Rovaniemi Hunting Aurora at the Best Spots

Travelers dreaming of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights will find this Aurora hunting tour in Rovaniemi offers some compelling highlights — from carefully chosen viewing spots to expert guidance, all wrapped up in a 3.5-hour adventure. While it’s not the cheapest experience, the combination of prime locations, knowledgeable guides, and cozy touches makes it a noteworthy choice for those keen to tick this bucket-list natural spectacle.

What we love about this tour is the chance to visit two of the best high-chance Aurora observation spots, the fact that it’s fully guided (meaning no stressing about technicalities), and the opportunity to get tailored advice on capturing photos of the lights with your phone. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this experience doesn’t include dinner, so if you’re after a full evening meal, you’ll need to plan separately. It’s ideal for travelers who want a practical, well-organized way to see the Aurora without the hassle of self-driving or uncertain locations.

Good To Know

• Prime Locations: Visits to two top Aurora spotting spots near Arctic lakes and forests
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides explain Aurora phenomena and photography tips
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and winter clothing provided, hot tea to warm you up
• Duration & Timing: A 3.5-hour window, with flexible start times based on availability
• Group Size & Cost: Small groups of up to 8 participants for a personalized experience, priced at $108
• Exclusions: Dinner not included, so plan accordingly

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Aurora Hunting Experience

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

This tour starts with pickup from your accommodation in Rovaniemi, with a focus on making the experience as smooth as possible. The pickup is included, and you’ll be asked to wait in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled time — drivers will only wait five minutes afterward, so punctuality matters. Once on board, you’ll be driven outside of the town towards the Arctic wilderness, passing notable landmarks like Santa Village and the Arctic Circle, setting an enchanting scene even before the Aurora hunt begins.

The Locations: Two Prime Observation Points

The core of this experience is visiting two specially selected spots with high chances of Aurora sightings. The first stop is near an Arctic lake, providing a reflective, open sky view that’s perfect for catching the lights dancing overhead. The second is a forested area, offering a contrast of shadows and sky, which many find adds to the magic.

Traveling outside the town is crucial because light pollution can diminish Aurora visibility. The guides are well-versed in spotting clear skies and will navigate to the best locations on the night, increasing your chances of witnessing the lights. The stops are also close enough to the Arctic wild to give you a real sense of the remote, untouched nature that makes Lapland so special.

Expert Guidance and Photography Tips

Guides are not just drivers—they’re also Aurora aficionados, explaining what causes the phenomenon, how it appears, and why it’s so unpredictable. As Emilie’s review highlights, “she took the time to explain what an Aurora is, where to watch it, and more generally, about Lappish culture.” This added context enriches the experience, turning it from a simple hunt into an educational adventure.

Photographers will appreciate the tips on how to set up your smartphone for those fleeting Aurora moments. Guides often encourage participants to take photos but also stress that seeing the lights with your own eyes is the real reward. Many travelers find that patience and a steady hand are key, especially under Arctic skies.

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Warmth, Snacks, and the Arctic Atmosphere

While it’s a winter adventure, warmth isn’t neglected. The tour offers hot berry or fruit tea during the wait, helping you stay comfortable while gazing skyward. Plus, winter clothing can be picked up from the office at Rovakatu 25, giving you a chance to layer up without lugging bulky gear around beforehand.

Duration and Group Size: Intimate and Flexible

The total time is about 3.5 hours, with departure times varying based on availability. Smaller groups of up to 8 participants help maintain an intimate atmosphere, allowing guides to give personalized attention and answer questions. This setup is perfect for those who prefer a cozy, less crowded experience rather than large bus tours.

Value for Money

At $108 per person, the tour is competitively priced considering the experience and guidance offered. It’s worth noting that the price includes transportation, guide, access to two observation spots, winter clothing, and hot drinks. However, since dinner isn’t included, you might want to dine beforehand or plan a late-night snack afterward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Locations and Timing

Seeing the Aurora depends heavily on weather and sky conditions. By visiting two different locations, the guides maximize your chances of a sighting, especially if the weather isn’t perfect at one spot. Travelers have noted that guides are skilled at selecting spots with clear visibility, which is reassuring given how elusive the Aurora can be.

Knowledge and Personal Touch

One reviewer, Emilie, praised the “exceptional guide” who took her to a secluded spot and explained everything, making the evening feel both magical and educational. The guides’ expertise adds confidence, especially for those new to Arctic environments or Aurora photography.

Authentic Arctic Experience

Beyond just chasing lights, the tour offers a taste of Lapland’s wild nature — snow-covered lakes, dense forests, and star-studded skies. The experience isn’t rushed, and the hot drinks bring a cozy touch to the cold night.

Flexibility and Booking

The ability to reserve now and pay later adds convenience, especially for travelers with flexible plans. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before leaves room for adjustments, which is helpful in unpredictable winter conditions.

Things to Consider

While this tour offers many advantages, there are a few points to keep in mind. The dinner is not included, so plan accordingly. If you’re not used to cold temperatures, make sure to pick up the provided winter clothing, which is essential for comfort during the wait. Also, as it’s a small-group experience, it might fill up quickly during peak Northern Lights season, so booking in advance is advisable.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This Aurora hunting experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, education, and comfort. It’s well-suited for those who prefer small groups and personal attention, as well as anyone eager to learn more about the science and stories behind the Lights. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a cost-effective way to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora in a safe, well-organized setting.

If you’re after a luxurious, all-inclusive dinner-and-light-show experience, or if solo photography is your main goal, you might need to look elsewhere. But for genuine, guided Arctic sky-watching, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your accommodation, with drivers waiting only five minutes after the scheduled time, so punctuality is key.

What should I wear?
You can pick up winter clothing from the office at Rovakatu 25, but it’s recommended to dress warmly in layers because you’ll be standing outside in cold conditions.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts around 3.5 hours, including travel time and observation at two different spots.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While this experience maximizes your chances by visiting high-probability locations with expert guides, sightings depend on weather and sky conditions, which are unpredictable.

Is dinner included?
No, the tour does not include dinner, but hot berry or fruit tea is provided during the viewing.

Can I join this tour in Chinese?
Yes, guides speak both English and Chinese, making it accessible for a diverse range of travelers.

What is the group size?
Small groups of up to 8 participants ensure a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.

The Rovaniemi Aurora hunting tour offers a practical, well-organized way to chase the Northern Lights in Lapland. With visits to two top observation spots, expert explanations, and cozy refreshments, it provides a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. While it doesn’t include dinner, the focus on prime locations and knowledgeable guides makes it great value for anyone serious about seeing the Aurora.

Ideal for travelers who appreciate small groups, expert insight, and a genuine Arctic experience, this tour transforms a potentially fleeting moment into a memorable adventure. If your goal is to enjoy the natural wonder in a relaxed, guided setting, it’s a choice worth considering.

Note: Always check current availability and weather conditions, and consider booking well in advance during peak Northern Lights season to secure your spot on this sought-after Arctic adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: