Rovaniemi: Night Tour in Search of the Aurora with BBQ

Planning a trip to Lapland and eager to catch the Northern Lights? This 3-hour evening tour in Rovaniemi offers a balanced mix of Aurora chasing, Arctic scenery, and warm Finnish hospitality. While it doesn’t promise a sighting—Aurora Borealis remains a natural, unpredictable wonder—the experience is designed to maximize your chances while keeping it fun and comfortable.

What I love about this tour is its visits to three different locations, increasing your odds of catching a glimpse of the lights. Plus, the cozy BBQ by the fire adds a uniquely Finnish touch, and the guided assistance with photography makes sure you leave with memorable pictures. However, it’s worth noting that the tour relies heavily on weather conditions, and cloud cover can play spoiler. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, social, and scenic Arctic adventure, even if the Northern Lights decide to stay elusive.

Good To Know

• Multiple viewing spots improve your chances of seeing the Aurora.
• Expert guides assist with photography and local knowledge.
• Cozy BBQ around a fire adds warmth and authenticity to the experience.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Unpredictable Aurora sightings mean no guarantees, but the journey is rewarding.
• Three carefully chosen locations showcase Arctic nature beyond city lights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of Rovaniemi’s Night Aurora Tour

This tour is a fantastic option for those wanting to mix Aurora hunting with a taste of Lapland’s rugged beauty and Finnish traditions. Starting in the evening, the experience takes you beyond Rovaniemi’s streetlights, into the Arctic wilderness. The aim? To find the Northern Lights dancing overhead, set against the stark, beautiful backdrop of snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. While the Aurora remains elusive some nights (as noted in reviews), the feeling of being out in this pristine landscape is special in itself.

The tour is priced at $89 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the included amenities, transport, and the chance to visit three different locations. With a duration of around three hours, it’s a manageable experience that doesn’t overcommit your evening but still allows for multiple stops and plenty of local scenery.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and First Stop in Rovaniemi

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup around 19:30, ensuring you’re comfortable and ready as the Arctic night sets in. The driver, whose punctuality is usually noted as excellent, waits for about five minutes at the meeting point before heading out. Early reviews praise the promptness and professionalism of the transport service, which sets the tone for the evening.

Once on the road, your guide will give a brief introduction about the Northern Lights and the plan ahead. The first location tends to be near the city, offering a quick photo stop and some initial anticipation. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs after the ride and soak in the Arctic dusk.

Second Stop: The “Secret” Location

This is the core of the experience—an 80-minute stop at a carefully selected, less light-polluted spot. Here, you’ll get a longer window to try and see the Aurora if it appears. The area is atmospheric, often surrounded by quiet, snow-dusted trees, and the guide might share insights about Lapland’s flora and fauna.

What stands out from reviews is how the guides go out of their way to help with photography—arranging camera settings or snapping pictures of guests. One reviewer mentioned how their guide Daria took individual photos with her iPhone and sent them afterward, which is a thoughtful touch. You might also enjoy a warm Finnish pie, berry juice, and cookies while waiting around a campfire, creating a cozy, authentic vibe.

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Third Stop: Another Scenic Spot

After some time here, you’ll move on to a third location, which offers an extra chance to catch the Aurora or simply enjoy the Arctic landscape. This stop usually lasts about 15 minutes, giving guests a brief window to wander or relax. Some reviewers noted that even if the lights weren’t visible, the landscape alone made this stop worthwhile.

Return to Rovaniemi

The tour wraps up after the third stop, with the driver returning you back to your accommodation. Many guests appreciate the smooth logistics and friendly guides, who often share interesting facts about Lapland’s environment and culture throughout the journey.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Multiple Viewing Locations

Unlike some Aurora tours that stick to one spot, this experience visits three different locations. This approach significantly increases the chances of seeing the Northern Lights, especially since the Aurora’s appearance depends heavily on weather and cloud cover.

Local, Authentic Touches

The Lapland BBQ is a highlight—grilling sausages and marshmallows over a campfire is a classic Arctic experience. The Finnish pies, berry juice, and cookies add a warm, comforting element to the evening, which is especially appreciated given the freezing temperatures—reviewers warn to dress warmly as it can get down to -27°C.

Knowledgeable Guides and Photo Assistance

Guests consistently praise the guides, especially Daria, for their friendly attitude and helpfulness. One reviewer noted how she helped with camera settings, making it easier for amateurs to get good Aurora photos. This personalized attention adds value, especially when capturing the fleeting lights.

Transportation and Flexibility

With hotel pickup and drop-off included, logistics are fuss-free. The small group size and prompt service also create an intimate, comfortable environment—the kind of outing that feels more like a night out with friends than a tourist herd.

Unpredictability & Realism

While the tour does not guarantee Aurora sightings (as the lights are entirely natural phenomena), most reviewers agree that the experience is still worthwhile. Even if the lights don’t materialize, the stunning Arctic landscapes and the warmth of the fire round out a satisfying evening.

Considerations & Practical Tips

• Weather dependency: Always check the forecast and dress accordingly. Reviewers advise warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and layers.
• Timing: Pick-up begins at 19:30; arriving prepared ensures you won’t miss the start.
• Duration: The tour lasts about 3 hours, which is perfect for an evening outing but not overly long.
• Photography: Guides assist with photos, but bringing your own camera/phone with good low-light capability makes a difference.
• Cost vs. value: At $89, it’s a reasonable price for multiple stops, cozy BBQ, and expert guides—especially considering the included transportation.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Many travelers highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides. “Daria was great,” one reviewer shared, noting how she took photos and offered tips—all adding a personal touch to the adventure. Several guests mention the beautiful landscape views even without sighting the Aurora, emphasizing the tour’s scenic value.

The BBQ around the fire consistently receives praise, with guests mentioning the sausages, cookies, and warm berry juice as perfect complements to the Arctic cold. A few travelers mention how they managed to see the lights in all three locations, describing it as an “amazing experience” and “very good value for money”.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of Arctic scenery, cultural authenticity, and Aurora hunting. It suits those who appreciate guides with local knowledge and helpful photography tips, and who are happy to embrace some uncertainty in the Aurora’s visibility. It’s perfect for those looking for a social, cozy, and scenic Arctic adventure without spending a fortune or overextending their evening.

Keep in mind that if you’re after a guaranteed Aurora sighting, you might want to consider tours with a “guaranteed viewing” option. However, even without a guaranteed sighting, the stunning landscapes and authentic Finnish atmosphere make this tour a worthwhile addition to your Lapland itinerary.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, visits to three different locations, and a Lapland BBQ with sausages, cookies, berry juice, and marshmallows around a fire.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly with layers, warm shoes, and prepare for potentially extreme cold, especially if temperatures dip to -27°C. You might also want to bring a camera with good low-light capabilities.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, starting around 19:30 with hotel pickup, and concluding back at your accommodation.

Can I get photos of the Northern Lights?
Yes, guides like Daria help guests with camera settings and take photos, which they often send afterward. Bringing your own camera or phone is recommended.

Is there a guarantee I will see the Aurora?
No, Aurora sightings are dependent on weather and solar activity; the tour does not promise sightings but aims to maximize your chances.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The tour runs during the coldest months, from late autumn to early spring, when nights are long and the Aurora is most visible.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s a flexible option if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Rovaniemi Aurora Night Tour offers a memorable Arctic experience that combines the thrill of chasing the Northern Lights with the comforts of Finnish hospitality. The multiple stops, guided assistance, and cozy BBQ make it a strong value for those wanting to make the most of their Lapland adventure without breaking the bank.

It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes, friendly guides, and a relaxed atmosphere. While Aurora sightings aren’t guaranteed, the journey itself—full of scenic stops, cultural touches, and the chance to learn about Lapland—ensures you’ll leave with lasting memories and beautiful photos.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, approachable, and scenic Northern Lights experience in Rovaniemi, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to pack your warmest gear and keep your expectations flexible—sometimes, Mother Nature has her own plans.

You can check if your dates are available here: