Auroras Northern Lights in Saariselka

Traveling to Lapland and chasing the Northern Lights is often a bucket-list item for winter adventurers, and this tour in Saariselka promises just that — a chance to see one of nature’s most stunning phenomena. While it’s not a guarantee—after all, the Northern Lights are dependent on weather and solar activity—this tour is designed to give you the best possible shot at witnessing those elusive green and purple swirls.

What immediately attracts us about this experience is its small-group feel combined with the expert guidance. Plus, the inclusion of a cozy barbecue in the wilderness sounds like a lovely way to wait out the dark hours. That said, it’s good to know upfront that the tour involves long drives and that seeing the Aurora depends partly on Mother Nature’s mood. It’s ideal for travelers who are patient, eager for a blend of education, cultural storytelling, and natural beauty.

If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized adventure that balances the thrill of the chase with comfort and cultural insights, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning about local folklore, taking photos, and sharing a warm meal under the stars. But if you’re looking for a high-intensity, action-packed experience, you might want to explore some of the more adrenaline-fueled options available nearby.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides share insights about the Northern Lights, local life, and mythology.
• Optimal viewing locations: The tour uses partly private sites far from light pollution, increasing your chances of seeing the Aurora.
• Comfort and warmth: Includes winter gear, a warm hut, and a cozy tepee to relax in while waiting.
• Cultural richness: Stories, shamanistic experiences, and sharing photos create a memorable cultural atmosphere.
• Food and photography: Barbecue snacks and tips on capturing the lights make this a rewarding experience.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance helps keep your plans stress-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Northern Lights Tour

An Intimate, Guided Journey into Arctic Darkness

From the start, this tour is all about maximizing your chances to spot the Aurora while providing an enriching experience. The trip lasts around three hours, with flexible pickup times based on your hotel location—be sure to check the schedule when booking. Once you’re picked up, expect a comfortable ride through snowy landscapes, with stops to chase the lights if they appear earlier or later than expected.

Reaching the Best Viewing Spots

The tour takes you to the best partly private sites in the Saariselka area, chosen specifically for their dark skies and microclimate advantages. These locations are away from the bright glow of villages and hotels, which is crucial because the Northern Lights are often faint and need as much darkness as possible to be visible.

According to reviews, the sites are far from light pollution and situated in areas where even if the weather is foggy elsewhere, the microclimate might keep your view clear. This flexibility is a big plus, especially during harsh winter weather when visibility can be unpredictable. The tour’s longer duration allows guides to follow the lights if they appear early or late, increasing your chances to see that unforgettable glow.

Engaging Cultural Stories and Mythology

A major highlight is the storytelling element—guides share information about the Northern Lights, Lappish mythology, and local life. One reviewer mentioned how their guide, Franzi, was very knowledgeable in observing the Northern Lights and stars, adding a layer of educational value. They also shared stories about old myths, local traditions, and even some shamanistic practices, making the experience richer than just staring at the sky.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cozy, Authentic Atmosphere

Part of the charm is the setting in a tepee and a warm hut, where you can relax, enjoy a traditional barbecue, and chat with fellow travelers. The barbecue includes snacks suitable for all diets, which is thoughtful. Guests loved the cozy, intimate setup—a stark contrast to the often cold, impersonal nature of some other tours.

Photography Tips and Sharing Memories

Photographing the Northern Lights is notoriously tricky, especially with smartphone cameras. Fortunately, the guides offer advice on how to take better pictures and share the images they manage to capture. Many guests appreciated this, noting that the pictures provided afterward are a wonderful keepsake.

The Food and Social Aspect

The barbecue is surprisingly well-reviewed, with travelers enjoying sausages, pancakes, and other snacks while waiting in the warmth of the tepee or hut. This communal aspect makes the experience feel relaxed and friendly, rather than rushed or overly commercial.

Price and Overall Value

At $169 per person, this tour strikes a reasonable balance between cost and experience. Considering the inclusion of local transfers, winter gear, expert guides, food, and the opportunity to see the Aurora, many feel it offers fair value—especially since you’re paying for a curated, small-group adventure rather than a generic bus ride.

The Realities: What You Should Know

While many guests rave about their experience, it’s important to stay realistic. The Northern Lights are not guaranteed—they depend on weather and solar activity. Several reviews mention that cloud cover or poor conditions limited their visibility, but they still enjoyed the overall atmosphere and storytelling. Some guests noted that photos taken during the tour varied in quality, which is common, so managing expectations about photography is wise.

The tour involves long drives to reach the best sites, and for some, this could be tiring, especially in cold weather. If you’re someone sensitive to long periods outside or in chilly conditions, dressing warmly and comfortably is a must. The tour provides winter gear, but layering and proper boots are recommended.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Since the tour is described as small and intimate, you’ll likely enjoy a more personal experience. The reviews highlight friendly guides and a welcoming atmosphere, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. Large groups or families with young children may find the setting a bit quiet or demanding due to the cold and darkness.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who are keen on learning about the Northern Lights and local culture while enjoying a relaxing, scenic outing. It’s especially suitable for those who value small-group intimacy, good storytelling, and comfortable viewing rather than high-energy activities. If you’re patient and have realistic expectations about seeing the Aurora, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s also ideal for those who love photography and sharing memories as the guides provide help and pictures afterward. If your main goal is a fun, cultural night under the stars with good food and warm company, this tour hits the right notes.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more active, fast-paced experience, you might want to look elsewhere. And remember—nothing can guarantee the Aurora, so a sense of adventure and flexibility are key.

FAQs

What does the tour include?
The tour covers local transfers, a guide, winter gear, barbecue snacks, and assistance with photographing the Aurora. A warm hut and a cozy tepee are also part of the experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transfers from all major hotels in the area, making logistics straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability and your hotel pickup.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof boots and thermal clothing. The tour provides winter gear, but being prepared is always best.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
While not explicitly mentioned, the experience’s outdoor and dark nature suggests it’s better suited for older children or adults. Check with the provider if you’re traveling with children.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Seeing the Aurora is weather-dependent. Even if it’s cloudy, many guests still enjoy the storytelling, food, and atmosphere.

Are the photos shared afterward?
Yes, guides share pictures they take during the tour via a cloud service, although quality may vary.

Is the tour private or group-based?
It’s a small group experience, making it more personal than large bus tours.

What if the weather is bad?
The guides will do their best to find clear skies and adjust stops, but weather conditions might limit visibility.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a balanced, well-organized Northern Lights tour that emphasizes cultural storytelling, cozy settings, and expert guidance, this Saariselka experience deserves serious consideration. It offers a genuine chance to see the Aurora, combined with the warmth of shared food and stories in the Arctic night.

Many travelers have found this tour to be more than just a lights hunt—it’s a memorable, atmospheric journey that blends nature, culture, and comfort. Just keep your expectations realistic about sighting the Aurora—it’s an unpredictable wonder, but the overall experience is designed to make your night in Lapland truly special.

For those who love a relaxed, educational, and scenic adventure, this tour hits the right notes. Whether you’re chasing the lights or soaking in the silence and stories of Lapland, you’ll walk away with more than just photos—you’ll have stories to tell for years.

You can check availability for your dates here: