Planning a trip to Lapland and eager to see the elusive Northern Lights? This Insider Guaranteed Northern Lights Tour from Rovaniemi promises an evening filled with anticipation, expert guidance, and stunning photo opportunities—all while keeping you warm and comfortable in the Arctic chill. We’ve taken a close look at what travelers can expect, and here’s what makes this tour stand out, along with some practical tips to help you get the most from it.
Three features we particularly like about this experience are the guarantee policy (so you’re not left empty-handed if the auroras decide to be shy), the inclusion of professional-quality photos, and the comprehensive winter gear provided. The tour’s flexible nature, real-time weather monitoring, and small-group intimacy make it an appealing choice for those seeking a dependable, enjoyable Arctic adventure.
One potential consideration is the 12-hour duration—it’s a long night, and travelers should be prepared for a late return, especially if the skies stay clear and the lights appear late into the night. Ideal for those who love nature’s spectacles, photography, or simply want a reliable shot at witnessing the Northern Lights, this tour is best suited for travelers with a sense of adventure and patience.
Good To Know
- Guaranteed Aurora Viewing: If no auroras are seen or captured on camera, you can rebook or get a full refund.
- Expert Guidance and Photography: Learn how to shoot the Northern Lights with your phone or camera, and get professional photos included.
- Comfort and Warmth: Full winter clothing, hot drinks, snacks, and a cozy setup help you stay warm during the night.
- Flexible and Convenient: Pickup from your accommodation and unlimited mileage mean you’re driven to the best spots.
- Small-Group Experience: More personalized attention and fewer crowds enhance the overall experience.
- Value for Money: At $177, the tour combines transportation, gear, guidance, and photos—offering good value for a night chasing the Aurora.
A Detailed Look at the Northern Lights Experience
Chasing the Northern Lights is an art and a bit of luck, but this tour’s design maximizes your chances. Starting with a pickup from your Rovaniemi accommodation, you’re whisked away in a comfortable van for a 30-minute drive into the Arctic wilderness. This quick transfer allows you to skip the city lights and head toward clearer skies, which is crucial given the unpredictable nature of Aurora visibility.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The chosen stops are thoughtfully planned to optimize viewing conditions and add variety to your night. The first major stop lasts about 1.5 hours at a scenic viewpoint. Here, you’ll have the chance to relax, take in the vast, starry Arctic sky, and snap some initial photos. This spot is often praised for offering unobstructed views, making it an ideal first chance to catch the lights or, at the very least, soak in the atmosphere.
After a brief drive, you’ll arrive at a “secret stop” for another 1.5 hours of sightseeing, photo opportunities, and breaks. Despite its mysterious name, this location is carefully selected based on real-time weather data and Aurora forecasts, increasing the possibility of a sighting.
Throughout the night, your guide, equipped with a professional camera setup, will help you capture the Aurora Borealis with expert advice on camera settings—adjusting ISO, exposure, and framing—so you can leave with lasting images. Multiple reviews mention how much travelers appreciated the guidance, noting that “the guide showed us how to get better photos, and the pictures turned out amazing.”
Comfort and Practicalities
The tour provides full winter clothing, including a jacket, pants, boots, and gloves, which is vital given the freezing temperatures often experienced in Lapland. Many reviews highlight how this gear made the experience more comfortable and allowed them to focus on the lights rather than shivering in the cold.
Hot drinks, traditional Finnish gingerbread cookies, and Fazer chocolates are served throughout the night, offering sustenance and warmth. Reviewers often comment on how these small touches made the long night more enjoyable, especially as everyone huddled around in anticipation.
The Photography Component
This tour is particularly popular with those who want more than just a fleeting glimpse of the Aurora—they want photos to remember it by. The professional camera setup ensures high-quality shots, but the real bonus is the photo instruction. Guides teach you simple techniques to improve your own phone or camera photos, which is perfect for casual photographers or those wanting to learn a new skill.
Some travelers mention that the Aurora often appears more vibrant through the lens than to the naked eye, so having a guide help you adjust your camera settings is invaluable. Plus, with professional photos included, you leave with high-quality images of yourself experiencing the lights—something you’ll cherish long after the trip ends.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Guarantee and Peace of Mind
One of the standout features is the money-back or rebooking guarantee. If no Aurora is recorded on camera during your tour, you’re entitled to a free rebooking or a full refund. This policy reflects the confidence of the tour provider and adds reassurance for travelers who might worry about missing out, making it a safer bet than many other Northern Lights excursions.
Overall Duration and Group Size
The 12-hour duration might seem lengthy, but it encompasses enough stops, breaks, and travel time to justify it. Smaller groups (often around 8-12 people) mean more personalized attention, less noise, and a cozier atmosphere—something many reviewers appreciated. The tour is also wheelchair accessible, which adds to its inclusivity.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Reliability and flexibility are key strengths. With unlimited mileage and real-time weather monitoring, your guide adapts the route to current conditions, improving your chances of seeing the lights. This dynamic approach, combined with expert guidance, makes it stand apart from more static, predetermined tours.
Value for the cost is another positive aspect. For $177, you’re not just paying for transportation but also for gear, coaching, snacks, and guaranteed photos—a package that can be more cost-effective than booking separate experiences.
The Experience You’ll Remember
Expect a comfortable, well-organized night with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning. While the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon outside anyone’s control, this tour’s careful planning and expert guidance give you a real shot at witnessing their magic. The combination of cozy warmth, expert advice, and stunning scenery creates a memorable Arctic adventure.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for photographers and nature lovers eager to capture the auroras with professional help. It’s also a good choice for travelers who value reliability and reassurance, thanks to the guaranteed return policy. Those who enjoy long, immersive evenings in the outdoors will appreciate the 12-hour format, while families or groups seeking a manageable, guided experience will find it convenient and comfortable.
However, those with very young children or anyone sensitive to extreme cold should consider their comfort, as the tour involves staying outside for extended periods in winter conditions. The long duration also means you should be prepared for a late night.
Final Thoughts
This Northern Lights tour from Rovaniemi offers a well-rounded, trustworthy experience for anyone wanting a genuine shot at witnessing the Aurora Borealis. The combination of expert guidance, professional photography, and warmth ensures that you’re well-equipped to make the most of this Arctic spectacle. The flexible, weather-aware approach means your chances of success are maximized, and the guaranteed photos or rebooking policy provide extra peace of mind.
For travelers seeking a practical, fun, and high-value way to chase the Aurora, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s a great fit for those who want reliable, expert-led Arctic adventures wrapped in comfort and memorable photo opportunities.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup from your accommodation, full winter clothing, hot drinks, snacks, professional camera setup, photo instruction, and unlimited mileage.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 12 hours, starting from your pickup in Rovaniemi and ending back at your accommodation.
Can I get photos of the Northern Lights?
Yes, the guide will set up a professional camera to capture the Aurora, and you’ll also receive tips to take your own photos with your phone or camera.
Is there a guarantee if we do not see the Northern Lights?
Yes, if no auroras are recorded on camera during your tour, you can rebook for free or receive a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, water, gloves, and a charged smartphone. The tour provides all necessary winter gear.
Are restroom stops available?
Restroom stops are limited, so plan accordingly before departure.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year, but older children who enjoy outdoor activities will likely have a good time.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot early, especially during peak Aurora season, and you can opt to pay later with the “Reserve now & pay later” option.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users.
What languages are available?
Tours are conducted in English and Spanish.
To sum it up, this Northern Lights tour from Rovaniemi is a well-crafted, reliable choice for anyone eager to witness Lapland’s most famous natural phenomenon. The mix of expert guidance, warm comfort, and guaranteed photos makes it a compelling option for a memorable Arctic adventure. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply someone looking for a genuine chance to see the auroras, this experience offers good value and peace of mind to make your dream of seeing the Northern Lights come true.
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