Saariselkä: Northern Lights Tour to Lake Inari & Dinner

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in Finland’s Lapland, this tour to Lake Inari might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done the tour ourselves, but from what travelers report, it offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, authentic cultural moments, and cozy comfort. Traveling with a small group and guided by locals Tina and Tapio, you’ll get a taste of true Lapland life—plus a good chance to see the spectacular auroras if luck is on your side.

What stands out to us about this experience is the combination of outdoor adventure—like snowmobiling and reindeer encounters—and the warm, inviting setting of a traditional teepee where a hearty, homemade dinner is served. It’s the kind of tour that feels intimate and genuine, not overly commercialized. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that at around $210 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but many say it’s worth every penny for the memorable moments.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy nature, are eager to learn about local culture, and don’t mind the chill of the Arctic night. Keep in mind that it’s not designed for very young children under 7, and older travelers over 95 might want to check accessibility beforehand. If you’re after a cozy, authentic, and visually stunning evening in Lapland—this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: You’ll visit Lake Inari, a renowned spot for Northern Lights viewing and wilderness beauty.
• Small Group & Local Guides: With a maximum of 12 participants, expect personalized attention and storytelling from guides who live in the area.
• Outdoor Adventure & Comfort: The snowmobile sleigh ride adds excitement, and thermal clothing ensures you stay warm.
• Cultural Encounters: Meet reindeers and visit a Sami village on an island, offering a genuine glimpse into indigenous life.
• Hearty Dinner in a Traditional Teepee: Enjoy local fish or reindeer, with vegetarian options available, cooked over an open fire.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and book now, pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This experience kicks off with pickup at your accommodation in Saariselkä, followed by a scenic drive to the tour office in Ivalo. Here, you’ll be provided with thermal clothes and shoes—essential gear for the Arctic climate. Once suited up, your adventure begins with a transport to Koppelo, a tiny village far from city lights, where the real magic begins.

The highlight is the snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride into the wilderness. Wrapped in reindeer hide, you’ll sit comfortably as the guide takes you deeper into the snowy landscape. The ride itself is surprisingly smooth and cozy, making it accessible even if you’re not an adrenaline junkie. If conditions are right, you may catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing above the frozen lake.

Stopping at the lakeside, you’ll have time to soak in the silence and vastness of the Arctic night. According to reviews, some lucky travelers have seen the Aurora right from the middle of the lake—a truly unforgettable sight. The guides, Tina and Tapio, live locally and run a small family operation, which adds to the authentic feel of the trip. They’ll share stories about Sami life, making the experience more meaningful.

Next, you’ll head to a small island where a cozy wooden cottage and traditional Lapland teepees await. Here, you can relax, enjoy hot drinks around the campfire, and indulge in a home-cooked dinner made of local fish or reindeer, with vegetarian options available if you prefer. The dinner is cooked by your guide, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere—perfect after an outdoor adventure.

One of the tour’s charming touches is the chance to meet and feed reindeers. Friendly and gentle, these animals are a highlight for many, especially if you’re traveling with those interested in nature and wildlife.

The Highlights in Detail

Snowmobile Sleigh Ride

The ride is described as comfortable and warm, thanks to the reindeer hide cover. It’s a great way to travel deeper into the wilderness without getting cold—an important factor given Lapland’s winter weather. The ride takes you away from crowds, into the peaceful silence of the Arctic night, with potential Aurora sightings adding to the thrill.

Lake Inari & Aurora Viewing

Lake Inari is a popular spot for Northern Lights because of its remote location and expansive dark skies. Reviews mention the potential to see the auroras right from the lakeside or even from the middle of the frozen lake—an experience many travelers consider a highlight of their trip. The night sky over the lake is described as silent and stunning, offering a perfect backdrop for the Lights if they appear.

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Reindeer Encounters & Sami Culture

Meeting the reindeers is a genuine touch, and many appreciate the opportunity to feed them. You might find, as one reviewer did, that the reindeers are very friendly and willing to interact, making for great photo moments. The visit to the Sami village adds a cultural layer, giving insight into indigenous traditions and daily life—often a memorable part of the journey.

Dinner & Warmth

The dinner in a traditional teepee is cozy and authentic. Made over an open fire, the meal features local ingredients—fish or reindeer—offering a taste of Lapland’s culinary traditions. Vegetarian options are available, making it accessible for different dietary needs. Hot drinks and a campfire keep everyone warm, adding to the ambiance.

Small Group & Local Hosts

The limited group size ensures a more personal experience, and guides Tina and Tapio are praised as knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing their homeland. Their small family-run operation feels genuine, and reviews highlight their storytelling and hospitality as some of the tour’s best aspects.

Price & Value for Money

At $210 per person, this tour falls into the mid-range category for Arctic excursions. When you consider what’s included—hotel pickup and drop-off, thermal clothing, snowmobile sleigh ride, reindeer feeding, a hearty dinner, and the chance to see the Northern Lights—it offers quite a comprehensive experience. The small group size and personal touch from local guides add perceived value, especially for those seeking authenticity over mass tourism.

Reviewers have commented that the experience was “well worth it” despite the cost, thanks to the quality of the guides, the scenery, and the chance to see the auroras. The fact that you can cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund also offers some peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for anyone craving a genuine Arctic adventure with a cultural twist. If you’re interested in Northern Lights, wilderness landscapes, and local traditions, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate small-group settings, personalized attention, and storytelling.

While families with children over 7 might enjoy it, those with very young kids or mobility concerns should double-check accessibility details beforehand. The adventure’s outdoor nature and late-night timing suit those comfortable with winter conditions and chilly evenings.

Final Thoughts

The Saariselkä Northern Lights Tour to Lake Inari & Dinner offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and comfort. It’s a carefully curated experience that prioritizes authenticity, scenic beauty, and local hospitality. From the snowmobile sleigh ride to the cozy dinner in a teepee, it promises unforgettable Arctic moments.

If you’re looking for a serious chance at Northern Lights while enjoying Lapland’s wilderness and Sami culture, this tour hits all the marks. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful, intimate experience rather than a rushed or overly commercial one. Just remember, the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, but with this tour’s prime location and experienced guides, your chances are as good as they get.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in Saariselkä’s center area, making logistics straightforward.

What should I wear?
Thermal clothing and shoes are provided, but bringing extra warm layers is always a good idea for comfort during outdoor time.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, with starting times depending on availability. Check the schedule when booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 7, mainly due to the outdoor activities and late hours.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While there’s no guarantee, the remote location and clear skies increase your chances of seeing the auroras.

What is included in the price?
Hotel transportation, thermal clothing, snowmobile sleigh ride, reindeer feeding, dinner, hot drinks, and a knowledgeable guide.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be prepared upon request for the dinner in the teepee.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a small group of 12, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is it suitable for travelers over 95?
People over 95 are not deemed suitable, likely due to mobility or outdoor activity considerations.

This tour offers a genuine peek into Arctic life, wrapped in adventure and warmth. If you’re after a memorable and authentic Northern Lights experience, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: