one of the optional excursions available locally.
In the evening, gather for dinner at the hotel before setting out on a guided aurora hike. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll walk at a gentle pace into the surrounding landscape. The trail is accessible and suitable for all abilities, leading to a sheltered Aurora hut where you can warm up and learn more about the science and stories behind the Northern Lights.
Away from artificial light, this quiet setting offers an ideal vantage point to watch for movement of the aurora across the darkness. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel later in the evening.
Day 14: 9 Dec 27
Santa Claus Village and Glass Igloo Stay
After breakfast, we depart Saariselkä and travel south towards Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. En route, we pause in Sodankylä for a short stop to view its historic Old Church, a simple wooden structure that reflects Lapland’s rural heritage.
Continue to the Santa Claus Village, located on the Arctic Circle. Here, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace – cross the Arctic Circle line, browse local shops, or simply take in the atmosphere of this well-known landmark. Lunch is at your own arrangement.
In the afternoon, travel onward to Sinetta and check in at the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos. This evening, enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant before settling into your Glass Igloo accommodation. The heated glass roof offers uninterrupted views of the night sky from the comfort of your bed.
The evening is at your leisure. Optional activities such as snowshoeing or aurora photography excursions may be available, weather permitting.
Overnight in a Glass Igloo.
Day 15: 10 Dec 27
Capital of Lapland
Rovaniemi
Enjoy a relaxed morning before departing for one of today’s highlights – a husky safari in the forests of Finnish Lapland.
At the kennels, learn how the enthusiastic dogs are trained and cared for, and get an insight into the preparation required to keep them fit for the Arctic environment.
Then set out on a guided husky ride through the landscape. Depending on conditions, the journey takes place by sled or cart, but the route and overall experience remain the same. This is not a self-driving tour, allowing you to focus on the scenery and the energy of the dogs as they move along the trail. Please note that the sleds will only be used if there is enough snow, otherwise the pulled carts will be used.
Following the safari, warm up with a simple soup lunch before spending time with the huskies. Later, continue to Rovaniemi and check in to your hotel. The evening is at leisure, with optional excursions available locally.
Day 16: 11 Dec 27
Finland’s Capital
Helsinki
We’ll continue heading south and transfer to Rovaniemi railway station for your train journey to Helsinki. As the train departs Lapland, the landscape gradually shifts from Arctic forest and open fells to lakes, farmland and small towns, offering a final view of Finland’s changing scenery.
You’ll arrive in Helsinki in the late afternoon and make the short walk to your centrally located hotel. Finland’s capital presents a different pace – broad boulevards, neoclassical architecture and a strong maritime character shaped by its position on the Baltic Sea.
This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner at the hotel. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the experiences shared over the past 16days – from Norway’s fjords and Arctic coastline to the winter landscapes of Finnish Lapland.
Pricing
Pricing Per Person From $10,899 AUD twin share (Single Supplement $3,995)
Upgrade options for your Hurtigruten Cruise Accommodation:
Polar Outside Room (Window) lower deck from $495pp
Polar Outside Room (Window) Upper or Middle Deck Restricted View from $695pp
Arctic Superior (Window) Upper Deck from $1495pp
We can also assist with international airfares, travel insurance and pre and post tour accommodation or trip extensions.
Inclusions
- Hosted by Mark & Kasie Hodgson, Mind & Body Travel
- Many opportunities of seeing the Northern Lights!
- 10 nights’ 4-star hotel accommodation (1 night in glass igloo) & 6 nights’ cruise accommodation in a Polar Inside Room
- Daily breakfast, 7 lunches (5 on Hurtigruten)
- 10 dinners (6 on Hurtigruten) & 1 farewell dinner in Helsinki including a glass of beer, wine, soft drink
- Norway in a Nutshell: Flåm Railway journey and fjord cruise on UNESCO listed Nærøyfjord
- Scenic Coach & Train Transfers
- English-speaking tour manager from start to finish
- City tours of Oslo and Bergen
- Husky Safari (cart or sled ride, depending on weather)
- Santa Claus Village visit
- Sámi culture day with museum and outing
- King Crab Experience
- Siida Museum visit in Inari
- Aurora hike and workshop in the park
Not included
- Optional excursions during the Cruise portion of the package from Bergen to Kirkeness
- Beverages unless listed in itinerary
- Travel Insurance
- International Airfares
- Items of a personal nature
- Visa’s (if required)
- Airport transfer at the end of the tour
- Note: Whilst we are travelling in the peak of Northern Lights season and a number of days above the Arctic Circle, sightings of the Northern Lights are highly likely but not guaranteed
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Frequently Asked Questions
I’m looking for a custom itinerary and someone to manage my trip. Do you offer traditional travel agent services?
Answer: Absolutely. This is where we started. Planning any sort of travel, particularly international, can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Travel shouldn’t add to any daily stressors! It’s to be enjoyed. And that’s where we come in. Our dedicated team of truly passionate travel experts is here to handle every detail, ensuring your travel is seamless and stress-free. From booking flights and accommodation to organising guided tours, hosts and activities, we take care of everything so you can focus on making memories.
What makes Mind and Body different to traditional travel agents?
Answer: We specialise in meaningful journeys, where we spend time getting to know you and what you really need out of your time away. Going that little bit deeper to truly understand you as a person and as a traveler. To us, there are far more important questions than “where to?” and “how long for?”. Travel is an incredible opportunity to not just see something different, but to feel something different. Better even. Feel revived, refreshed and inspired.
I’m pretty easy, and like what you’re about. Do you have package holidays I can choose from?
Answer: Definitely. We’ve taken our same approach to planning personalised journeys and applied it to creating meaningful pre-arranged packages for you to take you pick. All you have to decide is where (though we can help you with this too). Every element of our package holidays has been carefully selected keeping in mind our purpose for travel – creating experiences to leave you more inspired and feeling well. As well as ensuring the destinations we travel to are cared for as well. Considered approach at every step.
Be Inspired today
Let us plan your Escape
Planning your adventure can be overwhelming, but with Mind and Body Travel, it doesn’t have to be.
Our dedicated team of travel experts is here to handle every detail, ensuring your Adventure is seamless and stress-free. From booking flights and accommodations to organising guided tours and activities, we take care of everything so you can focus on making memories with your loved ones.




