Inari: Northern Lights Hunt Snowmobile Safari

If you’re dreaming of chasing the elusive Northern Lights in the heart of Finnish Lapland, this snowmobile safari from Inari offers an exciting way to do it. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, based on detailed reviews and the tour’s structure, it promises a blend of adrenaline, natural beauty, and cultural storytelling. It’s a trip designed for those seeking an active, unforgettable Arctic experience.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the thrill of snowmobiling through pristine, snowy forests and open fields, and the opportunity to watch the night sky in absolute darkness—a perfect setting for Aurora hunting. On the flip side, a key consideration is that snowmobile safaris involve high-energy activity, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with outdoor winter adventures and not overly sensitive to cold or bumping over snowy terrain. Perfect for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts alike, this tour offers both a rush and a chance to witness nature’s spectacular light show.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic experience with snowmobiling through snowy forests and fields.
• Prime Aurora viewing opportunities in dark, clear skies with minimal light pollution.
• All-inclusive package with hotel transfers, equipment, and warm beverages.
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the trip with stories and insights about local culture.
• Flexible options for solo driving at extra cost, and a well-organized itinerary.
• Ideal for active travelers seeking a memorable, outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Snowmobile Northern Lights Safari

For anyone heading to Lapland, the promise of witnessing the Northern Lights is often reason enough to visit. This tour, organized by Lapland Welcome Saariselka, aims to maximize your chances by combining adventure with Aurora hunting. The 5-hour experience takes you into the darkest nocturnal corners of the Finnish wilderness, where the sky is open, and the stars are bright.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour begins with hotel pickup, included in the price, so you won’t need to worry about navigating icy roads or finding the meeting point. Once at the starting location—usually around 8 PM in the winter months—you’re briefed on snowmobile operation and safety. If you’re new to snowmobiling, don’t worry; the guides provide thorough instruction on driving special tracks designed for safe and enjoyable riding.

We appreciated how the guides focus on learning to drive comfortably, ensuring you get the most out of the experience. For those who want more control, solo driving is available for an extra fee, which many find worthwhile if they’re confident behind the wheel. The group size typically remains small, making the experience intimate and allowing guides to offer personal attention.

The snowmobiling itself takes you through snow-covered forests, open tundra, and quiet fields, where the silence is only broken by the sound of the engine and the crunch of snow. Riding at night, you’ll experience the absolute darkness, with only your headlamp illuminating the trail.

The Forest Camp and the Aurora Viewing

Eventually, the guided ride culminates at a traditional tepee or small hut deep in the wilderness—an ideal spot for Aurora sightings. Here, the tour pauses for a fire and warm beverages, including coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, along with barbecue snacks. This cozy camp setup offers a moment of warmth and camaraderie amid the cold.

The guides share stories about local traditions, nature, and the stars, helping you appreciate the Arctic environment. Since the best chance to see the Aurora is when the sky is completely dark and clear, the timing is optimized around late evening hours, around 11-12 PM.

Given the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights, the tour emphasizes luck—they’re visible in about 90% of clear sky evenings, but no guarantee. That said, the stunning Arctic starry sky, with constellations like the Big Bear and Polar Star, adds to the magic even without a sighting of the Aurora.

Value and Cost

At $169 per person, this tour offers competitive value considering the included elements: transportation, gear, instruction, and the campfire experience. The fact that all winter clothes and boots are provided makes it accessible even for travelers who don’t want to pack bulky gear.

The professional guides, many reviews highlight, add significant value through their friendliness, local knowledge, and effort to make the trip memorable. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide David was attentive, explained everything clearly, and shared insights about Finnish culture,” which enriches the overall experience.

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What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviews praise the expertise and friendliness of the guides, often mentioning how they help with photography and ensure everyone feels safe. Despite some guests not catching the Aurora due to weather or low activity, the ride itself remains highly enjoyable, emphasizing the fun of snowmobiling in winter’s silence.

One reviewer said, “The trip itself was worth it, even without the lights,” highlighting how the journey through snow-blanketed landscapes alone is a memorable adventure. Others expressed satisfaction with the well-organized logistics and appreciated the small group atmosphere, which makes the experience more personal.

Important Considerations

This is an adventure activity, so it’s not suited for everyone. The tour explicitly recommends not for elderly people or small children, and not wheelchair accessible. If you’re prone to cold, be prepared with gloves, hats, and warm clothing—the guides supply all necessary winter gear, but staying warm remains your responsibility.

The tour’s timing varies, starting from 8 PM in winter months, with pickups about an hour earlier. It’s designed to take advantage of the darkest hours, which are crucial for Aurora viewing.

Why This Tour is a Great Choice

If you’re someone who enjoys active outdoor pursuits, this snowmobile safari will hit the sweet spot. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, photography buffs, or those who simply want to experience Lapland’s wilderness in a genuine way. The combination of driving through snow-laden forests and cozy campfire moments creates a balanced mix of thrill and relaxation.

While the possibility of seeing the Aurora depends on weather and solar activity, the tour’s location and timing maximize your chances. Plus, being in a completely dark environment makes it one of the best options for Aurora photography.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value authentic Arctic experiences and don’t mind cold weather and outdoor activities. For those seeking a more relaxed or less physically demanding way to see the Northern Lights, the operator also offers Auroras Northern Lights car trips.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $169, you’re investing in more than just a snowmobile ride—you’re buying a memorable Arctic adventure. The combination of expert guides, beautiful landscapes, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights makes this experience worthwhile, particularly if you’re craving an active, outdoor pursuit.

If you’re after a fun, well-organized trip that balances adventure with cultural stories and cozy moments, this safari fits the bill. Just remember, Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, but the journey and the landscape make it worthwhile regardless.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to active travelers, adventure seekers, and those eager to explore Lapland’s wilderness in a hands-on way. If you’re comfortable with bumpy rides, cold weather, and outdoor activities, you’ll find this tour thrilling and rewarding.

It’s also ideal for photographers, thanks to the dark skies, and for anyone wanting a meaningful Arctic experience beyond sightseeing. For families with small children, the activity might be too vigorous, but older kids and teenagers will likely love the adrenaline and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, transfers from your hotel to the starting point and back are included in the price.

Can I drive a snowmobile alone?
Solo driving is available at an additional cost. It’s recommended for experienced drivers, but beginners will be guided carefully.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, water, waterproof camera, and gloves. The tour provides all winter gear and boots.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, with start times depending on the season—usually 8 PM in winter.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people over 95 years old, and it’s not recommended for small children or those with mobility issues.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While sightings are not guaranteed, the tour emphasizes that they are visible in about 90% of clear evenings. The night sky’s starry beauty alone makes the trip special.

What happens if the weather is cloudy or foggy?
Cloud cover can affect Aurora visibility, but the guides aim for the best nights based on local microclimates and weather forecasts.

Is alcohol allowed?
No, alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the tour, and drinking in the vehicle is prohibited.

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

How do I pay?
You can reserve now with the option to pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Words

This Inari snowmobile safari stands out as a lively, well-organized way to experience Lapland’s wilderness, starry skies, and the Northern Lights. It’s a genuine adventure, full of scenic excitement and cultural richness, perfect for those craving outdoor activity and authentic Arctic memories.

While Aurora sightings depend on luck, the combination of beautiful landscapes, expert guides, and the thrill of snowmobiling makes this a worthwhile adventure for most active travelers. It’s especially great for those who want to get off the beaten path and embrace the Arctic’s raw beauty.

For a balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic local flavor, this tour is a solid choice—an experience you’ll likely remember long after the snow has melted.

You can check availability for your dates here: