Saariselkä: Northern Lights Hunting Snowshoe Trip

Traveling in winter through Lapland’s snowy wilderness is truly something special, and if you’re eyeing a way to experience its quiet beauty, this Northern Lights Hunting Snowshoe Trip in Saariselkä might just be worth considering. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on the info available, it looks like a thoughtful, well-rounded experience that combines gentle adventure with a good chance to see the famed auroras.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on learning to snowshoe comfortably, which makes it accessible even for beginners, and the inclusion of hot chocolate under the stars—that’s such a cozy, memorable touch. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that aurora sightings are never guaranteed, as they depend heavily on weather conditions. If you’re after a guaranteed show, this might not be the right pick, but if you’re happy with the hope of a spectacle and the tranquility of the night, it could be a winner.

This experience appears suited for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, like walking in snowy landscapes, and are curious about the night sky. It’s not designed for kids under 12, so families with younger children might want to consider other options. Overall, if you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic excursion with a good shot at catching the northern lights, this trip could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Gentle adventure: Ideal for beginners wanting to try snowshoeing without strenuous effort.
• Aurora opportunity: The trip offers a chance, but not a guarantee, to see the northern lights.
• Comfort included: Warm clothing, snowshoes, and hot drinks are provided, making it a fuss-free experience.
• Experience duration: 2.5 hours with flexible starting times—perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.
• Transport: Pickup and drop-off are included, saving you the hassle of logistics.
• Not for kids under 12: Designed for older children and adults who are comfortable outdoors in winter.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Saariselkä Northern Lights Snowshoe Trip?

This tour offers a unique way to experience the dark, peaceful beauty of Finnish Lapland at night. It’s not just about chasing the lights; it’s about connecting with the winter landscape in a relaxed way. The journey begins with a hotel pickup, so you won’t need to worry about transportation—an appreciated convenience in a remote area. Once at the meeting point, you’ll learn how to walk in snowshoes, which is surprisingly straightforward, even if you’ve never tried it before.

The guide leads the group into the silent wilderness, away from artificial light pollution. You’ll be walking along snow-covered paths, breathing in the crisp winter air, and enjoying the stillness of the forest under a blanket of stars. With luck, the northern lights will dance above you, creating a mesmerizing backdrop. At the halfway point, everyone is encouraged to warm up with hot chocolate—possibly under the shimmering auroras if the sky cooperates.

The entire experience lasts about two and a half hours, striking a balance between enough time to soak in the surroundings and not feeling like a long trek. The fact that snowshoes, warm clothing, and hot drinks are included means you can focus on enjoying the moment rather than worrying about equipment or gear.

The Snowshoeing Experience: Simple, Safe, Scenic

One of the biggest draws of this trip is the snowshoeing element. If you’ve never tried it, don’t worry—it’s quite easy to pick up. The guide will show you how to use the equipment, and from reviews, it sounds like most people find it accessible. You’ll be walking on snow that’s often deep and powdery, providing a different feel than walking on pavement or even packed snow.

What makes snowshoeing here special isn’t just the activity itself, but the environment. You’re moving through pristine, snow-covered nature—a quiet, almost untouched world. It’s a chance to slow down, listen to the sounds of winter, and admire the vastness of Lapland’s wilderness.

The tour is designed to be relaxed, so even if you’re not particularly athletic, you’ll probably find it manageable. The key is being comfortable in winter clothes (included, or you can bring your own) and prepared for cold temperatures. The provided thermal overall, winter boots, wool socks, scarf, beanie, and gloves ensure you’re warm enough to enjoy the experience fully.

Aurora Hunting: Chance, Not Certainty

The main highlight for many travelers is the possibility of seeing the northern lights. As one review points out, “Aureoras are subject to weather conditions and cannot be fully predicted.” This is an honest acknowledgment that sometimes, despite clear skies and good conditions, the lights might not appear. That said, the chance here is pretty good, especially if you’re visiting during a peak season and in a location like Saariselkä, known for frequent aurora activity.

The tour’s setting—away from city lights—maximizes your chances of catching the colorful ribbons dancing overhead. Even if the lights don’t show up, the experience of being out in Lapland’s quiet night with starry skies overhead can be magical in itself. The hot chocolate break adds a cozy element, and it’s fun to see if the skies light up as you sip.

What’s Included and How Does the Pricing Stack Up?

For $108 per person, you get quite a bit: pickup and drop-off, warm winter gear, snowshoes, and hot drinks. That’s a fair deal considering the convenience of everything being arranged for you. The small group size and guided nature of the tour mean you’ll be looked after and able to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Reviews suggest that the value is generally good, especially for those wanting a straightforward, guided adventure in the snowy wilderness. This isn’t a cheap thrill, but it’s also not overly expensive given what’s included and the memorable nature of the experience.

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What You Need to Know Before Booking

• Timing and availability: Check the specific start times, as they vary. The duration is 2.5 hours, making it easy to fit into an evening.
• Weather dependence: Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Age restrictions: Not suitable for children under 12, so plan accordingly.
• Clothing: The tour provides thermal clothing, but dressing warmly in layers is always wise. You’ll want waterproof boots and warm accessories, which are included.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellations are possible up to 24 hours before, adding flexibility if your plans change.

How the Experience Looks on the Ground

During the tour, you’ll likely be walking in a small group led by an experienced guide. The trail might be a gentle path through forested areas or open snowfields—both equally scenic and peaceful. The guide will share insights about the night sky, Northern Lights, and local nature, enriching your understanding of the environment.

The hot chocolate break halfway is a nice touch, giving everyone a chance to warm up, chat, and take in the surroundings. Many reviews highlight how stunning the views are—particularly the starry night skies and potential aurora displays. Even in the absence of the northern lights, the calm, quiet wilderness and the vast, snowy landscape make for a memorable outing.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Arrive prepared: Even though warm clothing is provided, bring extra layers if you’re prone to feeling cold.
• Bring a camera: The skies may light up unexpectedly, so have your camera ready for those magical moments.
• Check the weather forecast: Clear skies increase your chances of seeing the auroras, so keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your tour.
• Be on time: The meeting time is confirmed via email, and missing it means losing your spot without refund.

The Sum Up

This Northern Lights Snowshoe Trip in Saariselkä offers a peaceful, scenic way to experience Lapland’s winter magic. It’s well-suited for anyone who appreciates gentle outdoor adventures, starry skies, and the thrill of possibly seeing the auroras. The inclusions—warm gear, snowshoes, hot drinks—and the straightforward, guided approach make it a convenient choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free, memorable night in the wilderness.

While it doesn’t guarantee the Northern Lights, the experience of walking in the snowy silence under the stars, warmed by hot chocolate, is a reward in itself. It’s best for those who enjoy nature, gentle activity, and the thrill of a bit of winter wonder. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic taste of Lapland’s night sky, this tour might be just right.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with starting times varying so you can choose a slot that fits your schedule.

Are snowshoes and warm clothes included?
Yes, the tour provides snowshoes, thermal overall, winter boots, wool socks, scarf, beanie, and gloves, so you’ll be well-equipped.

What’s the chance of seeing the northern lights?
While the tour offers a good opportunity, aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so they’re not guaranteed.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Not for children under 12, as the tour is designed for older kids and adults comfortable in winter conditions.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your camera for capturing potential auroras and dress warmly in layers. The tour already provides the essentials.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your travel plans shift.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are part of the package, removing logistical worries and making it easier to enjoy the night.

This snowshoe trip in Saariselkä offers a lovely mixture of adventure, serenity, and the chance to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking displays. If you’re okay with a little unpredictability but crave honest, scenic outdoor fun, it’s worth exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here: