A Snowy Adventure to Catch the Northern Lights from Saariselkä
If you’re visiting Saariselkä in Finland and eager to see the Northern Lights, this 5-hour tour to Lake Inari offers an authentic, cozy, and memorable way to chase the aurora borealis. For $205.20 per person, you get more than just a glimpse of the celestial show — you step into the quiet beauty of Lapland with a small group, guided by local experts eager to share their knowledge and culture.
What we love about this experience is the combination of adventure and comfort — a snowmobile-pulled sleigh through snow-covered woods, topped with warm thermal clothing and hot drinks around a campfire. Plus, the chance to feed reindeer and visit a local island offers you genuine insight into Lapland life, far from touristy crowds.
A possible consideration? Weather conditions can be unpredictable — cold temperatures and cloudy nights might limit your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, but the journey itself remains rewarding. This tour is particularly suited to travelers who appreciate small groups, personalized attention, and a taste of local culture mixed with Arctic adventure. It’s ideal if you’re willing to brave the cold for a chance at witnessing one of the natural wonders of the world.
Key Points
- Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
- Snowmobile sleigh ride offers a unique way to connect with Lapland’s wilderness.
- Local dinner and reindeer feeding provide cultural insights and memorable moments.
- Flexible and well-organized, with thermal gear provided for comfort.
- Chances of seeing the Aurora depend on weather, but the experience is rewarding regardless.
- Ideal for travelers seeking authentic Arctic adventures with a touch of local lifestyle.
An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights Tour from Saariselkä
Planning more time in Saariselka? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Journey Begins: From Saariselkä to Ivalo and Koppelo
Your adventure kicks off with a pickup in Saariselkä, a small town known as a hub for Arctic excursions. You’re whisked away in a comfortable minibus to the local office in Ivalo, where you’ll be fitted with warm thermal clothes and sturdy shoes—crucial for surviving the chilly Arctic night comfortably. This preparation is a highlight because it ensures that cold won’t cut your experience short. Many reviews praise the thermal gear, with guides often going out of their way to make sure everyone’s comfortable and well-dressed.
Next, the journey continues to the tiny village of Koppelo, a place deliberately chosen for its distance from city lights. Here, the real magic begins—away from the glow of civilization, you’re surrounded by snow-covered fells, frozen lakes, and the silence of the Arctic wilderness.
Snowmobile-Pulled Sled Ride: Merging Adventure and Serenity
The core of the tour is a snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride through pristine woods and over the frozen lake to Lake Inari. The sled is covered with reindeer hide, providing an authentic and cozy feel, and you’ll sit comfortably as your guide (who often receives praise for being friendly and knowledgeable) steers you deeper into the wilderness.
What makes this ride special? For many travelers, it’s the sense of stepping back in time, moving silently through snow-laden forests. Several reviews mention the fun of sitting in the sled, enjoying the winter landscape, and the thrill of gliding over the icy surface. One reviewer even noted the joy of spotting wild reindeer crossing the lake, adding to the sense of being part of the Arctic’s natural rhythm.
The Wilderness Break: Lake Inari and the Island
Once at Lake Inari, your group takes a pause to absorb the peaceful beauty of this vast, frozen expanse. The lake offers a prime vantage point for Northern Lights spotting, especially if the skies are clear. Travelers have been especially excited when the aurora appears, dancing in green streaks, although cloud cover can sometimes obscure the view.
A highlight is the visit to a small island where the owners of the family-run tour company live. This glimpse into local life adds authenticity, giving travelers a chance to hear stories about Lapland’s traditions and the quiet existence outside touristy areas. Many reviews mention the warmth of the guides’ storytelling, which makes the experience feel more personal and rooted in local culture.
Dinner and Reindeer: Warmth and Authenticity
After an initial vigil, you’ll gather around an open campfire in a traditional Lappish teepee to enjoy a delicious dinner. The menu focuses on local ingredients—fish or reindeer meat—cooked over the fire, served with hot drinks like tea or coffee. Guides often prepare the meal on-site, which adds a rustic charm to the experience, and multiple reviews rave about the quality and authenticity of the food.
In addition, you’ll have an opportunity to meet and feed reindeer, which many find delightful. It’s a simple but memorable activity that connects you directly with Lapland’s reindeer herding culture, and some reviews mention how friendly and curious the reindeers are, making it perfect for families or animal lovers.
The Possibility of Seeing the Northern Lights
Of course, the main goal is to witness the Aurora Borealis. The tour’s success depends on weather and solar activity, but many travelers—like one reviewer who called it a “magical northern lights” experience—have been lucky. Guides do their best to find the best viewing spots, and the small group size ensures that everyone can comfortably wait and watch.
Some reviews mention faint lights, while others have been ecstatic about the vivid displays that lit up the sky, dancing for over an hour. Several travelers appreciated the chance to simply relax and enjoy the silence, even if the lights didn’t appear as strongly as hoped.
Additional Touches and Personal Experiences
The tour is capped at 10 travelers, which keeps it intimate and flexible. Many reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, who share insights about local culture, nature, and the phenomena of the Northern Lights. Guides like Tina and Laura are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, often checking to make sure kids are comfortable and engaged.
Some travelers loved the bonus activities, like drilling into the frozen lake or feeding reindeer, which give a hands-on experience of Lapland’s traditional lifestyle. The inclusion of warm clothes and shoes is a real plus, as it means you can focus on the experience without worrying about freezing.
What We Think: Is This Tour Worth It?
Looking at the reviews and the itinerary, this tour offers solid value for those wanting an authentic, personalized Arctic experience. The combination of adventure, cultural insights, and chances to see the Northern Lights makes it stand out.
The small group size, attentive guides, and inclusion of local cuisine elevate it beyond a typical sightseeing trip. However, it’s important to acknowledge that aurora sightings are never guaranteed—cloudy skies or high activity can cloud your chances, but the journey itself remains rewarding.
The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, including transportation, thermal gear, and dinner. For travelers seeking a genuine Lapland adventure that balances fun activities with cultural encounters, this tour is a smart choice.
The Sum Up
This Northern Lights tour from Saariselkä to Lake Inari is best suited for travelers who value small-group intimacy, cultural authenticity, and Arctic adventure. If you’re prepared for cold nights and uncertain aurora displays, you’ll find this experience both enriching and exciting. The snowmobile sleigh ride, local dinner, and reindeer encounters combine to create a truly memorable trip that captures the spirit of Lapland.
While the possibility of missing out on the Northern Lights exists — as it does with all aurora tours — the journey itself, the stories, and the chance to connect with local life make this a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re a family, couple, or solo traveler eager for a genuine Arctic experience, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Finnish Lapland’s natural beauty and culture.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off in central Saariselkä are part of the package, making it easy to start and end your adventure without fuss.
What should I wear?
Warm thermal clothes and sturdy shoes are provided, but it’s wise to dress in layers underneath. The thermal suits are designed to insulate, and guides emphasize the importance of extra layers for comfort.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
There’s always a chance, but sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Many travelers have seen the lights, but some have not—yet, they still enjoyed the experience.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity rather than an all-day affair.
Are there vegetarian meal options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Guides often check in with families to ensure kids are comfortable, and feeding reindeer or sitting by the campfire can be especially appealing to children.
What is the maximum group size?
Limited to 10 travelers, to ensure a personalized and intimate experience.
Are there any areas not included in the pickup?
Yes, pickup does not cover Kakslauttanen and Kiilopää areas, so plan accordingly.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot up to 35 days in advance, often at a good value considering the included activities and local touches.
This tour is a well-rounded way to experience Lapland’s natural beauty, local culture, and the hope of a Northern Lights sighting. It balances adventure with comfort and offers a genuine taste of Arctic life—perfect for those seeking something authentic and memorable.