Rovaniemi: Aurora Hunting Tour in the Forest with Hot Drinks

Experiencing the Aurora Borealis in Lapland is often at the top of many travelers’ Nordic bucket lists, and this Aurora Hunting Tour from Rovaniemi offers a well-rounded way to chase the Northern Lights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, detailed reviews and the itinerary paint a clear picture of an authentic, cozy, and visually stunning adventure.

What we love about this experience? First, the small-group atmosphere creates a more intimate, relaxed environment. Second, the hot beverages and snacks around a crackling fire promise a genuine Arctic wilderness vibe. Third, the expert insights on the science of the Aurora Borealis add educational value, elevating it beyond a simple sightseeing trip. The only thing to consider? The tour’s success depends on clear skies, which means some patience might be needed if the weather isn’t cooperative.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value comfort alongside adventure, want a flexible and guided experience, and are eager to learn about the Northern Lights from knowledgeable guides. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration.

Good To Know

• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides with insights into the Aurora and local environment.
• Comfortable & Practical: Thermal gear, boots, woolen socks, and gloves included to stay warm.
• Flexible Location: Various stops to optimize chances of Aurora sightings, including open landscapes.
• Authentic Cozy Experience: Open fire, hot drinks, and snacks create an inviting Arctic atmosphere.
• Ideal Time: Nighttime, with Aurora most visible between 9 PM and midnight.
• Value for Money: At $112 per person, includes transportation, gear, and refreshments, offering good value for a tailored Arctic experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: A Truly Arctic Experience

Chasing the Northern Lights is one of those bucket-list moments that sounds almost mythical—and with good reason. This Aurora Hunting Tour from Rovaniemi promises a chance to see this celestial phenomenon in a setting that’s just as magical as the lights themselves. The tour highlights a cozy atmosphere, expert guidance, and the chance to experience the Arctic wilderness without sacrificing comfort.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, it’s designed to maximize your chances of viewing the Aurora Borealis without the stress of navigating or worrying about the cold. The small-group setup makes it feel personalized, and the inclusion of thermal clothing and footwear means you’ll stay warm even in the coldest conditions. Plus, the combination of learning from guides and enjoying hot beverages around a fire creates a perfect balance of education and relaxation.

One aspect to consider? The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so clear skies are essential. The tour runs during the prime Aurora viewing window, typically between 9 PM and midnight, but cloud cover can interfere. This experience is especially suited for those who want a well-organized, comfortable way of witnessing this incredible natural display—be it a solo traveler, a couple, or a family.

What to Expect on the Aurora Hunting Tour

The journey begins with a pick-up from your accommodation or a designated meeting point in Rovaniemi, such as the Arctic Lifestyle office in the city center. From there, you’ll travel to several carefully selected locations, each chosen to give you the best shot at spotting the Northern Lights. If the weather conditions are clear, guides might head to an open landscape—an ideal setting to see the Aurora ripple across the sky without obstruction.

Throughout the trip, guides share insights about the science behind the Aurora Borealis—why it appears only in northern latitudes, the solar and magnetic phenomena involved, and local stories that deepen your understanding. This educational element is a real bonus for those curious about the science behind the spectacle.

The tour typically lasts around 3 hours, giving ample time to find a good viewing spot, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. When the Aurora appears, it’s often described as a “blaze” or “dancing ribbons” that flicker and swirl in the sky. Reviewers mention that their guides are friendly and attentive—some even reported being able to see the lights after just a short wait or a quick stop.

After the excitement of spotting the Aurora, everyone gathers around the open fire, where hot drinks like coffee or tea and a small sweet snack await. The warmth of the fire, combined with the cold night air, makes for a genuinely Arctic experience that sticks with travelers long after they return home.

Finally, the group is transported back to the city, often dropping guests off at their hotels or accommodations, making it a hassle-free evening.

The Magic of the Night in the Forest

One of the highlights of this tour is the setting—the forest provides a quiet, dark backdrop perfect for Aurora viewing. Unlike city lights, the wilderness helps illuminate the sky’s natural colors, making the experience more authentic and immersive.

Many reviewers specifically praise the guides’ professionalism and their knack for finding the best spots. As one traveler put it, “They searched several locations for the best possible sighting of the Aurora.” Some mention that if the night is clear, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights become significantly higher, highlighting the importance of weather conditions.

The open fire adds to the experience—not only does it keep everyone warm with thermal overalls, boots, woolen socks, and gloves provided, but it also creates a cozy, communal atmosphere. With hot beverages and a sweet snack in hand, you can relax and enjoy the moment rather than bracing against the cold. It’s a simple pleasure but one that really captures the spirit of Lapland.

The Value of Included Gear and Refreshments

For around $112, the tour offers an impressive package. The thermal clothing and footwear are especially valuable because they eliminate the need to pack or rent heavy gear on your own. Many travelers note that the provided gear makes a noticeable difference in comfort—being warm and dry allows you to focus on the spectacle rather than shivering.

The hot beverages and snacks round out the experience nicely, offering a comforting touch after a chilly wait. As one reviewer said, “We were able to see the Northern Lights and had a good BBQ. They even dropped us back to our hotel,” which underscores the convenience and value of the included transport and refreshments.

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Practical Details: Timing, Group Size, and Flexibility

This tour typically lasts around 3 hours, with starting times varying depending on availability. Since the Aurora is most visible between 9 PM and midnight, timing is crucial, and travelers are advised to check the schedule when booking.

The group size tends to be small, fostering a more personalized experience. Pickup options are available from accommodations in Ounasvaara or Santa Claus Village, making logistics straightforward for visitors. The activity ends back at the meeting point, streamlining the process.

Cancellation policy is flexible—free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if weather forecasts change or plans shift unexpectedly.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

This Aurora Hunting Tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comfortable, guided, and educational Northern Lights experience in Lapland. The combination of warm gear, local expertise, and a cozy campfire makes it accessible for those who might be wary of the cold or unfamiliar Arctic conditions.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate a small-group atmosphere and want to maximize their chances of witnessing the Aurora in a natural setting. Families, couples, or solo travelers who value convenience and authenticity will find this tour hits the right notes.

Overall, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, making it a memorable part of any Lapland itinerary. The inclusion of hot drinks and a friendly guide ensures that even if the sky remains cloudy, you’ll leave with a warm heart and a new appreciation for the Arctic wilderness.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup from Rovaniemi, guidance by a live English-speaking guide, thermal overalls, boots, woolen socks, gloves, hot beverages, and a small sweet snack.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture the Northern Lights if they appear. The provided gear helps keep you warm, but layering is advised.

What is the best time to see the Aurora Borealis?
The prime viewing window is generally between 9 PM and midnight, depending on the weather and cloud cover. Clear skies are essential for a good sighting.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including travel time, viewing, and warm-up around the fire.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility in case of weather issues or changing plans.

Is this suitable for families or children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since thermal gear and warm drinks are provided, making it more comfortable for kids and adults alike.

In summary, this Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour offers a practical, cozy, and educational way to chase the Northern Lights. It balances expert guidance, comfort, and authentic Arctic atmosphere, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting a memorable, stress-free experience under the Arctic sky.

You can check if your dates are available here: