Saariselkä: Northern Lights Tour to Lake Inari & Dinner

Introduction to the Saariselkä Northern Lights Experience

This Saariselkä tour promises an authentic glimpse into the Arctic wilderness of Lapland, combining the thrill of snowmobiling, the serenity of Lake Inari, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights — an experience many travelers dream of. Guided by friendly local experts, you’ll venture far from city lights into the silent, snow-covered landscape where nature’s best show unfolds.

Two things I particularly like about this experience: First, the combination of adventure and comfort, as the snowmobile sleigh ride is cozy with reindeer hide covers and warm clothing provided. Second, the authentic Lappish hospitality shines through in the home-cooked dinner served in a traditional teepee, along with the chance to meet and feed reindeers — a real highlight for animal lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

However, a point to consider is the price point — at $210 per person, it’s not the cheapest activity in Lapland. For some, the cost might seem high, but many reviews suggest that the quality, authenticity, and stunning vistas generally justify it. If you’re looking for a well-organized, intimate tour that balances adventure with culture, this tour could be well worth the investment.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Traveling in a snowmobile-pulled sleigh and visiting a Sami island makes this more than just a Northern Lights hunt.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring personal attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Experienced Guides: Guides like Tina and Tapio are local owners who provide storytelling that adds depth to the experience.
• Photographic Moments: Guides take instant photos of the Northern Lights, making it easy to capture memories.
• Cultural Connection: Meeting reindeers and visiting a traditional Sami village creates a genuine cultural touchstone.
• Flexible Dining Options: Homemade dinner features local fish or reindeer, with vegetarian options available on request.

The Journey Into the Arctic Wilderness

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Saariselkä, where your guide will warmly greet you and provide thermal clothing and shoes. This makes a huge difference, as the temperatures can be quite cold, especially during the late evening hours. When I read the reviews, it’s clear that travelers love how well-prepared the gear is, allowing them to focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about the cold.

Once loaded into a minibus, your group heads toward the small village of Koppelo, far from the city lights, where the real magic begins. The drive takes about an hour, giving you a chance to settle in and perhaps review some tips from your guide. The snowmobile sleigh ride itself offers a comfy, warm experience, thanks to the reindeer hide cover that keeps the chill at bay.

As you glide deeper into the wilderness, the quietness of the snow-covered landscape is striking. If luck is on your side, you might see the Northern Lights shimmering above the frozen lake — a moment that sticks with many travelers. The guide’s handling of the sleigh is smooth, and their storytelling about the landscape and local Sami culture adds a layer of connection to the environment.

Visiting the Sami Island and the Cultural Touchstone

The highlight for many is the visit to the Sami-owned island, where traditional wooden cottages and teepees set the scene for the evening. Owner Tina and Tapio’s hospitality shines through, offering an authentic taste of local life. Sitting around a campfire with hot drinks and a homemade dinner feels genuine, not touristy.

Dinner options include local fish or reindeer, with vegetarian options available if requested beforehand. The food is hearty and flavorful, providing energy for the night’s adventure. The reviews emphasize that guides like Tina are not only knowledgeable but also warm and engaging, sharing stories about Sami traditions and daily life, making the evening both fun and educational.

Reindeer Encounters and the Magic of Lake Inari

No Arctic adventure would be complete without meeting reindeers, and this tour offers the chance to feed these gentle animals. It’s a memorable experience that appeals to animal lovers and those interested in indigenous culture. The reindeer are friendly and accustomed to visitors, making for great photo opportunities.

The final part of the experience — watching the Northern Lights over Lake Inari — is the highlight. As Lucie from the reviews noted, “barely got out of the car, the magnificent northern lights!!” This is what many travelers are after, and the guide’s instant photo service helps you capture these fleeting moments.

Pricing, Logistics, and Value

At $210 per person, this tour is priced higher than some other Arctic activities, but the value comes from the small group size, experienced guides, and the authentic cultural elements. The inclusion of thermal clothing, dinner, reindeer feeding, and transportation means the cost covers quite a bit of comfort and unique experiences in one package.

Timing-wise, the tour is about five hours, with flexible starting times based on availability. It’s designed for travelers who want a well-rounded Arctic adventure rather than just a quick Northern Lights chase. It’s worth noting that children under 7 and seniors over 95 are not suitable, which is typical for physically engaging activities in cold environments.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re seeking a genuine Arctic night, enjoy cultural connections, and don’t mind paying a premium for quality, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate authentic local experiences, scenic rides, and cozy dinners in traditional settings. The small group setting makes it perfect for couples, families with older children, or solo travelers wanting a more intimate outing.

For travelers on a tight budget, or those with very young children, it might be worth comparing with other activity options, but for quality and intimacy, this tour stands out.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Saariselkä Northern Lights tour offers more than just a chase for Aurora Borealis; it’s a well-crafted experience that combines adventure, culture, and comfort. The snowmobile sleigh ride, the visit to a Sami island, and the chance to meet reindeers make it a well-rounded Arctic night. Many reviewers mention guides like Tina, Tapio, and the driver as making the experience memorable through storytelling and genuine hospitality.

While the price might seem steep, the included gear, authentic dinner, and small-group intimacy deliver good value — especially if you’re eager for a personalized, culturally immersive Arctic adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who want more than just a photo op, looking for a meaningful experience under the Northern Lights in a quiet, scenic setting.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off in Saariselkä center are included, making logistics convenient.

What should I wear? Warm thermal clothing and shoes are provided, but it’s wise to dress in layers and bring extra warm accessories if you tend to get cold.

Can I request a vegetarian dinner? Absolutely. Vegetarian options are available upon request, ensuring all dietary needs are accommodated.

How long is the tour? The activity lasts around five hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Is this suitable for children? Not for children under 7 years old, due to the nature of the cold environment and activity.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I see the Northern Lights? While viewed as a natural phenomenon, the tour offers the best chance to see them, but sightings depend on weather and solar activity.

What makes this tour special? The combination of snowmobile sleigh rides, authentic Sami hospitality, reindeer encounters, and the potential for Aurora viewing creates a memorable Arctic experience.

Is the experience worth the price? Many travelers feel it is, especially given the authentic cultural elements, small group intimacy, and stunning scenery.