Discover the magic of the Aurora Borealis with expertly guided Northern Lights safaris in Saariselka, Lapland.
Saariselka, nestled deep within Finnish Lapland's vast wilderness, offers some of the most spectacular opportunities to witness the elusive Aurora Borealis. Far from the light pollution of cities, this remote Arctic destination provides a pristine canvas for the dancing lights. Northern Lights safaris in Saariselka are designed to maximize your chances of seeing this natural phenomenon, taking you to prime viewing locations where the sky is clear and the darkness is profound. These tours are more than just a waiting game; they are an immersive Arctic adventure that often includes snowmobiling, husky sledding, or reindeer sleigh rides, all under the vast, starlit Lapland sky. Choosing a Northern Lights safari here means embracing the unique charm of Lapland in winter. Operators understand the fickle nature of the Aurora, so tours often involve expert guides who know the best spots based on weather forecasts and solar activity. They might lead you deep into the silent forests, to frozen lakes, or up to remote fell tops, all while providing warm beverages and insights into Arctic culture and the science behind the Northern Lights. These excursions are a chance to connect with nature in its rawest, most breathtaking form, turning a potential sighting into a truly memorable and comprehensive Arctic experience.
Discover our top picks for northern lights safaris in Saariselka

Go in search of the famous Northern Lights in Finland on this small-group to Lake Inari from Saariselkä. Wrapped up warm against the cold, travel deep into the Finnish wilderness by sleigh pulled by a snowmobile. Keep watch on the skies for sightings of the spectacular Northern Lights and — with a little luck — marvel at spectacular views of the evening light show around Lake Inari. Meet and feed Reindeers with your local guide. Savor a warming dinner by the campfire in warm teepee and enjoy personalized attention from your guide on this small-group tour — limited to 10 people.

Experience a nice and memorable trip in the dark wilderness by driving a snowmobile. Now you can combine these experiences driving a snowmobile and hunting the Northern Lights. The safari is arranged on the best possible tracks in purpose of seeing Northern Lights. In November or early December the snow level might be too low for this activity. In that case we offer similar tour by ATV. If you want to cancel in advance you can do it for free.

Join the Aurora Experts on our legendary Northern Lights trip to reach the best places and see this great natural arctic phenomenon. The guide shares information about the Northern Lights and the old mythology around them. Listen to the stories about local life and nature by living fire. Experience some Lappish shamanism and see your future with our great Aurora guides! Make pictures by the hints from the Aurora guide. We go to the best site in Rovaniemi area for following the lights, to the mountains.

Get a chance to witness one of the most spectacular nature phenomenon in the world - Aurora borealis. We drive to the best spots to see Auroras in the area. With our guide, knowledgeable about northern lights you get the best chances to see the magical show in the sky. Our guide also takes photos that you get via a weblink. During the experience, you will learn about the northern lights, and about how to capture them on camera. Please note that the probability of seeing auroras depends on the weather (clear sky and solar activity).

Embark on a hassle-free Northern Lights hunt with our cozy minivan tour! We’ll pick you up from your accommodation and take you on a three-hour journey through the Ivalo, Inari, or Saariselkä areas to find the auroras. Along the way, we’ll stop at the best potential spots and enjoy a cozy break by an open fire, roasting sausages and sipping hot tea, cocoa, or homemade berry juice. Perfect for those who want to search for the Northern Lights with local guides, visiting unforgettable spots while staying comfortably warm in a cozy car

Stay Warm, Dry & Stylish in Saariselkä – Winter Clothing & Snow Suit Rental Whether you’re gliding through snowy forests, meeting reindeer, or chasing the Northern Lights, stay perfectly warm and dry with premium winter clothing rentals in Saariselkä — designed for adults and kids. Travel light, skip expensive gear purchases, and explore in total comfort. Why travelers love it - Stylish & Modern – Look great while staying cozy in every photo - Waterproof & Windproof – Built for Arctic temperatures and snow - Freedom to Move – Perfect for outdoor adventures and village exploring Adults: Warm winter jacket, trousers, mittens, snow boots, and tube scarf. Sizes up to 7XL, boots from EU 23–49. Kids’ Set (80–130 cm) Winter overall, mittens, snow boots, and tube scarf How it works Book online and collect your clothing at our store in Lutontie 3, Rovaniemi. Delivery and pickup are also available to all hotels and accommodations for an additional fee.

Snowmobiling in dark wintery nature is once in a lifetime experience! Snowmobile headlights are illuminating our way through nature while we drive through forest, swamps and hills. In the middle we take a break and our guide will make a fire where we get to grill sausages and warm up a little. If we are lucky enough we get to marvel the northern lights above us!

Join us for an unforgettable night chasing the magical Aurora Borealis! Starting from **Saariselkä**, your cozy small-group tour takes you far from city lights and deep into the quiet beauty of Lapland’s wilderness. Your expert guide will track the best locations for spotting the Northern Lights, giving you the highest chance to witness the dazzling green, pink, and purple waves dancing across the Arctic sky. Along the way, you’ll learn fascinating stories about the Aurora and the myths that surround it. To make the night even more special, we’ll serve **warm snacks and hot drinks** by the fire—perfect for keeping cozy as you wait for the lights to appear. **Aurora photography is included** – your guide will capture stunning photos of you under the lights, so you can take home unforgettable memories. With a maximum of just a few travelers per group, you’ll enjoy a **personal, intimate experience** without the crowds—just you, the Arctic wilderness, and the magic of the night sky.

We use our comfortable minivans that seat 8-20 people to hunt the Auroras - the Northern lights - so that we have the possibility to go as far as needed to find the Auroras. We cannot guarantee that you will see the Northern lights, but what we can guarantee is that we will do everything in our power to find them for you. Our Aurora Hunt is organized for small groups to assure the quality of the service for our guests. All our guides are professional "Aurora Hunters" and can answer all your questions about Auroras, Finland, and the culture. The Hunt is always customized by the guide according to weather and the Aurora forecast, but it always includes transportation, English speaking guide, warm drinks, and some snacks.

This Arctic King Crab Safari offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to catch and feast on one of the ocean’s most prized delicacies in its natural habitat. Whether cruising on a RIB boat in summer or gliding across the frozen sea on a snowmobile sledge in winter, the experience adapts to the season, giving you an unforgettable Arctic adventure. Combined with a visit to the magical Snowhotel and a freshly prepared King Crab meal served in a cozy seaside restaurant, this tour is the perfect blend of nature, culture, and cuisine curated just for you.

The visibility of Northern lights depends for example on the weather and activity of the Sun, but this trip is to offer you the best chance to see the lights on the best possible location in Ivalo – Saariselka area. We take it seriously Our sites are absolute dark far from the village lights and hotels. This is important because most of the lights are relatively faint so in absolute darkness you will see much more. The longer you stay the more you see. This is why our tour is relatively long. The best hour to see the lights is just before the midnight but the best lights may appear whenever. On the way to the site we stop the car even several times if needed and follow the lights. During this tour we also spend nice time in a tepee on the best possible site for following the sky and barbeque for all tastes and diets. We will also advice you in taking pictures and we will make pictures ourselves which we share with you from our cloud service. We follow the daily weather forecast

Search the famous Northern Lights on this small-group safari to Lake Inari from Kakslauttanen and Kiilopää area. Wrapped up warm against the cold, travel deep into the Finnish wilderness by sleigh pulled by snowmobile. Keep watch on the skies for sightings of the spectacular Northern Lights and — with a little luck — marvel at spectacular views of the evening light show around Lake Inari. Owners of this local family company lives in a island, you will visit there in the tour and get glimpse of local lifestyle outside touristic areas. There is friendly reindeers you can meet and feed. Home made dinner will be served by the campfire in lappish teepee. Enjoy personalized attention from your guide on this small-group tour limited to 10 people.

This full-day king crab foodie tour is a unique chance to combine Finland and Norway in the same trip. You start the journey early in the morning towards Norwegian border with a short stop for breakfast in one of the authentic reindeer farms. Here you can experience how locals live and get to know their livelihood. Continuing towards Norway with border crossing and arrival to Norwegian town Kirkenes. This is where the crab adventure begins. You will sit in a big sledge pulled by a snowmobile and are taken to the fjord where you can catch and get to know live King Crab. You will be served a taste of King Crab in wonderful surroundings while getting more information about the crab and the area far up north.

Get ready for a personalized adventure in the stunning Inari-Saariselkä region! This full-day private tour is tailored just for you and your group, offering flexibility to explore the Arctic wilderness at your own pace. I’ll take you to hidden gems and beautiful landscapes, whether you're after peaceful nature walks, exciting outdoor activities, or insights into Lapland’s culture. Enjoy a delicious lunch cooked over an open fire, and if you wish, extend your day into the night to chase the magical Northern Lights. What makes this tour unique is the personal attention and flexibility you’ll receive. No crowds, no rush—just a stress-free day where you set the pace. Perfect for those seeking an intimate and exclusive way to explore Lapland, this experience will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Saariselka's remote location and minimal light pollution offer exceptional conditions for witnessing the Northern Lights.
Combine Aurora hunting with classic Lapland activities like snowmobiling, husky sledding, and reindeer encounters.
Knowledgeable guides know the best viewing spots and understand weather patterns for optimal Aurora sightings.
Enjoy traditional Arctic hospitality with hot drinks and often a campfire in a cozy wilderness setting.
Venture away from settlements to experience the full splendor of the night sky, enhancing your Aurora viewing potential.
These tours are ideal for capturing stunning images of the Aurora, with guides often providing tips.
Embark on thrilling snowmobile journeys deep into the wilderness to find clearings for optimal Aurora viewing. Guides will lead you to secluded spots away from any light disturbance.
Experience the magic of being pulled by a team of energetic huskies through the silent snowy landscape, culminating in a search for the Northern Lights. This offers a traditional and exhilarating way to explore the Arctic night.
Enjoy a peaceful and scenic reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy Lapland forests. After the ride, settle down in a cozy wilderness camp to await the appearance of the Northern Lights.
Comfortable and efficient tours that use vehicles to reach prime Aurora viewing locations, often including stops at scenic viewpoints and remote clearings. These tours are ideal for those seeking convenience and a guided search.
Most Northern Lights safaris in Saariselka typically last between 3 to 5 hours, allowing ample time for travel to viewing spots, the activity itself, and Aurora watching.
Expect very cold temperatures, often well below freezing. Layers are essential for comfort and safety. Tours may be cancelled or rerouted due to severe weather.
Group sizes vary. Some tours are intimate, with only a few participants, while others might involve larger groups for snowmobile or bus excursions. Private options are also often available.
Typically includes guided transportation to viewing locations, warm beverages (like hot chocolate or berry juice), sometimes a light snack, and the guidance of an Aurora expert. Specific activities like snowmobiling or husky rides are included in their respective tour types.
Meeting points are usually in Saariselka village, often at a central pickup location, your accommodation, or a designated visitor center. Always confirm the exact meeting point with your tour operator.
Prices vary based on the type of tour, duration, and included activities. Expect to pay anywhere from approximately $85 to $250 USD or more per person for a typical guided Northern Lights safari.
Dress in multiple warm layers. Thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers, and a windproof, waterproof outer layer are crucial. Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, and scarf.
Bring a portable power bank for your phone or camera, as cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly.
Wear insulated, waterproof boots. Your feet will thank you after hours in the snow.
Check the Aurora forecast on the day of your tour, but remember that forecasts are not guarantees. Your guide will be monitoring conditions closely.
Be patient. The Aurora can be unpredictable. Enjoy the Arctic wilderness and the camaraderie while you wait.
If you're serious about photography, bring a tripod. Long exposure shots are essential for capturing the lights.
Consider booking a tour that includes another activity, like snowmobiling or husky sledding, for a more complete Arctic experience.
Pack extra socks! Dry socks are incredibly important for keeping your feet warm in extreme cold.
A: Unfortunately, seeing the Northern Lights is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. However, Saariselka's location and the expertise of tour operators significantly increase your chances by taking you to optimal viewing spots.
A: The prime season for Aurora viewing in Saariselka is generally from late August to April. The darkest months, from November to February, offer the longest periods of darkness, maximizing your viewing potential.
A: Layering is key. Wear a thermal base layer, a warm middle layer (like fleece), and a windproof, insulated outer layer. Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, scarf, and insulated, waterproof boots.
A: Many Northern Lights safaris are suitable for families, but it's always best to check the specific age recommendations for each tour. Some activities, like long snowmobile rides, might have age restrictions.
A: Most tour operators will offer a refund or the chance to rebook if a tour is cancelled due to weather conditions. It's advisable to confirm the cancellation policy with the operator when you book.
A: Most tours provide warm drinks and sometimes light snacks. If you have specific dietary needs or require a full meal, it's best to inquire with the tour provider in advance.
A: Guides will take you away from the village lights, sometimes a considerable distance, into the wilderness. The exact distance depends on the tour type and the guides' assessment of the best viewing conditions on that particular night.
A: Absolutely! Bringing a camera and tripod is highly recommended for capturing the Aurora. Guides often offer photography tips, but it's good to familiarize yourself with your camera's manual settings beforehand.
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky, a truly unforgettable spectacle.
Discover the raw beauty of Finnish Lapland's wilderness, perfect for winter adventures and summer hikes.
Enjoy authentic Sámi culture and traditions in a remote and peaceful setting, far from the crowds.
Explore Urho Kekkonen National Park's vast landscapes, offering pristine nature and diverse wildlife encounters.
Savor the tranquility of a Finnish sauna and the taste of local Lapland delicacies.
Immerse yourself in the heart of Lapland, where adventure meets serene Arctic beauty.
Check local weather forecasts for the best time to visit.
Spring and fall offer the best weather for most destinations.
Summer months are typically the peak season with higher prices and crowds.
Winter months offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though weather may be less ideal.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
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Discover the ancient traditions and unique way of life of the Sámi people on immersive tours in Saariselka.
Getting around Saariselkä is relatively straightforward, especially within the resort village itself, which is quite walkable. For exploring further afield, especially in winter, consider booking guided tours that often include transportation. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for independent exploration of the surrounding Lapland wilderness, though winter driving conditions require caution. Public transport options are limited, so planning ahead is key for excursions outside of Saariselkä.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Saariselka adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
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