From Saariselkä: Aurora Hunting Tour with Campfire & Snacks

Getting the chance to see the Northern Lights in Lapland is a bucket-list experience, and this Aurora Hunting Tour with Campfire & Snacks offers a well-rounded glimpse of what that entails. From the comfort of a sleek Multivan Hybrid to the thrill of hunting for the elusive auroras, this tour combines scenic drives, traditional Finnish food, and a touch of adventure in a small-group setting. It’s a balanced mix of comfort and authentic experience, making it appealing for travelers who want a bit more than just standing outside hoping for a sighting.

What I really like about this tour is how smoothly it combines transportation and activity — you’re traveling in a luxurious, environmentally friendly vehicle that keeps you warm and cozy, which is a bonus in the cold Lapland nights. Plus, the campfire moments, where the guide cooks Finnish sausages over open flames, give the experience a genuine, rustic charm. The second thing I appreciate is the focus on photography — the guide can even snap photos of you under the Northern Lights, a thoughtful touch for those eager to capture memories.

That said, a potential consideration is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights — even the best guide can’t guarantee a sighting, but they do provide expert opinions on weather conditions, and rescheduling options are available. If catching the auroras is a priority, keep flexibility in mind. This tour offers a meaningful blend of nature, culture, and comfort, making it a solid choice for those traveling in small groups who want a warm, guided, and memorable outing.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small group size enhances the experience, offering a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Comfortable Hybrid transportation makes the long night more enjoyable and eco-friendly.
• Expert guides like the personable local guide can provide valuable insights and photography assistance.
• Traditional Finnish campfire snacks add a warm, authentic touch to the chilly night.
• Scenic drive through villages and along the Russia border offers stunning winter landscapes and a sense of adventure.
• Rescheduling policy provides flexibility if weather conditions aren’t ideal for seeing the Northern Lights.

The Journey Begins: From Saariselkä to the Northern Skies

Right at the start, what impresses me is how this tour emphasizes comfort and convenience. You’re picked up from your hotel or can meet directly at the Saariselkä parking lot, and the Multivan Hybrid is both modern and spacious — no cramped, noisy vans here. This vehicle ensures a smooth, warm ride through the peaceful winter landscape of Lapland, with large windows to take in the snow-blanketed scenery and watch for signs of the auroras.

The guide, a local expert, keeps the atmosphere relaxed, sharing bits of Finnish culture along the way. You’ll pass through small villages like Ivalo and Nellim, and even see the Paatsjoki River Bridge, where the river rushes swiftly towards Russia. I found this part especially memorable; it felt like stepping into a quiet, frozen wilderness with the potential for extraordinary sights.

Scenery and the Hunt for Aurora Borealis

Once you arrive at the ideal viewing spot, the real magic begins. The guide is attentive, explaining what the Northern Lights are and how they form, but also honest about the unpredictability. The key is patience and luck, but you’ll love the way the guide keeps you engaged and optimistic.

The sky above the river bridge often illuminates with vivid reds and greens, creating a drama that’s best described as awe-inspiring. Many reviewers mention the “stunning views” and how they seemed almost surreal. The guide can assist with photography, using long exposures to capture the lights’ fleeting dance, and they’re happy to snap a photo of you under the sky — a thoughtful bonus.

Campfire and Finnish Snacks: Cozy Moments in the Cold

What sets this tour apart is the campfire experience. Once the lights appear or you’re just soaking in the atmosphere, everyone gathers around the fire built on-site. Here, you’ll be served Finnish sausages cooked over open flames, a traditional way to enjoy a hearty snack in Lapland. The warm juice, buns, and cookies come in handy to warm your hands and stomach after standing in the chilly night.

I love the authenticity of this part — it’s simple, rustic, and genuinely Finnish. Plus, the fire adds a cozy, communal vibe, making the experience more than just a solo wait in the cold.

Practical Details and Logistics

This tour lasts around 3.5 hours, which is ideal for those who want a manageable, not overly long evening outing. The small group size (up to 6 participants) means you get personal attention, whether that’s asking questions or requesting a quick photo. The local guide is fluent in English, and the pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics.

You should dress warmly, as Lapland winter nights can be brutally cold. The tour provides the transportation and snacks, but you’ll want to bring your own thermal layers, warm hat, gloves, and sturdy boots. The fact that you’re traveling in a hybrid vehicle not only helps the environment but ensures that the ride is quiet and smooth — you won’t be disturbed by loud engines or drafts.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who value comfort without sacrificing authenticity. If you’re looking for a small-group, guided adventure with the chance to see the Northern Lights and enjoy traditional Finnish food, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace, with a knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience.

However, if you’re a hardcore photographer or a very experienced aurora chaser, you might want to consider additional or alternative options. Remember, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and no guide can guarantee a sighting — patience and luck are part of the game.

Price and Value

At a reasonable price point for a guided small-group experience that includes transportation, snacks, and professional guidance, this tour offers solid value. The inclusion of a rescheduling policy adds a safety net if the weather isn’t cooperative. Considering the cost of private outings or self-guided options, this tour stands out for the quality of the experience versus the investment. The small group size means you’ll get more personalized attention, which elevates the overall value.

Final Verdict: Who Should Sign Up?

If you’re visiting Saariselkä or nearby areas and want a comfortable, authentic chance to see the Northern Lights, this tour is a fantastic pick. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, enjoy cozy campfire moments, and appreciate the added bonus of professional photos. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling in winter and want to experience Lapland’s landscape and culture in a warm, friendly setting.

For those seeking a straightforward, well-organized adventure with a touch of Finnish tradition, this Aurora Hunting Tour ticks all boxes.

FAQ

What should I wear on this tour?
You should dress warmly, in winter clothes. Bringing thermal layers, a hat, gloves, and sturdy boots is recommended to stay comfortable through the chilly night.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts 3.5 hours, making it a manageable evening outing. Check availability for specific starting times.

Can I see the Northern Lights on every tour?
No, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guide provides an honest assessment the day before and offers rescheduling if needed.

What transportation is used?
You’ll travel in a luxurious Multivan Hybrid, which is comfortable, quiet, and environmentally friendly, perfect for long nights in Lapland.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your specified location or the Holiday Club Saariselkä parking lot.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personal experience with plenty of guide attention.

What snacks are provided?
A traditional Finnish snack of sausages cooked over an open fire, along with warm juice, buns, and cookies.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the small group size and relaxed nature suggest it could be suitable for families, provided children are dressed warmly and can sit comfortably outside.

What if the weather isn’t suitable for viewing?
The guide will advise you the day before and if necessary, you can reschedule the tour at no extra cost.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The guide can assist with taking photos of the Northern Lights and even capture images of you under the auroras.

In all, this Aurora Hunting Tour offers a blend of comfort, authenticity, and scenic beauty. It’s a fine way to experience Lapland’s night sky, especially if you’re after a small, personal, and memorable outing.