Rovaniemi: Ice Floating Experience with Northern lights

If you’re looking for a winter adventure that combines tranquility, a dash of adrenaline, and spectacular natural displays, the Ice Floating Experience in Rovaniemi is worth considering. This tour offers a chance to drift peacefully on a frozen lake in Lapland, surrounded by the silent beauty of the Arctic night, with the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights overhead.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the feeling of weightlessness while floating in a thermal wetsuit—something most travelers haven’t tried before. Second, the awe of gazing up at a star-studded sky, sometimes illuminated by the elusive Northern Lights. Third, the cozy warmth of hot drinks and cookies afterward, which makes the chilly environment surprisingly comfortable.

However, it’s worth noting that this activity is weather-dependent; if the skies are cloudy or the lake isn’t frozen enough, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights diminish, though the floating itself remains a serene highlight. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to connect with nature in a truly unique way—perfect for those seeking a peaceful yet exhilarating Arctic experience.

Good To Know

• Unique Arctic activity: Float in a thermal wetsuit on a frozen lake surrounded by Arctic silence.
• Northern Lights chances: Occur if weather conditions are right, offering a magical sky show.
• Relaxing post-activity: Warm drinks and cookies provide comfort after the float.
• Small group size: Limited to nine participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Practical logistics: Pickup and drop-off included; reserve now, pay later.
• Safety and comfort: Participants should be comfortable in water, in good health, and dress in layers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience – A Deep Dive

The Ice Floating Tour, offered by Wonderlapland, is designed to blend adventure with serenity. It typically lasts about three hours, with flexible starting times that you can check based on availability. The journey begins with pickup from your accommodation in Rovaniemi, making logistics smooth and hassle-free—an important consideration in Arctic conditions.

Once at the lake, you’ll be fitted into a thermal survival wetsuit—a crucial element that transforms the experience from potentially daunting to comfortably warm. Reviewers have commented on the quality of these suits; they’re designed to keep you warm and buoyant, giving you a sensation akin to weightless floating. The experience is gentle; you’re unlikely to feel cold as long as you’re dressed appropriately underneath.

As you drift in the tranquil ice lake, you’ll be encouraged to relax and enjoy the stillness. Many mention the surreal feeling of floating effortlessly in the crisp Arctic air, with the silence broken only by occasional sounds of nature. The starry sky above is breathtaking, especially if you’re lucky enough to see the Northern Lights. One reviewer described the sight of the aurora as “casting their magical glow across the landscape,” adding an extra layer of wonder to the experience.

Post-float, there’s a cozy spot where you can enjoy hot drinks and fresh cookies. This simple gesture turns the chilly moment into a comforting, almost indulgent treat, perfect for warming up and sharing stories of the experience. Several reviewers highlighted this part as a highlight, emphasizing how the warmth and sweetness added to the overall enjoyment.

The entire activity is designed to be safe and accessible for most; participants should be comfortable in water, in good physical health, and willing to dress in layers. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or anyone uncomfortable with water.

What makes this tour special?

Intimate group setting: With only nine spots available per tour, you’ll enjoy a more personalized, less rushed experience. The small group size also means better opportunities for the guide to answer questions and tailor the experience.

Authentic Arctic connection: Floating on a frozen lake, gazing at the vast night sky, and possibly catching the Northern Lights, offers a rare, authentic Arctic encounter that feels more personal than typical sightseeing trips.

Comfort in the cold: The inclusion of thermal wetsuits and warm beverages transforms what could be a daunting winter activity into a cozy, memorable adventure. Reviewers have appreciated how the wetsuits kept them warm enough to fully relax and enjoy the moment.

Flexibility and value: The tour’s pricing at $142 per person is reasonable considering the unique experience and inclusions like pickup, wetsuit, and post-float treats. Plus, the “reserve now, pay later” option provides flexibility to plan your trip without upfront financial commitment.

Potential for Northern Lights: While not guaranteed, the chance to see this natural phenomenon adds a magical glow to an already extraordinary activity. Clear nights significantly improve the odds, making it a gamble worth taking if you’re in Rovaniemi during the winter months.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts roughly three hours, but the actual floating time is shorter—typically a few minutes of gentle drifting, with guides handling the logistics and safety. The pickup service is included, which means you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics in the frosty Arctic.

Dress in layers—think thermal underwear, warm sweaters, and waterproof outer layers—to ensure extra warmth during the waiting or post-activity period. As participants are advised to be comfortable in water and in good health, this activity suits travelers who are physically active and confident in cold conditions.

Remember, photos are not included—the tour doesn’t offer a photography service, so if you want to capture the moment, bring a waterproof camera or a phone in a dry, secure bag.

Booking ahead is recommended since the small group size fills up quickly, especially during peak Northern Lights season. The cancellation policy is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund—giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Comparison with Similar Experiences

This tour offers a more tranquil, introspective Arctic experience compared to high-energy activities like husky sledding or snowmobiling. For travelers seeking serenity, the float provides a rare chance to connect with nature in a calm, unhurried way.

It’s also more intimate than larger group excursions, making it ideal for couples or solo travelers looking for a quiet, reflective experience. The inclusion of warm drinks and cookies, along with the small group size, elevates the experience from simply floating to a cozy Arctic retreat.

Compared to similar tours, such as daytime ice floating or other Northern Lights excursions, this one stands out for its focus on the quiet thrill of floating in the Arctic darkness, combined with the possibility of glimpsing the aurora.

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The Sum Up

This Ice Floating Experience in Rovaniemi offers a rare opportunity to relax and reconnect with the Arctic landscape in a uniquely peaceful way. The combination of floating in a thermal wetsuit, marveling at the starry sky, and enjoying hot drinks afterward makes for a memorable winter adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for those who crave tranquility, enjoy natural beauty, or want a different perspective on Arctic life.

While the activity is weather-dependent and not suitable for everyone, the small group size and thoughtful inclusions make it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking an authentic, calm, yet exhilarating Arctic moment. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or simply want to experience the quiet magic of Lapland’s winter, this tour promises a contemplative and beautiful escape from the ordinary.

FAQs

Is transportation to the lake included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to get to and from the activity location in Rovaniemi.

What should I wear for the floating experience?
Dress in layers, including thermal underwear and warm clothing. The wetsuit provides insulation, but layers will help keep you comfortable before and after the float.

Can I see the Northern Lights during this tour?
Yes, if the weather and sky conditions are favorable, there’s a good chance of witnessing the Northern Lights overhead while floating.

Is this activity suitable for children?
The tour requires participants to be comfortable in water and in good health, so it’s best for older children or teenagers who meet these criteria.

How long does the floating part last?
The entire tour lasts around three hours, but the actual floating time is brief—just enough to enjoy the peaceful drift.

What if the weather is cloudy or the lake isn’t frozen enough?
The floating activity can still take place, but chances of seeing the Northern Lights decrease if the sky is overcast. The experience remains peaceful and memorable regardless.

Can I take photos during the float?
Photos are not included, and the guides don’t offer a photography service. Bring a waterproof camera if you want to capture this special moment.

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s $142 per person, which includes wetsuit, transportation, and post-activity warm drinks and cookies, offering good value for such a unique Arctic experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: