Under the Arctic Lakeland brand, Vuokatti and Kajaani are preparing to welcome their first-ever direct charter flights from the United Kingdom in December 2025.
The new TUI UK service from Manchester to Kajaani marks a historic milestone, as it will be the first series of charter flights operated between the UK and Kajaani. The new route will bring the snowy landscapes, serenity, and unforgettable winter experiences of Arctic Lakeland closer than ever to British holidaymakers.
The flights will operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Sundays throughout December. The aircraft will depart from Manchester at half past six in the morning and arrive in Kajaani at 11:35 local time. The return flight will leave Kajaani at 12:45 in the afternoon, arriving back in Manchester later the same day.
TUI’s package holiday includes return flights, airport transfers between Kajaani Airport and the hotels, accommodation, and winter clothing waiting for guests upon arrival. The programme also features a “Taster Day” experience, giving visitors a chance to discover the magic of Finnish winter and the spirit of Christmas, as well as a festive finale evening that gathers guests together to enjoy dinner, entertainment, and music before their journey home.
Guests will be accommodated in high-quality hotels across the Arctic Lakeland region. In Kajaani, the accommodation is in Hotel Kajanus, while in Vuokatti visitors will stay at Break Sokos Hotel Vuokatti and Holiday Club Katinkulta.
During their stay, British travellers will enjoy a wide range of winter experiences that best capture the unique character of Arctic Lakeland. A husky safari takes guests through Kainuu’s snow-covered forests and fells, while a snowmobile adventure offers an exhilarating way to explore Vuokatti’s extensive winter trails. The programme also includes an encounter with Santa Claus — a highlight for many families — as well as peaceful excursions on snowshoes and sleds in the beautiful Finnish wilderness.
TUI UK & Ireland Commercial Director Chris Logan said: “We are thrilled to be opening Artic Lakeland to the UK and offering families a unique Christmas experience at a lower price point. Our Lapland holidays are the most magical trips, and they sell out every year. With demand growing, we saw an incredible opportunity to open this hidden gem to UK holidaymakers delivering everything families love about Lapland – from husky sledding and reindeer rides to meeting Santa himself.
By securing exclusive direct flights and working with fantastic hotels in Kajaani and Vuokatti, we’re making the magic of a winter wonderland more accessible and affordable than ever. And we’re confident Arctic Lakeland is set to become a new favourite for festive getaways.”
“This new route is a significant step for tourism in the Kainuu region. The first-ever charter flight from the United Kingdom brings new visibility to our area and strengthens Arctic Lakeland’s position as an international winter destination. We are ready to warmly welcome our British guests to Vuokatti and the entire Arctic Lakeland region,” says Aija Laukkanen, CEO of Vuokatti Tourism Ltd.
“We welcome the first flight from Manchester to Kajaani Airport! We are delighted to see Kajaani included in the selection of Europe’s leading tour operator,” says Petri Vuori, SVP, Sales and Route Development, Finavia.
Implementing TUI’s travel packages requires extensive cooperation among various companies in the Arctic Lakeland region. Pohjolan Matka acts as TUI’s local partner, particularly in the Kainuu region, providing DMC services. The collaboration covers a wide range of ground services and leverages Pohjolan Matka’s strong DMC expertise, versatile fleet of buses, and sustainability certifications, which in turn enhance the quality and responsibility of TUI’s services.
Arctic Lakeland is a tourism region where pure nature, the authentic Finnish winter, and warm hospitality meet. Kajaani and Vuokatti are known for their high-quality accommodation, diverse range of activities, and family-friendly atmosphere that keeps visitors returning year after year.
In addition, TUI Netherlands will operate direct flights from Amsterdam to Kajaani once a week between January and March, continuing to connect the Arctic Lakeland region with international travellers throughout the winter season.
The collaboration between Arctic Lakeland and TUI UK continues through the Arctic Lakeland Charter project, implemented by the Municipality of Sotkamo and funded by the municipality together with the Regional Council of Kainuu (ERDF), and the cities of Kajaani and Kuhmo. The project aims to promote the newly launched TUI Arctic Lakeland winter holidays and to increase awareness of the region among TUI’s British customer base.
Further information
Aija Laukkanen
CEO, Vuokatin Matkailukeskus Oy
Project Manager, Arctic Lakeland Charter -project
aija.laukkanen@vuokatti.fi
Mobile +358 40 611 6950