Saariselkä at a glance

  • Finnish
  • Euro (EUR)
  • London Gatwick (LGW), Bristol (BRS), Manchester Int. (MAN)

Travel included to Saariselkä

Depart on: Sundays, Tuesdays & Fridays

Fly into: Kittilä or Ivalo 

Transfer time: approx. 3 hours from Kittilä or 30 minutes - 1 hour from Ivalo by coach

Included in your Lapland Adventure holiday

  • Arctic thermal suits and snow boots included for all adults & children (age 3 years +)
  • Option to add extra Arctic experiences 
  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Expert based in Saariselkä
  • Access to Inghams Digital Resort Guide with useful information to enhance your holiday
  • Flights from the UK, transfers and accommodation

Where to stay in Saariselkä

We offer a range of hotels and apartments in Saariselkä, all located in the centre of resort so you'll have easy access to everything you'll need during your stay. The Holiday Club Hotel couldn't be better located for enjoying the amazing arctic activities in Lapland. 

Feel like adding a touch of luxury to your trip? We'd recommend choosing Star Arctic - Northern Lights Discovery or the Top Star Glass Cubes. Both of these stylish accommodations are located on top of the fell so are the perfect choice if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern lights. 

Our accommodations in Saariselka

Discover Saariselkä

Located in the wild, mystical north of Lapland, 260 kilometres above the Arctic Circle, Saariselkä is an exceptionally friendly, uncommercialised resort with a unique frontier atmosphere. With magnificent Arctic wilderness scenery just on the doorstep, it makes an ideal resort for a winter wonderland adventure.

The skies are often a deep hue of pink and purple, the pine trees heavily laden with snow, and being so far north, there is a good possibility of seeing the Northern Lights too. In Saariselkä, you're deep in Sámi country, where many people from the indigenous community of Lapland live and work today.

Fresh for this winter

No more wondering when your activity will take place, we now provide the date and time of day of your excursions so you can plan your holiday with confidence.

Things to do in Saariselkä

Customise your Lapland Adventure holiday to Saariselkä by adding a range of exciting winter activities that will make your Lapland holiday complete. There will be plenty of opportunities for reindeer and husky safaris as well as snowmobiling, snow shoeing and even the opportunity to search for the Northern Lights.

Snowshoeing in Saariselkä is a wonderful way to discover the breathtaking scenery of Finnish Lapland. Set out on a guided snowshoe safari through snow-covered forests, immersing yourself in the untouched Arctic wilderness. Along the way, you'll stop for a warm berry juice by the fire, and as you traverse the trails, your guide will share stories about Lappish culture and the surrounding natural environment. 

Duration: 2 hours

Ice Activities

Equipped with snowshoes, you'll venture into the quiet, snow-covered wilderness, far from artificial lights, where the natural beauty of Finnish Lapland unfolds around you. As you hike through the serene landscapes under the Arctic night, your guide will share insights about the area and the mystical phenomenon of the Northern Lights. With luck, you'll witness the sky come alive with dazzling displays of vibrant greens, pinks, and purples. Midway through the journey, you'll pause to enjoy a warm drink by the fire, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and, hopefully, the magic of the aurora borealis overhead. 

Duration: 2 hours

Ice Activities

Experience the thrill of driving through enchanted Finnish forests and fells on an exciting snowmobile safari. Before setting off on this unforgettable adventure across the pristine Arctic landscape, you’ll learn how to operate the snowmobile, and your guide will go through the trail rules. Children will ride in a sleigh behind the guide, while adults can share a snowmobile or can upgrade to drive solo.

Duration: 2 hours

  • From January onwards, lunch is included in this excursion.
  • All drivers must be 18yrs+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion.
  • Children must be aged 12 or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile, they must be able to touch the foot rest when sat on the snowmobile. Children under this height or aged 5-11yrs will be towed in a sled or pod (unheated) behind the guide. It is not possible for infants (aged 0-4 years) to take part in this excursion. 
  • Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single driving snowmobile, if a sharing snowmobile is not available.
Snowmobiles

Venture out into the remote areas surrounding Saariselkä for an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. As you whizz through the forests and over the fells, the magical Northern Lights may make an appearance, lighting the sky up in hues of purple, pink and green. Children will ride in a sleigh behind the guide, while adults can share a snowmobile or can upgrade to drive solo. Along the way, you'll stop at a traditional Finnish kota to warm up with berry juice before continuing your journey through the magical forests. 

Duration: 2 hours

  • All drivers must be 18yrs+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion.
  • Children must be aged 12 or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile, they must be able to touch the foot rest when sat on the snowmobile. Children under this height or aged 5-11yrs will be towed in a sled or pod (unheated) behind the guide. It is not possible for infants (aged 0-4 years) to take part in this excursion. 
  • Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single driving snowmobile, if a sharing snowmobile is not available.
Snowmobiles

Experience the excitement of adventure as you set off on a safari through the pristine wilderness of Lapland. You'll learn the fundamentals of driving your own husky sled before venturing onto the trail, surrounded by breathtaking Arctic scenery and guided by a team of huskies. As you glide across the snowy landscape, admire the spectacular views of snow-covered trees and vast tundras, with each bend revealing a picture-perfect sight. After the safari, warm up with hot berry juice by an open fire, while hearing captivating tales about the huskies. 

Duration: 2.5 hours (1 hour at Wilderness Centre)

  • Available to guests arriving before Christmas.
  • Guests must be 18+ and in good physical fitness to drive the husky sled. 
Husky Rides

A quintessential part of your Lapland visit is to experience a reindeer sleigh ride. Visit an authentic reindeer farm and learn all about the reindeer. You will then be taken on a serene sleigh ride through snowy forests, guided by a Sami guide and their reindeer. The visit includes a farm visit where you can learn about the reindeer. 

Duration: 2 hours (1 hour at the Wilderness Centre) including a talk from a reindeer herder

  • From January onwards, lunch is included in this excursion.
Reindeer Rides

Experience the excitement of adventure as you set off on a safari through the pristine wilderness of Lapland. You'll learn the fundamentals of driving your own husky sled before venturing onto the trail, surrounded by breathtaking Arctic scenery and guided by a team of huskies. As you glide across the snowy landscape, admire the spectacular views of snow-covered trees and vast tundras, with each bend revealing a picture-perfect sight. After the safari, warm up with hot berry juice by an open fire, while hearing captivating tales about the huskies. 

Duration: 2.5 hours (1 hour at Wilderness Centre)

  • Available to guests arriving after Christmas
  • Lunch is included in this excursion.
  • Guests must be 18+ and in good physical fitness to drive the husky sled. 
Husky Rides
  • Unless stated otherwise, excursion days and time of day (morning, afternoon, or evening) are as shown on your invoice.
  • Exact excursion timings will be confirmed upon arrival in resort.
  • Some excursions may have flexible scheduling. Where this is the case, your invoice will state: "The actual time and day of your excursion will be confirmed locally and may differ from your invoice and voucher." Our resort team will then advise you on arrival.
  • Excursion days and times are subject to change. While we will do our best to provide advance notice, some adjustments may be necessary. Our Excursion Coordinator and Destination Experts will be available in the resort to assist with any changes.
  • Times and distances are approximate and may vary due to weather and other conditions. In extremely cold temperatures or bad weather conditions excursions may be cancelled at late notice.
  • Prices and supplements are correct at time of publishing but may vary up or down. Correct prices will be advised at the time of booking.
  • Travel insurance is a condition of booking with us, and you should ensure that your chosen policy covers the activities that you plan to take part in during your holiday. Your policy should provide cover for your own personal and medical expenses, however individual policies will not cover damage to snowmobiles or skidoos and a compulsory excess will be payable directly to the supplier of the snowmobile/skidoo excursion.

Lapland Adventure activity packages

You can enjoy all that Lapland has to offer with Inghams Lapland activity packages - Take in the highlights of a Lapland holiday on a 7 night escape to the Arctic Circle.

Perfect for a 7-night Lapland Adventure holiday, this package has everything you need for an unforgettable Arctic skiing or snowboarding experience. It includes a lift pass for effortless access to the slopes, plus skis or a snowboard and boots, making it easy to hit the runs and enjoy the snowy wilderness. When you’re not on the hunt for Santa, embrace the thrill of gliding through Lapland’s winter wonderland on your skis or board.

Includes:

  • 6 day lift pass
  • 6 day skis/snowboard & boots hire
Ski

The Classic Adventure package offers three thrilling Arctic experiences: a Husky Safari, where you’ll ride through snowy landscapes with a team of huskies; a Reindeer Safari, providing a traditional and peaceful sleigh ride; and a Snowmobile Safari, delivering an adrenaline-filled journey across frozen terrain. Perfect for winter adventure seekers!

Includes 3 activities

  • 5km Husky Safari
  • Reindeer Safari - 2-3 hours
  • 10-15km Snowmobile Safari
Packages

The Northern Lights Adventure package combines five unforgettable Arctic experiences: an Aurora Hunt by Car for the best Northern Lights views, a Northern Lights Snowshoe trek through snowy landscapes, a thrilling Husky Safari, a serene Reindeer Safari, and an exciting Snowmobile Safari. Perfect for adventure lovers chasing the magic of winter! 

Includes 5 activities

  • Aurora Hunt (by car)
  • Northern Lights Snowshoeing
  • 5km Husky Safari
  • Reindeer Safari
  • 10-15km Snowmobile Safari

Available after Christmas on 7-night Lapland Adventure holidays. 

Packages

The Authentic Adventure package offers a deep dive into Lapland’s traditions with five activities: a Wilderness Dinner under the Arctic sky, an exciting Snowshoe Safari through pristine landscapes, plus Husky, Reindeer, and Snowmobile Safaris.

Includes 5 activities:

  • Wilderness Dinner
  • Snowshoeing Safari
  • 5km Husky Safari
  • Reindeer Safari + Lunch
  • 10-15km Snowmobile Safari

Available after Christmas on 7-night Lapland Adventure holidays. 

Packages
  • Save up to 35% when booking an excursion package (based on the Authentic package)
  • Excursion package offers apply to new bookings only
  • Offer is subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time
  • The percentage discount is taken off of the basic price of the applicable excursions when pre-booked individually.
  • Additional supplements, i.e. for single drivers on snowmobiles/huskies, are not applicable for the % discount.
  • Monetary savings are based on adult prices.
  • All prices, offers and availability are correct at time of publication and are subject to change
  • Valid on 3, 4 & 7-night Inghams Lapland Adventure holidays.
  • Classic and ski/snowboard packages available on 7 night Santa Breaks subject to availability
  • Not valid on 3 or 4 night Santa Breaks
  • Not valid for the following ages:
    Classic: 0-3 (Levi, Ylläs & Pyhä), 0-4 (Saariselkä)
    Northern Lights & Authentic: 0-7 (Levi, Ylläs & Pyhä), 0-11 (Saariselkä)
    Ultimate: 0-11 (Levi, Ylläs & Saariselkä)
    Ski/Snowboard: 0-5 (Levi: 4-5 get free lift pass, Ylläs: 3-5 get free lift pass & equipment), 0-7 (Saariselkä: free lift pass under 7 with paying adult)
  • Snowmobile – Drivers must be 18+ with a full, valid photo driver’s license. Passengers must be 11+ and 140cm+ tall. Children under 11 or under 140cm will be towed in a sled/pod (heating not guaranteed).
  • Excursion experiences and durations vary between resorts and are dependent on weather conditions
  • Most excursion days and times will be advised shortly after booking, others will be confirmed on arrival in resort
  • Travel Insurance is required for booking. Must cover planned activities and personal circumstances, including medical conditions. Snowmobile damage is not usually covered so a compulsory excess is payable directly to the supplier of the excursion. Single-driver snowmobile supplement available in all resorts (18+ only).
  • Cancellation: In the event of cancellation of a qualifying excursion, the cost of the excursion, minus the % saving on the total package, will be deducted from any refund due. You will then be charged full price for any remaining excursions.

Arctic skiing and snowboarding in Saariselkä

While you're here in Europe's most northern ski resort, check out the excellent cross-country ski trails in the adjoining National Park. In Saariselkä, there are over 200 kilometres of cross-country ski tracks, 34 of which are illuminated - so you can make the most of these tracks despite the polar nights. The downhill ski and snowboard area is spread across the Lisakkipää and Kaunispää fells and is best suited for beginners and intermediates. The ski schools here speak English, and all of the slopes lead back to the same area in the valley where you'll be able to warm up in the café or by a campfire.

Runs

Blue: 10km
Red: 6km

Additional Ski Details

Ski area:
19km
Snow park:
Yes
Resort altitude:
265m
Ski Altitude:
265m - 440m
Ski Lifts:
6
Lift Ski Lockers:
No

Beginner skiing in Saariselkä

Great resort for learning to ski with easy slopes and friendly English speaking instructors.

Intermediate skiing in Saariselkä

This compact ski area offers uncrowded pistes with hardly any queues. Suits early intermediates.

Advanced skiing in Saariselkä

Limited challenges with one black run but the snow is often very light between the trees.

Snowboarding in Saariselkä

Two free style parks and good quality powder between the pistes.

Cross-country in Saariselkä

Saariselkä is one of Finnish Lapland’s top cross-country ski destinations - perfect for anyone wanting to experience the magic of the Arctic on skis. With 230 kilometres of expertly prepared trails for both classic and skating styles, and 34 kilometres illuminated for evening adventures, it’s ideal for all levels. Trails begin right in the village and lead into the stunning Urho Kekkonen National Park. Inghams offers excellent-value Learn to Cross-Country Ski packages for beginners. Expect scenic routes past husky farms, reindeer, and historic gold rush sites, plus warm cafés and wilderness shelters like Laanihovi, famous for its salmon soup and friendly atmosphere.

Ski Bus

A regular ski bus (pay locally) operates from outside all the hotels and runs to Laanila, Kakslauttanen Igloo Village and Kiilopää ski area, making it easy to do one-way trips as well as the many varied circular routes.

The ski lifts are 2 kilometres away from the village. The bus costs approximately €5 per day. Children under 6 years old travel free with an adult.

Learn to Ski (for complete beginners)

7 days 

Child

Adult 

17 years +

Learn to Ski £198 (6-16 years) £235

Included for 7 days:

  • 7 days lift pass
  • 7 days 'Blue' ski & boot hire
  • 5 days tuition (1½ hrs per day)

 

Ski Saver Package

3 days

Child 

Adult

17 years +

Ski saver £208 (6-16 years) £245

Included for 7 days:

  • 7 day lift pass
  • 7 days 'Red' ski/board & boot hire for adults, 'Blue' skis and boots for children
  • 3 days tuition (1½ per day) ski or snowboard
Ski pack information

All Saver Packs must be pre-booked in UK and are not bookable locally.

Learn To Ski is for complete beginners only (guests who have never skied). Any guests booking this package who have skied before will be charged an upgrade cost locally.

Group tuition needs a minimum number of guests to take place. There may be times where these numbers aren’t reached. If you have pre-booked tuition and this happens, the ski-school will do their best to offer private tuition to the value of what you had originally booked. Therefore, the amount of lessons received on all of our ski packs may vary due to tuition group size:

  • Four+ guests - three 90 minute lessons
  • Three guests - two 90 minute lessons 
  • Two guests - one 90 minute and one 45 minute lesson
  • One guest - one 90 minute lesson

 

Prices and supplements are correct at time of publishing but may vary up or down. Correct prices will be advised at the time of booking.

4 Day Lift Pass (can be used on any 4 days within 5)

4 days

(out of 5 days)

Season

Child
7 - 16 years

Adult 
17 - 64 years

Senior
65 + years

Local Area Pass 

Low

£88

£135

£88

High

£102

£158

£102

 

6 Day Lift Pass (can be used on any 6 days within 8)

6 days

(out of 8 days)

Season

Child
7 - 16 years

Adult 
17 - 64 years

Senior
65 + years

Local Area Pass 

Low

£109

£169

£109

High

£127

£197

£127

Children under 7 wearing a helmet ski free when accompanied by a paying adult. 

 

Lift pass information 

The local area pass covers the ski area in Saariselkä, best suited for beginners and just turned intermediates.  

The rope lift in the beginners area does not require a lift pass. 

Ski bus payable locally (approx. 20€ per week)

Season dates

Low season: 30 Nov - 06 Dec 25

High season: 07 Dec 25- 22 Feb 26

 

Prices and supplements are correct at time of publishing. Up-to-date prices are confirmed at time of booking.

6 days Category

Child

7 - 16 years

Adults

17 years +

Skis Blue - £92
Red - £125
Skis & boots Blue £119 £119
Red £152 £152

White category skis, boots and helmet are available for children aged 3 – 6

 

6 days Category

Child

7 - 16 years

Adults

17 years +

Snowboard Red £125 £125
Snowboard & boots Red £152 £152

 

Levels of Equipment

  • Blue: ideal for beginners to early intermediates – softer and easier to turn
  • Red: suit confident intermediates – more rigid for better stability and control, usually new or one season old

 

Prices and supplements are correct at time of publishing. Up-to-date prices are confirmed at time of booking.

Ski Tuition

Child 7 - 16 years

Adult 17 years +

3 days 

90 minute intermediate lessons

£108

£108

5 days 

90 minute beginner lessons

£181

£181

 

Tuition information

5 days lessons are only available for absolute beginners.

3 days lessons are only available for intermediates. 

Group tuition needs a minimum number of guests to take place. There may be times where these numbers aren’t reached. If you have pre-booked tuition and this happens, the ski-school will do their best to offer private tuition to the value of what you had originally booked.

Private snowboard lessons are available to book locally. 

 

Prices and supplements are correct at time of publishing but may vary up or down. Correct prices will be advised at the time of booking.

Travel to Saariselkä

Travel by Air

Direct exclusive charter flights to Kittilä airport departing on Sundays for 7 or 14 nights from:

  • London Gatwick 
  • Bristol
  • Manchester 

Airport Transfer Time - approx. 3 hours by coach

Direct flights to Ivalo airport departing Tuesdays and Fridays for 3 or 4 nights from:

  • London Gatwick

Airport Transfer Time - approx. 30 mins - 1 hour by coach or minivan 

Please note that there may be a few minutes' walk to your accommodation due to access/regulations on where coaches can stop.

Discover our different types of holidays to Saariselkä

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FAQs and Travel Advice

Saariselkä's popularity in Lapland stems from its breathtaking Northern Lights displays, extensive winter activities like husky safaris and snowmobiling, and authentic Sami culture. Its appeal lies in offering unforgettable Arctic adventures amidst stunning natural landscapes.

With Inghams you'll have a choice of hotels, apartments and cabins in the center of Saariselkä. They're all close to the ski bus stop providing easy access to the downhill ski resort. Saariselkä is also known for its cross-country skiing with tracks starting right from the center of town. So although our accommodations are not ski in/ski out, you'll be in a great position to access downhill and cross-country skiing during your stay.

Saariselkä offers a range of winter activities such as skiing, reindeer and husky sleigh safaris as well as snowmobiling and snow shoeing! On holidays during November and December you'll even have the chance to meet Santa.

Yes, you can pre-book the Visit Santa's Home excursion, for your chance to meet Santa Claus in his Arctic home. This is available for everyone travelling before Christmas.

The local history of Lapland is very interesting and it is worth understanding the Sami Culture in particular. The Sami are the indigenous tribes of Lapland. You can visit museums to hear stories about their legends and tales. Not far from Saariselkä is the Gold Museum.

More resorts in Lapland/Finland