Rovaniemi: Northern Lights Tour with BBQ

Planning a trip to Rovaniemi and eager to catch the elusive Northern Lights? This Northern Lights Tour with BBQ by SV Travel promises an evening full of scenic Arctic landscapes, warm Finnish hospitality, and hopefully, a dazzling aurora display. While the natural lights are notoriously unpredictable, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines nature, comfort, and authentic Lapland charm.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it emphasizes scenic exploration—you’re taken to three different spots outside the city lights—maximizing your chances of seeing the aurora. The added bonus of warming up with a traditional Finnish BBQ, complemented by hot berry juice and cookies, creates a cozy atmosphere amidst the chilly Arctic night. Plus, the opportunity to have your photos taken by guides makes this a memorable keepsake.

However, it’s worth noting that the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, so sightings aren’t guaranteed every night. This means patience and a bit of luck are part of the experience. If you’re after an authentic, guided Arctic outing that balances adventure with comfort, then this tour could be a great fit—especially for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and scenic stops rather than high-intensity activities.

Ideal for first-time visitors wanting a gentle Northern Lights chase, couples seeking a romantic Arctic evening, or anyone wanting a relaxed approach with included local treats. If you’re after a no-fuss, reasonably priced experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour ticks many boxes.

Good To Know

• Scenic Multiple Stops: Visiting three different locations outside the city increases the chance of seeing the aurora and enjoying diverse Arctic scenery.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, especially after a chilly night out.
• Authentic Finnish BBQ: Warming sausages, pie, marshmallows, and hot berry juice make the experience cozy and tasty.
• Photographic Memories: Guides are happy to take photos, helping you capture the moment.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
• Cost & Duration: At $85 per person for roughly 3 hours, the experience offers good value, especially considering the included food and transportation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Night: Hotel Pickup & Introduction

Your evening begins with a pickup from your Rovaniemi accommodation around 19:30, so it’s important to be ready outside your hotel a few minutes early. The tour operates in English, led by friendly guides who are well-versed in Arctic nature and local safety. From the start, you’ll notice how organized and considerate the guides are, making sure everyone is comfortable and prepared for the cold.

The Ride & Scenic Stops

Once aboard a comfortable vehicle, the journey takes you tens of kilometers outside the city, crossing snowy landscapes to reach the first of three scenic locations. The drive itself is part of the charm—traversing Arctic forests blanketed in snow, with the possibility of spotting wildlife like reindeer or moose along the way.

The stops are carefully chosen to avoid city lights and maximize dark skies, which are crucial for viewing the Northern Lights. While the guides can’t guarantee sighting—after all, nature is unpredictable—they do their best to pick spots with clear views and minimal light pollution.

What to Expect at Each Location

The first stop usually sets the tone: expect a quiet, open space, where the vast Arctic sky stretches overhead. Here, the guides may share insights about the Aurora Borealis, Lapland’s natural phenomena, and local folklore, enriching the experience.

The second and third stops offer similar opportunities, with each location carefully selected for its scenic beauty. Reviewers have mentioned seeing the Northern Lights at multiple spots, but with some caveats: “We saw Northern Lights in 3 different spots,” as one traveler shared, highlighting how moving around can sometimes increase your chances.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Cozy Fire & Finnish BBQ

Perhaps the most memorable part of this tour is the warm fire and delicious Finnish BBQ. Guides set up a fire where you can roast sausages and marshmallows, taste a slice of traditional pie, and sip hot berry juice—perfect for warming up after brave Arctic chills. This communal aspect not only makes the experience more authentic but also allows for relaxed chatting under the starry sky.

Guests often describe the guides as attentive—helping with photography, sharing local knowledge, and creating a welcoming atmosphere. One reviewer even noted, “The host took photos of us and shared at the end,” which is a nice touch for those wanting keepsakes.

The Challenge of Aurora Sightings

It’s important to remember that Northern Lights are unpredictable. Multiple reviews acknowledge this, with some travelers experiencing “good luck” and others not seeing the aurora at all. The guide’s role is to maximize your chances, offering scenic locations and clear skies, but the lights are ultimately a natural gift.

Duration & Price

At just about 3 hours, this tour offers a manageable evening activity, especially for those with packed itineraries. The cost of $85 per person is reasonable considering the included transportation, food, and photos. For many, this is a fair price for the chance to see the aurora and enjoy some genuine Lapland hospitality.

Authenticity & Practical Tips

This tour is straightforward but effective for those looking for an authentic Arctic experience without overly commercialized elements. The guides seem genuinely passionate, and reviews highlight their friendliness and helpfulness.

To get the most out of your night, dress warmly—layering is key since you’ll be outside for extended periods. Bring a camera, preferably with a tripod if you have one, as night photography in Aurora conditions can be challenging but rewarding.

While the tour is flexible with cancellations (full refund if canceled 24 hours before), it’s wise to keep expectations realistic regarding the Aurora. Weather conditions and solar activity will ultimately determine your chances.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Northern Lights Tour with BBQ offers a relaxed, scenic, and cozy Arctic adventure. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a balanced experience—combining nature, comfort, and cultural touches—without high adrenaline activities or complex logistics.

The experience’s strength lies in its knowledgeable guides, the variety of picturesque stops, and the inclusion of local, warming foods. The opportunity to have photos taken adds a valuable memory without extra cost.

While the chance of seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, many guests have appreciated the effort made to find the best spots and the genuine warmth of the guides. It’s a lovely way to spend an Arctic evening, especially if you prefer a gentle, well-organized outing with good company and authentic Finnish treats.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a Lapland BBQ with sausages, pie, marshmallows, hot berry juice, and photos taken by guides.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with starting times varying—check availability for specific schedules.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, pack warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and a camera. Dressing in layers is recommended for comfort outside in the cold.

Is there a guarantee I will see the Northern Lights?
No, as Aurora Borealis sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The tour maximizes your chances but cannot promise a sighting.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $85 per person, offering good value considering the included food, transport, and photos.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s ideal for first-time visitors, couples, or anyone wanting a relaxed Arctic evening with scenic stops and cozy refreshments.

To sum it up, this Rovaniemi Northern Lights tour delivers a friendly, scenic, and comfortable way to experience Lapland’s magic. While it doesn’t promise a sighting every night, the combination of beautiful stops, helpful guides, and warm Finnish food makes it a memorable Arctic outing worth considering—especially if you’re after a laid-back, authentic experience that balances nature and comfort.

You can check if your dates are available here: