What is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights?

Late September to early April offers the best chances, with peak visibility from December to March due to long, dark nights.

Do you guarantee Northern Lights sightings on this tour?

No, the Aurora is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, but guides choose optimal spots and conditions to maximize your chances.

How cold does it get during the tour?

Temperatures often drop below freezing; dressing warmly with provided thermal clothing is crucial for comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, children aged three and older can join, making it a great family-friendly experience.

What should I bring besides the provided thermal gear?

Bring your fully charged camera or phone, warm layered clothing under provided gear, and a sense of adventure.

Where does the tour start?

At Star Arctic Hotel located at Ylämajantie 1, 99830 Saariselkä, Finland.

Aurora Hunting Adventure in Saariselkä: Chase the Northern Lights in Comfort | Air Activities | Sightseeing Tour

Saariselkä, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, offers one of the best vantage points on Earth to witness the elusive Northern Lights. The Aurora Hunting Adventure by Car invites travelers of all ages, starting from three years old, to embark on a thrilling evening chase for the Aurora Borealis from the cozy warmth of a minibus. This guided tour expertly combines comfort with the raw wonder of Arctic night skies, making it a truly unique experience in this northern wilderness.

Finnish Lapland is renowned for its pristine wilderness, stretching under vast, star-studded skies where the Northern Lights frequently dance. What sets this adventure apart is the tailored approach of an experienced guide who navigates the remote, low-light areas with optimized viewing conditions. Passengers travel comfortably in heated minibuses, fully equipped with thermal clothing, boots, and gloves—key to staying warm while stepping outside for those breathtaking moments that deserve to be immortalized on camera.

The tour begins at Star Arctic Hotel, located at Ylämajantie 1, a convenient and cozy starting point in Saariselkä. Travelers are encouraged to arrive 20 minutes early to receive the necessary gear. Throughout the three-hour journey, the guide selects vantage points away from light pollution, boosting the chances of seeing vibrant curtains of green, purple, and pink auroras. Stops allow guests to stretch their legs, sip warm drinks, and snap photos of the swirling lights against snow-covered birch forests and frozen lakes.

Saariselkä itself is an outdoor playground, famous for its winter sports but also deeply connected to Sámi culture and traditions. The surrounding fells and Arctic taiga create a stark yet beautiful backdrop that enhances every glance skyward during this ethereal chase. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon driven by solar activity, making sightings unpredictable, but the expertise of local guides and well-chosen spots in this part of Lapland significantly improve your chances.

This adventure is perfect for travelers who prefer comfort without sacrificing authentic wilderness immersion. It’s easy for families and novices alike, with no technical skills required, making it an accessible bucket-list experience. Whether you’re a seasoned aurora seeker or a first-timer eager to witness nature’s most spectacular light show, this minibus tour offers a thoughtful, hassle-free way to chase the Northern Lights in one of the world’s most magical settings.

About Star Arctic Hotel

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.