Saariselkä: Northern Lights Tour to Lake Inari & Dinner

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights in their full glory, the “Saariselkä: Northern Lights Tour to Lake Inari & Dinner” from Ivalo Safaris promises an evening filled with natural beauty, cultural encounters, and cozy Arctic charm. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions highlight how this tour balances adventure with authentic local experiences.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the sleigh ride pulled by a snowmobile offers a smooth glide into the wilderness, perfect for catching those elusive Aurora displays. Second, the home-cooked Lappish dinner served around a campfire in traditional teepees creates a warm, communal atmosphere. Third, the chance to meet and feed reindeers adds a gentle, memorable touch to the evening.

One potential consideration? The price point of $210 per person might seem steep for some, especially given the limited duration. However, many find that the rich experience, expert guidance, and stunning scenery make it worthwhile. This tour most suits travelers seeking a small-group, immersive Arctic adventure that combines nature, culture, and comfort in one package.

Good To Know

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Snowmobile sleigh rides, reindeer interactions, and a traditional Lappish dinner give a genuine taste of Lapland’s culture and landscape.
• Stunning Aurora Viewing: The tour’s remote lakeside setting increases your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, especially if luck is on your side.
• Small Group & Friendly Guides: Limited to 12 participants, the tour fosters a personal atmosphere with knowledgeable guides like Tina and Tapio.
• Comfort & Practicality: Warm thermal clothing, shoes, and cozy reindeer hide-covered sleighs ensure comfort in sub-zero temperatures.
• Timing & Flexibility: Duration is around 5 hours, with flexible departure times and a full refund option if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Authentic Local Hospitality: Dinner is homemade, featuring local fish or reindeer, with vegetarian options available on request, enhancing the genuine feel.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary & What You Can Expect

The adventure begins with a pick-up service from your Saariselkä accommodation, which is both convenient and reassuring, especially after a day of travel or outdoor activities. Once at the Ivalo Safaris office, you’ll be provided with thermal clothes and sturdy shoes — essential gear for staying warm during the Arctic night.

From there, the day’s highlight kicks off: a snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride. This isn’t your typical touristy ride; the sleigh is comfortably covered with reindeer hide, ensuring a cozy experience as you glide deeper into the wilderness. The guide, often Tina or Tapio, will lead you towards the small village of Koppelo, a secluded spot far from city lights that maximizes your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

The journey takes about an hour, during which you’ll enjoy the quiet serenity of the snow-covered landscape. Reviewers like Lucie mention how the magnificent lights appeared “barely got out of the car,” emphasizing that the remote nature of the location truly pays off.

Once at the lakeside, you’ll pause to soak in the silence and expansive sky. Many guests report that catching the Aurora here feels more intimate and special than in busier spots. If luck is on your side, you’ll witness the colors dancing overhead — a spectacle that often leaves travelers in awe.

After the ride, you’ll visit an island, where a traditional wooden cottage and Lappish teepees set the scene for the evening. Here, you can relax by the campfire, and the guide will prepare a delicious homemade dinner, typically made from local fish or reindeer. Vegetarian options can be arranged, and hot drinks like tea or cocoa keep the chill at bay. The atmosphere is genuine and rustic, with many guests noting how the setting adds to the sense of adventure.

The highlight for many is the opportunity to meet and feed reindeers. These gentle animals are a hallmark of Lapland, and their friendly nature makes for memorable moments. As Lucie shared, the experience was capped off with stories about Sami life, adding a cultural dimension to the outing.

Transportation & Duration

The whole experience lasts about 5 hours, with the pick-up and drop-off included in Saariselkä’s center. The small group size (max 12 participants) fosters a relaxed vibe, allowing for personal interactions and plenty of time for photos or questions.

Comfort & Practical Tips

The thermal clothing, shoes, and covered sleighs are thoughtfully provided, so you won’t need to worry about the cold. However, dressing in layers and bringing a camera with a steady hand (or a tripod) will help capture the Northern Lights if they appear. The tour operates mainly in the evening, so be prepared for late-night temperatures and potentially snowy conditions.

Authenticity & Cultural Touches

What many travelers appreciate is how the experience emphasizes local Sami culture. Meeting reindeer and hearing stories from guides like Tina and Tapio offers insights that larger, more commercial tours might overlook. The setting on a small island, with traditional wooden cottages and teepees, enhances this feeling of stepping into a different world.

Lucie’s review mentions how the guides took great photos and instantly sent them, a small but thoughtful touch that keeps memories alive. The authentic ambiance of the campfire dinner and Sami storytelling creates a sense of connection to the land and its traditions.

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Price & Value Analysis

At $210 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option on the market. But when you consider what’s included—transportation, thermal clothing, dinner, reindeer interactions, and the chance to see the Northern Lights—many find it offers reasonable value. The small-group format and the expertise of guides like Tina and Tapio add a personal touch that larger tours often lack.

The opportunity to combine adventure, culture, and relaxation in one evening makes it appealing for those wanting a well-rounded Arctic experience. For travelers on a tighter budget, other options might be available, but few can match this level of authenticity and comfort.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking intimate, cultural experiences in Lapland, especially those interested in reindeer and Sami traditions. It suits adventurers eager to combine outdoor activities with scenic serenity and those hoping for a high chance of Aurora sightings.

It’s ideal if you want a guided, small-group outing that balances adventure with cozy comfort, especially if you value local stories and authentic settings. However, it might not be suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility due to the outdoor nature and late-night timing.

FAQ Section

Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off within Saariselkä center are included in the tour.

What should I wear? You’ll be provided with thermal clothing and shoes, but it’s recommended to dress in layered, warm clothing suitable for Arctic night temperatures.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, including transportation and activities.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour? While the tour is designed to maximize Aurora viewing, sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. Many guests do see the Lights, especially in the remote lakeside setting.

Are vegetarian meals available? Yes, vegetarian options can be requested in advance for the dinner.

Is this suitable for children? The tour is not recommended for children under 7 years old, mainly because of the outdoor conditions and late hours.

For anyone eager to see the Northern Lights amid genuine Arctic surroundings, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and comfort. The small-group size ensures a personalized experience, and the authentic details — from reindeer encounters to Sami stories — enrich the journey beyond just a sightseeing trip.

While the price might give some pause, many find that the combination of scenic beauty, warm hospitality, and the chance to witness the Aurora makes it worth every penny. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a meaningful, immersive experience rather than a quick, commercial snapshot.

If you’re after a memorable Arctic evening that blends nature with local life, this tour could be just what you need to complete your Lapland adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: