Saariselkä: Northern Lights Tour to Lake Inari & Dinner

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights in a setting that combines natural beauty with authentic Lappish culture, this tour from Saariselkä might be just what you’re looking for. For around $210 per person, you’ll spend about five hours exploring the frozen wilderness, traveling in a snowmobile-drawn sleigh, and enjoying a homemade dinner beside a campfire. Led by friendly local guides, this experience promises a good shot at catching a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis, along with opportunities to meet reindeers and savor traditional Finnish fare.

What we love about this experience is the intimate nature of the small group setting, which makes it easier to have a genuine connection with both the natural environment and your guide. We also appreciate the focus on authenticity — from the homemade dinner prepared in a traditional teepee to the chance to interact with reindeers, you’ll get a real taste of Lapland life.

One thing to consider is the weather; since this tour is outdoors in the Arctic winter, conditions can be quite cold and unpredictable. Warm clothing is provided, but you’ll want to be prepared for a night in the snow.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and are prepared for the cold. It’s ideal for those wanting more than just a quick Northern Lights chase, seeking instead an immersive Arctic adventure with local flavor.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: You’ll visit a Sami village, meet reindeers, and enjoy traditional Finnish food.
• Beautiful Scenery: The frozen lakeside offers stunning views, especially if the Northern Lights make an appearance.
• Comfort & Convenience: Thermal clothing and shoes are provided, and the small group size ensures a more personal experience.
• Cultural Insight: Guides share stories about Sami life, adding depth to your Arctic adventure.
• Flexible Cancellation & Payment: Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund; book now, pay later option available.
• Weather Considerations: Expect outdoor cold conditions, so proper clothing and gear are essential.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Your Adventure in Saariselkä
The journey begins with a hotel pickup in Saariselkä, which makes things easy and stress-free. You’ll be transported in a minibus to the tour’s base in Ivalo, where you’ll receive thermal clothing and sturdy shoes, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the Arctic chill. This thoughtful detail means you won’t be burdened by bulky winter gear and can focus on enjoying the scenery.

Traveling Into the Wilderness
The highlight of this tour is the snowmobile sleigh ride, which takes you deep into the Arctic wilderness. The sleigh, covered with reindeer hide, is surprisingly comfortable and warm, making the journey an enjoyable part of the experience. As you glide across the frozen landscape, you’ll get a sense of how remote and pristine this part of Lapland truly is.

Lake Inari and Aurora Spotting
One of the most enchanting aspects is the stop at Lake Inari, where the vast, silent waters stretch out in all directions. This is the prime spot for Northern Lights viewing, especially if the weather cooperates. The guide will explain the science and stories behind the Aurora, but more importantly, they’ll help you stay patient and focused on the night sky.

Authentic Sami Hospitality
After the sleigh ride, you’ll visit a Sami village situated on a small island. Here, guides Tina and Tapio, who live locally, share their everyday life and traditions. You’ll have the chance to feed reindeers — a favorite among travelers, as one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide took some great photos of the northern lights and had a friendly approach.”

Dinner in a Traditional Teepee
The dinner takes place in a traditional Lappish teepee around an open campfire. The hosts prepare a hearty meal of local fish or reindeer, with vegetarian options available upon request. Hot drinks keep everyone warm as the Northern Lights dance overhead, adding to the cozy, authentic atmosphere. This is a lovely, relaxed way to end the evening, combining good food with storytelling and the natural spectacle of the Arctic night.

Group Size and Guides
With limited to 12 participants, the small group setting encourages interaction and makes it easier for guides to personalize the experience. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights about local customs, wildlife, and the environment, which adds depth to what might otherwise be a simple sightseeing trip.

Transportation, Timing, and Practical Details

The tour lasts about five hours, starting with a pickup from your hotel — typically around 7 pm, though check the availability for precise times. The drive to Ivalo, about an hour, is straightforward, and the return is similarly convenient. The tour’s duration makes it accessible without feeling rushed but long enough to soak in the atmosphere.

The snowmobile sleigh ride is the centerpiece, and the thermal clothing provided ensures you stay warm during the outdoor portions. Remember, this is a winter adventure, so dress in layers and be prepared for cold, especially if the Northern Lights are elusive.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer, Lucie, highlighted the authenticity and value: “The evening was beautiful, and the guide took some great photos that were instantly sent to our phones. Meeting Sami people and hearing their stories was a memorable part.” She also pointed out that, although pricey, the experience felt well worth it.

Others appreciated the natural beauty, the friendly guides, and the overall intimate setting — making this tour a standout for those wanting more than just a quick Aurora chase. The chance to meet reindeers and enjoy a traditional meal is often cited as one of the highlights.

Analyzing the Value

While $210 might seem steep, it covers most essentials — transportation, thermal gear, a guided sleigh ride, reindeer interaction, and a hearty, authentic dinner. The small-group size and personal touch add to the value, ensuring you’re not just another face in a large crowd. Plus, the inclusive nature of the experience — combining nature, culture, and cuisine — makes it more rewarding than a simple Northern Lights hunt.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re after an authentic, culturally rich Arctic adventure. It suits travelers who appreciate small groups, personal stories, and outdoor activities. It’s especially appealing if you want to combine the thrill of snowmobiling with culture and the hope of seeing the Northern Lights in a stunning natural setting.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those who dislike cold weather might find parts of this experience challenging. Also, since children under 7 aren’t recommended, it’s better suited for older kids or adults.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 7 years old are not recommended, likely due to outdoor conditions and the nature of snowmobile rides.

What should I wear?
Thermal clothing and shoes are provided, but you should dress warmly in layers, including hats, gloves, and insulated outerwear, to stay comfortable during the outdoor portions.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also offers a “reserve now & pay later” option for flexibility.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, snowmobile sleigh ride, thermal clothing and shoes, feeding reindeers, dinner (local fish or reindeer, vegetarian options available), and a knowledgeable guide.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
While the Aurora is a natural phenomenon and can’t be guaranteed, the tour’s location and timing increase your chances. The guides are experienced at finding good viewing conditions.

How long is the tour?
Expect about five hours, with the main activities concentrated in the evening, starting around 7 pm.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size and friendly atmosphere make it easy to meet others, and solo travelers often find the experience enriching.

What’s the best time to go?
While the tour details don’t specify, Northern Lights tours in Lapland are generally best in winter months from late September to March when the nights are longest and darkest.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights tour to Lake Inari offers more than just a chance to see the Aurora — it delivers a well-rounded, culturally immersive Arctic experience. From snowmobile sleigh rides across frozen lakes to cozy dinners in traditional teepees and interactions with reindeers, you’ll connect with the landscape and local culture in a meaningful way.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid large, impersonal tours and prefer a more intimate experience, filled with storytelling and authentic activities. If you’re after a genuine taste of Lapland — one that combines natural beauty, local traditions, and the hope of a magical sky — this tour is worth considering.

While the price is not insignificant, the included gear, authentic experiences, and opportunity to see the Northern Lights in such a pristine setting make it a solid value. Just remember, Arctic weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly and go with an open mind for a night that could be truly unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here: