Tucked away in the northern reaches of Finnish Lapland, Saariselkä is one of those rare places that feels like it belongs in a storybook. Surrounded by snow-draped forests, rolling fells, and wide, starry skies, this arctic gem is more than just a pretty postcard. It's a place where adventure waits around every snowy corner, and every season brings a new reason to explore.
Whether visiting for the crisp, icy charm of winter or the fresh, endless days of summer, Saariselkä offers a range of unforgettable experiences. Here are some must-do adventures that promise to make any trip to this magical part of the world truly special.
1. Chase the Northern Lights
One of the biggest draws to Saariselkä is the chance to see the legendary Aurora Borealis. On clear winter nights, the sky often comes alive with dancing green, purple, and pink lights, painting an unforgettable scene above the frozen landscape.
The best part? There's no need to hike miles into the wilderness (unless that's the plan!). The auroras often appear just steps from cozy cabins or hotels, and many accommodations offer wake-up calls when the lights make an appearance. For a more adventurous approach, guided Northern Lights safaris on snowmobiles or in heated glass igloos take the experience to the next level.
2. Try a Husky Safari
Few things compare to the thrill of racing through a snowy forest behind a team of eager, energetic huskies. In Saariselkä, husky safaris are a beloved tradition and a great way to experience the wild beauty of Lapland from a new perspective.
Visitors can take the reins themselves or enjoy the ride while an experienced musher leads the way. The huskies love what they do, and their enthusiasm is contagious. After the ride, there's often time to meet the dogs, learn about their training, and enjoy hot drinks by a fire.
3. Experience a Reindeer Sleigh Ride
For a slower-paced journey that feels like stepping into a fairytale, a reindeer sleigh ride is hard to beat. Guided by Sámi herders—the indigenous people of Lapland—this experience offers a peaceful glide through snowy forests and quiet landscapes, with only the sound of the sleigh and the soft crunch of snow underfoot.
It’s not just a ride, but a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Arctic. Many tours also include storytelling and insight into Sámi culture, along with warm berry juice and perhaps a campfire meal under the stars.
4. Explore Urho Kekkonen National Park
Nature lovers will find plenty to admire in Urho Kekkonen National Park, which borders Saariselkä and stretches for miles in every direction. In winter, the park becomes a white wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or even winter hiking with the right gear.
Come summer, the landscape transforms into endless green hills, peaceful rivers, and colorful wildflowers. It’s a paradise for hikers, with well-marked trails ranging from easy day treks to longer overnight routes for more seasoned explorers.
Keep an eye out for Arctic wildlife—reindeer, ptarmigans, and even the occasional golden eagle make their home in the park.
5. Visit a Traditional Smoke Sauna
No visit to Finland is complete without experiencing a proper Finnish sauna, and in Saariselkä, the smoke sauna (savusauna) is the most authentic kind. These ancient saunas are heated with wood over many hours, filling the room with warm, fragrant smoke that’s released before bathing begins.
Once inside, the heat is deeply relaxing. And when paired with a roll in the snow or a plunge into an icy lake (for the brave-hearted), it’s a refreshing ritual that locals swear by. Many lodges and spa resorts offer this unique sauna experience, often combined with outdoor hot tubs and stunning views of the surrounding nature.
6. Ride the Longest Toboggan Run in Finland
For something a bit more playful, Saariselkä is home to Finland’s longest toboggan run, stretching over 1.2 kilometers. It’s fast, fun, and a great way to enjoy the snowy slopes—especially after dark, when the track is lit up in magical colors.
The run starts from the top of Kaunispää fell, which also offers incredible panoramic views over the surrounding forest and fells. Toboggans can be rented on-site, and it’s suitable for kids and adults alike.
7. Go Snowmobiling Through the Arctic Wilderness
Snowmobiling is a thrilling way to explore the vast wilderness around Saariselkä. Guided tours take riders through frozen forests, over open fells, and sometimes even to remote wilderness cabins for a hot meal or coffee break.
It’s a chance to cover more ground and see parts of Lapland that are otherwise hard to reach. And with expert guides leading the way, even beginners can enjoy the ride safely. Nighttime tours also offer a shot at spotting the Northern Lights from deep in the wilderness.
8. Stay in a Glass Igloo or Aurora Cabin
Sleeping under the stars (without freezing!) is made possible thanks to Saariselkä’s famous glass igloos and aurora cabins. These cozy, dome-shaped rooms feature panoramic glass roofs, perfect for stargazing or catching the Northern Lights from the comfort of bed.
Some of the most popular spots, like Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort and Northern Lights Village, combine luxury with natural beauty. Think fur throws, fire-lit dinners, and peaceful silence broken only by the occasional howling wind.
9. Discover Sámi Culture
Saariselkä is located in the Sámi homeland, and learning about this indigenous culture adds depth to any visit. Local museums, like the Siida Museum in nearby Inari, showcase traditional Sámi clothing, tools, and crafts.
For a more interactive experience, guided cultural tours offer storytelling, joik singing (an ancient form of Sámi music), and hands-on experiences like crafting or cooking. These moments of connection are often the most memorable.
10. Enjoy the Midnight Sun and Polar Night
Saariselkä is a land of extremes—long, dark winters and bright, endless summers. From late May to late July, the sun never fully sets, offering 24 hours of daylight. It’s a surreal and energizing experience, perfect for hiking, biking, and late-night walks under the golden sky.
On the flip side, winter brings the polar night, when the sun stays below the horizon. But the darkness is never complete; soft blue light, glowing snow, and star-filled skies create an atmosphere like nowhere else on Earth.
Conclusion
Saariselkä isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. It’s a place where reindeer roam freely, the skies light up in brilliant colors, and adventure blends seamlessly with peace and stillness. Whether it's the thrill of a snowmobile ride or the quiet of a reindeer sleigh, the charm of this Arctic village leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.
If there's a bucket list to be made for Lapland, Saariselkä deserves a spot at the very top.