Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Northern Lights Experts

Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Northern Lights Experts

Starting at just $158 per person for a 3-hour adventure, this tour takes you into the heart of Finnish Lapland’s wilderness to chase the elusive Aurora Borealis. Guided by experienced locals, you’ll hop into a cozy minivan, with the flexibility to go beyond the usual spots, depending on weather and forecast conditions. It’s a well-organized, small-group experience that’s ideal for anyone eager to see the Northern Lights without waiting around in cold, uninspired spots.

Two things we particularly appreciate? First, the smart use of real-time forecasts to choose the best locations, rather than sticking to predictable, overused sites. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides who are eager to share their insights—whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just someone hoping for a magical night sky.

A potential consideration? The tour can get quite long and cold if weather conditions shift unexpectedly, so dressing warmly and being prepared for outdoor waits is essential.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic, flexible adventures and enjoy the company of small groups. It’s especially perfect if you’re keen on learning more about the Northern Lights, Lapland’s nature, and its culture—guides are happy to answer questions and share stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible location choices based on real-time weather and Aurora forecasts increase your chances of seeing the lights.
• Small group size (6-8 people) offers intimacy and easier movement to prime spotting locations.
• Expert guides provide in-depth explanations about the Aurora Borealis and Lapland’s natural environment.
• Comfortable minivan transportation allows you to travel in warmth, with the ability to go off-road into more secluded areas.
• Warm drinks and snacks help keep spirits high during outdoor waiting periods.
• Tour customization ensures that even if weather is challenging, guides will adapt plans to maximize your experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Hunting Tour in Saariselkä

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Unlike more static Aurora-viewing options, this tour emphasizes “hunting” the lights rather than just hoping they appear. Guided by seasoned locals, you’ll be driven to the best spots for clear skies, which can vary from night to night. The tour’s adaptability is a real plus—guides analyze weather forecasts and Aurora activity in real-time, moving the group to different locations as needed. This approach significantly boosts your chances of witnessing the mesmerizing dance of green, red, or even purple lights overhead.

The Itinerary and Its Appeal

The tour starts with pickup from your Saariselkä accommodation, within a 15 km radius. Once aboard a comfortable minivan—either a Mercedes or a VW T5—the adventure begins. The journey takes you into the remote wilderness, away from the light pollution of the village, into areas where the sky opens up and the Aurora can shine brightest.

During the night, you’ll make several stops, sometimes in secluded spots, sometimes at scenic lakes or open fields. Travelers like Rui and Serena have raved about the multiple location changes, which increase viewing chances and keep the experience fresh. Serena highlighted how their guide, Eugene, was not only multilingual but also detailed in explaining the Aurora and offering tips for photography.

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The Experience Outside the Van

While most of your time is spent inside the vehicle, the real magic happens outdoors. When the guides spot potential Aurora activity, they’ll stop, and everyone can step outside, bundling up in winter jackets, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots. The cold is part of the experience, but guides make it comfortable by offering hot drinks and snacks—a small but meaningful touch that keeps everyone’s spirits high.

The Guides and Their Knowledge

From Omar’s review praising Walter’s “deep knowledge” to Ritika’s appreciation for Alice’s attentiveness, the guides earn high marks for their enthusiasm, friendliness, and ability to spot Aurora activity quickly. Many reviews mention guides going above and beyond, staying late or changing plans to give everyone a better chance to witness the lights. The guides are also happy to answer questions about the Northern Lights, Lapland’s culture, reindeer herding, and Sami traditions.

Photography and Viewing Tips

If you’re interested in capturing the Aurora, you can request a photography package in advance for about $15 per person. Guides generally give tips on how to take better photos with your phone or camera during stops, which many reviews suggest is a big bonus. Even if you’re not a photographer, simply enjoying the spectacle with your own eyes is unforgettable.

The Price and Its Value

At $158, this tour offers exceptional value considering transportation, expert guidance, warm drinks, and multiple stops. Compared to the cost of a night in Saariselkä, this is a small price to pay for a chance to see one of nature’s most stunning phenomena. Many travelers, like Zainab and Juyeon, have described their experience as “money well spent,” praising guides’ dedication and their own unforgettable sightings.

Possible Drawbacks

The main caveat is that Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings are never guaranteed. Weather and cloud cover can interfere, but the guides’ proactive approach minimizes this risk. Also, since the tour can last up to three hours, be prepared for a potentially long night outdoors in wintery conditions. The vehicle rides can also be quite long depending on the forecast and weather, so patience and warm clothing are essential.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who prefers a personalized, dynamic approach to Aurora hunting, this tour is perfect. It suits travelers eager to learn about the lights from knowledgeable guides, and who don’t mind braving cold nights for a shot at a spectacular display. It’s excellent for small groups and couples but might feel cramped with larger parties.

Final Thoughts

This Saariselkä Aurora Hunting Tour strikes a balance between comfort, adventure, and authenticity. It’s obvious from reviews that the dedicated guides make a real difference—they are passionate, well-informed, and eager to give guests the best possible chance of seeing the Northern Lights. The small-group format enhances the experience, making it intimate and flexible, especially important in unpredictable weather conditions.

While the experience can’t guarantee a sighting, the thoughtful planning and knowledgeable guides mean you’re much more likely to witness something truly magical. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots, with a focus on learning, flexibility, and genuine outdoor adventure.

If you’re willing to dress warmly and keep a flexible attitude, this tour provides excellent value in the realm of Lapland’s Aurora experiences. Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning for a repeat, the chance to see the Northern Lights with local experts is hard to beat.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with available start times depending on the day.

Does the tour include pickup from my accommodation?
Yes, pickup is included from locations within a 15 km radius of Saariselkä.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm winter clothing, including a hat, gloves, and sturdy boots. The outdoor waiting periods can be quite cold, so layering is key.

Can I get my photos taken during the tour?
Yes, you can request a photography package in advance for about $15 per person, and guides can also give helpful tips for capturing the Aurora.

Is there a chance I won’t see the Northern Lights?
Yes, since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings can’t be guaranteed. The guides do everything possible to maximize your chances based on weather and Aurora activity.

What if the weather is cloudy?
Guides will adapt by moving to different locations with clearer skies, but cloud cover can still prevent sightings.

How many people are in each group?
The tour typically accommodates 6-8 guests, providing a more personalized experience.

Are snacks and drinks provided?
Yes, warm drinks and snacks are included, helping you stay comfortable during outdoor waits.

Can children join the tour?
Yes, children over 1 year old are welcome, but the tour isn’t suitable for infants under 1 year.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if weather looks unfavorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: