Saariselkä: Northern Lights Tour to Lake Inari & Dinner

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights in a setting that combines raw wilderness, cozy traditions, and a touch of adventure, this tour in Saariselkä, Finland, is worth considering. It’s a well-rounded experience that aims to give travelers a taste of true Lapland magic, complete with snowmobile rides, reindeer visits, and a warm, homemade dinner under the stars.

Our review looks at the highlights, realistic expectations, and whether this experience offers good value for the price. We’ll share insights based on the feedback and details available, so you can decide if this tour fits your Arctic itinerary.

What we love about this experience:
First, the authenticity of meeting reindeers and learning about Sami culture. Second, the stunning scenery—especially the chance to see the Northern Lights in an undisturbed, frozen lakeside setting.

One consideration: The tour is about five hours long, which might be a bit much for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Who this suits: This tour is ideal for those eager to combine wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and the thrill of winter adventure—all wrapped in a small-group setting for a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Lapland experience with local guides and Sami culture.
• Stunning scenery at Lake Inari, ideal for Northern Lights viewing.
• Adventure in comfort with snowmobile-sleigh rides and warm gear provided.
• Intimate small group for a more personal, friendly atmosphere.
• Delicious homemade dinner in a traditional Lappish teepee.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay-later reservation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Saariselkä Northern Lights Tour

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

You’ll be picked up from your Saariselkä accommodation, so no worries about logistics—just relax and prepare for a scenic drive to Ivalo, where the adventure begins. The tour includes thermal clothing and shoes, a thoughtful touch that ensures you’re warm enough to truly enjoy the snowy landscape. This is particularly noticeable if you’ve flown in from milder climates; the cold can be a surprise if you’re unprepared.

Snowmobile Sleigh Ride: A Unique Arctic Perspective

One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the sleigh ride pulled by a snowmobile. We loved the way this combines excitement and tranquility—you’re comfortably seated in a sleigh covered with reindeer hide, gliding over the snow and listening to the silence of the wilderness. The ride takes you from the village of Koppelo into the heart of the snowy landscape, giving you a sense of true Arctic adventure.

The reviews agree that this ride is a highlight. Lucie, who raved about her evening, appreciated the comfortable sleds and the impressive scenery. That feeling of gliding through the snow, away from civilization, captures the essence of Lapland’s wilderness.

The Lake Inari Wilderness and Northern Lights

The main goal of the tour is to see the Northern Lights in one of their most authentic settings. The group stops at the frozen lakeside, where the vast, quiet expanse of Lake Inari offers an ideal canvas for the aurora borealis. According to reviews, if the conditions are right, you might find yourself watching the Northern Lights dance over the ice—a truly unforgettable sight.

The tour guides take care to find the best viewing spots, and the small group size makes it easier to enjoy the moment without distractions. Given the right weather, you will be captivated by the stunning sky show, which many travelers consider the pinnacle of their Arctic trip.

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Visiting the Sami Village and Reindeer Encounters

Adding cultural depth, the tour includes a visit to a Sami village on a small island, where you’ll meet friendly reindeers and have the opportunity to feed them. This is more than just a photo op; it’s a genuine chance to connect with the indigenous culture. The guides, Tina and Tapio, are owners of a small family company living on the island, and they make the experience authentic by sharing stories about Sami life.

The warmth of the reindeer herders and the chance to interact with the animals often stand out in reviews. One traveler mentioned how they “met and fed friendly reindeers,” which added a special touch to their outing. The reindeer are accustomed to visitors, so you’ll get a nice, close-up experience that’s both fun and educational.

Dinner in a Traditional Lappish Teepee

As the evening winds down, everyone gathers around a campfire inside a traditional wooden Lappish teepee. The guide prepares a home-cooked dinner, usually made of local fish or reindeer—vegetarian options are available if requested. The experience of eating in a cozy, fire-lit setting while surrounded by snow and starry skies is a highlight for many travelers, giving a warm and authentic Finnish touch to the outing.

According to reviews, the dinner is hearty and flavorful, with the added benefit of hot drinks to keep you warm. This is a chance to relax, share stories, and maybe even catch another glimpse of the Northern Lights if luck is on your side.

Small Group and Personal Touch

With only 12 participants maximum, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. The guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their insights about the landscape, culture, and Northern Lights. Reviewers appreciated the personalized attention and how this small group size made the experience more memorable.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs around $210 per person, which includes transportation, thermal gear, reindeer feeding, and the dinner. While it’s not cheap, many consider it to be good value, especially considering the authentic experiences and the effort to create a comfortable, personalized environment.

The 5-hour duration is a good balance—long enough to soak in the scenery and cultural moments, but not so long as to become tiring. The flexible booking options, including free cancellation and the ability to reserve now and pay later, add convenience for planning your Arctic adventure.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the stunning views and knowledgeable guides. Lucie’s glowing review notes how the Northern Lights appeared almost immediately, and she appreciated the instant photo sharing. She also mentioned how the Sami stories made the evening more authentic and memorable.

Another core advantage mentioned is the famous Lake Inari setting, widely regarded as one of the best places to see the aurora in Finland. The quiet, frozen lake provides a perfect backdrop for a magical night under the stars.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Northern Lights tour in Saariselkä is a solid choice for travelers who want more than just a chase—they want a genuine, memorable experience that combines natural beauty, cultural insight, and a touch of adventure. If you’re keen on small-group intimacy, authentic Sami encounters, and scenic wilderness, this tour offers excellent value.

However, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with outdoor winter activities and can handle about five hours outdoors in cold weather. It’s not ideal for very young children (under 7) or seniors over 95, as the conditions and duration might be challenging.

Overall, if you’re after a well-organized, heartfelt experience in Lapland’s winter wonderland, this tour ticks many boxes—delivering a good balance of fun, culture, and natural spectacle.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off within Saariselkä’s center area, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What should I wear?
Warm thermal clothing and shoes are provided, but it’s advisable to dress in layers with warm waterproof outerwear, especially for outside viewing and dinner.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 5 hours, depending on conditions and timing, with check availability for specific start times.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While the tour aims to maximize the chances, the aurora is a natural phenomenon, so sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Many past travelers have had luck, but it’s not guaranteed.

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

Is this suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 7 years old due to outdoor conditions and the duration.

This Saariselkä Northern Lights tour offers a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty that’s hard to beat—perfect for those wanting a genuine Arctic experience that’s both comfortable and immersive.

You can check availability for your dates here: