Saariselkä: Husky Safari with Aurora Borealis Hunt

Experience a 3-Hour Husky Safari and Aurora Borealis Hunt in Saariselkä

The Saariselkä Husky Safari with Aurora Borealis Hunt offers an engaging Arctic adventure for those seeking to combine the thrill of sledding with the chance to see the Northern Lights. Priced at $295 per person, this tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it an ideal choice for travelers wanting a balanced experience of activity and relaxation. It includes thermal clothing, transportation, and a warm drink, with multiple stops and guidance provided by experienced staff.

This tour is perfect for participants who enjoy outdoor adventures and want to experience the Finnish wilderness in a small-group setting. It’s designed for physically fit individuals, as sled driving is self-managed, and it is not suitable for children under 11 or pregnant women. The opportunity to hunt for the Aurora Borealis while riding Siberian huskies through snow-covered forests makes this experience particularly memorable.

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Key Points

• Duration: 3 hours, with pickup around 30 minutes before departure
• Price: $295 per person, includes thermal clothing and transport
• Main activities: Husky sledding over approximately 8 km and Aurora Borealis hunting
• Location: Departing from Saariselkä, Finland, with stops at the Wilderness Center
• Group size: Limited to 10 participants for a more intimate experience
• Additional benefits: Warm drink at a tipi with a fireplace and safety instructions from guides

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Saariselkä

The tour begins with pickup at three convenient locations in Saariselkä: Holiday Club Saariselkä Villas 1, VALO Finland, or Lapland Hotels Riekonlinna. The driver takes participants to the Wilderness Center, where the husky experience officially starts. The round-trip transportation ensures a stress-free transfer from your accommodation or designated pickup points, with pickups scheduled to occur approximately 30 minutes before the activity.

The transportation includes multiple stops, such as passing Star Arctic Hotel & Activities and brief stops in vans, totaling about 1 hour and 20 minutes of transfer time. This setup allows travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery before the sledding adventure begins. After the activity, participants are dropped back at the initial pickup points, ensuring a smooth end to the experience.

Thermal Clothing and Equipment Provided for Comfort

Thermal clothing such as overalls, boots, and gloves are provided at the Star Arctic Hotel Reception, preparing guests for the cold conditions of the Arctic forest. Since temperatures can change quickly, travelers are advised to bring their own warm clothes, hat, and gloves for additional comfort, especially when not actively sledding.

Participants are encouraged to recharge their phones beforehand to capture photos of the snowy landscape and stunning Northern Lights. The self-driven sleds mean you will need comfortable shoes and warm clothing to stay cozy during the experience. The safety briefing ensures everyone understands how to drive the sled properly, with guides monitoring from snowmobiles for safety.

The Husky Sledding Experience: From the Wilderness Center to the Forest Trails

Once on the snow, the guide explains safety procedures and driving instructions before the sledding begins. The approximate 8 km ride takes you through the Arctic pine forest, where you can enjoy some of the most scenic winter landscapes Finland has to offer. The sleds are self-driven, with two persons per sled—one driving and one riding—allowing for a shared experience.

The guide remains nearby on a snowmobile, ready to assist or switch drivers if needed. The trail is direct and does not include shortcuts, so expect a continuous ride through the pristine snow-covered woods. This setup grants travelers the chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of the Arctic wilderness while experiencing the thrill of controlling their own sled.

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Aurora Borealis Hunting at the Tipi with a Fireplace

The highlight of this tour is the chance to spot the Northern Lights. After sledding, guests take a break in a traditional tipi, complete with a fireplace for warmth. The guide leads this part of the experience, chatting and sharing stories while guests sip on a warm drink.

This cozy setting offers an ideal opportunity to watch the night sky for the elusive Aurora Borealis, with the outdoor environment providing minimal light pollution. The best viewing chances are during clear nights, and the tour maximizes your opportunity to observe this natural phenomenon under the guidance of local experts.

Detailed Itinerary and Stops in Saariselkä

The itinerary includes multiple stops to ensure smooth transportation and safety. The journey starts with pickups from Holiday Club Saariselkä/Villas 1, VALO Finland, or Lapland Hotels Riekonlinna. After about 20 minutes of travel, the group visits the Wilderness Center, where the husky farm is located.

The guided husky tour lasts about 1.5 hours, including the sled ride and safety briefing. The stops at Star Arctic Hotel & Activities include passing through briefly and returning to the Wilderness Center for the main activity. The entire experience involves multiple van stops totaling about 1 hour and 20 minutes of transport, with the main activity lasting approximately 1.5 hours.

Post-ride, the group returns to the tipi, where the Aurora hunt and warm drinks take place. The tour concludes with arrivals back at the initial pickup points, ensuring a well-organized schedule for participants.

Safety, Physical Requirements, and Tips

Since the sleds are self-driven, a moderate level of physical fitness is required. The activity is not suitable for children under 11 or pregnant women. Participants must be comfortable riding a sled and able to handle winter conditions, with warm clothing recommended in case of sudden cold snaps.

Safety instructions are provided before the ride, and guides supervise from snowmobiles. In case of injury or inability to drive, arrangements for a driver can be made in advance for an additional fee of 100 EUR per person.

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes, warm clothes, a hat, and gloves. Alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, and participants are responsible for any damages caused during sledding, with a liability limit of 2000 EUR per accident.

Cost and What’s Included in the Package

The $295 fee covers a roundtrip transportation, thermal clothing, the husky sled ride, safety instructions, and a warm drink at the tipi. It excludes personal items such as extra warm clothing or additional drinks.

The tour is designed as a small group experience, with up to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and more interaction with guides. The quality of the equipment and guides enhances the overall comfort and safety of this memorable Arctic adventure.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This husky safari is ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor winter activities. The self-driven sleds make it a good choice for those comfortable with physical activity, and the small group size ensures a more intimate experience.

While not suitable for very young children or pregnant women, adults and teens with a sense of adventure will find this tour rewarding. The combination of sledding and Northern Lights hunting provides a well-rounded Arctic experience that balances thrill and relaxation.

Final Thoughts on the Saariselkä Husky Safari with Aurora Hunt

This 3-hour tour offers a solid value for the price, including thermal clothing, transportation, and a scenic sled ride through Lapland’s forests. The opportunity to chase the Northern Lights adds a special touch, making this more than just a husky ride.

While the sleds are self-driven, guides provide clear instructions and supervision, ensuring safety. The warm drinks and tipi experience are cozy highlights after sledding, perfect for sharing stories and enjoying the night sky.

This experience suits adventurers who want a hands-on husky sledding experience combined with the thrill of Aurora hunting. It’s well-organized, with attentive guides and a focus on safety and comfort, making it a memorable Arctic excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 11 years due to the physical nature of sled driving and safety considerations.

What should I wear?
Participants should bring warm clothes, hat, and gloves, although thermal clothing is provided. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking at the start and end.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes, the sleds are self-driven. Guides monitor from snowmobiles, and instructions are given beforehand. If unable to drive, arrangements for a driver can be made with prior notice and an extra fee.

What is included in the price?
The $295 fee includes thermal clothing, transportation, husky sledding, safety instructions, and a warm drink.

How long is the husky ride?
The sled ride covers approximately 8 km, lasting about 1.5 hours.

Are there any safety precautions?
Yes, guides provide safety briefings, and sled driving is supervised. Participants must be physically fit and follow instructions.

What if the weather is poor?
The exact duration may vary depending on weather conditions; however, the tour is scheduled for about 3 hours and may be rescheduled or canceled with full refund if weather prevents Aurora viewing or sledding.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Arctic adventure is a great way to combine scenic husky sledding with the thrill of Aurora Borealis hunting, providing an authentic Lapland experience in a well-organized, small-group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby