Saariselkä: Husky Safari with Aurora Borealis Hunt

If you’re dreaming of a genuine Arctic adventure, this Husky Safari with Aurora Borealis Hunt from Saariselkä offers a pretty compelling way to chase the winter magic. We’ve looked into this experience thoroughly, and here’s what travelers can expect—and what to keep in mind.

What drew us in are the stunning scenery you get to glide through on the sled, and the chance to see the aurora borealis in a cozy tipi after your ride. It’s a true highlight for those who love natural beauty and outdoor adventures. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this tour is SELF-DRIVEN, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re worried about handling a sled in cold conditions.

This experience is perfect for anyone who wants a more immersive husky adventure and is comfortable being outdoors in winter. If you’re eager to spend roughly three hours surrounded by snow, woods, and perhaps the Northern Lights dancing above, this tour could be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Authentic husky sledding: You drive your own sled, guided by instructions, giving you a hands-on experience.
• Northern Lights hunt: The tour includes a cozy break in a tipi with a fireplace, ideal for spotting the aurora.
• All-inclusive gear: Thermal clothing, boots, and gloves are provided, making it easier to stay warm.
• Small group setting: Limited to only 10 participants, fostering an intimate atmosphere.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Adequate preparation needed: Bring your own warm clothes, and make sure your phone is charged to capture the moment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour All About?

This experience is all about combining two iconic Arctic activities into one evening: driving a husky sled and hunting for the Northern Lights. Starting from Saariselkä, you’re transported to the Wilderness Center, where your adventure begins. The tour lasts around 3 hours, with the main activity being a roughly 8 km sled ride through the snowy Arctic pine forest.

What makes it special is the chance to be physically involved—you’re the one driving the sled, not just a passenger. The guide on a snowmobile monitors your progress, ensuring safety and helping you if needed. After your sledding adventure, you relax in a tipi with a roaring fireplace, sipping warm drinks and hoping to catch sight of the northern glow in the dark sky. This blend of active fun and cozy comfort makes it a well-rounded Arctic experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off with pickup options at three locations: Holiday Club Saariselkä Villas, Lapland Hotels Riekonlinna, or VALO Finland. Expect a couple of short drives—about 20 minutes each—before reaching the Wilderness Center Husky Farm, where the adventure begins.

Once there, your Husky Guide provides a safety briefing and guides you through how to drive the sleds. You’ll be given thermal overalls, boots, and gloves—no need to worry about staying warm, although it’s wise to bring additional layers as weather can shift unexpectedly.

The main event is the sled ride, which lasts approximately 8 km. You and a partner will share a sled, with one person driving while the other rides along. During the ride, you’ll be surrounded by pristine snow-covered woods, and you’ll get to enjoy the peaceful quiet… interrupted only by the panting of the huskies and the sound of the sled runners.

After about an hour and a half of sledding, you’ll stop in a traditional tipi—complete with a fireplace—to enjoy a warm drink. Here, the guide shares stories, and if luck is on your side, the Northern Lights might make a guest appearance overhead. The cozy atmosphere combined with the natural beauty makes for memorable photos and a relaxing moment after the physical activity.

The tour wraps up with transportation back to your hotel, with optional drop-off at three key locations, including the main hotels and villas.

What We Love About This Tour

This experience truly stands out because of the authenticity. Driving your own sled through the Arctic forest offers a sense of adventure and connection that passenger rides can’t match. Plus, the guide’s presence on a snowmobile offers reassurance and safety, especially if you’re new to sledding.

Another highlight is the opportunity to see the Northern Lights in a relaxed setting. The tipi with a fireplace creates the perfect spot to stay warm and watch the sky. As one reviewer pointed out, “Husky safari is a must-do activity when you come to Finland,” and their enjoyment is often amplified by the combination of scenic views and the chance to witness the aurora in a cozy environment.

The thermal clothing provided is a real plus, especially for those who don’t want to fuss with packing extra layers. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience—less crowding, more time to enjoy the moment.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is well-organized and offers a balanced experience, it’s important to note that driving the sled is self-guided. If you’re not comfortable handling a sled or have mobility issues, this could be challenging. The company does offer an alternative driver for an extra fee, but that’s an extra consideration.

Weather can also be unpredictable. If the skies are cloudy, the Northern Lights might not make an appearance, although the experience still delivers the thrill of Arctic forest sledding and the chance to warm up by a fire. It’s worth keeping in mind that the exact duration may vary depending on weather conditions and group size.

Lastly, this tour is not suitable for children under 11 or pregnant women, so it’s geared more toward adult travelers comfortable with outdoor winter activities.

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How Does It Compare Value-Wise?

At $295 per person, this tour is priced in the mid-range for Arctic excursions. Considering the included thermal gear, transportation, guide, and the experience itself, it offers good value—especially given the small group size and the personalized feel.

The fact that you’re driving the sled adds a lot of engagement compared to just sitting as a passenger. Plus, the inclusion of warm drinks and the cozy tipi experience is a nice touch that enhances the overall value. Some reviews mention that other companies might offer shorter rides or less inclusive options, so this tour’s length and gear are points in its favor.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who are active, love outdoor winter activities, and want a more hands-on experience. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind handling a sled and are excited about the idea of driving through snowy forests at night.

While it’s not tailored for families with very young children or pregnant women, it works well for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of physical activity and cozy comforts. If you’re chasing the Northern Lights but also want to experience the thrill of sledding in a genuine Arctic environment, this tour combines both nicely.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Saariselkä Husky Safari with Aurora Borealis Hunt is a well-rounded Arctic adventure, blending the excitement of driving a sled with the magic of Finnish winter skies. The small group size and inclusive gear make it accessible and comfortable, while the chance to hunt for the Northern Lights adds that extra wow factor.

If you’re after a more immersive husky experience and love the idea of being outside in snow under starry skies, this is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to get their hands a bit dirty and enjoy a genuine connection with the Arctic wilderness.

For anyone looking for a memorable, engaging, and beautifully scenic activity during their trip to Lapland, this tour is worth considering.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation by car from Saariselkä to the Wilderness Center Husky Farm is included, making logistics straightforward.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, and gloves. You’ll be provided thermal overalls, boots, and gloves, but additional layers are recommended to stay extra warm.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes, you drive your own sled, guided by instructions, with a guide on a snowmobile monitoring your progress. If you can’t drive due to injury or preference, you should inform them in advance to see if a driver can be arranged for an extra fee.

How long is the sled ride?
The sled ride is approximately 8 km, which takes about 1.5 hours, depending on weather and group pace.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tipi with a fireplace provides a great spot to relax and hope for a sighting, but aurora borealis viewing depends on weather and solar activity, so it’s not guaranteed.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 11 years old, likely due to the physical nature of sled driving and safety considerations.

What if I can’t handle cold?
Thermal clothing is provided, but it’s wise to bring additional warm layers just in case. Staying warm is key to enjoying the experience fully.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there any extra cost?
Some extras, like a driver for the sled if you can’t drive, come at an additional fee (€100). Otherwise, everything listed is included in the price.

If you’re craving an Arctic adventure with a mix of activity, scenery, and the chance for a magical Northern Lights show, this tour hits many marks. Just remember to bundle up, bring your camera, and keep your expectations flexible—nature is unpredictable, but the memories will be worth it.

You can check availability for your dates here: