Autumn Aurora Explorer

Autumn Aurora

Autumn Aurora

Enjoy The Autumn Colours Of The Aurora

Autumn In Northern Finland

Autumn In Northern Finland

An Explosion Of Colour In The Forests Of Lapland

A Hike In The Forest

A Hike In The Forest

Take A Relaxing Walk Around The Fells

A Night In An Aurora Bubble

A Night In An Aurora Bubble

Look Out For The Northern Lights From Your Bed

Northern Lights Watch

Northern Lights Watch

Witness The Northern Lights From Nellim Lodge

Inari Wilderness Room

Inari Wilderness Room

Inari Wilderness Room

Autumn Aurora Explorer

Officially, the best time to go in search of the Aurora is between November and March, however, the Northern Lights can actually be seen from as early as September. In fact, Autumn can be a great time to see them without any reflection from the snow.

It is also a time favoured by the Finns to go hiking in the fells, which are bursting with vibrant autumnal colours. Combine the two and immerse yourself in the red, gold and yellows that signify the ‘Ruska Season’, with a stay at a cosy Wilderness Lodge in a favoured Aurora hotspot. You may even be fortunate enough to see the lights reflected in beautiful Lake Inari.

DAY 1 Ivalo
Fly to Ivalo (via Helsinki), located 240 km above the Arctic Circle. As you fly over the region you can see a riot of colour, which is splashed across the landscape in a display of defiance against the impending blanket of snow that will soon cover the area.
On arrival in Ivalo, you will be met and transferred to Inari Wilderness Lodge, just 30 minutes away, nestled deep in the countryside. Your hosts will introduce you to the lodge and its surroundings before a delicious dinner made from locally sourced ingredients. With any luck, a stroll by the shoreline may reveal the sky’s hidden secrets.
 
DAYS 2 & 3 Exploring the wilderness 
The exact itinerary may vary but will include a number of activities to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside and maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights. 
An Introduction to Inari – the village of Inari is at the heart of Finland’s Sami culture. Learn about traditional Sami culture and traditions at the Siida Museum and Nature Centre, before heading out into the countryside to admire the scenery and enjoy Lappish nature at its peaceful best.
 
Aurora Hunt – Depending on the weather, you will either be taken to one of the aurora camp spots by car to look for and, hopefully, photograph the spectacular northern lights, or you will set off on an aurora chase, heading further afield in search of clearer skies. Either way, our expert guide will help you find the best possible spot, serving warm drinks and snacks en route.
 
Autumn Hike – Enjoy a relaxing hike in the beautiful surroundings of Inari village, wandering through the fells and forests of this tranquil wilderness. Soak up the beautiful autumnal colours and you may be lucky enough to encounter some curious animals, possibly even some reindeer. Lunch will be served wilderness style around an open fire.
 
You will spend one night staying in an Aurora Cabin, which has a glass thermal roof, enabling you to view the night skies – and hopefully the northern lights – from the warmth and comfort of your bed.
 
 
DAY 4 Home
After breakfast it will be time to bid a reluctant farewell to this magical location. A transfer is provided back to the airport in time for your return flight home.
 
Please note: At this time of the year, weather conditions can be changeable and the onset of snow can come quickly. As a result, activities may have to be curtailed or altered for safety reasons or other unforeseen circumstances. Your understanding is appreciated and where possible, alternative arrangements will be in keeping with the spirit of the original itinerary.
Wilderness Hotel Inari
Wilderness Hotel Inari
This charming wilderness lodge is set on the shores of the beautiful Arctic lake, Lake Inari. Surrounded by stunning countryside and tranquil forests, it is in a secluded location, perfect for viewing the northern lights. It is the newest property, run by the friendly locals, Mari and Jouko, who are renowned for their traditional hospitality. The restaurant serves delicious Lappish cuisine, made from local ingredients. Accommodation provides a perfect blend of traditional style and contemporary comfort with 12 Aurora Cabins, 40 Wilderness Rooms and 8 Log Cabins.
 
Wilderness rooms are spacious and elegant, decorated in rustic style with queen-sized or twin beds, electric kettle, hairdryer and en suite WC and shower, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi.
Aurora Cabins have a glass thermal roof from which to view the night skies. They have twin beds and en suite shower. Wi-Fi is available in the main building.