If you’re heading to Saariselka in Finland, you’re in one of the best places in Europe for National Park Tours. Its proximity to Urho Kekkonen National Park makes it a natural choice for outdoor explorers, especially in winter when snow transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland. We particularly love the snowshoeing experience because it lets you walk off the beaten path and see the Arctic in a quiet, intimate way—plus, it’s suitable for most fitness levels. For a truly memorable night, the aurora hunting tour promises a chance to see the Northern Lights in a cozy setting, while the Wilderness Dinner offers an authentic taste of Lapland’s local cuisine in an unforgettable outdoor environment.
Below, you’ll find our top picks for National Park Tours in Saariselka. Whether it’s snowshoeing, enjoying a gourmet meal under the stars, or chasing the Aurora Borealis, these options showcase the best of what Saariselka has to offer.
Brief Overview of the Top Saariselka National Park Tours
- Snowshoeing in Urho Kekkonen National Park: Walk on your own trails, explore snow-covered forests, and enjoy expert-guided routes for a peaceful Arctic experience. []
- Wilderness Dinner with Aurora Watch: Dine on local delicacies around a campfire, with the possibility of catching the Northern Lights if the weather cooperates. []
- Aurora Hunting & Reindeer Experience: Chase the Northern Lights by minivan, meet friendly reindeer, and warm up in a cozy grill hut with traditional treats. []
Now, let’s dive into each tour to see what makes them special.
1. Saariselkä: Snowshoeing Tour in Urho Kekkonen National Park
For around $85 per person, this snowshoeing tour offers an authentic way to experience the silent beauty of Urho Kekkonen National Park. The tour lasts from 2 to 4 hours, and you have the flexibility to choose between a daytime or an evening adventure. What sets this tour apart is the chance to walk on your own trails, outside the designated routes, and truly learn about the wintry Arctic scenery. The snowshoes are provided, and a professional guide will help you navigate the landscape while sharing insights into local wildlife and nature.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the chance to see the unique footprints of Arctic animals in the snow, and the experience ends with a warm drink to settle into the peaceful surroundings. The guide’s expertise ensures that even beginners feel comfortable, and the flexible durations mean you can tailor your experience to your schedule. With a stellar rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 26 reviews, this trip is clearly a favorite.
Bottom Line: If you want a peaceful, authentic snowshoe adventure that offers a chance to see untouched snow and wildlife signs, this tour is a top pick—especially if you prefer a guided experience that’s suitable for all levels.
2. Saariselkä: Wilderness Dinner – Chef’s Special Evening
For a different kind of Arctic adventure, the Wilderness Dinner combines local cuisine with a spectacular setting. At just over 3 hours, this experience is all about savoring a traditional three-course buffet around a campfire in the wilderness. The food features local ingredients and specialties, giving you a real taste of Lapland. The dinner takes place at the Wilderness Center and includes transportation, making it easy to relax and focus on enjoying your meal.
One of the highlights is the chance to see the Northern Lights if the weather allows—an added bonus that can turn an ordinary evening into something extraordinary. Unlike daytime tours, this experience emphasizes ambiance and flavor, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the Arctic environment in a warm, convivial setting.
While this tour has a slightly smaller number of reviews (9) and a rating of 4.8 out of 5, it’s a popular choice for visitors seeking a local, cultural experience combined with the thrill of outdoor dining.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you’re a food lover or want to combine a delicious meal with the possibility of seeing the Aurora. It’s also a good pick for couples or small groups looking for an intimate, authentic evening in Lapland.
3. Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting & Reindeer Wilderness Experience
For about 2.5 hours, this Aurora hunting tour offers a personal, flexible way to chase the Northern Lights. Guided by local experts, you’ll board a minivan and visit the best Aurora viewing spots tailored to current weather conditions, making it one of the most adaptable tours on our list. The experience also includes a visit to a traditional reindeer corral, where you can meet and feed these iconic Arctic animals—an activity perfect for families or animal lovers.
After a successful Aurora sighting, the adventure continues in a cozy grill hut, where you’ll warm up with roasted sausages and hot berry juice around an open fire. The small group size and personalized pacing make this tour stand out, especially for travelers seeking a more intimate, less crowd-driven experience.
Reviewing the available feedback, this tour is praised for its flexible itinerary and local expertise. The pickup service from Saariselkä adds convenience, and the experience is suitable for those over 4 years old who are comfortable outdoors.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a personalized Northern Lights experience combined with reindeer interaction and warmth, this tour offers a unique Arctic adventure with high chances of Aurora sightings.
How to Choose Your Saariselka National Park Tour
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you want a peaceful daytime activity that lets you explore Arctic wildlife, the snowshoeing tour (see details) is the best fit. For those who love local food and want a cozy evening under the stars, the Wilderness Dinner (check it out) offers a delicious, cultural experience. If Aurora viewing and reindeer interaction are your priorities, the Aurora Hunting & Reindeer Experience (more info) provides a flexible, intimate adventure.
Timing is also key—winter months generally offer better chances for Northern Lights, but be sure to book early, as tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Final thoughts
Saariselka offers a fantastic array of National Park Tours that cater to different interests—from peaceful snowshoe walks to exciting Aurora hunts and gourmet outdoor dinners. For travelers who want to explore Arctic landscapes, the snowshoeing tour provides a serene, accessible experience. If you seek local flavor and a warm ambiance, the Wilderness Dinner is a memorable choice. For those after Northern Lights, the Aurora & Reindeer tour hits all the high notes.
No matter which experience you choose, booking early will help secure your spot in these popular adventures. With such varied options, Saariselka makes an excellent base for exploring Finland’s Arctic wilderness—so pick what suits your style, and get ready for an unforgettable trip.