Christmas Aurora Hunting by Huskies: Self-Drive Arctic Sled Adventure in Saariselkä

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.