Destination Comparison
Inari vs Saariselkä for Northern Lights
Two of Finnish Lapland's most remote and rewarding destinations — Inari is the Sámi cultural heartland beside the vast lake of the same name, while Saariselkä is a modern ski resort just 30km to the south. Both offer outstanding aurora experiences in Finland's deep north.
✦8/10
Aurora Score
✦8/10
✓$120/day
Daily Budget
$135/day
Moderate 🛤️
Accessibility
Moderate 🛤️
Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Best Months
Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
✓Polar night (24h)
Dark Hours (Winter)
23h
Arctic
Region
Arctic
15 types
Activities
✓17 types
Our Verdict
Both are excellent aurora spots; Inari wins on cultural authenticity and darker skies, Saariselkä wins on winter sports facilities and accommodation variety.
Choose Inari if:
Sámi culture centre, vast lake wilderness, reindeer herders, darkest skies, most authentic Finnish Lapland cultural experience
Choose Saariselkä if:
Fell skiing and snowshoe trails, broader accommodation choice, modern resort amenities, slightly easier to access from Ivalo airport
Finland
Inari
Cultural explorers wanting authentic Sami experiences alongside top-quality aurora viewing
Finland
Saariselkä
Skiers and snowmobilers who want aurora viewing combined with outstanding winter sports