Saariselkä: Aurora Photo Tour by Car with Transfer & Drinks

Review of the Saariselkä Aurora Photo Tour by Car with Transfer & Drinks

Traveling in the Arctic Circle often means chasing elusive natural phenomena, and the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are perhaps the most sought-after of all. I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on detailed reviews and the package details, it promises a well-organized, cozy, and memorable experience. It’s designed for those who want to maximize their chances of witnessing this spectacular sky show without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

One thing I really appreciate about this tour is the focus on expert guidance—a guide with experience who knows where to find the best viewing spots. Pair that with the included hot drinks and gingerbread cookies, and it’s clear that comfort and a warm, friendly atmosphere are priorities. Plus, the added perk of receiving professional photos after the trip makes it easier to cherish the memories long after you’re back home.

On the flip side, a potential drawback is the unpredictable nature of the Aurora Borealis—no tour can guarantee a sighting, which might be disappointing if clouds cover the sky or solar activity is low. It’s worth keeping in mind that this is an Aurora hunt, not a guarantee, but the effort and local expertise seem to significantly improve your odds.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides Make a Difference: Guides like the well-informed, friendly staff can locate the best viewing spots and help with camera settings.
• Comfort is Key: Warm clothes, hot drinks, and a cozy vehicle make a big difference in Arctic weather.
• Photos Are Included: The tour provides a link with professional shots of your experience, saving you from trying to capture the lights yourself.
• Locations Matter: The tour hits multiple hotspots around Saariselkä, increasing the chance to see the lights in different settings.
• Timing and Weather Are Crucial: Late evening to nighttime trips depend heavily on clear skies and solar activity.
• Suitable for Families and Honeymooners: The experience is generally family-friendly but consider outdoor exposure and late hours for young children.

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Photo Tour Experience

Starting and Ending at Your Hotel

This tour begins with hotel pickup, which simplifies logistics—no hauling gear to a meeting point in the dark. The pickup times are confirmed via email, and arriving at least 15 minutes early is advised to avoid missing out. The transportation is described as comfortable and warm, which is essential when venturing into the Arctic night.

Once aboard, the guide—often described as friendly, knowledgeable, and well-versed in local conditions—drives to a series of hotspots specifically chosen for their high chance of Aurora visibility. The guides, sometimes praised for knowing exactly where to take you, increase your odds of experiencing the lights, especially if the sky is clear.

The Journey Through Lapland’s Night Sky

The tour’s core appeal is the chance to see the Aurora Borealis dancing overhead. The guides actively monitor cloud coverage and solar activity, and if conditions are right, you’ll step out at designated spots with unobstructed views.

One reviewer, KT, highlighted that the guide “knew exactly where to bring us to catch the northern lights,” and that within an hour, they experienced a “really spectacular display.” That’s a testament to the expertise involved. The guides also provide photography tips, which is invaluable because capturing the lights in their full glory can be tricky.

Snacking and Warming Up

The cozy vehicle allows you to warm up between stops, a small but meaningful comfort. Along the way, you’ll enjoy gingerbread cookies and hot drinks, which give a welcome boost of warmth and energy. It’s these touches that elevate the experience from a simple sky-watching trip to a genuine Arctic adventure.

The Photos and Sharing the Magic

One of the most appreciated features is the online link with your tour photos. Multiple reviews mention guides like Hector Dolphino or Kerstin helping with camera setup and taking fantastic pictures. These professional shots serve as keepsakes, letting you relive the experience without the hassle of fiddling with your camera in the cold.

The Unpredictability of the Aurora

It’s important to remember that Northern Lights are unpredictable. The tour’s description honestly states that sightings cannot be guaranteed, which is fair given the natural variability. Checking weather forecasts and solar activity beforehand is recommended. Still, many travelers walk away with multiple sightings and beautiful images, thanks to the skill and experience of the guides.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous families, couples, or solo travelers eager to combine comfort with a genuine chance to see the Aurora. The 3-hour duration is a good balance—long enough to increase your chances without feeling overly taxing. The small group setting fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the focus on photos and local expertise makes it ideal for those wanting both a visual record and insider knowledge.

Logistics and Value

At a price point of $131 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the included transportation, warm clothing, snacks, drinks, and professional photos. You get a well-organized, guided experience that removes much of the guesswork, making it accessible even for first-time visitors to Lapland.

Final Thoughts

The Saariselkä Aurora Photo Tour by Car strikes a good balance between comfort and adventure, especially for travelers who want a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights without braving the cold alone. The expert guides, scenic hotspots, and included photos elevate this experience beyond simple sky-gazing. Keep your expectations realistic, but if the skies cooperate, you’ll leave with stunning images and memories of a truly magical night.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who values guided expertise, comfort, and photo souvenirs, this tour is a strong pick. It’s particularly suitable for families with children, honeymooners, or anyone wanting a hassle-free Arctic experience. You’ll appreciate the warmth, the snacks, and the knowledge of guides who understand local conditions and how to spot the Aurora.

However, if your main goal is guaranteed Aurora sightings, remember that natural phenomena can never be promised. Flexibility and patience are key, but the experienced guides significantly improve your odds.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a tour guide, warm clothes, gingerbread cookies, hot drinks, and photos sent via an online link.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally family-friendly, but consider if outdoor late-night stays are appropriate for your small children due to cold weather and late hours.

Can I bring my own camera?
Yes, guides often give tips on nighttime photography and help take photos that you can download afterward, making it easy to capture the lights.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Since the Aurora is unpredictable, there’s no guarantee, but guides choose hotspots based on weather and solar activity, increasing your chances.

What should I wear?
The tour provides warm clothes, but dressing in layers, including thermal wear, is recommended for comfort.

How do I know what time to meet?
The exact pickup time is sent in the confirmation email. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure you don’t miss the departure.

Is the experience worth the cost?
For the included expert guidance, comfort, and photos, many find the $131 price to be good value—especially when compared to the expense of trying to see the lights independently.

To sum it up, the Saariselkä Aurora Photo Tour offers a well-rounded Arctic adventure with a promising chance to see the Northern Lights in comfort. It’s best suited for travelers eager for expert guidance, reliable transportation, and lasting souvenirs, all wrapped into a manageable three-hour outing. If you’re looking for a practical, scenic, and photo-friendly way to chase the Aurora, this tour will serve you well.