How long does the husky ride last?

The husky sled covers about 5–8 km and generally takes around 45 minutes to an hour, including breaks and driver swaps.

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

Late September through early April offers the best chances, especially December through March when nights are longest.

Is the Northern Lights sighting guaranteed?

No, the aurora is a natural phenomenon and sightings are never guaranteed, though guides select optimal nights for viewing.

Can children participate in this tour?

Yes, children aged 3 and older can join as passengers. However, children under 12 always ride as passengers, not drivers.

What should I bring for the activity?

Dress warmly with thermal base layers; additional thermal clothing, boots, gloves are provided on-site. Also bring a charged camera and phone.

Is a guide provided to drive the sled?

The tour is self-driven, but a snowmobile guide accompanies the group. A professional driver can be arranged beforehand for a fee.

Christmas Aurora Hunting by Huskies: Self-Drive Arctic Sled Adventure in Saariselkä | Air Activities | Guided Tour

Experience the raw beauty of Finland’s Arctic north on the "Christmas Aurora Hunting by Huskies" tour in Saariselkä, Lappi. This immersive 2-hour expedition combines the thrill of husky sledding with the chance to witness the elusive Northern Lights, creating an unforgettable winter adventure deep in the wilderness beyond the Arctic Circle. Situated at Star Arctic Hotel, this trip invites you to step into the shoes of a musher, self-driving your sled through snow-dusted pine forests and expansive Arctic vistas under an ink-black sky.

Saariselkä, a vibrant village nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, is a prime gateway for winter exploration with its vast boreal forests and snow-covered landscapes. The area’s unique natural features include sprawling Arctic pine forests and crystal-clear night skies, ideal for aurora hunting from September to April. This tour’s distinctiveness lies in its self-drive format—unlike many husky rides where guides hold the reins, here you pilot your sled, lending a deeper connection to the centuries-old tradition of sled dog travel across frozen tundra.

The huskies themselves are spirited Siberian dogs bred for endurance and agility, perfectly adapted to the harsh climate. As you glide along trails framed by frost-laden trees, a snowmobile guide accompanies you off-sled, providing safety and local insight into the ecosystem. Mid-ride, there’s an opportunity to warm up with a hot drink, swap driving duties, and savor the silence that envelops the snowy wilderness.

Aside from the adrenaline of navigating an authentic husky team, the magic of this trip is the potential sighting of the aurora borealis—a natural light show of swirling green, pink, and violet hues, celebrated in Finnish folklore as the “fox fires.” While sightings depend on weather and solar activity, the remote location of Saariselkä offers some of Europe’s darkest skies, enhancing your chances of glimpsing the Northern Lights.

The package includes thermal overalls, boots, gloves, and transport to the husky farm, ensuring comfort and convenience. It’s suitable for adventurers aged three and older who possess basic balance and physical fitness to manage the sled. Participants should dress warmly and come prepared with fully charged cameras to capture treasured moments, though note photography while driving isn’t allowed.

This experience stands out in Lapland’s outdoor offerings by merging self-driven husky sledding with night-time aurora questing—a blend of excitement, nature immersion, and a pinch of Arctic mystique. Whether you’re a family looking for a magical holiday outing or a solo traveler chasing wild landscapes and stellar night skies, this tour promises memories etched in snow and light.

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.