Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Northern Lights Experts

Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Northern Lights Experts

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights in Lapland, this Saariselkä Aurora Hunting Tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to maximize your chances. Led by seasoned guides, you’ll travel comfortably by minivan through the pristine wilderness, visiting the best spots to see the Aurora Borealis based on real-time forecasts. With its small-group setup, warm drinks, and expert insights, it’s a solid choice for those eager for a genuine Arctic adventure.

What really sets this tour apart is the emphasis on active hunting—not just waiting under cloudy skies, but going to where the skies are clear. Plus, the guides’ in-depth knowledge and flexibility mean you’re more likely to witness this breathtaking phenomenon. The main consideration? Since the Northern Lights are a natural display, there’s no 100% guarantee, but with the guides’ expertise, your odds are considerably improved. This experience suits travelers who appreciate a personalized, comfortable, and well-informed chase after one of nature’s most stunning displays.

Key Points

• Expert-led hunting: Guides are experienced in forecasting and choosing the best locations.
• Comfortable transport: Small minivans allow access to remote spots for optimal viewing.
• Flexible itinerary: Locations are chosen based on weather and aurora activity, not fixed spots.
• Inclusive experience: Warm drinks and snacks help keep you cozy during outdoor waits.
• Photographic support: Photography tours are available upon request to capture the moment.
• Limited group size: Usually 6-8 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

A Deep Dive into the Aurora Hunting Experience

This 3-hour adventure from Saariselkä starts with a pick-up from your accommodation within a 15 km radius. The transportation, supplied by one of three cozy vans (including a Mercedes and two Volkswagen T5s), is designed for small groups, making the journey intimate and flexible. The guides are well-versed in the Northern Lights’ science, folklore, and the best spots to catch their glow, which means you’re not just following a script but actively hunting with expert eyes.

The Journey Begins: From Saariselkä

Once onboard, your guide will brief you on what to expect and answer any burning questions. They’re often multilingual—many guides speak English fluently, with some also proficient in Italian, Russian, or Finnish. This personal touch enhances the experience, as you feel more like a guest on a knowledgeable friend’s snowy road trip rather than a tourist on a set route.

The real advantage here is location flexibility. Guides don’t stick to the same spot every night; instead, they actively monitor weather conditions and Aurora forecasts to find the clearest skies. One reviewer pointed out that their guide, Amar, “made sure to take us to the right spot at the right time,” which is key because cloud cover can easily spoil an Aurora sighting.

The Drive and the Stops

Depending on the weather, your group might drive quite a distance to find clear skies. Some guides, like Walter, have taken guests as far as isolated spots like Inari Lake—an ideal location for outdoor viewing away from light pollution. Another reviewer described their trip to Sodankyla, which extended their experience to six hours when cloud cover was a concern.

During the drive, expect to enjoy warm drinks like cranberry tea and snacks. These little extras are more than just comfort—they keep you warm and alert during outdoor waits. Several reviewers praised guides like Alice and Max for their warm hospitality and helpfulness, especially when it comes to snapping photos. Many guides offer photography assistance if requested in advance, which can turn your experience into a collection of memorable shots.

Outdoor Viewing: Waiting for the Lights

Once at a suitable spot, you’ll step out into the cold night, dressed warmly in layers, hats, gloves, and winter boots. Guides are attentive to your comfort, making sure everyone stays warm while gazing into the Arctic sky. The beauty of small groups is the ability to move quickly if the Aurora appears elsewhere, or to settle into a cozy spot for a longer wait.

The real magic happens when the Aurora Borealis appears, often described as a “spectacular show” of shifting green, red, and even purple hues. Many reviewers like Rui and Serena mention witnessing stunning displays of red and green lights that “shined beautifully.” Guides often try to give you tips on capturing the moment with your camera or phone, and some offer professional photo packages upon request.

The Guide’s Role: Knowledge and Enthusiasm

Reviewers consistently praise guides for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and dedication. For example, Omar described his guide as “truly dedicated,” staying past scheduled hours to increase chances of seeing the lights. Others found guides like Walter and Nico to be “extremely knowledgeable,” explaining the scientific and folkloric stories behind the Aurora, which adds depth to the experience.

Some guides, like Certi or Zen, go beyond just finding the lights—they share insights into local culture, Sámi traditions, and even Finnish nature, enriching your understanding of Lapland. This personal storytelling makes the tour more than just a visual spectacle; it’s a culture.

Post-Experience: Relaxing and Reflecting

Back in Saariselkä, most guests leave feeling they’ve had a genuine adventure. The tour ends with a comfortable ride back, often with the cheerful glow of having seen one of the most incredible natural phenomena. Many reviewers recommend this experience wholeheartedly, emphasizing the value for money given the guides’ expertise, the small-group intimacy, and the effort to chase clear skies.

Pricing and Value

At $158 per person, this Aurora Hunt provides good value considering the inclusions. Warm drinks, snacks, expert guidance, and transportation are all covered, making it easier to relax and focus on enjoying the moment. The small-group setup also means more personalized attention and flexibility in spotting the lights, which larger tours might lack.

While the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed, the combination of skilled guides, real-time weather monitoring, and flexible routes makes this tour one of the most promising options in Saariselkä. Several guests appreciated how guides like Nico and Ammar proactively communicated and adjusted plans based on weather conditions, which significantly improves your chances of witnessing the lights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Aurora Hunting Tour is ideal for travelers who value expert guidance and personalized experiences in a small group. It’s perfect if you’re staying in Saariselkä and want a hassle-free, well-organized way to chase the Aurora without the stress of planning every detail yourself. It appeals to those who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural insights, along with the comfort of warm drinks and crisp Arctic air.

It’s less suited for travelers with very young children or those with mobility challenges, given the outdoor waits and cold temperatures. However, if you’re prepared for winter conditions and love the idea of actively searching for the Northern Lights with knowledgeable guides, this tour will likely meet and even exceed your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers pickup from your accommodation within 15 km of Saariselkä, transportation in a cozy minivan, an experienced English-speaking guide, and warm drinks and snacks.

Can I request a photography package?
Yes, photography assistance can be arranged in advance for €15 per person. This allows you to get professional shots of the Lights, which you can purchase afterward.

What should I wear?
Dressing warmly is essential. Think layers, a winter jacket, beanie, gloves, and sturdy winter boots. The outdoor waits can be chilly, especially as you’ll be standing still in the cold.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, as they are a natural phenomenon, it’s impossible to promise a sighting. But guides monitor weather and aurora forecasts carefully to optimize your chances.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, though some trips can extend to 6 hours if weather conditions require. The exact time depends on forecast and the group’s progress.

What if I don’t see the Lights?
There’s no refund if the Aurora doesn’t appear. However, guides do their best to hunt them down by moving to different spots based on real-time data, increasing your chances.

Are children allowed?
The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year and is generally not recommended for those over 95 years. Children should be able to tolerate outdoor winter conditions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. The provider will contact you two days prior to confirm weather conditions and plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Saariselkä Aurora Hunting Tour stands out for its knowledgeable guides, flexible approach, and the genuine effort to find clear skies. The small group size fosters a more personal experience, making it easier to ask questions, take photos, and move quickly if the Aurora shows up.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized journey to witness the Northern Lights, this tour offers great value and a real chance to see one of nature’s most breathtaking displays. The combination of expert planning, cozy amenities, and passionate guides like Nico and Ammar makes it a top pick for anyone serious about Aurora hunting in Lapland.

For those who love outdoor adventures with a cultural twist, and for travelers willing to embrace the unpredictable beauty of nature, this tour is a smart, enjoyable choice. Just come prepared for cold weather and bring your sense of wonder—because when the Aurora dances across the sky, you’ll know it was worth every chilly minute.