Chasing Aurora with Photographer – Small Group

Chasing Aurora with Photographer – Small Group in Lapland, Finland, offers a cozy and well-rounded way to experience the elusive Northern Lights. While it doesn’t promise guaranteed sightings, it maximizes your chances with expert forecasting, strategic location choices, and small-group attention.

What truly makes this experience stand out are the knowledgeable guides who double as photographers, the multiple chase locations to improve your odds, and the inclusion of thermal overalls and hot drinks that keep you warm during the long, chilly hours. On the flip side, some guests have noted that timing and communication during the pickup process could be smoother, especially during busy periods.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a more intimate, photo-focused Aurora hunt with a personal touch. If you’re keen to learn how to capture the Northern Lights on camera, and don’t mind the natural unpredictability, this experience could be just right.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Expert guides are trained photographers, offering valuable tips.
• Multiple locations increase the chance of Aurora sightings.
• Thermal overalls and hot drinks make the experience comfortable in cold conditions.
• Tour includes professional photography with free photo downloads.
• The experience lasts about 4 hours, including transfers and stops.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Practical Experience in Lapland’s Dark Skies

This four-hour Aurora chase by minibus from Rovaniemi combines adventure, comfort, and photography, making it a balanced option for those wanting to maximize their chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Since the Aurora is an unpredictable natural phenomenon, even the best guides can’t guarantee a sighting, but their forecasts and strategic location choices greatly improve your odds.

The tour starts with a pick-up from your accommodation, which is convenient especially if you’re staying within Rovaniemi. The pick-up times can vary slightly based on your location, and the provided instructions include meeting times and locations, so paying close attention to the post-booking email is important. The small-group size — capped at 8-10 participants — offers a more intimate setting, avoiding the feeling of being part of a large crowd.

The Itinerary: Chasing the Lights Across Different Spots

The core of this experience is the visit to 2-3 different locations, each picked based on weather conditions, cloud cover, and Aurora forecasts. The guides are skilled at forecasting weather, which means they’ll move to the spots with the best chance of Aurora visibility. This dynamic approach is much more effective than sticking to one spot, especially in unpredictable weather.

Each location is chosen for its potential for Aurora sightings, but some may be more scenic or atmospheric than others. Guests have noted that the stops are well thought out, giving enough time to settle in, enjoy the environment, and snap some pictures. The guides, who are also trained photographers, often help guests with camera settings, and some guests have appreciated their tips for capturing the lights—an invaluable skill given how fleeting and elusive Aurora displays can be.

The Comfort and Atmosphere

In the freezing Arctic conditions, staying warm is key. The tour provides thermal overalls and winter boots at no extra cost. Guests have mentioned the importance of bringing warm shoes, hats, and layers, as standing outside for extended periods in sub-zero temperatures can be challenging otherwise.

As you wait for the Aurora, you’ll be offered Lappish sausages and hot drinks heated over an open fire, creating a cozy, communal atmosphere amidst the winter wilderness. This simple touch makes a big difference, turning what could be a cold, long night into an inviting experience.

Photography: Capturing the Northern Lights

One of the tour’s biggest selling points is its focus on Aurora photography. Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras, and the guides—who are experienced photographers—will help you tweak your settings for low-light conditions. If you don’t have your own gear, the guides will take photos with their cameras and share the best shots with you afterward.

Guests from reviews have appreciated this aspect, noting that the professional guidance improved their ability to take good pictures of the Aurora, even with basic cameras. The free download of all photos is a thoughtful bonus, so you leave with memories of the night without the hassle of photo sharing later.

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The Downsides and Considerations

While most guests find the experience valuable, some have pointed out areas for improvement. The timing of pickup and communication could be clearer, especially during busy times when multiple tours operate simultaneously. One reviewer mentioned waiting outside in the cold without knowing exactly when the vehicle would arrive, which can be frustrating.

Plus, as with all Aurora tours, there’s an inherent risk: the Northern Lights are unpredictable. No one can guarantee a sighting, so patience and a bit of luck are essential. The forecast-based approach helps, but if clear skies are absent, even the most prepared tours will fall short.

Pricing and Value

At around $211 per person, this tour offers a lot for those eager to photograph the Aurora in smaller groups. The inclusion of thermal gear, hot drinks, and professional photography assistance enhances the value, especially for travelers looking to make the most of their Arctic night. Compared to larger chase tours, the small group setting and personalized attention justify the price for many.

If capturing the Northern Lights on camera is a priority, this experience provides the right environment and guidance. However, travelers should consider that the success of the actual Aurora sighting remains weather-dependent and not guaranteed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits photographers or aspiring photographers who want expert help, as well as those looking for a more intimate, less crowded Northern Lights experience. It’s ideal if you appreciate small-group interactions and want to combine comfort with adventure.

If your main goal is simply to see the Aurora with minimal fuss, or if you’re traveling with young children or large groups, you might find other options more suitable. But for couples or solo travelers eager to learn photography tips and chase the Lights in a relaxed, friendly environment, this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

Chasing Aurora with Photographer offers a well-rounded, personalized Arctic adventure that emphasizes comfort, expert guidance, and photographic opportunity. Its focus on multiple locations maximizes your chances of Aurora sightings, and the inclusion of thermal gear and warm drinks makes enduring the cold much easier.

While the natural unpredictability of the Aurora can’t be eliminated, the experience’s emphasis on forecasting and local knowledge boosts your odds. The small-group setting and professional guides make this tour a compelling choice for those who want a more curated, photo-oriented Northern Lights hunt.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who value personalized attention, learning opportunities, and high-quality photos. If you’re prepared for a bit of patience and the inherent uncertainty of Aurora viewing, you’ll find this tour to be a memorable part of your Lapland adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and return to your accommodation, visits to 2-3 different locations, professional Aurora photography assistance, free photo downloads, thermal overalls, hot drinks, Lappish sausages, and guiding service in a small group setting.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, which includes transfers, stops at different locations, and time spent waiting for the Aurora to appear.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is by minibus, and pickup is included if your accommodation is within 8 km of Rovaniemi city center.

What should I bring?
Warm shoes, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since you’ll be outside for extended periods in cold conditions.

Can I bring my own camera?
Absolutely. Guests are encouraged to bring their own camera gear to learn tips from the guides or to capture the Aurora themselves.

Is there a chance I won’t see the Northern Lights?
Yes. The Aurora is natural and unpredictable. The guides use weather forecasting tools, but sightings depend on clear skies and solar activity. No guarantees are offered, but efforts are made to maximize your chances.

You can check if your dates are available here: