Witness the Northern Lights in comfort with Star Arctic Hotel’s Christmas Aurora Hunt by Car. Journey safely through Saariselkä’s Arctic night, pausing at prime viewing spots as the auroras dance above.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; physical exertion minimal as travel occurs by minibus.
Wildlife
History
Saariselkä has been a traditional Sami reindeer herding area for centuries, blending indigenous culture with outdoor adventure.
Conservation
Tour operators here practice low-impact tourism to preserve the fragile Arctic environment, including limiting light pollution that can disrupt aurora visibility and wildlife.
Star Arctic Hotel
Witness the Northern Lights in comfort with Star Arctic Hotel’s Christmas Aurora Hunt by Car. Journey safely through Saariselkä’s Arctic night, pausing at prime viewing spots as the auroras dance above.
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.
Tours Offered
32
Winter activities and transfers listed
Location
Saariselkä, Lapland
Served via Ivalo airport
Animal Activities
Husky & Reindeer
Sledding, farm visits, feeding
Trip Range
Short to 4h
5 km to multi-hour excursions
Reserve husky sledding, aurora hunts, snowmobile tours or transfers from Ivalo airport — secure dates for Christmas and winter seasons now.
Dress in Layers
Even inside the minibus, temperatures can drop when stepping out for photos—wear thermal underlayers and insulated outerwear.
Charge Your Camera Batteries
Cold drains phones and cameras quickly, so start fully charged to capture every aurora moment.
Be Ready for Sudden Stops
The driver will make quick stops when auroras appear, so stay alert and have warm gear accessible.
Respect the Environment
Help preserve the fragile Arctic landscape by sticking close to the vehicle and avoiding trampling vegetation.
Thermal Base Layer
Retains warmth during cold Arctic nights when outside the minibus.
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Insulated Gloves
Protects hands during photo stops in freezing temperatures.
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Sturdy Waterproof Boots
Ensures dry, warm footing on snowy or icy terrain around stops.
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Camera with Manual Settings
Allows better aurora photography than typical phone cameras.
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