Saariselkä: Northern Lights Hunting Snowshoe Trip

Saariselkä: Northern Lights Hunting Snowshoe Trip
Location: Lapland, Finland
Country: Finland
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 (based on 19 reviews)
Price: $108 per person
Supplier: Safartica
Similar Experiences: Reindeer Sledding, Snowmobiling with Fire Picnic, Aurora Photo Tour

A quick look at the Saariselkä Snowshoe Northern Lights Tour: Is it worth stepping out into the cold?

This 2.5-hour trip promises a cozy, guided trek through snow-covered Lappish wilderness, with the hope of catching a glimpse of the elusive aurora borealis. For those who love the quiet magic of winter nights and are keen to learn a new skill—snowshoeing—this experience offers a perfect blend of adventure and peacefulness in Finland’s Arctic heart.

Two things stand out about this tour: First, the guides are experienced and friendly, often sharing local insights and tips—like how to walk with snowshoes so you don’t stumble on the deep snow. Second, the chance to see the Northern Lights in a clear, starry sky adds a layer of excitement, especially with the possibility of enjoying hot chocolate under the auroras.

However, a note of caution: aurora sightings are never guaranteed, as they depend on weather and solar activity, so it’s best to keep expectations flexible. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, which is good to know if you’re traveling with young ones. Overall, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances accessibility, comfort, and the thrill of Arctic night sky watching.

Key points / Takeaways

Guided snowshoeing experience: Guides like Joonas or Sami show you how to walk in snowshoes, making it accessible even if you’ve never tried before.
Aurora hunting: The main draw is the chance—though not a guarantee—to see the Northern Lights, with the tour taking you to dark, open areas ideal for sky gazing.
Comfortable gear included: Warm winter clothes, snowshoes, and hot drinks are provided, removing the hassle of packing gear for extreme cold.
Flexible booking and cancellation: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind.
Small group size: Usually around 2+ participants, ensuring a more personal and focused experience.
Authentic Arctic atmosphere: Breathing pure air, walking in silence, and marveling at the starry sky contribute to a genuine winter wilderness feeling.

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Entering the Arctic Night: What to Expect from the Tour

The adventure begins with convenient pickup from your accommodation, whisking you into the quiet wilderness outside Saariselkä. Expect to be warmly dressed in thermal overalls, boots, and wool accessories—all provided—so you can focus on the experience rather than the cold. The guides, who speak English fluently, will give a quick demonstration on how to walk in snowshoes, helping you feel confident as you step onto the snow.

Once suited up, you’ll be led into the dark, tranquil forest or open tundra—places chosen for their potential to reveal the Northern Lights. The snow here is soft and thick, so expect a bit of effort, especially if you’re testing out snowshoes for the first time. But don’t worry; the guides are patient and eager to ensure everyone enjoys the walk.

Midway through, you’ll stop for a warm cup of hot chocolate, often under the starry sky and sometimes even in the glow of the aurora if you’re fortunate. The quietness of the Arctic night is profound—nothing beats the stillness as you breathe in the crisp, pure air. It’s a moment to truly pause and savor the wilderness.

The Search for Aurora Borealis

The main thrill is, of course, the Northern Lights. Guides like Sami or Joonas know the best spots for sky viewing and will help you set up your camera for night shots. Remember, the auroras are unpredictable; clear skies are essential, and the lights often dance only briefly. But even if you don’t see the lights, the experience of snowshoeing under a starry sky is worth the price alone.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour includes pickups and drop-offs, so you don’t need to worry about transportation. The gear, from thermal overalls to snowshoes, is provided, making this an easy, ready-to-go activity for most travelers. The experience is relatively short—just 2.5 hours—so it fits well into a winter itinerary without feeling exhausting.

Who Will Love This?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, accessible Arctic experience. It’s perfect if you want to try snowshoeing or prefer a light outdoor activity with the possibility of a magical Northern Lights sighting. It suits couples, solo travelers, or small groups, especially those eager to enjoy the serenity of Lapland’s winter landscape.

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Price and Value: Is it worth the $108?

At $108 per person, this tour provides a solid value considering everything included—warm gear, guide, transportation, and hot drinks. Compared to other Arctic excursions, it’s reasonably priced, especially given the personal attention and the authentic wilderness experience.

While the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, the experience of walking in snowy silence and the comfort of guided expertise make the price worthwhile. If your goal is a meaningful, manageable Arctic adventure that balances activity with comfort, this trip hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re looking for a low-stress way to enjoy Lapland’s winter beauty, this tour fits nicely into your plans. It’s suitable for those who want to experience snowshoeing but don’t want to commit to a full-day trek or more strenuous activity. It’s particularly good for travelers who appreciate being guided by locals who know the area well.

However, if you’re traveling with children under 12 or prefer guaranteed Aurora sightings, you might want to explore other options or combine this with a more comprehensive package.

The Sum Up

The Saariselkä Northern Lights Snowshoe Trip offers a wonderful mix of peaceful outdoor activity and Arctic magic. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed introduction to Lapland’s winter wilderness, with the thrill of possibly witnessing one of nature’s most stunning phenomena—the Northern Lights. The included warm gear and hot drinks make it comfortable, and the small-group setting ensures a personal touch.

While the auroras are never guaranteed, the journey itself—walking under infinite stars, breathing crisp winter air, and sharing laughs with guides—delivers a genuine Arctic experience. If you’re eager to try snowshoeing in a stunning setting and enjoy a cozy, guided adventure, this tour is a smart choice.

This experience suits travelers seeking an authentic, manageable Arctic outing that combines gentle activity with the chance for awe-inspiring views. Just remember to keep your expectations flexible and your camera ready; nature’s most fleeting masterpiece could appear at any moment.

FAQ

Do I need to have experience with snowshoeing?
No, guides will show you how to use snowshoes, making it accessible even if it’s your first time.

What gear is provided?
Warm clothes, snowshoes, and hot drinks are included, so you won’t need to bring your own winter gear.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Not quite—it’s recommended for participants 12 years and older.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which is manageable even for those with limited time.

Are the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so while chances are good in clear skies, they cannot be promised.

What should I wear?
The tour provides thermal overalls, but it’s wise to wear warm woollen socks, a scarf, beanie, and gloves underneath.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickups and drop-offs from your accommodation are part of the package.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the best time to book?
Check availability, but remember that winter nights are long, increasing your chances of seeing Aurora Borealis.

In all, this snowshoeing trip in Saariselkä is a smart way to experience Lapland’s winter wilderness, with the hope of catching the Northern Lights, all set in a cozy, guided environment. Whether you’re an outdoor novice or a seasoned winter traveler, it offers a peaceful, beautiful glimpse into the Arctic night.