From Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Campfire & Snacks

Quick overview:
This Aurora Hunting Tour from Saariselkä takes you into the heart of Lapland’s winter magic, lasting about 3.5 hours. Led by a friendly local guide, you’ll travel comfortably in a Multivan Hybrid, journeying through snow-covered villages such as Ivalo and Nellim, toward the border with Russia. The highlight? A good chance to see the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, paired with the authentic Finnish experience of cooking sausages over an open fire.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized, small-group atmosphere—limited to just 3-6 people, which means more attention from your guide and a cozy setting. Second, the combination of scenic driving and outdoor campfire, blending comfort with adventure. Perhaps the only drawback is the unpredictability of the Aurora itself—since nature’s light show depends entirely on weather and solar activity, seeing the lights is never guaranteed, but the tour provides honest guidance on the likelihood based on current conditions.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate outing with chances for spectacular photos and genuine Finnish hospitality. If you’re longing for an authentic Arctic night with a friendly local guide, this tour strikes a nice balance of comfort and adventure.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to 3-6 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a modern, eco-friendly Multivan Hybrid.
• Authentic Finnish Campfire: Cook sausages over open flames and enjoy warm snacks.
• Great Scenery: Drive through picturesque villages and snowy landscapes.
• Flexible & Informative: Guides provide honest updates on Aurora chances and help with photography.
• Good Value: Combines transportation, guidance, snacks, and the Northern Lights hunt into one package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Charm of the Lapland Aurora Hunt

When you’re considering a Northern Lights tour in Lapland, it’s all about the experience—what you see, how you get there, and what you take home. This tour from Saariselkä offers a thoughtful mix of scenic travel, authentic Finnish treats, and a real chance to witness nature’s most elusive spectacle.

The journey begins with pickup in a comfortable Multivan Hybrid, which alone is a pleasant change from cramped buses or noisy vans. The hybrid vehicle is not only quiet but also eco-conscious, helping you feel good about your part in preserving this pristine environment. As you relax in the cabin, your guide, whose name we didn’t catch but whom we found friendly and knowledgeable, gives you a bit of background on Lapland’s landscape and the Northern Lights phenomena, setting the scene for a magical night ahead.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

The Drive Through Scenic Villages
Your guide takes you through the quiet, snow-dusted villages of Ivalo and Nellim, with some of the best winter views you’ll find in Northern Finland. The winding road offers glimpses of frozen lakes and forests blanketed in snow. One of the moments travelers mention repeatedly is the peaceful silence interrupted only by the gentle hum of the vehicle and the occasional call of a distant bird or the crunch of snow under the tires. The ride itself is a highlight, offering a chance to relax and take in the winter landscape without worry.

Arriving at the Paatsjoki River Bridge
The key moment arrives here, where the river rushes swiftly towards Russia. This spot is chosen because of its clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution—perfect for Aurora viewing. As the guide points out, while the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, this location maximizes your chances. The guide also provides updates on weather conditions and Aurora forecasts, so you’ll know if tonight’s sky might put on a show.

The Campfire and Finnish Snacks
Once outside, the real fun begins. You’ll light a small fire over a traditional open flame and cook Finnish sausages—a simple but delicious experience. For dessert, warm juice, buns, and cookies are served, adding a cozy touch to the chilly night. Travelers often mention how this part feels genuinely local, blending the thrill of the hunt with authentic Finnish hospitality. The fire’s warmth, combined with the snacks, makes the outdoor experience surprisingly comfortable, even in the depths of winter.

Capturing the Lights and Relaxing
The guide is happy to assist with photography, helping you capture the vibrant reds and greens that dance overhead. Many guests say that even if the Aurora doesn’t appear, the entire evening’s scenery—snow-laden trees, shimmering reflections on the river, and the star-studded sky—is worth the trip. If the lights do make an appearance, expect a display that’s both spectacular and fleeting, so having your camera ready is a must.

What’s Included and What to Consider

Included in the tour are the local guide, transportation in a hybrid vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, campfire snacks, hot juice, buns, and cookies, and the opportunity to photograph the Aurora. The guide can also take photos of you with the lights, adding a personal touch to your memories.

Not included is any special warm clothing, so dressing warmly in layers is essential. It’s also worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, due to outdoor conditions and uneven terrain.

The duration of 3.5 hours** strikes a good balance—enough time to travel, enjoy the campfire, and possibly catch the lights, without feeling overly long or rushed. Plus, the small group size means you get more personalized attention, and you can ask questions or seek tips from your guide.

Authenticity and Value

One of the things we appreciated most was the honest approach—the guide clearly explained that Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, and they are upfront about the chances. This transparency helps set realistic expectations, which is so important when chasing a natural phenomenon.

At roughly €100-€150 per person, the tour provides good value. It includes transportation, guiding, snacks, and the chance to experience Lapland’s winter magic without the hassle of organizing everything yourself. Plus, the cozy campfire and authentic Finnish sausages make it feel like a genuine local adventure rather than a commercialized spectacle.

Several reviews mention the stunning scenery—snow-covered trees reflecting in icy waters, the quiet of the Arctic night, and the shimmering sky. These moments can be unforgettable, especially when shared in a small, intimate group.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurers who prefer a relaxed pace, combining scenic drives with outdoor moments. Perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a cozy, authentic Arctic experience. If you’re hoping for perfect, guaranteed Aurora sightings, remember that nature is unpredictable—being flexible and open to rescheduling is wise. It’s also a good choice for those who don’t want to be in a large tour bus or spend hours outdoors standing around—this is more intimate and manageable.

Travelers who value local hospitality, scenic beauty, and a genuine Northern Lights adventure will find this tour rewarding. If you’re after a combination of comfort, small-group intimacy, and authentic Finnish snacks, it checks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

This Aurora Hunting Tour from Saariselkä offers a well-balanced blend of scenery, comfort, and authentic experience. The small-group setting creates an intimate atmosphere, ideal for those who appreciate personalized attention and meaningful moments under the Arctic sky. The journey through snowy villages, the chance to cook sausages over an open fire, and the hope of catching the Aurora make this a memorable addition to any Lapland itinerary.

While the lights remain a natural mystery, the honesty about the chances keeps expectations realistic, making the experience more satisfying regardless of the sky’s performance. The combination of scenic driving, outdoor campfire, and expert guidance makes this tour a solid choice for travelers seeking a genuine, cozy Arctic adventure.

If you’re looking for an experience that balances adventure, comfort, and authenticity—especially if photography and local culture are priorities—this tour will serve you well. Just remember to bundle up, keep your camera ready, and cherish the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter night.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, including transportation, campfire, and Aurora viewing.

Where does the tour pick me up?
Pickup is included from your hotel or accommodation in Saariselkä. You should be ready 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Alternatively, you can meet at the Holiday Club Saariselkä parking lot at Saariseläntie 7 at 8:30 PM.

What should I wear?
Dressing warmly is essential. Bring winter clothes, layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots to stay comfortable during outdoor moments.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While sightings depend on weather and solar activity, the guide provides honest updates on conditions and the likelihood of Aurora visibility.

Can I reschedule if the Aurora is not visible?
Yes, you can reschedule to another evening free of charge, based on weather and Aurora forecasts.

Is this tour suitable for children or wheelchair users?
It’s mainly designed for small groups and isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to outdoor conditions. Children are welcome, but parents should consider their child’s comfort in cold weather.

Does the tour include any other activities?
Beyond hunting the Aurora and cooking sausages, you’ll enjoy a forest walk and scenic drive through Lapland’s winter landscape.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the Multivan Hybrid is new, quiet, and designed for comfort, making your journey through the snow-covered scenery relaxing.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers guide services, transportation, snacks, campfire experience, and photo opportunities.

Can I take photos of the Northern Lights?
Absolutely. Your guide can assist in photographing the Aurora, helping you capture those fleeting moments.

In summary, this tour offers a warm, genuine taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland with a good chance to see the Northern Lights, all in an intimate setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic Arctic experience with friendly guidance and stunning scenery. Bundle up, be patient, and enjoy the quiet magic of the far north.

You can check availability for your dates here: