From Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Campfire & Snacks

Imagine chasing the elusive Northern Lights in Finland’s snowy wilderness, bundled up in warm layers, with the hushed beauty of Lapland stretching out around you. This Aurora Hunting Tour from Saariselkä offers not just the thrill of spotting the sky’s most spectacular light show but also the comfort of a modern, eco-friendly vehicle and the warmth of a traditional Finnish campfire. It’s a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavor all wrapped into one memorable evening.

What really caught our eye is how this tour combines the pursuit of the auroras with cultural touches—like cooking sausages over an open fire—making it more than just a typical sky-watching trip. The small group size (limited to six) ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get tips for capturing the lights on camera. The only potential hiccup? The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so there’s no absolute guarantee of seeing them, but the knowledgeable guides do their best to give you the best chance based on weather conditions.

This tour suits travelers who want a cozy, guided adventure that balances scenic stops with authentic Finnish experiences. If you’re after a balanced mix of comfort, culture, and the hope of witnessing the Aurora Borealis, this might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport in a hybrid Multivan ensures a smooth and eco-friendly ride through snowy landscapes.
• Small group setting offers a more intimate, relaxed experience with personalized attention.
• Proper gear and warm clothing are essential, as you’ll be outside at night in Arctic conditions.
• Authentic Finnish experience with sausages cooked over an open fire and warm drinks by the campfire.
• Good chance of seeing the lights, with guides providing expert insights and photography tips—though sightings depend on weather.
• Beautiful scenery along the border with Russia, including the Paatsjoki River and snow-covered forests, add to the Arctic adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Hunting Experience

Booking and Availability

The tour lasts around 3.5 hours, with start times varying based on the season and weather conditions—check availability ahead of time. Because of its small-group nature (max six participants), it feels both exclusive and flexible. You’ll be picked up from your hotel or a specified address in Saariselkä, Ivalo, or Inari, with the guide contacting you via phone if needed. Alternatively, you can meet directly at the Holiday Club Saariselkä parking lot at 8:30 PM. The “reserve now, pay later” option offers added peace of mind in case your plans shift.

What’s Included and What to Bring

For this price point, the inclusions are quite generous: local guiding, transportation in a hybrid Multivan, hotel pickup and drop-off, fire-cooked sausages, warm juice, buns, and cookies, plus the chance to snap photos of the Northern Lights with help from your guide. The forest walk component adds a peaceful moment amidst winter silence.

However, you’ll need to dress warmly—think thermal layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof jackets—since hours are spent outdoors. The tour does not provide clothing, so being prepared is key to staying cozy and making the most of your experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The adventure begins with a comfortable pickup, where your guide, often someone well-versed in the local landscape and Aurora science, will set expectations. As you drive through villages like Ivalo and Nellim, you’ll notice the quiet, snow-dusted scenery that makes Lapland so special.

The journey takes you along a winding route toward the Russia border, passing the Paatsjoki River Bridge, where the river’s swift current and snow-covered banks create a striking vista. Here, the guide will point out the significance of this area, and if conditions are right, you’ll witness the Northern Lights shimmering over the icy landscape in shades of green and red. It’s an awe-inspiring sight that photographers will appreciate, especially as the guides are happy to help take photos.

Once at the campfire spot, you’ll light a fire, cook sausages Finnish-style over open flames, and relax with warm juice and sweet treats. Many reviews note that the campfire experience is both authentic and cozy, providing a warm break from the chilly outdoors. The flickering flames, combined with the quiet snow falling around you, create a magical setting.

The Chance to See the Aurora

Weather conditions and solar activity dictate your chances of spotting the Northern Lights, and the guide will assess these factors the day before your trip. While a 100% guarantee isn’t possible, most guests find the guides’ insights helpful in maximizing their chances. Several reviews mention that guides are very experienced and honest—they’ll tell you if the conditions aren’t promising but will also suggest rescheduling or trying again.

The guide can also provide tips for taking photos, which is especially helpful if you want to capture the lights’ fleeting colors. Some guests commented that having a guide who is knowledgeable about the Aurora phenomena made the experience much more rewarding, even if the lights weren’t visible every single night.

The Experience: Scenic, Serene, and Authentic

The highlight is undoubtedly the stunning night sky—with the swirling Northern Lights dancing over snowy forests and icy rivers. The entire route offers beautiful vistas, and the contrast of natural silence with the flickering campfire makes the moment feel intimate and special.

Guests appreciate the peaceful journey in the hybrid vehicle, with some saying it added a touch of modern sustainability to the classic winter adventure. The small group size ensures that everyone gets ample time to ask questions, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery.

Practical Considerations: Value, Timing, and Comfort

Compared to larger, rushed tours, this experience feels more relaxed and personal. The 3.5-hour duration is enough to cover multiple scenic spots without feeling hurried, and the inclusive snacks and warm drinks add to the coziness.

Pricing is fair when considering the small-group setting, transportation, and authentic Finnish touches. It’s a good value for travelers looking for a memorable night without the hassle of organizing their own drive or outdoor experience. Plus, the option to cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours before makes it flexible for spontaneous plans or unpredictable weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Aurora Hunting experience is best for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with a chance to see the Northern Lights in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic Finnish traditions like campfire sausages and enjoy scenic drives through snow-covered landscapes.

If you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple, the intimacy makes it more special, but even solo travelers will find the experience welcoming and friendly. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, as outdoor time and walking in winter are involved.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded Arctic adventure—combining scenic drives, cultural touches, and the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights. The modern, eco-friendly vehicle makes it stand out from more traditional bus-based hunts, and the small group size ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd.

You’ll love the way the guides blend expert knowledge with genuine enthusiasm, making the experience both educational and fun. The setting—snowy forests, icy rivers, and star-studded skies—is truly breathtaking and will leave you with stories to tell long after your trip ends.

For travelers seeking a balanced mix of comfort, authenticity, and adventure, this tour hits the mark. Just remember, patience and warm clothing are your best allies when hunting for the Aurora Borealis in Lapland’s winter wilderness.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing? Yes, as the tour does not provide clothing. Dress in thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, hats, gloves, and warm boots to stay cozy during outdoor parts.

What’s included in the tour? The tour includes local guiding, transportation in a hybrid Multivan, hotel pickup and drop-off, campfire sausages, warm juice, buns, cookies, and photo opportunities with the guide’s help.

Can I reschedule if I don’t see the Northern Lights? Yes, the weather conditions are reviewed a day before, and you can reschedule your tour free of charge if the conditions aren’t favorable.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with start times depending on the season and weather.

Is there a maximum group size? Yes, the tour is limited to six participants, ensuring a small, intimate experience.

What are the main highlights of this experience? Expect scenic drives, a cozy campfire with Finnish snacks, a chance to photograph the Aurora, and the stunning Arctic night landscape.

Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the outdoor winter conditions and focus on small groups suggest it’s best suited for older children who can handle cold weather and outdoor activities comfortably.

To sum it up, this Saariselkä Aurora Hunting Tour offers a thoughtfully curated, authentic Arctic experience that balances scenic beauty with cultural authenticity. It’s perfect for those who want a cozy, guided journey with a good shot at seeing the Northern Lights, topped with delicious Finnish snacks and the peaceful silence of Lapland’s winter landscape. Whether you’re a camera enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour is well worth considering.