Saariselkä: Evening Snowmobile Tour with Fire & picnic

Exploring Saariselkä’s Evening Snowmobile Adventure: Fire, Food, and the Northern Lights

A three-hour snowmobile tour in Saariselkä, Finland, offers an exciting chance to venture into the midnight Arctic wilderness. For about $177 per person, you’ll be guided through snow-covered forests, across frozen hills, and along tranquil swamps, all while keeping an eye on the sky for the elusive Northern Lights. During this adventure, you’ll drive well-maintained snowmobiles, enjoy a fire-based picnic, and warm up with hot drinks—perfect for those craving authentic Arctic experiences without the fuss of complicated logistics.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guides seem to excel at creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere—reviewers repeatedly mention their knowledge and enthusiasm. Second, the stunning scenery of snow-laden forests and the chance to see the auroras dancing in the dark sky add a magical touch to the night. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the weather dependency—since northern lights visibility relies heavily on clear skies, the experience’s highlight may vary from night to night.

If you’re comfortable with winter activities, enjoy a bit of adventure, and are eager for a taste of true Lapland wilderness, this tour fits perfectly. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value guided experiences, safety instructions, and a chance to mingle over good food in the middle of the Arctic night.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Drive through snow-blanketed forests and hills under the night sky.
• Northern Lights Potential: Keep your eyes peeled for the aurora borealis, one of the highlights of visiting Lapland.
• Comfort & Safety: Warm winter clothing and clear instructions ensure a cozy, safe adventure.
• Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides make the tour fun, informative, and reassuring.
• Culinary Warm-up: Enjoy grilled sausages, hot drinks, and a campfire in the middle of the wilderness.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children over 4, with appropriate arrangements for safety and comfort.

Discovering the Arctic Wilderness at Night

The Saariselkä evening snowmobile tour takes you beyond the tourist centers into the quiet, starry silence of Lapland’s winter landscape. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel and handed warm gear, the excitement begins. We loved the way the guides explained snowmobiling basics, making it accessible even for first-timers, and then led us confidently into the dark, snow-laden forests.

Driving a snowmobile in the Arctic dark is nothing short of thrilling. As you glide over the snow, the headlights cut through the night, revealing shadowy trees and icy plains. The experience is both exhilarating and strangely peaceful, as the only sounds are the engine and the crunch of snow beneath. It’s a rare chance to see nature’s quiet beauty in a way few get to — especially at night when the forest seems to come alive with unseen movement.

The highlight for many is the midway stop, where the guide builds a campfire and you gather around for warmth and food. The sausages—including vegetarian and gluten-free options—are grilled over the open fire, filling the crisp air with smoky aromas. Hot drinks warm your hands and spirits, and you can relax in the stillness, gazing up at the stars, waiting for the Northern Lights to make an appearance.

What’s more, the guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. We read reviews, and it’s clear their enthusiasm adds a lot to the experience. One reviewer called their guides “AMAZING,” highlighting how they kept everyone informed and comfortable throughout the evening. From instruction to storytelling, you’ll likely feel well cared for.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour begins with hotel pickup, where you’ll be transported to the snowmobiling starting point. The transfer is smooth and scenic, giving you a glimpse of Saariselkä’s countryside before the adventure begins. Once there, you’ll be fitted with winter clothing—thermal suits, helmets, gloves—and given a safety briefing and instructions on handling the snowmobiles.

The group then splits, with two people sharing a snowmobile. This setup balances safety and intimacy, allowing you to enjoy the ride without feeling rushed or crowded. The drive lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, with the route carefully chosen to showcase the beauty of the forest, hills, and icy wetlands.

Midway, you’ll stop at a scenic spot, a peaceful clearing where the guide ignites a campfire. Here, you get to grill sausages, toast marshmallows, and sip hot drinks—an ideal way to break up the adventure and warm up. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, so dietary needs are accommodated. Many reviewers describe this break as a highlight, noting the cozy atmosphere and stunning surroundings.

After the fire, the group continues exploring, with the chance to glimpse the Northern Lights if the conditions cooperate. The guides encourage patience and attentiveness, as the aurora’s appearance is unpredictable but often breathtaking when it happens.

The tour concludes with a transfer back to Saariselkä, filled with stories, photos, and new appreciation for Lapland’s wilderness.

The Value of This Experience

For $177, you’re paying for more than just a snowmobile ride—you’re investing in an authentic, guided Arctic adventure. The inclusion of warm clothing, safety instructions, and hot drinks adds significant value, especially considering the cold temperatures. The fact that your guides seem passionate and knowledgeable enhances the overall experience—many reviews mention their enthusiasm and helpfulness, making novices feel comfortable.

Compared to independent snowmobiling, this tour offers peace of mind and convenience. The transportation is organized, so you don’t worry about navigating icy roads or equipment rental. Plus, the combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and culinary warmth makes for a balanced, memorable evening.

While the weather and aurora visibility depend on conditions, the unpredictability is part of the charm. Even if the northern lights don’t dance in the sky, the peaceful snow-covered landscape and the shared experience around the fire make this a worthwhile outing.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for travelers who want a guided, safe introduction to the Arctic winter. It suits those with a sense of adventure, a love for scenic outdoor activities, and an appreciation for local culture (through the campfire and sausages). Families with children over 4 will find it suitable, especially if they’re comfortable with winter gear and outdoor activities.

It’s also perfect for couples or small groups seeking a memorable night under the stars, with the added bonus of possibly witnessing the Northern Lights. If you enjoy driving snowmobiles, are curious about Lapland’s wilderness, or simply want to combine adventure with cozy comfort, this tour will deliver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The guides provide clear instructions on snowmobile operation, making it accessible even for first-timers.

What should I bring?
You’ll be provided with warm winter clothing, so just bring your driver’s license, and dress warmly underneath.

Can children participate?
Children aged 4 to 14 ride in a sledge behind the snowmobile. For safety and comfort, it’s recommended that a parent sit with small children in the sledge.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour depends on weather conditions, especially for viewing the Northern Lights. If clouds obscure the sky, the experience remains scenic and enjoyable, but the aurora view is not guaranteed.

How long is the snowmobiling part?
The driving experience lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, with a scenic stop in the middle.

Are gluten-free or vegetarian options available?
Yes, the sausages are available in vegetarian and gluten-free options.

What about safety and liability?
Snowmobile drivers must be at least 18 and hold a valid license. Liability for damages is limited, and safety instructions are provided.

Are pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the cost.

The Sum Up

The Saariselkä Evening Snowmobile Tour with Fire & Picnic offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Lapland’s wilderness. It combines the thrill of snowmobiling, the serenity of night-time forest landscapes, and the warmth of a campfire meal—all under the possibility of catching the Northern Lights. This experience is perfect for those seeking adventure with a touch of comfort, guided by knowledgeable leaders who truly care about making your night memorable.

Whether you’re a first-time snowmobiler, a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, or simply want a unique Arctic story to tell, this tour provides incredible value. The scenery, the stories, and the chance to see the lights make it a highlight of any Lapland trip.

If you’re after a safe, guided, and scenic Arctic adventure in a small-group setting, look no further. Just remember, clear skies are key for the auroras—so keep your fingers crossed for a starry night.

Additional Information

What to bring: Driver’s license

Not suitable for: Infants 0-3 years, pregnant women, people with fragile musculoskeletal systems, or those with mobility issues.

Languages: English

Cancellation policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Duration: Approximately 3 hours, including transportation

Price: $177 per person, offering a great balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural experience

Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or simply seeking a memorable winter adventure, this snowmobile tour delivers a genuine taste of Lapland’s wild beauty—an experience you’ll talk about long after you’re back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: