Overview
Inari-Saariselkä is a scenic destination in Finnish Lapland, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich Sami culture. It offers a variety of outdoor activities and is a gateway to the wilderness of northern Finland.
Inari-Saariselkä is significant for its role in preserving Sami culture and providing access to the pristine wilderness of Lapland. It is also a popular destination for winter sports and nature enthusiasts.
Location
Address
Saariselkä
Neighborhood: Saariselkä Village
Coordinates
68.383300, 27.383300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
November-March
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
cold to mild
- • spring hiking
- • bird watching
summer
mild to warm
- • midnight sun
- • hiking trails
autumn
cool
- • fall colors
- • autumn hiking
winter
cold
- • northern lights
- • winter sports
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tours and activities in advance
- Bring a valid ID
- Check weather conditions before visiting
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high (for outdoor activities)
- • cold weather hazards
- • uneven terrain
Medical facilities: first aid available, nearest hospital in Inari
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards
Currency
Euros (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, weather-appropriate, comfortable, layered clothing, sturdy, waterproof boots, inappropriate clothing for weather
Booking Tips
- • at least 2 weeks for popular activities
- • official tourism website or local tour operators
- • varies by tour operator, typically 48 hours
- • available for some tours and activities
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Visit Inari-Saariselkä
Size: 45 MB
Features: interactive map, activity booking, northern lights alerts
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: visitor center, some restaurants and cafes
Charging Stations: visitor center, some restaurants
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ivalo Airport (IVL)
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: N/A (Saariselkä is a village within Inari)
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, peaceful environment
Historical Significance: Home to the Sami people, important for preserving their culture and traditions
Insider Tips
- The best time to see the northern lights is from December to March
- Local guides offer unique insights and experiences
- Some tours offer traditional Sami experiences, such as reindeer sledding
Local Recommendations
- • Try traditional Sami cuisine at local restaurants
- • Visit the Siida Museum to learn about Sami culture
- • Ask locals about the best spots for northern lights viewing
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Finnish, English, Sami
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Saariselkä Viewpoint
Best Time: Sunset or sunrise
Tips: Wide-angle shots capture the vast landscape
Result: Breathtaking panoramic views
Inari Lake
Best Time: Midnight sun (summer) or northern lights (winter)
Tips: Reflection shots on the calm water
Result: Stunning natural beauty
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Siida Museum
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Museum
Urho Kekkonen National Park
Distance: 10 km
Walking: N/A (requires transportation)
Type: National Park
Inari Church
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book activities in advance"
- "Visit the Siida Museum"
- "Try reindeer sledding"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
3
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
$0 (most outdoor areas)