Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Northern Lights Experts

The Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Northern Lights Experts offers a highly engaging way to experience the Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland. Priced at $158 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours, this tour is designed for those eager to see the Aurora Borealis with the help of seasoned guides who know the best spots. The tour departs from Saariselkä and includes pick-up from accommodations within 15 km, making logistics straightforward.

What sets this experience apart is its focus on active hunting rather than passive waiting. The guides use weather forecasts and Aurora activity predictions to drive to the most promising locations, often venturing into areas accessible only by small vehicles. With a small group size of 6-8 people, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and flexible location choices.

While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, the guides’ expertise and commitment significantly increase the chances of witnessing this breathtaking display. This tour is especially suitable for visitors who prioritize a dynamic, guided search for the Aurora, enjoy cozy transportation, and appreciate detailed explanations about the lights and local culture.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $158 per person, the 3-hour tour offers a compact yet comprehensive Aurora hunt.
• Departure and Pick-up: Includes pick-up from accommodations within 15 km of Saariselkä, simplifying logistics.
• Small Group Flexibility: Groups of 6-8 people ensure personalized attention and the ability to visit multiple locations.
• Expert Guides: Guides are experienced and provide insights into the Aurora, Lapland, and local culture.
• Active Search: Guides drive to the best spots based on weather and aurora forecasts, rather than waiting in one place.
• Additional Options: Photography packages are available upon request, with professional tips and post-tour purchase options.

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How This Tour Finds the Best Aurora Spots

The tour starts with pickup from Saariselkä and a ride in one of three comfortable vans, branded with “Follow us for Northern Lights,” Volkswagen T5s, or a Mercedes. The guides plan the route based on weather conditions and Aurora forecasts, aiming for clear skies and optimal viewing.

The tour drives as far as possible to avoid cloud cover, often reaching secluded spots that only a small vehicle can access. This proactive approach maximizes the chances of seeing the Lights, and the guides are skilled at adjusting locations if cloud cover or aurora activity levels change.

Inside the Minivan: Comfort and Convenience

Traveling in a cozy minivan, visitors can sit comfortably during the drive. The tour includes warm drinks and snacks, which are served during breaks, helping to keep everyone cozy in the icy outdoor conditions. It’s recommended to wear warm clothing, hats, gloves, and sturdy winter boots because you’ll spend time outdoors, waiting for the Northern Lights to appear.

The vans provide enough space for all guests to sit comfortably and enjoy the ride, with the option to request a photography tour in advance. Guides are willing to share tips for capturing the Lights with cameras or smartphones, making this a great option for budding astrophotographers.

The Role of Expert Guides in Aurora Hunting

Guides on this tour are highly knowledgeable about the Northern Lights, Lapland, and local weather patterns. Numerous reviews praise guides like Max, Nico, Zen, and Amar for their enthusiasm, professionalism, and ability to find clear skies and auroras even in challenging weather conditions.

Guides explain the science and folklore behind the Aurora, adding depth to the experience. Many reviews mention their friendly attitude, with guides going beyond expectations—staying late, offering hot drinks, and taking photos of guests. Their local knowledge allows for quick adjustments to the route, improving the likelihood of seeing the Lights.

The Best Viewing Locations and Stops

The tour visits multiple locations during the 3 hours, including frozen lakes, remote wilderness spots, and scenic vantage points. One notable stop is the frozen Inari Lake, where guests can experience the Aurora from the middle of the lake, surrounded by silence and the vast sky.

Other spots include secluded areas away from artificial light, ensuring minimal light pollution. Guides select each location based on real-time weather and Aurora activity, so no two trips are exactly alike. Guests often report seeing bright, colorful displays—shades of green, red, and deep hues—at multiple sights.

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What to Expect During the Outdoor Experience

Once the guides locate a promising spot, guests are encouraged to spend time outdoors, bundled up to witness the Aurora directly. The outdoor viewing can last up to an hour at each location, giving ample opportunity for photo-taking and marveling at the natural light show.

Guides are happy to assist with photography, providing tips and support for capturing the Lights with phones or cameras, especially if the group has requested a photography package. During outdoor breaks, hot drinks and snacks help keep everyone warm, creating a comfortable atmosphere despite the cold.

Physical and Weather Considerations

Participants should wear warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and sturdy winter boots, as the outdoor temperatures in Lapland can be very cold, especially at night. The tour advises against bringing drinks into the vehicle to keep the environment safe and tidy.

While the tour aims to find clear skies and visible Aurora, it’s important to remember that Northern Lights are unpredictable. The guides do their best to maximize viewing chances, but success cannot be guaranteed. The flexibility of the route and the experience of the guides significantly improve the odds, however.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if weather forecasts change. Guests will be contacted two days before the tour to review weather conditions and confirm the best possible date. The “reserve now & pay later” option allows booking flexibility, ensuring plans can adapt as needed.

Comparing This Tour to Others in Saariselkä

This Aurora Hunting Tour is characterized by its small-group size, expert guides, and active approach. Unlike tours that simply wait at one spot, this experience actively searches for the best viewing locations, often reaching remote, hard-to-access sites.

The tour is well-suited for travelers who want a personalized, flexible experience and are comfortable spending time outdoors in cold weather. The cozy transportation, warm drinks, and professional guidance make it an attractive choice, especially for those keen on maximizing their chances to see the Northern Lights.

Final Thoughts on Saariselkä’s Aurora Hunting Experience

The Saariselkä Aurora Hunting Tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and expert guidance. The price of $158 provides access to multiple scenic locations and the expertise of guides who are passionate about their work.

While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, the active, weather-aware approach of this tour significantly increases the likelihood of witnessing this spectacular display. The small-group size, warm drinks, and personal attention make it an ideal choice for adventurers and Aurora enthusiasts alike.

This tour is particularly recommended for those who value flexibility, expert knowledge, and outdoor adventure in their Northern Lights experience. It offers a practical, well-organized way to chase the Lights in the winter wonderland of Lapland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be able to handle cold outdoor conditions and be comfortable sitting outside for periods of time.

What should I wear on the tour?
Wear warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and sturdy winter boots. The tour recommends dressing in layers to stay comfortable outdoors.

Can I request a photography package?
Yes, upon advance request, a photography package costs 15 per person and includes assistance with capturing the Northern Lights.

What if the weather forecast looks poor?
The tour reviews weather conditions two days prior and may reschedule or cancel for a full refund if viewing is unlikely.

How long do I spend outdoors during the tour?
Expect to spend up to an hour at each location, with several stops potentially lasting longer depending on Aurora activity.

Are meals or drinks included?
Warm drinks and snacks are included and served during breaks, but no alcohol is permitted in the vehicle.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to 6-8 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.

How do guides find the Aurora?
Guides use weather forecasts and Aurora activity predictions to drive to locations with the highest chances of clear skies and lights.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
The information provided does not specify accessibility accommodations. Participants should be able to manage outdoor winter conditions.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance. You will be contacted two days before the scheduled date for weather confirmation.

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