Saariselkä: Evening Snowmobile Tour with Fire & picnic

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a winter wonderland with a dash of adventure, this Evening Snowmobile Tour from Saariselkä offers just that. While we haven’t personally strapped into a snowmobile ourselves, the reviews and details paint a picture of an experience tailored for those craving a mix of adrenaline, Arctic beauty, and cozy moments.

What really draws us in? The chance to drive through frozen landscapes at night—a true highlight for anyone wanting to feel the rawness of Lapland’s wilderness. Plus, the opportunity to glimpse the northern lights while warming up around a campfire sounds like a memory-maker. That said, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t for everyone—it’s best suited for those comfortable with snowmobiling, and it’s not recommended for very young children or pregnant women.

This tour seems to strike a balance between adventure and comfort, making it a solid pick for travelers seeking an authentic Arctic experience without sacrificing convenience. If you’re someone eager for a taste of the wild, paired with warm drinks and sausages grilled over a fire, then this might be just the outing you’re looking for.

Key Points

• A Nighttime Adventure: Drive snowmobiles across stunning, snow-covered landscapes under the night sky.
• Northern Lights Search: Keep an eye on the sky for the elusive aurora borealis, an unforgettable sight.
• Cozy Campfire Break: Pause halfway to warm up by the fire, enjoy grilled sausages and hot drinks.
• All-Inclusive Warm Clothing: No need to worry about the cold — winter gear is provided, making it accessible.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides lead the way, making the tour informative and safe.
• Duration & Group Size: About 3 hours total, with roughly 1.5-2 hours of actual snowmobiling, in small groups for a more personal feel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the Tour

The Itinerary in a Nutshell

This guided snowmobile safari begins with pickup from Saariselkä, making logistics a breeze. You’ll be transported to the starting point, where your adventure kicks off. The tour is well-paced, with roughly 1.5 to 2 hours of driving through the Arctic’s snowy terrain. As you set out, your headlights illuminate the forested hills, frozen wetlands, and snow-blanketed hills—each turn revealing a pristine winter scene.

The guides are welcoming and clear in their instructions, ensuring even first-timers feel confident behind the controls. According to reviews, many participants found the guides to be “very clear” and “amazing,” which helps make the experience less intimidating and more fun.

The Halfway Rest & Campfire

About halfway through, you’ll stop at a scenic spot where your guide builds a fire. This is where the magic of this tour really comes alive. You’ll get to relax, snack on grilled sausages—vegetarian and gluten-free options are available—and sip hot drinks. It’s a cozy moment in the wilderness, with the crackling fire offering warmth and a chance to chat with fellow travelers or simply soak in the tranquility of snowy woods.

One review highlights this as a “great touch,” emphasizing how the sausages and drinks added to the experience. Another mentions that the guides kept everyone well-informed and made the stop enjoyable.

The Northern Lights and Nighttime Beauty

One of this tour’s big draws is the chance to see the aurora borealis. While there’s no guarantee of a sighting—after all, nature can be unpredictable—the possibility adds a layer of excitement. The guides advise keeping your eyes on the sky, especially during the darker hours, for that chance to witness the dancing lights in the Arctic sky.

Participants have shared that the guides are knowledgeable about the best viewing spots, and many review comments mention how stunning the surroundings are at night, with or without the aurora.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snowmobiles & Gear

The snowmobiles provided are described as well-maintained, which is reassuring for safety and comfort. The tour includes warm clothing, so you can focus on enjoying the ride without worrying about freezing. This is a huge plus for those traveling light, as cold-weather gear can be bulky and expensive to rent on your own.

Each snowmobile is shared by two people, which means you’ll either be riding as a passenger or taking turns driving if you’re traveling with a partner. For groups of three or more, a driver supplement is recommended.

Who Will Enjoy This?

The experience seems ideal for adventurous travelers who are comfortable on snowmobiles and eager to explore the Arctic at night. The age restrictions—drivers must be at least 18 with a valid license, children 4-14 sit in sledges behind guides—mean it’s not a full family activity. However, if you’re traveling as a couple or a small group, you’ll find this tour offers a memorable mix of thrill and serenity.

The Practical Side

Price & Value

At $177 per person, this experience is a fair price considering the included gear, guiding, and the memorable nature of the activity. The addition of hot drinks and sausages makes the stop more than just a photo op; it’s a chance to really soak in the wilderness in comfort.

Given that many reviews mention the guides’ professionalism and the overall quality of the experience, it seems like a solid value. The small group setting and well-maintained equipment add to the sense of safety and intimacy, which is often worth paying a bit extra.

Duration & Availability

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with the actual snowmobiling taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. Starting times vary, so checking availability is key. The flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay-later options, allow you to plan without stress.

Transportation

Included in the tour is hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics. Just be aware that the guide’s confirmation email will specify the exact meeting time, and you’ll need your driver’s license to participate.

Suitability & Restrictions

This experience isn’t suitable for infants or pregnant women, and individuals with fragile musculoskeletal systems may want to reconsider. Children aged 4-14 are seated in a sledge, and it’s advisable for at least one parent to sit with small children for safety and comfort. Drivers must be at least 18 and hold a valid license.

Reviews from Others

The glowing reviews reassure us that this tour is well-organized and enjoyable. One participant called it “excellent,” praising the timely pickup, warm gear, and clear instructions. Guides like Marianna, Elias, and Pauline are singled out for their friendliness and professionalism—crucial when dealing with adventure activities.

Participants also love the stunning views, describing the experience as “absolutely loved” and “fantastic night,” especially highlighting the quality of guiding and the atmosphere around the campfire.

Final Thoughts

This evening snowmobile adventure offers a wonderful way to experience Lapland’s winter magic from a unique vantage point. The combination of driving through snow-blanketed forests, enjoying a cozy fire, and the possibility of catching the northern lights makes for a memorable outing.

If you’re comfortable on a snowmobile, appreciate guided experiences, and are enthusiastic about Arctic landscapes, you’ll likely find this tour a highlight of your trip. It balances adventure with some comfort and the chance to see the Northern Lights if luck is on your side.

For those who love being active and want an authentic Arctic experience, this tour is worth considering. It’s not perfect for families with very young children or those with mobility issues, but for most adventurous travelers, it’s a genuine, well-reviewed way to embrace Lapland’s winter.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Saariselkä are included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Your driver’s license is essential. The tour provides warm clothing, so you don’t need to pack heavy winter gear.

How long is the snowmobiling part?
Drive time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, within a total tour duration of about 3 hours.

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

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4-14 sit in a sledge behind the guide’s snowmobile. Drivers must be at least 18 with a valid license.

Can I see the northern lights on this tour?
There’s a good chance, but as with all aurora sightings, it depends on weather and solar activity. Keep your eyes on the sky during the trip.

What’s included in the price?
Guided snowmobile safaris, warm clothing, snowmobile instructions, hot drinks, grilled sausages, and transportation.

Are the snowmobiles safe?
Yes, they are well-maintained. Guides provide clear instructions to ensure safe driving.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Not suitable for infants or pregnant women. Children over 140 cm can ride as passengers but may require an adult to accompany them.

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

If you’re after a mix of adventure, Arctic scenery, and cozy moments, this snowmobile tour offers a genuinely enjoyable way to spend an evening in Lapland. Just be prepared for the cold, keep your camera handy, and enjoy the chance to feel a bit like a true explorer under the northern skies.

You can check availability for your dates here: