Christmas Aurora Hunting by Huskies: Self-Drive Arctic Sled Adventure in Saariselkä
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have decent balance and stamina to control the sled over 5–8 km on snow.
Overview
Combine the thrill of self-driving a husky sled with the magic of aurora borealis viewing on this 2-hour Arctic adventure in Saariselkä, Finland. Glide through snow-laden forests and chase the Northern Lights for a winter experience like no other.
Christmas Aurora Hunting by Huskies
Ages 3+ • 2 Hours • Aurora Borealis • 5-8km
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About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking husky sled adventure through the Arctic wilderness, guided by authentic Siberian huskies. Experience the thrill of self-driving your sled while admiring stunning landscapes and the enchanting northern night sky. With a chance to witness the aurora borealis, this unforgettable journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Aurora hunting and gazing upon the Arctic Sky from a husky sleigh is truly an unforgettable once in a life time experience.
Duration
2 Hours
About
Embark on a magical husky sleigh ride through the Arctic pine forest, guided by authentic Siberian huskies. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and the night sky, and if you're lucky, you might see the stunning aurora borealis.
This tour is perfect for those wanting an extended husky experience combined with the thrill of hunting for the Northern Lights.
You will receive thermal clothing at the Star Arctic Hotel Reception. After that, our driver will take you to the Wilderness Center, where you will meet your Husky Guide. The guide will provide a safety briefing and instructions on how to drive the sleigh. Once you're on the sleigh, the magic begins! You will have a break in our tipi, complete with a fireplace, where you can enjoy a warm drink, chat with the guide, and hopefully spot the beautiful Northern Lights.
What's included?
- Thermal clothing: overall, boots and gloves
- Transportation by car to and from Wilderness Center husky farm
- Husky sleigh driving and safety instructions
- Warm drink
Please note
HUSKY EXCURSIONS
- The route may vary according to weather conditions and the number of participants.
- As a base rule, minors are not allowed to drive a husky sleigh. The guide will use his / her own discretion associated with the situation.
- 2 persons/sleigh. The maximum capacity of one sleigh is 2 adults + 1 child
- One of the adults will be driving the sleigh. Driver can be changed during the experience.
- The participation of pregnant women in husky activities is not permitted.
- The driver of the Husky sledge is held responsible for the damages caused to the Husky dogs or the sledge during the excursions. Self-liability for any accident is 2000.00€ / accident case.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
All listed excursions are subject to changes due to weather conditions or any other conditions cause by force majeure. Star Arctic Hotel reserves the right to make changes to the excursions without prior notice. Star Arctic Hotel reserves the right to stop the excursions due to sudden change of weather conditions or by the dangerous behaviour of any participant.
Pick up locations from town (only by request) (20 minutes before start time =1840)
- Holiday Club Bus Stop, Saariselkä
- Riekonlinna Hotel Bus Stop, Saariselkä
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers with thermal base layers
The Arctic temperatures are extreme; layering keeps you warm and dry throughout the tour.
Charge your camera fully before the tour
Photography is allowed only for passengers; capturing the Northern Lights is a highlight.
Keep your balance when driving the sled
Good balance is necessary to safely maneuver your husky team through the snowy trails.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions
Storms and cloud cover can affect aurora visibility and trail conditions; stay flexible.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Reindeer wandering the forests
- Arctic hares darting through the snow
History
Saariselkä gained prominence as a winter tourism hub in the 1970s, evolving from a remote mining village to a center for Arctic adventure sports.
Conservation
The husky farm follows strict sustainability practices to minimize environmental impact, emphasizing welfare of animals and preservation of natural trails.
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Adventure Hotspots in Saariselkä
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Thermal insulated overalls
Provided on-site to protect against Arctic cold during sledding.
winter specific
Warm winter boots
Keeps feet insulated and dry on snow-covered trails.
winter specific
Gloves suitable for sub-zero temperatures
Essential for handling sled reins and protecting hands from frostbite.
winter specific
Camera with extra batteries
Cold drains batteries quickly; bring spares to capture the Northern Lights.
winter specific