Before Departure
- Please bring your driving license with you. In Finland, at least a T-class license is required.
- In case of an accident, the self-liability risk is a maximum of 2500 EUR / snowmobile / accident / driver. This means that if you happen to crash the snowmobile, you will be required to pay damages up to a maximum of 2500 EUR.
- If the cost of the damages is less than 2500 EUR, you will only need to pay the actual amount.
- Snowmobiles are insured as required by the Finnish Traffic Insurance Act. This insurance covers medical care for personal injuries caused by an accident to the driver, the passenger (if any), and any third parties, as determined by the insurance company’s policy.
- Personal travel insurance is still recommended.
- Always wear a helmet and ensure it is properly secured.
- Listen carefully to the guide and follow their instructions.
- Make sure your clothing and gear are suitable, especially warm and windproof layers.
While Driving
- Always maintain a safe distance from the snowmobile in front of you.
- Never overtake others without the guide’s permission.
- Follow the snowmobile’s maximum speed and route restrictions.
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications.
- Try to find a comfortable driving position, not too far or too close to the handlebars. The passenger sits behind the driver, holding tightly onto the handles. Keep your feet on the footrests at all times.
- The snowmobile is easy to handle. The engine is fully automatic, and you only need the accelerator and brake to control the speed.
- Under your right thumb, you’ll find the accelerator, and under your left hand, the brake. Do not use the accelerator and brake at the same time, as this may damage the engine. The red button on top of the handlebars is the “kill switch.” Pressing it will stop the engine.
- You steer the snowmobile with the handlebars and, most importantly, your body weight. When turning, steer the handlebars in the desired direction and simultaneously shift your body weight to the inside of the curve.
- Do not attempt to start the engine yourself; experienced safari guides will handle this for you.
On the Trail
- Follow signs and stay within marked routes.
- If you encounter an obstacle or a dangerous situation, inform the guide immediately.
- Do not leave the snowmobile without permission or a valid safety reason.
- While driving, you won’t hear anything other than the sound of the engine, so we must use hand signals to communicate.
- When your guide shows a hand signal, repeat it to ensure everyone in the line knows what’s happening.
Hand Signals:
- Left Hand Raised: Prepare to stop!
- A stop may occur within 20 or 50 meters, but we will stop soon. When you see this signal, park your snowmobile as close as possible to the one in front of you to form a tight line.
- Left Hand Up and Down: Let’s go!
- Left Hand Waving: Attention, slow down!
- There may be a large bump, a sharp turn, oncoming traffic, or a reindeer on the track, so slow down and pay close attention to what’s ahead.
- Hands Crossed: This signal is for guides only. It means: Stay on the snowmobile and do not move or go anywhere.
- The guide may need to go back to check a situation.
If You Have Problems:
- Raise your left hand and park your snowmobile. Your guide will come to assist you.
- The driver sits in the front seat and has full control of the vehicle.
Respect Nature and Safety
- Respect the countryside and nature, and always dispose of your rubbish responsibly.
- Note that guides are obligated to stop the safari if they observe a driver behaving irresponsibly with the snowmobile.
- Guides are responsible for the group and have the authority to stop the safari if a participant poses a danger to themselves or others or if someone is unwell.
In Case of Emergencies:
- If you experience any problems during the snowmobile safari, raise your left hand and park your snowmobile. The guide will come to assist you.
- Stay calm and wait for instructions from the guide.
- Use the emergency phone or kill switch if necessary.
- Guides are responsible for the group and have the authority to stop the safari if a participant poses a danger to themselves or others or if someone is unwell.