Gold Panning Adventure with Star Arctic Hotel in Saariselkä
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking involved
Overview
Step into Lapland’s gold rush history with Star Arctic Hotel’s Tankavaara Museum tour, featuring hands-on gold panning and a local lunch. Discover ancient prospecting techniques and keep your own treasure.
The Gold Rush - Tankavaara Gold Museum with Lunch
Age 0+ • 3 Hours • Golden Souvenir • Transport included • Lunch
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Tankavaara Museum, where you’ll delve into the history of gold prospecting in Lapland. After a guided tour, try your hand at panning for gold, keeping all you find as a unique souvenir. Enjoy a delicious lunch and immerse yourself in this captivating experience!
Experience the Gold Fever – Lapland gold is there for you to find. In Tankavaara museum you’ll take in the ways of the prospectors. Saariselkä area has seen goldrushes because of the rich mineral deposits found from the rivers mostly. There are active slots still being inspected to this day. After you’ve learn the ways of old, it’s time to try your hand in panning. You get to keep all the gold that you find. This makes a perfect gift to bring back home to yourself or loves ones. Just beware of the fever, you might find yourself coming back next summer… The activity will include lunch at Vanha Vaskoolimies restaurant in the area.
Duration
3,5 Hours
About
You’ll be driven to Tankavaara Museum (25min) from our Hotel or your selected pickup point. You’ll have ample time to check out the museum with a guide and the surrounding area. After that it’s time for the serious panning. You’ll receive raw dirt with gold in it (actually dug from the nearby rivers) and you will learn how to pan it for yourself. This will take approx 30mins depending the size of the group. With treasure in your pockets you will be transported back to your original location. The program is suitable for children as well. The program includes lunch
What's included?
- Transportation by car to and from Tankavaara Museum at Saariselkä area
- Ticket to the Museum
- indoor gold panning program 30mins
- english speaking guided tour approx 1hr
- you truly keep all the gold you find
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can be unpredictable; wearing layers ensures comfort throughout the day.
Bring a Camera
Capture both the museum’s artifacts and the natural scenery around Tankavaara.
Wear Waterproof Footwear
Gold panning involves water and wet dirt—sturdy waterproof shoes help keep you dry.
Arrive Early
Check in 20 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding for transport.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eurasian red squirrels
- Siberian jays
History
Gold prospecting in Saariselkä dates back over a century and continues to shape local heritage and economy.
Conservation
The museum and local guides promote responsible interaction with Lapland’s sensitive river ecosystems, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rovaniemi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Keep feet dry during gold panning in wet river dirt.
spring|summer|fall specific
Warm Layered Clothing
Adapt to changing Lapland weather throughout the day.
fall|spring|winter specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the excursion.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture memories of the unique gold panning experience and museum visit.