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Journey into the Arctic wilderness of Saariselkä for an extraordinary winter adventure. Glide through snow on a Sami reindeer sled and experience the Northern Lights while sharing stories by a cozy fire.
Journey into the Arctic wilderness of Saariselkä for an extraordinary winter adventure. Glide through snow on a Sami reindeer sled and experience the Northern Lights while sharing stories by a cozy fire.
Book with Star Arctic Hotel
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
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Operated by Star Arctic Hotel · Saariselkä, Lappi
Located in Saariselkä, a small village in the far north of Finnish Lapland, Aurora Hunting with Reindeer offers a rare glimpse into the Arctic’s winter magic. This 3-hour adventure leads you deep into the snow-covered forests where the spectacular Aurora Borealis often lights up the night sky. The trip goes beyond mere sightseeing—it’s an immersive journey connecting travelers with the indigenous Sami culture, reindeer herding traditions, and the otherworldly natural landscape of Lapland.
Saariselkä itself is not only renowned for its pristine winter conditions but also for its unique Arctic wilderness, shaped by vast pine forests and frozen fells. The Aurora Borealis, a natural light display arising from solar particles colliding with Earth’s atmosphere, is the region’s crown jewel. Here, away from city lights, the Northern Lights unveil their full brilliance, painting the dark sky with shimmering greens, purples, and blues.
Your adventure begins at the Star Arctic Hotel, where friendly guides outfit you in thermal suits, boots, gloves, and other winter gear to fend off the intense Arctic cold. A short ride brings you to a traditional Sami reindeer farm, where you’ll meet the reindeer and learn about the herders’ ancestral relationship with these animals. The sled ride—two guests per sled—is peaceful yet exhilarating as you glide through snowy trails framed by tall pines.
A key highlight is the moment spent around a crackling fire inside a traditional Sami tipi. Warm drinks and snacks are served here while the guide shares stories about the Northern Lights and Sami customs. This blending of cultural education with natural wonders adds a profound layer to the experience.
What sets this tour apart is its authentic connection to Sami culture and its sustainable approach, both essential in preserving this fragile Arctic environment. The guides emphasize respect for the land and wildlife, ensuring the impact of visitors remains low.
Travelers choosing this trip should come prepared for Arctic conditions, dressing in layers and bringing fully charged cameras to capture the ethereal light show. While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon without guarantees of appearance, the likelihood this deep into the Arctic winter is high. The overall journey offers more than just the lights—it’s a chance to witness a vibrant culture and wild landscape few get to experience firsthand.
Whether you’re traveling with family or seeking a serene winter escape, this Aurora hunting adventure with a reindeer sled ride is a must-do in Saariselkä’s Lapland. It’s where folklore, wildlife, and one of nature’s most stunning spectacles meet under the vast northern sky.
The tour accommodates children from age 5 and up, making it family-friendly.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and their visibility cannot be guaranteed, but Saariselkä's location offers high chances of witnessing them.
Yes, thermal suits, boots, and gloves are included for your comfort during the excursion.
The reindeer sled ride lasts approximately one to two hours depending on the group and weather.
Transportation is available if requested in advance during booking.
Bring warm base layers, a fully charged camera or phone, and dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Star Arctic Hotel is a full-service Arctic hotel and activity provider based in Saariselkä, Lapland, served via Ivalo airport. The hotel organizes guided winter experiences that highlight Lapland’s natural beauty and cultural traditions. Offerings include Siberian husky sledding with farm visits, long sled expeditions, aurora hunting by sled, snowshoeing, snowmobiling adventures, reindeer farm visits, ice fishing with sleigh rides, wilderness dinners, and transfers to and from Ivalo airport. Trips vary from short family-friendly options like a 5 km husky sled ride to longer experiences such as 10 km expeditions and multi-hour snowmobile tours. Experienced local guides and professional mushers lead activities, provide safety briefings, and deliver warm beverages and traditional refreshments during breaks. Several programs include hands-on moments — switching drivers on the sled, meeting husky teams, feeding reindeer, and learning ice-fishing techniques. Seasonal highlights include aurora hunting excursions by husky, snowmobile, car, heated sleigh, and on foot, offering multiple ways to seek the Northern Lights. The hotel also facilitates cultural visits such as the Siida Museum day trip and the Tankavaara Gold Museum tour with lunch. Star Arctic Hotel lists transfers to and from Ivalo airport and accommodates families, beginners, and experienced adventurers. Booking options include short discoveries, half-day outings, and longer tours. The business emphasizes animal care, local knowledge, clear safety procedures, and memorable Arctic experiences that showcase Lapland’s winter landscapes and traditions. Guests can combine activities into tailored itineraries, book seasonal special programs, and receive practical advice for Arctic clothing and arrival logistics, and local transport options.
Book with Star Arctic Hotel