Saariselkä: Evening Snowmobile Tour with Fire & picnic

Travelers looking to experience the wild beauty of Lapland at night often find themselves drawn to snowmobiling. This guided Evening Snowmobile Tour with Fire & Picnic from Saariselkä offers just that — a chance to cruise across snow-blanketed forests under the Northern Lights, while enjoying a warm campfire and traditional sausages. It’s an adventure that’s equal parts adrenaline, tranquility, and authentic Arctic charm.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are two standout aspects. First, the opportunity to see the Northern Lights in their full glory — a once-in-a-lifetime experience if the weather cooperates. Second, the chance to drive a well-maintained snowmobile through the peaceful wilderness, guided by knowledgeable locals who know these landscapes inside and out. The only potential drawback? It’s a 3-hour commitment that involves some physical activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor winter adventures.

If you’re curious about Arctic landscapes, love night-time thrills, and want a genuine taste of Lapland’s outdoors, this tour should be on your list. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy guided experiences, don’t mind cold weather, and are eager for a memorable evening in nature’s quiet splendor.

Key Points

• Aurora Opportunity: The tour offers a real chance to see the Northern Lights dancing overhead.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides make the adventure accessible and safe.
• Authentic Arctic Setting: Travel through snow-covered forests, hills, and wetlands at night.
• Comfort Included: Warm clothing and hot drinks are provided, ensuring comfort in the cold.
• Family-Friendly Elements: Children (4+) can ride in sledges, making it suitable for families with older kids.
• Value for Price: At $177 per person, you get a 3-hour guided snowmobile adventure, including gear, instruction, and a cozy fire with food and drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience: A Detailed Look

The Saariselkä evening snowmobile tour begins with hotel pickup, which is included in the price — a rarity in outdoor Arctic activities. This hassle-free transfer ensures you start your adventure relaxed, not stressed about logistics. Once at the activity center, you’ll be fitted with warm winter clothing — a thoughtful touch that makes a real difference, as Lapland nights can plunge below freezing.

After a brief safety briefing and instructions from your guide, you’ll hop onto a well-maintained snowmobile. The guides are praised for their clarity and friendliness; one reviewer even describes how Marianna made everyone feel welcome from the start. Snowmobiling in this setting is a quietly exhilarating experience. The headlights cut through the dark, illuminating snow-laden trees, frozen wetlands, and gentle hills. As the engine hums, you’ll feel the thrill of steering through this pristine landscape.

The trip is designed for around 1.5 to 2 hours of driving, with a midway stop at a scenic spot. Here, your guide will build a campfire and offer sausages (vegetarian and gluten-free options available), hot drinks, and pastry. This is not merely a snack stop but a chance to relax, chat, and enjoy the ambiance of Lapland’s wilderness. It’s also your best shot to catch the Northern Lights — the guides advise keeping an eye on the sky, as the auroras are unpredictable but often spectacular.

The small group setting — one snowmobile per two people — fosters an intimate atmosphere, and many reviews mention how guides kept everyone well-informed and safe. One traveler notes, “Elias and Pauline were AMAZING guides, making the experience truly special.” Children are seated in sledges behind guides’ snowmobiles, with the recommendation that parents accompany small children for their comfort and safety.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be transferred back to Saariselkä, feeling invigorated yet cozy after a night in the wilderness. The entire experience lasts about three hours, a perfect length to get a taste of Arctic adventure without feeling rushed.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The main highlight clearly is the chance to see the Northern Lights. Reviews frequently mention how guides are vigilant for aurora activity, and many travelers leave with stunning photos and memories. The combination of a night-time snowmobile ride and the fire-lit pause creates an immersive experience that’s both scenic and intimate.

Equally appealing is the quality of the equipment and guidance. Well-maintained snowmobiles, clear instructions, and warm clothing included in the price mean you’re not just paying for the ride — you’re paying for comfort and safety. The hot drinks and sausages are a nice touch, helping to warm you from the inside out after time spent in the cold.

The price point of $177 balances well with what you receive — a guided adventure, gear, transportation, and a genuine Arctic experience. Considering the cost of similar Arctic excursions, this one provides excellent value, especially with the added comfort of included clothing and food.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable in cold weather. It’s especially suited for families with children over 4 years old who want a safe, guided way to experience snowmobiling and the Northern Lights. It’s also perfect for couples or groups eager for a memorable night out under the stars, combined with a bit of adrenaline.

However, those with mobility issues or very young children might find it less suitable — the activity involves physical movement and outdoor conditions. Pregnant women are advised to consider their comfort and safety, as with any winter adventure.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• The tour lasts about 3 hours, including pickup, safety briefing, the snowmobile ride, and the fire stop.
• Price: $177 per person, which includes gear, instruction, food, and drinks.
• Group Size: Small groups, with one snowmobile per two people, fostering a friendly, less crowded atmosphere.
• Age & Licensing: Drivers must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver’s license (B). Children over 4 can ride in sledges behind the guides’ snowmobiles.
• Clothing: Warm winter clothing is included, saving you the hassle and expense of packing your own.
• Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off are included — a major convenience.
• Cancellation: Fully refundable if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

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Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews

Multiple reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Elias and Pauline, describing their hospitality as “AMAZING.” One reviewer said, “Our guide kept us well informed and made us feel safe and relaxed,” emphasizing how crucial knowledgeable guides are to this experience.

Others appreciated the stunning scenery — snow-blanketed forests, hills, and wetlands at night — saying it felt like driving through a winter wonderland. The hot drinks and sausages, paired with the chance to see the Northern Lights, made the experience feel both adventurous and cozy.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a unique, authentic Arctic experience that combines adventure, scenery, and the chance to see the Northern Lights, this snowmobile tour from Saariselkä ticks all those boxes. It’s a well-organized, safe, and reasonably priced outing that offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness at night.

This experience is especially valuable if you are eager to combine outdoor activity with culture — grilling sausages over an open fire under the Arctic sky is a simple but memorable way to connect with the region’s traditions. The guides’ expertise and warmth help elevate the tour from a thrill ride to a meaningful journey into Lapland’s nocturnal landscape.

While it might not suit those with mobility issues or very young children, for most travelers seeking an exciting, scenic, and atmospheric adventure, this snowmobile tour will leave lasting impressions and plenty of stories to tell.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What should I wear? The tour provides warm clothing, but bringing extra layers and thermal wear is recommended for comfort in the cold.

Can children participate? Children aged 4-14 sit in sledges behind guides’ snowmobiles. Children over 140 cm can sit as passengers on the snowmobile if paying full price.

Do I need a driver’s license? Yes, anyone driving a snowmobile must be at least 18 and hold a valid B driver’s license.

What’s the duration of the actual snowmobiling? You’ll spend approximately 1.5 to 2 hours driving during the tour.

What food and drinks are included? Sausages, pastry, and hot drinks are provided at the fire stop, adding warmth and flavor to the experience.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed? No, the aurora depends on weather and solar activity, but guides will do their best to keep an eye out.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Words

This Saariselkä snowmobile tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Arctic life. It combines adventure, comfort, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights in a scenic wilderness setting. The guides’ professionalism and the inclusion of thermal gear and food make it a standout value. Whether you’re seeking a thrill or a peaceful night in nature, this experience is likely to deliver memories worth cherishing. Perfect for those who love outdoor pursuits and want to soak up Lapland’s magic under the starry sky.

You can check availability for your dates here: