From Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Campfire & Snacks

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights in Finland, this Aurora Hunting Tour from Saariselkä promises an evening filled with enchantment, local flavor, and memorable landscapes. Though we haven’t taken the tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, authentic experience that balances comfort with adventure.

What makes this tour appealing? For starters, the small group size (limited to six participants) ensures a cozy, personalized vibe, which is perfect for those who prefer intimacy over crowds. The comfortable hybrid Multivan transportation means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without the fatigue that sometimes accompanies long drives. Plus, the traditional Finnish campfire snacks add a warm, communal touch that enriches the night.

However, one aspect to consider is weather dependency. While the guide provides expert opinions on the likelihood of seeing the Aurora, the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights means there’s no 100% guarantee. Still, this honesty helps set realistic expectations.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value comfort, local experiences, and small-group intimacy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an Aurora enthusiast, you’ll find that this experience marries scenic beauty with cultural authenticity, making it a great choice for your Arctic adventure.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Comfortable hybrid transport provides a cozy journey through Lapland’s night landscapes.
• Authentic Finnish snacks cooked over an open fire bring a warm, social aspect.
• Expert guide insights improve your chances of spotting the Aurora.
• Flexible rescheduling policy offers peace of mind if weather conditions aren’t ideal.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate experience in a stunning winter setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Aurora Hunt

This tour begins with a hotel pickup from Saariselkä or a convenient meeting point at Saariseläntie 7 if you prefer to join yourself around 8:30 PM. The host uses a bright orange Multivan Hybrid, which is both eco-friendly and spacious enough to comfortably accommodate up to six guests. The small group size helps foster a friendly, relaxed atmosphere—something many reviews highlight as a big plus.

As you settle into the vehicle, you’ll begin your journey through the quiet, snow-covered villages of Ivalo and Nellim. The scenic drive is part of the appeal; during the winter months, Lapland’s landscapes are a visual treat—think snow-laden trees, shimmering reflections on frozen lakes, and the occasional glimpse of reindeer or huskies along the roadside. The guide, often named as knowledgeable and friendly, will share insights about the region and its folklore, making the ride both entertaining and informative.

Your destination is the Paatsjoki River Bridge, a prime spot for Aurora viewing due to its open sky and minimal light pollution. From here, you’ll have the chance to capture the Northern Lights dancing overhead. The sky above Lapland, especially in clear winter conditions, is renowned for its vivid displays of green, red, and sometimes violet hues.

The Campfire Experience: Finnish Food and Cozy Vibes

One of the tour’s highlights is lighting a campfire in the crisp Arctic air. The guide demonstrates how to cook Finnish sausages (‘makkara’) over an open flame—a straightforward but authentic tradition. While the sausages cook, you can warm your hands on a cup of hot juice, which is especially soothing after the chilly drive.

Alongside the sausages, you’ll enjoy buns and cookies, perfect for adding a bit of sweetness to the experience. Several reviewers mention how this simple meal creates a warm, communal atmosphere. The fire’s glow, the quiet winter night, and the starry sky all combine to make this a truly memorable moment.

Aurora Viewing and Photography Tips

The guide is often praised for helping guests capture photos of the Northern Lights. They may take a picture of you with the Aurora overhead—useful for those who want a keepsake without the hassle of setting up their own camera. Remember, Auroras are unpredictable, and while the guide provides professional opinions about the weather, there are no guarantees.

Guests frequently mention how stunning the views can be, with some describing the lights as “vivid shades of red and green” that seem almost surreal. The reflections on the snow-covered ground add an extra layer of beauty, making it the perfect winter wonderland scene.

Additional Activities: Forest Walks and Flexibility

Before concluding, the tour might include a short forest walk, allowing you to stretch your legs and enjoy the peaceful woods. This walk offers a different perspective of Lapland’s quiet beauty, often appreciated by those wanting a more immersive experience.

On top of that, the rescheduling policy is flexible—if the weather isn’t right or if the Aurora forecast looks bleak, you can reschedule your tour at no extra cost. That’s a helpful detail, especially in unpredictable winter climates.

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The Practicalities: What to Know Before Booking

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it manageable for most evening plans. It’s important to dress warmly, as the Arctic nights can be cold, especially if you spend time outside waiting for the Aurora. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the stress of navigation, and is designed for small groups, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

Price-wise, this experience offers good value for the personalized attention, comfortable transportation, and authentic Finnish food. It’s a balanced choice for travelers who want a genuine, scenic, and relaxed Northern Lights adventure without the crowds or over-the-top extravagance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after an authentic, cozy Arctic experience, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for small groups, photographers, and those who appreciate local culture. The flexible rescheduling policy also makes it suitable for travelers concerned about weather conditions. However, if you’re looking for a guarantee of seeing the Aurora, remember that nature’s unpredictable; this tour emphasizes the journey and experience over certainty.

The Sum Up

This Aurora Hunting Tour from Saariselkä offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural charm. With its cozy campfire meals, expert guidance, and scenic drive through Lapland’s winter wonderland, it’s a great way to experience the region’s night skies in an intimate setting. The small group size and eco-friendly transportation ensure a personalized touch, making it suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic Arctic adventure.

While the Aurora itself remains a natural phenomenon, the tour’s thoughtful approach, stunning scenery, and warm atmosphere make it a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting to chase the lights without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially perfect for first-timers or those wanting a quiet, memorable night under Lapland’s starry sky.

FAQs

Do I need to bring warm clothing?
Yes, dressing warmly is essential. The nights in Lapland can be very cold, and although the tour provides a cozy experience, you’ll want layers, hats, gloves, and thermal wear.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
While the guide offers professional opinions on weather and Aurora chances, there’s no guarantee. If the conditions aren’t favorable, you can reschedule your tour at no extra cost, giving you another chance to see the lights.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, starting with pickup around 8:30 PM. It’s a manageable length that leaves room for other evening plans.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the experience, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What’s the group size?
The tour limits participants to six, ensuring a small, intimate group where everyone can enjoy personalized attention and comfortable viewing.

Can I take photos of the Aurora?
Absolutely. The guide can assist with photography, and you are encouraged to bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning sky. The guide may also take a photo of you with the Aurora overhead.

This tour provides an authentic taste of Lapland’s winter magic, combining scenic travel, local flavors, and the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights—an experience worth considering for your Arctic itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: