About the Challenge
Who can take part in the Warrior Challenge – Lapland?
Is the challenge suitable for beginners?
There can undoubtably be more walking than running if this suits you.
What distances can I choose from?
Both races are run on the same day (24th Jan) with slightly different routes and long cut-off times.
Travel & Logistics
Are flights included?
Details below...
Where should I fly in and out of?
All flights transfer through Stockholm.
What time do I need to arrive at Umeå or Skelleftia Airport for the transfer bus?
Transfers leave Skelleftea airport at 1500 on the 23rd
Return airport transfers on 25th tbc when we have more flight details
What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss the start?
You need to be at your final destination airport by around 8pm at the latest on the 23rd to give you enough time to complete your kit-check, get the race briefing, have some supper and grab a couple of hours sleep.
Arriving this late is unadvisable but if you have a delay please contact us as soon as you can and we will work with you to manage transfer from the airport to the venue.
If you are going to arrive later than this and still want to race please contact the team to see how we can make this happen.
What transfers are included?
Your registration includes:
- Airport transfers
- Transport to the start line
- Transport from the finish line
Do I need a passport or visa?
You will need a passport to travel to Sweden.
- UK residents: No visa required.
- Other nationalities: Please check your individual visa requirements.
Safety & Support
Do I have to get a medical to take part?
No. However we recommend consulting with a doctor is you have a pre existing condition or there is anything you are concerned about.
You will be asked to declare any medical conditions or alergies as part of the registration process so our medical team are aware.
What safety precautions are in place for the event?
What safety precautions are in place for the event?
- A full UK medical team will be on the ground and linked with local Swedish hospitals if needed.
- GPS trackers will be provided for every participant.
- Warm checkpoints are located every 8–10 km with medics and event crew in attendance on a constant basis.
- Roaming snowmobiles and 4x4 vehicles will provide additional safety coverage across the terrain.
Is travel insurance required?
Accommodation
What type of accommodation is provided?
- Warm, basic indoor camping on the 23rd - hot showers and a small bar.
- Quality hotel in Skelleftia on the 24th for the after-party and recovery.
What food will be available throughout the event?
- Basic home-cooked evening meal will be available at the bunk barn on the 23rd (Meat option or vegan option)
- Breakfast will be provided on the 24th (as above)
- All race‑nutrition (gels, snacks, hydration powders) must be brought from the UK, as specialist nutrition products are limited locally.
- Other meals can be purchased at the hotel or local town.
- If you have any other dietary requirement you will need to bring your own food.
What if I have dietary requirements?
Vegan and meat options will be available - all other dietary requirements must be self-sourced.
Training & Preparation
Do I need any specific clothing or gear?
How do I get in shape for this event?
I’m worried about being the slowest and holding up the event.
Course & Terrain
What is the terrain like?
Weather conditions can affect the surface, but typically you’ll encounter:
- Snowmobile trails
- Frozen lakes
- Tracks and roads
What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions are usually consistant at this time of year.
We keep an eye out for any unusual and overly challenging weather fronts and will be able to make you aware of them, and contingency plans, well in advance of the event.
This event is designed to be undertaken in challenging weather - it is extremely unlikely that it would be delayed or cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.
Your safety is at the core of our planning - you are in safe hands.
Are there any cut‑off times for the event?
Event Format & Costs
Is this a multi‑day event?
What is the registration fee?
Is my registration fee refundable?
Your registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable as per our terms and conditions.
What’s included in my registration?
- Airport transfers
- Start and finish line transport
- Accommodation
- Race entry
- On-event safety teams
- SSAFA running vest
- SSAFA medal
Are there fundraising deadlines?
Yes, you must have raised £900 of your fundraising target before 1st October 2026 to continue with your place
Are there any costs not covered by my registration fee and fundraising?
Yes, you will need to cover:
- Flights
- Personal kit
- Spending money while in Sweden
-
Personal travel insurance
Fundraising Support
What is the fundraising target?
I’m concerned about meeting the fundraising target — how can you help?
SSAFA can provide:
- Proven fundraising ideas used successfully by past participants
- Fundraising materials and resources
- Guidance and ongoing support throughout your challenge journey
Supporter Attendance
Can my supporters come with me?
We love that you have people who are so dedicated that they want to come with you to cheer you on!
However, you (or they) will need to book flights and accommodation for the full trip as they cannot stay at the bunkbarn on the first night.
Your supporters will also need their own transport to get to the start and finish lines and will not be able to access the checkpoints.
This is a very beautiful area and there are lots of accommodation options so extending your stay with friends is a great idea - visit Santa or get a little skiing in before you go home.
