If you’re heading to Saariselkä and dreaming of catching the Northern Lights, this tour promises a cozy, authentic experience that combines Arctic wilderness, local culture, and a good chance of seeing the aurora borealis. We’ve looked into what makes this particular tour stand out, and it seems tailored for those who want more than just a quick glimpse — you get a full evening of activities wrapped in a small-group setting, which really ups the intimacy and personal touch.
Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the dedication of the guides and the chance to enjoy a traditional, hearty dinner right out in the icy wilderness. However, one thing to keep in mind is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights — even with all the planning, seeing the aurora isn’t guaranteed. That said, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and potential spectacle. If you’re seeking an immersive, memorable Arctic night with a good chance of seeing the Lights, this tour could be just right.
Key Points:
- Small group size (max 10 people) enhances personal attention and comfort.
- Snowmobile-pulled sledge ride offers an authentic Arctic adventure through wintry forests to Lake Inari.
- Includes local dinner and hot drinks around a campfire, adding a warm, social touch to the cold night.
- Opportunity to feed reindeer and learn about local life from hosts living on a small island.
- Flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Most travelers book about a month in advance, indicating good planning for optimal northern light viewing.
This tour kicks off with a central Saariselkä pickup, which is super convenient if you’re staying nearby. From there, you’ll be driven to Ivalo, where you’ll be fitted with thermal clothes and sturdy shoes. This comfort gear is essential for Arctic adventures, and we’ve seen reviews praising the variety of sizes available — from small children to larger adults. Just keep in mind that thermal suits are roomy by design, meant to trap warm air rather than fit snugly; the goal is to stay warm and mobile, not fashionably slim.
Once suited up, your journey into the wilderness begins with a snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride. This part of the trip really captures the magic of Arctic exploration. Imagine cozy reindeer hides covering your seat as you glide silently through snow-laden forests, away from city lights and into the silence of the wilderness. You’ll be heading towards Lake Inari, a renowned spot for northern lights viewing, thanks to its wide-open spaces and dark skies.
The ride itself gets glowing reviews — many mention how enjoyable and authentic it feels. Eugenio_S describes it as “Small group. They will pick you up from your hotel, then give you thermal clothes, then drive you on a snowmobile sleigh. You can feed reindeer at night, sit into a local tent with fire and eat a simple dinner soup and sausage.” Feeding reindeer and sitting by the campfire are highlights that add a warm, cultural layer to the adventure.
When you arrive at Lake Inari, you’ll have plenty of space and quiet to keep an eye out for the Lights. The tour design allows ample time for aurora watching, often cited as the main reason people choose this trip. Tina_S notes, “The tour with Laura was just amazing. We had the luck to see amazing northern lights. But also despite of this the tour was really worth it.” While seeing the Lights is never guaranteed due to weather and solar activity, the chances here are good thanks to Lake Inari’s remote location.
Many reviews mention that even if the aurora doesn’t make an appearance, the experience still feels worthwhile. Saikat_B says, “It was a great experience to walk over the frozen lake. The tour was well-planned and well-equipped. Our guide Laura was outstanding.” The opportunity to walk on the icy lake and explore the small island nearby, home to the local hosts, makes the trip more than just a chase for the Lights.
A real highlight for us is the dinner around the campfire in a Lappish teepee. Guides prepare local dishes, typically reindeer or fish, which many reviews praise as tasty and hearty. Apurv_A mentions, “The dinner was great too. We got to see and feed the reindeers.” Warm drinks and hot food are standouts, especially after hours in the cold, and many travelers find this part of the trip cozy and memorable.
The opportunity to meet reindeers, feed them, and learn about their significance in Lapland adds cultural depth to the experience. It’s not just sightseeing but also engaging with the local lifestyle and traditions, which many reviews highlight as a reason why the tour feels authentic.
The limit of 10 travelers means you won’t be lost in a crowd. Guides like Laura and Tina are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness. Doreen_D comments, “The guide was really nice, he explained some things regarding the culture. also he made the New Year’s Eve special with some fireworks.” This intimacy helps make the experience more relaxed and personalized.
At around $205.20 per person, this tour offers a lot for the money — including transportation, thermal gear, dinner, and the chance to see the Northern Lights, which generally is priceless. Most travelers book about 35 days ahead, reflecting good planning on their part, as peak winter months fill quickly. Being a 5-hour experience, it fits nicely into an evening plan, giving you ample time to enjoy the Arctic wilderness without feeling rushed.
While the tour does not include pickup from Kakslauttanen or Kiilopää, the Saariselkä pickup is straightforward and convenient for most visitors staying in town.
The main consideration is weather dependency. As with all Northern Lights excursions, cloudy skies or poor solar activity mean the Lights might not appear. Eugenio_S mentions, “It’s suggestive experience,” which honestly is a good way to put it. The tour guides do their best to maximize your chances, but there’s no full guarantee.
Another point is the cold — temperatures can reach as low as -28°C, so layering is crucial. Many reviews note they were well wrapped up, but it’s still cold enough to make some people uncomfortable if unprepared. Some reviewers wished for more detailed explanations about the Aurora in advance, but guides tend to focus on safety and comfort rather than scientific detail.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy small-group adventures and are eager to combine wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and the hope of seeing the Northern Lights. It’s ideal for those who want a genuine Arctic experience with local hosts, rather than just a quick chase. It’s also good for families or groups of friends looking for a memorable night under the stars, as long as everyone’s prepared for cold weather.
From Saariselkä: Northern lights tour to Lake Inari, incl. dinner
“Small group. They will pick you up from your hotel, then give you thermal clothes, then drive you on a snowmobile sleigh. You can feed reindeer at …”
Planning more time in Saariselka? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Final thoughts:
If you’re after a well-organized, authentic Arctic adventure with the potential for a stunning aurora display, this tour checks many boxes. The combination of snowmobile sleigh rides, reindeer feeding, and a warm, homemade dinner make it more than just a Lights hunt — it’s an immersion in Lapland’s winter magic. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and cultural touches mean this isn’t a generic tour but one crafted to give you a taste of local life and natural beauty.
For those who understand that the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, but are hoping for a good shot and a memorable experience regardless, this could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your patience, and enjoy the quiet wonder of the Arctic night.
Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided in central Saariselkä, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.
What should I wear? The tour includes thermal clothes and shoes, but it’s wise to layer up further as temperatures can drop to -28°C. Warm clothing is essential for comfort and safety.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour? While many reviews mention seeing the aurora, it’s weather and solar activity dependent. The tour aims to maximize your chances but can’t guarantee a sighting.
What is included in the dinner? The dinner typically features local dishes made from reindeer or fish, served around a campfire in a Lappish teepee. Hot drinks are also provided.
What if I don’t see the Aurora? Even if the lights don’t appear, the experience of snowmobiling, feeding reindeer, and enjoying Arctic scenery makes the trip still worthwhile. Many travelers find it memorable regardless.
Are children suitable for this tour? The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but especially enjoyable for those interested in Arctic culture and outdoor adventures. Check with the provider if you have very young children.
How far in advance should I book? Most travelers book about a month before their trip, as spots fill up quickly during peak winter months.
This Saariselkä to Lake Inari tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and hope for the Northern Lights. It’s a thoughtful choice for those wanting a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland, with enough comfort and personal attention to make it truly special.
