Saariselka Holidays 2025/2026

Your holidays in Saariselkä, Lapland, will make you fall in love with this part of the world! This small village sits 250km north of the Arctic Circle within the Urho Kekkonen National Park, offering unparalleled scenery. The sky is often deep shades of pink and purple, the pine trees heavily covered in snow, and being so far north, there’s a good chance you’ll see the stunning Northern Lights.

Being situated in the national park, you’ll have access to excellent cross-country ski trails. Located just 27km from Ivalo Airport, your Saariselkä holidays to Lapland can start as soon as you land!

Ski in Saariselkä

Saariselkä’s ski resort is an ideal location for all ski enthusiasts! Whether you’re a beginner looking to ski for the first time, or you’re an expert snowboarder, this is the perfect resort for you. The wider slopes for beginners are quiet and roll gently, offering the ideal environment to get comfortable. You can also book friendly English-speaking instructors to help you along the way. With 220km of cross-country ski trails in the surrounding area, your Saariselka holiday will be one to remember.

Take the reins on a husky ride

Known for their strength and stamina, a husky sled ride is an unrivalled adventure and a must-have on your Saariselkä holiday bucket list! Take the reins and try driving a husky sled – professional husky instructors will welcome and train you in driving the sled safely. You’ll get to drive an authentic wooden sled led by eager huskies. This enjoyable and action-packed adventure is one of the most popular activities for any Saariselkä Lapland holiday.

Reindeer rides

Enjoy a piece of traditional Sami life on a Reindeer Safari tour located two hours from Saariselkä. You’ll get to visit a reindeer farm, meet the warm and friendly herders then sit back and relax on a traditional reindeer sleigh ride through the country side. During your sleigh ride, you’ll have an amazing opportunity to take in the gorgeous frozen landscapes and even steer the reindeer, with the help of your personal herder. After your sleigh ride, you can make your way into a herder’s cottage to listen to riveting stories over a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Santa’s Home in Saariselkä

What would a Saariselka Lapland holiday be without a trip to Santa’s home? Located just over 25 minutes from Ivalo Airport, you can book a package that is perfect for you. Activities include a private meeting with Santa, reindeer sleigh rides, husky rides, ice fishing, snow hockey and much more. You can also choose from some exciting extras, like a family snowmobile safari, a Northern Lights tour, or a snow-shoeing excursion. To finish off your tour, you can enjoy an Arctic Circle crossing ceremony. This has been considered a great achievement for decades and is commemorated with a ceremony which takes place in a traditional kota (Finnish hut).

Try ice fishing

Discover the art of Arctic ice fishing on this scenic five-hour trip from Saariselkä. Professional local fishermen will guide your tour, taking you into the snowy countryside around Saariselkä on a thrilling snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride onto a beautiful frozen lake. You’ll be given your own fishing rod and given plenty of tips as you try your hand at Lappish ice fishing. The scenery is breathtaking so you’ll have plenty to look at while you wait for a bite! You’ll finish your tour off with lunch and drinks by the fire before your guide takes you on your return sleigh ride.

Saariselkä will take your breath away with its incredible views and warm welcome you’ll receive. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family holiday or a romantic couple’s retreat, Saariselkä has something for everyone.