Adventure brief
Aurora Snowmobiling
Ride under the Arctic night sky with Wilderness Hotel Kieppi’s Aurora Snowmobiling. Chase the Northern Lights, unwind by a campfire, and experience Lapland’s winter wilderness like never before.
Northern Finland’s Lapland region, around the village of Inari, offers a rare blend of raw Arctic wilderness and rich Sámi culture. Here, Wilderness Hotel Kieppi invites adventurers to a night-time snowmobiling journey designed as much for awe as adrenaline. This trip pushes into open expanses where the sky often comes alive with the Northern Lights, one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena.
The experience begins at Wilderness Hotel Kieppi, located near the edge of the vast fells and boreal forests that define this part of Lapland. After a brief snowmobile instruction, guests pair up to pilot a snowmobile, carving through powdery trails under a crisp northern sky. The company knows the best secluded vantage points, where light pollution is minimal and the chances to witness the aurora borealis peak.
Stops along the route offer moments to absorb the quiet and gaze upward. Should the aurora dance, riders watch ribbons of green, pink, and violet ripple overhead in a silent spectacle. Between bursts of activity, a campfire break warms the group with hot drinks and snacks, fostering a communal pause in the wilderness.
What makes Wilderness Hotel Kieppi stand out is its seamless blend of thrill and comfort. Their guides speak fluent English and tailor the ride according to weather and aurora forecasts, ensuring safety and maximizing viewing opportunities. For families, children under 15 ride safely in a sleigh pulled by a guide's snowmobile.
This outing captures the essence of Lapland winter adventure — the exhilarating rush of snowmobiling paired with the fleeting wonder of shimmering skies. It’s a bucket-list experience that anchors visitors deeper into the Arctic landscape, responding to the call of the wild without sacrificing camaraderie or care. Ideal for those ready to engage directly with Finland’s northern lights and winter terrain, Wilderness Hotel Kieppi’s Aurora Snowmobiling fills winter nights with unforgettable moments.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Layer Up for Arctic Nightsessential
Temperatures can plummet after dark—wear insulated, moisture-wicking layers to stay warm and dry during the ride.
- 02Bring a Valid Driving Licenseessential
Drivers must be at least 18 years old with a valid license to operate the snowmobile safely and legally.
- 03Secure Your Camerainfo
Use a wrist strap or secure pouch to prevent dropping your camera or phone in snowy conditions.
- 04Respect Wildlife and Naturewarning
Stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing local fauna like reindeer or Arctic foxes during your ride.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Insulated Winter Jacket
Keeps you warm against harsh Arctic winds and freezing temperatures during the night ride.
winterEssentialGloves with Good Grip
Protects hands from frostbite while maintaining control of the snowmobile throttle and brakes.
winterEssentialThermal Base Layers
Moisture-wicking and insulating layers essential for long exposure to cold.
winterEssentialHeadlamp or Flashlight
Useful for walkabouts or emergency light during early night hours in low-visibility conditions.
winterLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Lemmenjoki National Park for off-the-beaten-path wilderness, Siida Museum offers deep insight into Sámi culture
Local fauna
Reindeer herds that roam freely, Occasional sightings of Arctic foxes
Historic heritage
Inari is a cultural hub of the Sámi people, indigenous to northern Scandinavia, with traditions dating back thousands of years.
Mindful exploration
Wilderness Hotel Kieppi practices responsible tourism by minimizing environmental impact and educating guests on Arctic ecosystem sensitivity.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Open fell plateaus away from artificial lights, By the campfire site, Near frozen lakes for reflective shots
- Subjects
- Northern Lights, Snow-covered forests, Snowmobiles cutting through the landscape
- Best times
- After sunset, During peak aurora activity, Shortly before midnight
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior snowmobile experience?
No. A brief lesson is provided before the tour, so first-timers can comfortably and safely ride.
What happens if the Northern Lights don’t appear?
While sightings can never be guaranteed, guides adjust the route for the clearest skies and enhance the experience with a cozy campfire break.
Can children participate in this tour?
Yes, children under 15 ride safely in a sleigh pulled by the guide’s snowmobile during the trip.
Is there a minimum age for drivers?
Drivers must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driving license.
What’s included in the tour price?
Rental shared snowmobile for two people, helmets, safety instruction, snacks, warm drinks, and an English-speaking guide.
How should I dress for the snowmobiling adventure?
Wear insulated and layered winter clothing, waterproof pants, gloves, and warm footwear recommended for Arctic winter conditions.