Saariselkä: Evening Snowmobile Tour with Fire & picnic

Imagine zooming through snow-covered forests under a night sky filled with dancing auroras — that’s the kind of experience this Evening Snowmobile Tour promises in Saariselkä, Lapland. This guided adventure combines the adrenaline rush of snowmobiling with the chance to witness the legendary northern lights, topped off with a warming fire and a tasty picnic. While it’s a well-organized tour with plenty of highlights, it’s important to consider some practical details before booking.

What we love about this experience is the way it balances thrilling exploration with relaxing moments by the fire. Plus, the included warm clothing makes a big difference — no need to freeze your toes off while searching for the auroras. On the flip side, the tour is not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, so it’s best suited for active adults and older children.

If you’re after an authentic, fun way to experience Arctic Lapland’s night-time wilderness, this tour hits the right notes. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to combine scenic beauty with a bit of adrenaline. Now, let’s get into the detailed ins and outs of what makes this snowmobile safari a worthwhile addition to your Lapland trip.

Key Points

• Guided adventure with professional and knowledgeable guides
• Nighttime snowmobiling across forests, swamps, and hills
• Northern lights hunting opportunity in a dark Arctic sky
• Warm clothing and gear included for comfort and safety
• Cozy fire and picnic with sausages and hot drinks halfway through
• Ideal for active travelers over 18 with valid driving licenses

Exploring the Saariselkä Snowmobile Tour: What to Expect

This tour offers a three-hour window of Arctic excitement, starting with convenient pickup and ending with a scenic return. The whole experience is designed to be both exhilarating and comfortable, ensuring that you get a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness.

Pickup and Transfer

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup in Saariselkä, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive to the starting point. The transfer is included in the price, which adds to the value considering the remote location. During the ride, you’ll have some time to soak in the snowy landscape and anticipate the adventure ahead.

Preparation and Instructions

Once at the meeting point, you’ll be given winter clothing—warm jackets, pants, gloves, and hats—so you don’t need to worry about bundling up beforehand. A quick briefing from your guide will cover snowmobile instructions and safety tips, which are straightforward even for first-timers. Guides like Marianna, Elias, and Pauline have earned praise for their clear instructions and friendly demeanor, making even the nervous feel confident on the machines.

Snowmobiling through Arctic Landscapes

You’ll hop onto well-maintained snowmobiles, with one machine typically shared by two people. Expect to be behind the wheel for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of travel through snow-blanketed forests, swamps, and hills. The headlights cut through the darkness, revealing the serene beauty of Lapland’s wilderness. As you drive, you’ll be accompanied by your guide, who will ensure safety and point out interesting sights along the way.

The Scenic Midway Rest & Fire

Halfway through, the group will stop at a scenic spot where a fire is already crackling. Here, you’re invited to relax while your guide builds the campfire, and you can grill sausages—with vegetarian and gluten-free options available. Hot drinks, such as tea or coffee, are provided, perfect for warming up after the chilly ride. This stop is often praised for being a genuine and cozy moment, giving you time to chat with fellow travelers and enjoy the quiet beauty of the night.

Chasing the Northern Lights

One of the most exciting aspects of this tour is the potential to see the northern lights. While sightings depend on weather and solar activity, experienced guides keep a close watch on the sky. Reviewers mention that guides, like Elias and Pauline, are knowledgeable about the aurora forecasts and do their best to spot the lights, making the experience even more special if the sky cooperates.

Return and Drop-off

After the fire and sausage break, the journey continues back through the Arctic landscape, with your guide leading the way. Once the snowmobile ride concludes, you’ll be transferred back to Saariselkä, feeling satisfied from a night well spent.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included in the tour are hotel pickup and drop-off, winter clothing, snowmobile instructions, a guided safari, and the stop for sausages and hot drinks. The approximate driving time totals 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you ample opportunity to enjoy the ride without feeling rushed.

Important considerations include:

• You must hold a valid driver’s license (B class) and be at least 18 years old to drive.
• Children aged 4-14 are seated in a sledge behind the snowmobile, which parents have the option to sit in for comfort and safety.
• The tour is not suitable for infants, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.
• Each snowmobile accommodates two persons, so consider the pairing if traveling solo or as a group of three—an optional driver supplement can be purchased.
• Drivers are liable for damages, with personal liability capped at 990 EUR per case.

The True Value

At $177 per person, this experience offers a compelling mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic Arctic scenery. The inclusion of quality gear and warm clothing adds significant value, especially given the cold temperatures. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach elevate the experience, making it accessible even for first-timers.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Real travelers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. Adri praised guides Elias and Pauline as “AMAZING”, noting how the experience was wondrous. Anthony, on his first snowmobiling adventure, appreciated the clear instructions from the guide (whose name he forgot but who was “brilliant”) and enjoyed the sausage stop, calling it a “great touch”. Matt appreciated how Marianna made everyone feel welcome and provided clear guidance, underscoring the importance of good directions and safety.

Many mention the stunning scenery and the thrill of driving at night through the snowy forest, with some hoping to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, which, according to guides’ forecasts, is sometimes possible.

Practical Tips for Your Snowmobile Adventure

• Book early to secure your preferred start time, especially during peak seasons.
• Check that you bring your valid driver’s license if you wish to drive.
• Dress warmly, but know that the tour provides warm clothing—so no need to pack extra layers unless you’re particularly chilly.
• If you’re traveling with children over 140 cm who want to ride as passengers, be prepared for a full adult fare.
• The tour involves driving in the dark, so good night vision and comfort with winter driving are helpful.
• Keep an eye on the sky post-ride for a chance to see the aurora borealis—it’s a game of patience and luck but well worth it.

The Verdict: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snowmobile tour in Saariselkä is perfect for adventurous travelers looking to combine scenic exploration with a dose of adrenaline. It’s especially suitable for those over 18 with a valid driver’s license, eager to experience the Arctic wilderness at night. Families with older children (over 4 years, who can sit in a sledge) will find it a memorable outing, but it’s not recommended for very young kids or anyone with mobility issues.

It’s great for nature lovers and aurora hunters, as the guides are knowledgeable and attentive to the northern lights forecast. Plus, the fire and picnic stop adds a cozy, authentic touch that balances the high-energy ride.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Saariselkä, making it convenient for travelers staying locally.

What should I wear?
Warm winter clothing is provided, including jackets, gloves, and hats. However, it’s advisable to dress in layers underneath for extra warmth.

Can I drive the snowmobile?
You must have a valid driver’s license (B class) and be at least 18 years old to drive. Two people share each snowmobile, and drivers are responsible for damages.

Are children allowed?
Children aged 4-14 are seated in a sledge behind the snowmobile. For children over 140 cm who want to ride as passengers, a full adult fare applies.

What if I don’t want to drive?
You can opt to sit as a passenger on the snowmobile, but drivers must have a license and be over 18.

How long is the snowmobiling part of the tour?
Driving time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, split into manageable sections with a scenic stop at the fire.

What’s the likelihood of seeing the northern lights?
While sightings depend on weather and solar activity, guides monitor the aurora forecast and do their best to spot the lights during the tour.

The Saariselkä Evening Snowmobile Tour with Fire & Picnic delivers a genuinely memorable Arctic experience. It offers thrilling snowmobiling, spectacular scenery, and the chance to see the elusive northern lights, all wrapped in a cozy, well-organized package. It’s particularly suited for travelers who crave adventure but also appreciate comfort and authentic local experiences. The knowledgeable guides and thoughtful touches, like the fire stop with sausages and hot drinks, elevate the tour from simply a ride to an enriching evening in Lapland’s wilderness.

If you’re after an activity that combines adrenaline, nature, and Northern Lights—and don’t mind a bit of cold—this tour could be the highlight of your Lapland trip. Just remember to bring your license, dress warmly, and keep your hopes high for a glimpse of the aurora borealis dancing overhead.