Saariselka: Snowmobile Safari on Tundra with BBQ

Saariselka: Snowmobile Safari on Tundra with BBQ is a popular tour set against the stunning backdrop of Finnish Lapland. For three hours, you’ll hop on a modern Lynx snowmobile—either as a driver or passenger—and venture into the snowy wilderness, with the chance to enjoy a barbecue and warm drinks in the middle of the forest. Priced reasonably and rated 4.7 out of 5 based on 49 reviews, this experience offers a wonderful mix of adrenaline, scenery, and authentic local flavor.

What we love about this tour is the combination of thrilling snowmobiling through pristine winter landscapes and the tasty, warming barbecue break in the forest. The guides, Utsav and Retta, are praised for their friendly care and local knowledge, making the adventure both safe and deeply enjoyable. Another highlight is the modern, eco-friendly snowmobiles—quiet, easy to drive, and designed to minimize environmental impact, ensuring a smoother, less intrusive ride.

The only potential consideration? The group size and the nature of outdoor winter activities mean you’ll be exposed to cold weather, so dressing warmly is essential. Those who prefer a more relaxed pace or are less comfortable on snow might want to consider passenger options or clarify the driving arrangements beforehand.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers, families, and older travelers alike—especially those who appreciate stunning winter scenery and authentic, guided experiences in Lapland’s wilderness.

Key Points

• Authentic Snowmobiling: Drive or sit on a modern, silent snowmobile through forests and open fields.
• Expert Guides: Friendly guides ensure safety and enrich the experience with local insights.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect panoramic views of snow-covered forests and winter landscapes.
• Inclusive Equipment & Transfers: All necessary gear, winter clothes, and hotel pickups are included.
• Tasty Break: Enjoy a hearty barbecue and warm beverages in the middle of the forest.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Saariselka Snowmobile Safari

What is the Experience Like?

When you sign up for this three-hour snowmobile safari, you’re signing up for more than just a ride—you’re entering Lapland’s winter wonderland. The adventure begins with a briefing, where you’ll learn how to operate the Lynx snowmobiles on specially prepared tracks. If you’re new to snowmobiling, don’t worry: these machines are described as easy to drive and eco-friendly, making them suitable even for first-timers.

Once underway, your guides will lead you through snowy forests and across open fields, offering awe-inspiring views of the winter landscape. The silence of the snowmobiles, combined with the pristine surroundings, makes for a peaceful yet exhilarating experience. Some part of the ride may involve driving yourself, while other moments could be spent as a passenger, as the vehicles are equipped with seats for that purpose.

The Scenic Beauty

The scenery is undeniably the star here. We loved the way the snow blankets everything in a white glow, transforming forests into fairy-tale scenes. As you glide over the snow, you’ll notice how the landscape shifts from dense woods to wide open snowfields—perfect for capturing photos or simply marveling at nature’s quiet grandeur.

Many reviews praise the stunning views. “We loved the way we could visit many different spots and enjoy breathtaking vistas,” one visitor noted. This variety keeps the tour lively and visually engaging, making it more than just a straightforward ride.

The Forest BBQ and Warm Beverages

After some time on the snowmobile, you’ll stop in a cozy spot in the forest for a barbecue. This is a real highlight, offering a chance to warm up and refuel in a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. The company provides warm drinks and snacks, which many reviewers found satisfying after a cold ride.

One guest commented, “The lunch was GREAT, and the guides took care of us every step of the way.” The opportunity to sit around a fire, enjoy traditional food, and chat in the quiet of Lapland’s woods adds a warm, authentic touch to this outdoor adventure.

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Equipment, Transfers, and Comfort

All necessary winter gear, boots, and equipment are included, so you don’t need to worry about dressing for the cold. Given the winter conditions, packing warm layers, gloves, and a hat is still advisable. Hotel transfers from Ivalo, Saariselka, or Kakslauttanen are included, making logistics hassle-free—just show up, and they’ll handle the rest.

The small group size ensures you get personal attention from guides and a more intimate experience. The flexibility to choose between driving or riding as a passenger is a plus, particularly for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or are less confident in snowy conditions.

Genuine Experiences from Other Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable the guides are. Utsav and Retta, in particular, are praised for their friendly, attentive care, and their efforts to deliver an authentic local experience. One traveler noted, “My partner did all the driving, and she’ll remember it forever,” highlighting how accessible and enjoyable the experience can be, regardless of age or ability.

Is It Worth the Price?

At a reasonable cost, considering all equipment, transfers, warm drinks, snacks, and the guided experience are included, this tour offers excellent value. The scenery, fun, and authenticity provided make it a memorable addition to any Lapland itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits a broad range of travelers. If you’re adventure-minded, love outdoor activities, or want to see Finland’s winter beauty in a lively way, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Families with older children, couples, and even seniors—who can opt to sit as passengers—have all found this tour rewarding.

However, if you’re not comfortable in cold weather or with outdoor winter sports, it’s worth noting the need for proper layering and possibly sticking to passenger seats.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to combine adventure, scenic beauty, and genuine local flavor, this Saariselka snowmobile safari is a fantastic choice. The modern, ecological snowmobiles, combined with the friendly guidance and authentic forest BBQ, make it a well-rounded experience that balances thrill and relaxation.

While it’s primarily an outdoor activity, the overall comfort includes gear, transfers, and a warm break, ensuring you’re not just cold and tired but refreshed and inspired by Lapland’s winter magic.

If you’re craving a visual feast of snow-covered forests and an opportunity to try snowmobiling in a safe, guided environment, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who cherish outdoor adventure with a touch of cozy, authentic Finnish hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have prior snowmobiling experience?
No, not at all. You’ll receive a briefing on how to operate the snowmobiles, and the guides will assist you throughout the ride. The snowmobiles are described as easy to drive, even for beginners.

Is the tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, especially since the vehicles are equipped with passenger seats, making it accessible for those who prefer not to drive or are less confident on snow. Reviewers as old as 79 have enjoyed the experience.

What should I wear for the tour?
Warm clothing is provided, including winter gear and boots. Still, it’s wise to dress in layers and bring gloves, a hat, and thermal wear underneath.

What’s included in the price?
All equipment, winter clothes, boots, hotel transfers, warm beverages, snacks, snowmobile ride, and an instructor are included. Solo driving can be added at an extra cost.

How long are the transfers?
Transfers from Ivalo are around 1 PM, Saariselka at 1:30 PM, and Kakslauttanen at 1:45 PM. The total activity lasts about three hours, including breaks.

Can I drive the snowmobile alone?
Solo driving is available as an add-on during booking, but most will likely ride as a passenger at least once.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is alcohol allowed during the tour?
No, alcohol and drugs are not permitted, for safety reasons.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, outdoor activities depend on snow and weather conditions. It’s best to check the forecast and dress accordingly.

This snowmobile safari from Saariselka offers a fantastic way to experience Lapland’s winter landscape, combining adrenaline with authentic rustic charm. Whether you’re a seasoned snowmobiler or a first-timer, the guides’ expertise and the stunning scenery promise a memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: