6 Days / 5 Nights
Train journeys, Cultural tours, Northern Lights tours, Dog sledding, Snowmobiling
Discover adventures, activities, and rich culture on the picturesque roads of Northern Russia. Join a small group tour for an immersive exploration of this stunning region. The trip is operated from September till March.
- Explore picturesque nature spots
- Hunt for the Northern Lights
- Visit a husky kennel
- Discover Kizhi Island, Teriberka village, Kirovsk, and more
Day 1. Train from Moscow to Northern Russia
20:10 PM – Tour assembles at Leningradsky Train Station in Moscow.
An English-speaking guide will be on hand to assist you with boarding the overnight sleeper train. You'll receive joining instructions and electronic train tickets in advance to ensure a smooth start to your adventure.
21:00 PM – Departure from Moscow to Petrozavodsk. Please note that this train journey is unescorted.
A restaurant car is available on the train.
Day 2. Husky kennel adventure
~08:00 AM – Arrival in the city of Petrozavodsk, meet by local English-speaking guide and proceed for buffet breakfast.
This day you will visit the husky kennel, meet sled dogs of various breeds and participate in dog sledding adventure (or dog trekking when there’s no snow). The taiga forest surrounds you as you embark on the trail, filled with the sounds of nature and the joyful barks of your eager sled dogs.
Option: Visit the Hvoya Hotel and Spa Resort. Nestled in a forested area, the resort features all-season outdoor heated pools (36-42°C), a Russian banya, and hot tubs (additional fees apply).
Overnight in Petrozavodsk.
Day 3. Kizhi Island adventure
Breakfast.
Embark on a tour of Kizhi Island. Depending on the season, we will travel by bus and hovercraft or boat to this remote island in Lake Onega, home to stunning wooden churches from the early 18th century. Explore the renowned Museum of Wooden Architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the picturesque rural scenery.
Transfer to the train station.
Board the overnight sleeper train and set off to the Kola Peninsula. Please note that this train journey is unescorted.
A restaurant car is available on the train.
Day 4. The Kola Peninsula. Kirovsk & Khibiny Mountains. Aurora Hunt
~08:00 AM – Arrival in the town of Apatity and meet with the local English-speaking guide at the train station. Transfer and breakfast.
Visit the town of Kirovsk.* Nestled in the Khibiny Mountains, this small town is home to the northernmost ski resort in Europe. Weather permitting, we will take a cable car to the top of one of the mountains for spectacular views and a cup of coffee at the panoramic café. Starting in January, you can also visit the Snow Village.
Transfer to Murmansk and check-in for two nights.
In the evening, head out to hunt for the Northern Lights. Depending on the Aurora and cloud cover forecast, the tour will depart between 7:00 and 10:00 PM—the best time for spotting the Northern Lights near Murmansk. Our guide/photographer will take care of capturing photos, and a download link will be provided.**
Overnight in Murmansk.
*In autumn, we will visit the town of Kandalaksha instead of Kirovsk, which includes an easy hike to one of the mountains offering excellent panoramic views of the White Sea.
**If the weather is unfavorable and there is no chance to see the Northern Lights due to a snowstorm or other conditions, the trip will be rescheduled for the following evening.
Day 5. Murmansk. Teriberka Village and the Arctic Ocean adventure
Breakfast.
In the morning, embark on a full-day tour to Teriberka.*
During this journey, you will explore the vast, treeless tundra and witness the haunting ship graveyard along the rocky coast of the Barents Sea. Discover the eerie old wooden houses of the Teriberka fishing village, see the Wind Park and the "Leviathan" skeleton. Appreciate the stunning scenery at the famous "Dragon Eggs" beach and take a leisurely walk along the Arctic Ocean.
For lunch, you have the option to enjoy fish, reindeer, or a vegetarian meal at one of the local restaurants (not included; please budget approximately 800-1500 Rubles for the main course).
*Optional: Join a boat trip to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat in the Barents Sea (additional payment applies, and advanced reservation is required).
Return to Murmansk for the night.
*Note: The Teriberka tour is subject to weather conditions. Access may be restricted due to heavy snowfall.
Day 6. Departure from Murmansk or Extend Your Stay
Enjoy breakfast before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Moscow or St. Petersburg (airfare is not included).
Alternatively, consider extending your stay in Murmansk with a night in an igloo at a picturesque countryside glamping hotel. Experience stunning views and a unique atmosphere that will enhance your Arctic adventure. Please contact us for arrangements.
Trails, Trains & Aurora Hunt tour price in 2025–2026:
September–October: 86000 Rubles per person
December–March: 90000 Rubles per person
Due to fluctuations in accommodation prices supplements may apply to above prices. Price per person is based on 2/3 adults sharing a room.
Tour dates in the 2025/26 season:
September: 20–25
October: 11–17
December: 21–26
January: 24–29
February: 22–27
March: 21–26
Flexible departure dates and custom itineraries are available for groups.
1. One night at Fregat Hotel or similar in Petrozavodsk.
2. Two nights at Meridian Hotel or similar in Murmansk.
3. Four buffet breakfasts and one continental breakfast.
4. Transfers as per itinerary.
5. Train tickets Moscow–Petrozavodsk (4-berth sleeper, no meals).
6. Dog sledding or trekking adventure (season-dependent).
7. Kizhi Island tour with transport, museum ticket, and audio guide (live guide for groups over 5).
8. Train tickets Petrozavodsk–Apatity (4-berth sleeper, no meals).
9. Aurora hunt tour with transport, guide, and tea.
10. Teriberka village tour with transport and guide.
11. Fee for Teriberka Nature Park.
Not Included:
1. Meals not specified as included.
2. Boat trip in Teriberka.
3. Private train compartment.
4. Snow village ticket.
5. Optional tours, activities, or additional sightseeing beyond the itinerary.
6. Charges for early check-in or late check-out.
7. Tips for local guides and drivers.
