Hunting Northern Lights by Snowmobiles

Hunting the Northern Lights by Snowmobiles in Saariselka, Finland

This snowmobile adventure offers an exciting way to chase the elusive Aurora Borealis amidst the pristine Arctic landscape of Saariselka, Finland. With a price of $200.41 per person, the tour lasts approximately 5 hours, making it an ideal evening activity for those eager to combine outdoor action with the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular light shows. The tour departs from Lapland Welcome and includes pickup service, guidance, and hot drinks to keep everyone comfortable through the long Arctic night. Booking typically occurs 50 days in advance, which speaks to its popularity.

What makes this experience stand out is its focus on active participants who want more than just waiting for the lights. Instead of passive observation, you get to drive snowmobiles, learn about the Northern Lights and local mythology, and enjoy snacks and hot beverages around a fire at a specially chosen, light-free spot with excellent clear skies. While seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, the tour boasts a 90% success rate under clear conditions, thanks to its carefully selected location and favorable microclimate.

Key Points

• Guided snowmobile tour designed for active travelers wanting an outdoors adventure
• Approximately 5 hours long, including time for fireside snacks and storytelling
• Small-group experience with a maximum of 10 participants for personalized attention
• Chance to photograph the Aurora Borealis in a prime, dark-sky location
• Expert guides explain local mythology and Aurora facts
• Includes transportation, guidance, snacks, and hot drinks at no extra charge

Starting Point at Lapland Welcome in Saariselka

The adventure begins at Lapland Welcome with a convenient meeting point in Saariselka. Travelers are picked up from the designated location, and the tour’s small size means a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience. The transportation takes you straight into the Arctic wilderness, where the real adventure begins.

From here, the guide provides instruction on snowmobile operation, perfect for both beginners and those with previous experience. The tour smoothly transitions into the dark countryside, where the night sky is fully visible and free of city lights, ideal for Aurora hunting. The starting point’s location is chosen for its microclimate and open northern horizon, which increases the likelihood of seeing the lights.

Driving Snowmobiles and Navigating the Arctic Wilderness

The core activity involves driving snowmobiles along scenic paths through the Arctic countryside. Participants learn to operate the machines with guidance, making the experience accessible for newcomers. The wilderness route takes you over fells and through forests, offering stunning views of untouched nature. The tour is designed for those who enjoy physical activity and outdoor pursuits.

The adventure leads to a tepee or hut, where a fire is made, and warm beverages and barbeque snacks are served. This cozy stop provides a perfect moment to relax, enjoy the starry sky, and listen to the guide’s stories about the Northern Lights and local legends. The experience combines outdoor excitement with cultural insights, enhancing the connection to Arctic traditions.

Prime Aurora Viewing Spot with Minimal Light Pollution

One of the tour’s key advantages is its carefully selected viewing location. The area is free from artificial lights, offering a completely dark northern sky for optimal Aurora observation. Thanks to local microclimate conditions, the weather tends to be clear even when surrounding areas are cloudy or foggy, significantly boosting the chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis.

The best viewing hours are typically between 11 PM and 12 AM, when the Aurora activity peaks. While the appearance of the lights depends on weather and solar conditions, the tour’s strategic location and timing provide a high probability of sightings. Even if the lights are faint or absent, the Arctic starry sky—including the Big Bear and Polar Star—adds to the magical atmosphere.

The Magic of the Arctic Night Sky and Mythology

As darkness falls, the guide explains the mythology behind the Northern Lights, enriching the experience with stories from Sami culture and Arctic legends. The fire and storytelling create a warm, communal tone amid the cold wilderness. The starry sky offers views of prominent constellations, making the night sky a highlight in itself.

The Northern Lights often appear just under the Polar Star, adding a special touch to the night’s spectacle. The combination of natural beauty and storytelling deepens the connection to the Arctic environment, making it more than just a sighting—it’s a cultural experience.

Food, Beverages, and Comfort During the Night

Comfort is a priority on this tour. Alongside the outdoor activity, hot drinks such as coffee or tea are served, along with snacks and barbeque treats, around the fire. These offerings help maintain warmth and energy during the long hours outside.

The guides ensure everyone stays comfortable, with provisions suited for Arctic conditions. The fire not only provides warmth but also creates a cozy ambiance, encouraging storytelling and socializing. The combination of outdoor activity, warm refreshments, and cultural storytelling makes the experience memorable regardless of whether the Aurora appears.

Practical Details: Booking, Inclusions, and Group Size

This tour is booked on average 50 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. The price of $200.41 includes transportation, guidance, snacks, coffee or tea, and liability insurance. The tour’s small group size—capped at 10 participants—ensures a personalized experience with ample time for questions and interaction.

Pickup service is offered from the meeting point in Saariselka, simplifying logistics. The tour lasts around 5 hours, usually starting after sunset when Aurora activity is most promising. Travelers should note that cancellation is not possible once booked, emphasizing the importance of confirming plans ahead of time.

Weather Conditions and the Importance of Luck

While the tour maximizes chances of Aurora sightings through strategic location and timing, the appearance of the Northern Lights remains unpredictable. The climate and weather conditions play a significant role, and clear skies are crucial. The tour’s success rate of around 90% on clear nights makes it a reliable choice, but travelers should be prepared for the possibility of not seeing the Aurora.

Despite this, even nights without Aurora sightings can be rewarding. The Arctic environment, star-studded sky, and wild silence offer a unique experience that is well worth the journey.

Personal Experiences of Past Participants

Feedback highlights the personalized attention and knowledgeable guides as major strengths. Guides are praised for their professionalism, storytelling skills, and friendly demeanor. Many note that, even if the Aurora does not appear, the snowmobiling, fire, and snacks create a fun and memorable night.

Some reviews mention the excitement of snowmobiling through forests and over fells, with the guides’ explanations adding depth to the experience. Others appreciate the well-organized setup and comfortable equipment, which make the Arctic adventure smooth and enjoyable.

Limitations and Considerations

The primary limitation is the unpredictability of Aurora sightings, which depends on weather and solar activity. Participants should be prepared for cold conditions and dress warmly. The tour is not refundable once booked, so travelers should confirm their plans carefully. Also, the activity level may not suit those with mobility issues, due to snowmobiling and outdoor exposure.

In rare cases, cancellations can occur at the last minute due to staff illness, as noted in some reviews, emphasizing the importance of flexible expectations.

Concluding the Arctic Aurora Hunt

The Hunting Northern Lights by Snowmobiles tour offers an exciting, hands-on way to experience the Arctic wilderness and chase the Aurora Borealis. With guided snowmobiling, fire-side storytelling, and prime viewing conditions, it appeals especially to active travelers seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.

Though sightings are not guaranteed, the combination of location, timing, and microclimate makes it a highly promising option. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of warm drinks and snacks keeps the experience cozy. This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, cultural stories, and are prepared for cold nights under the stars.

By choosing this tour, visitors embrace the thrill of Arctic exploration while increasing their chances of witnessing the magical Northern Lights in one of the best possible settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $200.41?
The tour covers transportation, guidance, snacks, coffee or tea, and liability insurance.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 5 hours, starting after sunset and including the outdoor fire and storytelling.

Can I participate if I have no snowmobile experience?
Yes, the guide provides instruction on how to drive snowmobiles, making it accessible for beginners.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Lapland Welcome in Saariselka.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
While the chance is about 90% on clear nights, Aurora sightings are not guaranteed due to weather and solar activity. Even without lights, the outdoor experience remains memorable.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drivers?
The activity is designed for active participants comfortable with snowmobiling and outdoor conditions; children should be accompanied by adults and meet age or physical requirements.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including thermal underwear, waterproof outerwear, gloves, and hats, to stay comfortable during outdoor exposure.

Is pickup service included?
Yes, pickup is offered from the designated meeting point, Lapland Welcome.

Can I book a private tour?
Private tours are available for an additional charge; contact the provider for details.

What happens if the weather is too cloudy or snowy?
The microclimate and strategic location often result in clear skies, but if weather conditions prevent Aurora sightings, the tour will still provide snowmobiling fun and cultural storytelling.