Saariselkä,Kakslauttanen: Aurora Hunting & Photography Tour.

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights in Finland’s Lapland, the Aurora Hunting & Photography Tour offered by ArcticTours might just be your best bet. This 3-hour adventure takes you beyond the light-polluted village, into the vast, starry polar night, in pursuit of that elusive, shimmering display of nature’s light show. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, the detailed reviews and thoughtful planning behind this tour paint a compelling picture.

What we like most? First, the expert guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, chasing the best spots based on weather and aurora forecasts. Second, the comfortable transportation — a sleek Mercedes Benz minibus that allows for flexible movement and keeps everyone warm. The only thing to consider? The activity depends on weather and a minimum of three bookings, so it’s not guaranteed to see the lights, but that’s true of any Northern Lights trip.

This tour seems ideal for travelers who want a reliable, well-organized experience with a good chance of seeing the aurora, especially those who prefer comfort and expert guidance over rugged snowmobile safaris. Families, couples, or solo travelers who don’t mind late evenings might find it an excellent way to make the most of Lapland’s winter nights.

Key Points

• Expert guidance increases your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights.
• The small group size and Mercedes Benz minibus provide comfort and flexibility.
• Tours are weather-dependent; cloud cover may impact visibility.
• Photographers will appreciate the assistance in capturing the aurora.
• The tour includes free pickup and drop-off within a 20 km radius.
• It’s suitable for those looking for a relaxed, informative adventure rather than a rugged snowmobile chase.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Hunting Experience

When considering a Northern Lights tour, what matters most is your chance of success, comfort, and the quality of guidance. This tour aims to strike a balance between those factors through professional service and strategic planning. Let’s unpack what that really means for you.

The Itinerary and Its Significance

The tour begins with convenient pickup from multiple locations: Kakslauttanen, Saariselkä, Kiilopää, and nearby villages. The guide arrives on time, as several reviews praise, emphasizing their professionalism and punctuality. From there, the journey takes you into the vast Arctic wilderness in a Mercedes Benz minibus. Unlike snowmobiles, which are fun but more limited in reach, traveling by car expands your horizon — you’re not confined to a small track but can explore multiple sites efficiently.

The first stop often includes a photo stop in Saariselkä itself, which is more about orientation and quick sightseeing. But the real magic happens when you move away from the village lights, into areas with darker skies. The guides—described as knowledgeable and enthusiastic—use their expertise to chase clear skies, sometimes even venturing further afield if clouds threaten to obscure the aurora.

Why the Vehicle Choice Matters

Traveling by mini bus offers numerous advantages. The reviews highlight that being in a warm, comfortable vehicle allows travelers to relax, chat, or even nap during the wait—especially helpful for children or those with less stamina for late nights. The small group size ensures intimate, less crowded conditions, making it easier to chat with guides or fellow travelers and capture photos without crowd noise.

The warmth factor is crucial in Lapland’s biting cold. During long waits, you can simply return to the vehicle to warm up — a big plus over outdoor-only safaris. This comfort means you’re more likely to stay outside longer in pursuit of the Northern Lights, which often requires patience and flexibility.

The Weather and Its Impact

Northern Lights viewing is entirely dependent on weather and solar activity. The tour’s flexibility—searching for clear skies elsewhere if Saariselkä clouds over—is a significant advantage. Guides are trained to interpret weather forecasts to maximize your chance of seeing the aurora.

That said, the unpredictability of nature means no one can guarantee you’ll see the lights. Several reviews acknowledge this, emphasizing that the tour offers a good opportunity but not a certainty. It’s part of the adventure, and the guides’ efforts often result in rewarding sightings, sometimes even spectacular displays.

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Photography Support

For many, capturing the Aurora is half the fun. The guides are well-versed in photography tips, helping you set your camera for long exposures and framing the best shots. The tour includes free professional-style photos of the Northern Lights, which many travelers find invaluable as a keepsake.

Timing and Duration

The 3 to 3.5-hour window strikes a practical balance—long enough to explore multiple spots but not so long that fatigue sets in. Evening departures mean you’ll be out during prime aurora time, often between 8 pm and midnight, depending on availability. The tour’s design considers that late nights can be tiring—hence the comfort of the vehicle and the option to rest or nap.

The Cost and Its Value

At around $154 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included pickup, drop-off, expert guiding, and photography. Booking flexibility—reserve now, pay later—adds to the convenience. While you’re paying for a curated, professional experience, it’s important to weigh the cost against the unpredictability of the Northern Lights themselves.

Many travelers appreciate that this tour prioritizes comfort, expertise, and flexibility, making the cost worthwhile if you’re keen on increasing your chances of a successful aurora sighting without roughing it outdoors.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Aurora Hunt is perfect for travelers who want a stress-free, guided experience with a high likelihood of seeing the Lights. It’s especially suited for those who value comfort, professional expertise, and flexibility in their sightseeing. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a relaxing evening rather than a physically demanding adventure will find this tour appealing.

If you’re a photographer, the inclusion of professional photos is a bonus. But if you’re seeking a rugged, outdoor, snowmobile-style chase, this might not satisfy that craving — the focus here is on relaxed, strategic pursuit from the warmth of a vehicle.

Final Thoughts

The Saariselkä Aurora Hunting & Photography Tour offers a well-organized, comfortable approach to experiencing one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. With expert guides who know where to look—and a vehicle that keeps you warm and flexible—you’re setting yourself up for a memorable Arctic night. While there’s an element of luck involved, the thoughtful planning and positive reviews suggest this tour maximizes your chances without sacrificing comfort.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to combine the thrill of the Northern Lights with the ease of professional guidance and comfortable transportation. It’s a balanced option that understands the importance of good timing, weather awareness, and expert knowledge.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who can handle late nights and cold weather should enjoy this experience. The comfort of the vehicle makes it more manageable for families.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing and sturdy winter shoes are essential. The weather can be very cold, especially during late evening hours.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this activity requires a minimum of three participants to run. Booking ahead guarantees your spot and ensures the tour can be scheduled around weather conditions.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, the aurora is unpredictable and depends on weather and solar activity. The guides do their best to find clear skies, but sightings are not guaranteed.

What makes this tour different from other aurora trips?
The small group size, professional guides, and ability to move between multiple locations with a comfortable vehicle give this tour an edge in both reliability and comfort.

Is the tour refundable?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, the Saariselkä Aurora Hunting & Photography Tour is a solid choice for those eager to chase the Northern Lights with a good chance of success, all while staying warm and well-guided. It’s ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, expert advice, and a relaxed pace over rugged adventure, making it a smart pick for a memorable Arctic night.

You can check availability for your dates here: