Saariselkä: Northern Lights & Reindeer Sledding Tour

The Saariselkä: Northern Lights & Reindeer Sledding Tour offers an authentic glimpse into Lapland’s traditional reindeer culture at a comfortable price of $215 per person. Lasting 2.5 hours, this tour is ideal for those eager to experience a classic Sami activity while enjoying the chance to see the Northern Lights if luck favors you. It departs from Honkapolku 1 and includes thermal clothing, a guided experience in English, and hot drinks by a campfire.

This tour is well-suited for travelers interested in cultural traditions, nature, and the magic of Lapland’s night sky. It’s worth noting that children under 7 years and pregnant women are not suitable for participation, and Northern Lights sightings cannot be guaranteed. The experience balances quiet, scenic sleigh riding with warm drinks and feeding reindeer, making it ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed, memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic reindeer sleigh ride led by experienced guides in English and Finnish
• Includes thermal clothing and hot drinks around a campfire
• Chance to see the Northern Lights (not guaranteed)
• Visit to Joikun Kotakahvio / Porofarmi with local snacks and reindeer feeding
• Accessible, with wheelchair-friendly options
• Duration of 2.5 hours, departing from Saariselkä

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Starting at Honkapolku 1 in Saariselkä

The tour begins at Lapponia Tours’ safari house, a distinctive gray building with a tower roof. After checking in, travelers are transferred for about 15 minutes to the reindeer farm, where the experience truly begins. The starting point is convenient and easy to locate, setting a relaxed tone for the evening.

Reindeer Sledding Through Lapland’s Quiet Forest

Once at the farm, the reindeer sleigh ride starts, a traditional Sami mode of transportation that offers a gentle, peaceful journey through the snow-covered woods. The sleighs are designed to keep participants comfortable, allowing for a relaxed experience while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. The guides lead the sleighs, sharing insights about the reindeer and local culture.

Feeding Friendly Reindeer by the Campfire

A highlight of this tour is the opportunity to feed the reindeer directly. The friendly animals are accustomed to visitors and enjoy the treats offered. After the ride, everyone gathers around a campfire, where hot drinks like coffee or tea are served alongside biscuits. The campfire setting enhances the magical atmosphere of the forest at night.

Watching for the Northern Lights

While the Northern Lights are a key feature of this experience, guides remind guests that sightings cannot be guaranteed due to weather and solar activity. Nevertheless, the dark, clear skies provide excellent conditions for viewing if the Aurora Borealis appears. Many visitors find the sense of anticipation and quiet beauty of the night enough to make the experience unforgettable.

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The Itinerary and Stops

The tour features a main stop at the reindeer farm, where the sleigh ride begins and ends. The visit to Joikun Kotakahvio / Porofarmi allows for a taste of local snacks and reindeer feeding. The 15-minute transfers between the starting point and the farm are smooth, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum time enjoying the activities.

Included Amenities and Practical Considerations

Thermal clothing is provided to keep participants warm throughout the cold Lapland night. The tour includes guiding in English, ensuring clear explanations of the Sami traditions and reindeer life. Participants should arrive dressed in warm, layered clothing and comfortable shoes.

While transfer from the Inari, Muotka, Kakslauttanen, or other nearby areas is not included, travelers can arrange their own transportation to Saariselkä. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good choice for guests with mobility needs.

Tips for a Great Experience

Bringing a personal camera is encouraged, but flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect the reindeer and avoid accidents. Guides will remind guests to respect safety rules. The evening pace balances quiet, scenic moments with informative storytelling, making it suitable for families (excluding children under 7) and adults alike.

The Value of This Reindeer Sledding Tour

At $215, this experience offers authentic culture combined with scenic natural beauty. The inclusion of thermal clothing and hot drinks enhances comfort, while the chance to see the Northern Lights adds a special touch. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially for their stories about Sami culture and reindeer life.

Limitations and Considerations

The main limitation is that Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed, which is common in aurora tourism. Participants must dress warmly and be prepared for cold weather. The duration of sleigh riding may also be shorter than some expect, with some noting that the campfire experience lasts longer than the sleigh ride itself.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers interested in cultural traditions and nature. It offers a relaxed pace, making it suitable for those seeking a peaceful, authentic experience rather than high-adrenaline activities. The guides’ storytelling enriches the trip, making it especially appealing to those curious about Sami culture and reindeer life.

Final Thoughts on the Saariselkä Reindeer Sledding Experience

For anyone visiting Lapland, this 2.5-hour reindeer sleigh ride provides a genuine taste of Sami traditions with the added thrill of attempting to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The friendly reindeer, warm campfire, and knowledgeable guides make it a well-rounded activity that balances culture with the natural beauty of the Arctic night.

While Northern Lights cannot be promised, the authenticity of the reindeer experience and the peaceful winter scenery are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for a gentle, memorable evening in Lapland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included from nearby accommodations?
No, transfer from areas such as Kiilopää, Kakslauttanen, Muotka, Inari, or Ivalo is not included. Guests should arrange their own transfer to the starting point at Honkapolku 1.

What should I wear for the tour?
Participants should dress warmly in layers and wear comfortable shoes suitable for snow. Thermal clothing is provided, but bringing extra warm clothing is recommended.

Can children participate in this tour?
The activity is not suitable for children under 7 years. It is designed for guests capable of comfortably sitting in a sleigh for the duration.

Is the Northern Lights viewing guaranteed?
No, Northern Lights sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. The tour guides cannot promise a sighting but will do their best to help guests spot the Aurora.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes thermal clothing, guiding in English, reindeer sleigh ride, hot drink by a campfire, and the opportunity to feed reindeer.

How long is the reindeer sleigh ride?
The sleigh ride itself is part of the 2.5-hour experience, with the ride duration typically shorter than the total time, which includes breaks and campfire time.

Is this tour accessible for guests with mobility issues?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What is the guide’s language of explanation?
Guiding is provided in English and Finnish, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories about the reindeer, Sami culture, and the local environment.

Can I take my own camera?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring personal cameras, but flash photography is strictly prohibited to ensure safety for the reindeer and the group.

How do I book this experience?
Reservations can be made with the option to pay later, providing flexibility for travel planning. Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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