Adventure brief
Autumn Aurora Hunt by Car
Join Wilderness Hotel - Juutua’s guided car tour to chase the Northern Lights across Finland’s Arctic wilderness. With warm drinks, snacks, and expert guidance, this relaxing 3-hour trip blends adventure and comfort beneath the aurora-filled skies.
Inari, located in Finland’s northernmost region of Lappi, offers one of Europe’s most reliable gateways to witnessing the Northern Lights. Wilderness Hotel - Juutua anchors this remote area with authentic outdoor experiences, among which the Autumn Aurora Hunt by Car stands out as a signature adventure. This three-hour guided tour invites travelers to immerse themselves in the thrill of aurora chasing, combining flexibility and comfort in one captivating package.
Set off from the hotel, the journey follows a route designed to maximize chances of clear skies and vivid auroral displays. The constantly shifting weather patterns of Finnish Lapland call for mobility, and this trip’s car-based format allows the guide to swiftly relocate from one prime vantage point to another—whether that’s a serene lakeshore or a quiet wilderness clearing far from light pollution. Along the way, warm drinks and snacks help maintain energy and morale in the crisp air.
What makes Wilderness Hotel - Juutua a pivotal player here is its unparalleled local knowledge and commitment to offering authentic wilderness experiences without sacrificing comfort. Unlike fixed-location observatories or long, strenuous hikes, this activity is accessible to nearly anyone, including families with children aged four and up. Beyond the aurora, the surrounding environment is rich with taiga forests and pristine Arctic landscapes.
Inari’s cultural heritage, including Sámi art and traditions, adds depth to any visit but especially when paired with such a natural spectacle. The region emphasizes sustainable tourism, ensuring that these fragile northern ecosystems remain vibrant for future adventurers. Whether you’re a first-time aurora hunter or a seasoned light chaser, Wilderness Hotel - Juutua’s Autumn Aurora Hunt by Car offers an adaptable, immersive introduction to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena in a landscape that feels truly untouched.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Dress in insulated layersessential
Temperatures can drop sharply at night—wear thermal base layers and windproof outerwear.
- 02Bring a tripod for photosinfo
A sturdy tripod is essential for capturing crisp Northern Lights images with long exposures.
- 03Charge your devices fullywarning
Cold weather drains batteries quickly, so start with devices fully charged and keep spares handy.
- 04Trust your guide’s route decisionsessential
Roads and weather shift unpredictably—follow the guide’s directions to reach the best viewing spots safely.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Thermal base layers
Keep your core warm during crisp autumn nights watching the aurora.
fallEssentialInsulated winter jacket
Protects against wind chill during outdoor stops.
fallEssentialCamera with tripod
Capture high-quality images of the Northern Lights.
Warm hat and gloves
Essential to shield extremities from cold during the evening.
fallEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Saarikoski Rapids – a secluded river spot rich with wildlife sounds., Inari Reindeer Farm – offers a glimpse into Sámi traditions just outside main tourist areas.
Local fauna
Reindeer, Arctic fox
Historic heritage
Inari is a core cultural area for the Sámi people, with a legacy of reindeer herding and nature-based livelihoods.
Mindful exploration
Wilderness Hotel - Juutua supports sustainable tourism practices to minimize impact on fragile Arctic ecosystems during aurora tours.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Open lakeside shores, Forest clearings away from light pollution, Hilltops with low horizon
- Subjects
- Northern Lights, Silhouetted trees, Reflections on frozen water
- Best times
- Late evening after dark, Around midnight
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What time does the tour start?
The Autumn Aurora Hunt by Car typically starts in the evening to coincide with peak aurora visibility, usually around 7 PM.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4 and older can participate comfortably in this car-based outing.
What happens if it’s cloudy?
Your guide will drive to alternative locations with clearer skies to improve the chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
Are warm drinks provided?
Yes, warm drinks and snacks are served during the trip to keep guests comfortable and energized.
How long is the tour?
The Aurora Hunt lasts approximately three hours.
Do I need prior photography experience?
No prior experience is needed, but bringing a tripod and knowing basic camera settings can help capture better photos.