Well, it’s true that an igloo stay in Saariselka is a must for your Finland tour. Let us deep dive into this topic so we can try to prove our claim.
Saariselkä is a small but stunning destination in Finnish Lapland, known for its amazing Arctic landscapes and magical Northern Lights. Surrounded by snow-covered forests, it’s a paradise for winter lovers. It’s also home to famous glass igloos, where you can sleep under the starry sky and watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. It is a tiny village town near Ivalo airport, making it accessible for tourists. Also, it is around 3 hours from Rovaniemi, the most visited city in Finnish Lapland.

About Igloo Stays in Saariselkä

Staying in a glass igloo in Saariselka should be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Saariselka is one of the best places for an igloo stay because it’s far from city lights, meaning clearer skies, less light pollution and a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Plus, it’s home to some of Finland’s most famous glass igloo resorts, surrounded by breathtaking snowy landscapes. Also, there are a good number of activity providers in Saariselka, making it the perfect location for tourists. So, if you are looking for Finland tour packages, make sure that you include an Igloo stay in Saariselka.

Best Igloo resorts in Saariselka with some interesting statistics

Resort NameChance of Seeing Northern Lights (%)Glass Roof Heating?Special Features
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort70-80%YesFamous for glass igloos, Santa’s Home, husky safaris
Northern Lights Village80-90% YesAurora alarm, full-board meals, private hot tubs
Star Arctic Hotel75-85% YesModern design, panoramic igloo suites, ski-in/ski-out
Aurora Collection Saariselkä85-95% YesLuxury stay, outdoor jacuzzi, exclusive location
Wilderness Hotel Muotka70-85% YesSecluded location, guided Aurora tours, cozy wilderness vibe

This is how we calculated the chances of Seeing the Northern lights on the basis of the resort’s location:

  • In peak months (September–March), the probability of seeing the lights can go up to 75–95% over a 3-night stay under clear skies.
  • Some resorts are in low light pollution areas with open-sky views, further improving sighting chances.
  • Resorts at higher elevations (like Star Arctic Hotel) or secluded locations (like Aurora Collection) have slightly better visibility than those in valleys.

What activities one can do in an Igloo resort in Saariselka

Here are some amazing activities offered by a local Finnish tour company in Saariselka:

  1. Northern Lights tour by the bus, reindeer or snowmobile
  2. Go on a husky sledding Safari through the snowy wilderness.
  3. Experience a reindeer sleigh Safari.
  4. A Snowmobile Safari for 2-4 hours, depending on the duration you chose
  5. Try ice fishing in frozen lakes for a unique Arctic experience.
  6. Relax in a private outdoor hot tub while surrounded by snow.
  7. Go cross-country skiing on Saariselkä’s scenic trails.
  8. Finnish Sauna at amazing resorts in Saariselka
  9. Ivalo city tour from Saariselka
  10. Visit Santa’s Home (available in Kakslauttanen arctic resort).

Frequently asked questions about staying in Saariselka Igloo resorts

Is it safe to stay in Saariselka in winter?

Yes, it is totally safe to stay in Saariselka during winters, considering every aspect.

Are the igloos warm from Inside in Saariselka ?

Yes, all igloos are well insulated and have heating to keep you warm even in freezing temperatures.

Do the glass igloos have private bathrooms?

It totally depends on the room category you choose. For example, in the Kakkslauttanen arctic resort, in the basic igloo category, there is a toilet facility but the shower is common.

Is there an Aurora alarm in the igloos?

Many resorts provide an Aurora alarm system, notifying guests when the lights appear.

What is the best time to stay in an igloo for the Northern Lights?

The peak season is from September to March, with the highest chances in December to February.

Are igloo resorts suitable for families with children?

Yes, almost all resorts are suitable for a children’s stay.

Are meals included in igloo resort bookings?

Usually, Breakfast and Dinner is included in the package, whereas lunch is an additional buy.

Do igloos have curtains for privacy?

Yes, all glass igloos have curtains or frosted glass sections for privacy while still offering great views.

How early should I book an igloo stay?

Igloo stays are in high demand and often sell out 6-12 months in advance, especially for the winter season.