From Rovaniemi: Night Tour in Search of the Aurora with BBQ

If you’re dreaming of catching a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights in the Arctic skies, this Night Tour in Search of the Aurora with BBQ might be just what you’ve been hoping for. While no experience can promise a sighting—nature keeps her secrets—the combination of multiple viewing spots, warm Finnish food, and expert guides makes this tour a compelling choice for aurora hunters.

What we like most are the carefully curated stops that maximize your chances of seeing the aurora, and the cozy, communal feeling around the fire with traditional Finnish snacks. On the flip side, a key consideration is the unpredictability of the Northern Lights—they’re a natural phenomenon, after all, and visibility depends on weather and solar activity.

This tour suits travelers who want a warm, guided adventure that combines Arctic scenery, cultural touches, and the thrill of hoping for a celestial light show. If you’re okay with some uncertainty but eager for a memorable outing, this experience might be perfect.

Key Points

• Multiple viewing locations enhance your chances of seeing the aurora.
• Warm food, drinks, and a campfire create a comfortable, social atmosphere.
• Expert guides help with photography and share local insights.
• Flexible booking options allow for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is cost-effective considering the included stops, food, and transportation.
• It’s suitable for those who don’t mind the cold and enjoy a relaxed, group outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Northern Lights Experience

When considering a tour like this, it’s worth remembering that chasing the Northern Lights is as much about the journey as the destination. You’re not just going out for a quick peek—this is a thoughtfully designed experience that aims to give you multiple chances to see the aurora and enjoy Lapland’s captivating winter scenery.

Price point: At $85 per person, this tour offers solid value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, three different locations, and a lap of Finnish hospitality—fire, food, and friendly guides. While it doesn’t guarantee a sighting, the multiple stops and expert guidance increase the odds, and the overall experience delivers plenty more than just potential aurora glimpses.

The Itinerary — Breaking Down the Experience

Starting from Rovaniemi, the tour begins with a pickup around 19:30. From there, the focus shifts to a series of carefully chosen spots designed to avoid city light pollution while offering spectacular Arctic views.

Stop 1: The First Photo Stop and Guided Walk

This initial stop serves as an introduction to the Arctic landscape. With a guided 40-minute walk, you’ll get a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the crisp, cold environment. According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often taking photos for travelers and sharing insights about the surroundings. This part sets a relaxed tone, allowing you to appreciate the stark beauty of Lapland’s forests and frozen lakes.

Stop 2: Viewpoint with BBQ and Warmth

The second location combines spectacular scenery with a cozy campfire. Here, you’ll have an opportunity to enjoy sausages grilled over the fire, as well as traditional Finnish treats like pie and cookies, along with hot berry juice. This stop is often highlighted as a highlight, especially for those who appreciate the social aspect of outdoor dining in a winter wonderland.

Many reviews mention the quality of food—the barbecue was praised for being tasty, with some guests even noting they could get extra sausages. The fire creates a warming focal point amid the cold, and the chance to chat with guides and fellow travelers adds a friendly, communal feel.

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Stop 3: The Secret Spot for Aurora Hunting

The final stop, often described as a “secret” location, is aimed at maximizing your chances of spotting the Northern Lights. It’s usually a short 15-minute walk and offers free time and photo opportunities. Several reviewers noted that even if the aurora was faint or absent, the scenery and atmosphere made it worthwhile. Some mention that the guides will stop when the lights appear, sometimes even pulling over on the road for last-minute sightings—a flexible approach that many appreciated.

Return to Rovaniemi

After approximately three hours, you’ll be transferred back to Rovaniemi, often with some memorable photos sent via guide’s phone, as one reviewer experienced. This personal touch added a layer of warmth to the trip, especially since capturing the lights often involves some skill and luck.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses comfortable, climate-controlled vehicles for transit, essential for winter journeys in Lapland. Pickup is straightforward, though travelers are asked to wait about 5 minutes near their accommodation or the specified pickup point—nothing too complicated.

Group size tends to be moderate, fostering a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded. This setup allows guides to offer personalized attention, including photo tips and local insights.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The Lapland BBQ is a standout feature, with many reviewers raving about the quality and warmth of the food. Grilling sausages over a campfire in the Arctic cold creates a vivid, tactile memory. The addition of Finnish pastries, cookies, and hot berry juice helps everyone warm up, making the experience more than just a hunt for the aurora—it’s a genuine taste of Lapland hospitality.

Guests have noted that guides are attentive, often taking photos for visitors and sharing stories about the landscape and local culture. The overall vibe is relaxed, friendly, and family-oriented, perfect for those who want a comfortable, authentic Arctic adventure.

The Weather and Aurora Visibility

Given Finland’s unpredictable winter weather, aurora sightings are never guaranteed. The tours are carefully designed to visit several locations, increasing your chances, but the lights depend on solar activity and clear skies. As one reviewer put it, “even though we only saw a small glimpse on the last stop, it was still enjoyable,” emphasizing that the journey itself is valuable.

Warm clothing and shoes are essential. The tour recommends bringing layers, as you’ll be outdoors for extended periods, often in temperatures as low as -27°C. The guides typically provide some tips on how to dress and photograph the aurora.

Value for Money

Compared to other Arctic excursions, this tour offers a good balance of cost and inclusions. For $85, you get transportation, three scenic stops, the outdoor BBQ experience, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. Reviews consistently highlight friendly guides and delicious food as key value-adding aspects.

While the main goal is aurora viewing, the added elements—hot drinks, hearty food, and the chance to capture photos—make this a well-rounded, memorable outing. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer guided experiences with some flexibility and a focus on comfort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers who want to combine the thrill of aurora hunting with a cozy, social atmosphere. If you’re comfortable in cold weather and enjoy outdoor dining and scenic drives, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

However, if your priority is a guaranteed sighting of the Northern Lights or a more private, exclusive experience, you might want to explore other options or consider combining this tour with additional nights of aurora chasing.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland—combining multiple scenic stops, warm local food, and friendly guidance—all in the quest for the Northern Lights. While it doesn’t promise a sighting, the carefully chosen locations, the chance to enjoy Finnish snacks around a fire, and the expert guides make it a solid choice for those seeking an authentic Arctic experience.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed adventure that balances hope with comfort, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, group camaraderie, and the warmth of Lapland’s hospitality, even when the sky remains silent.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, visits to three locations, and a Lapland BBQ by the fireplace with sausages, Finnish pie, cookies, and hot berry juice.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3 hours, with departure times varying. Check availability for exact starting times.

What should I bring?
Wear warm clothing and shoes suitable for outdoor winter conditions. Layers, hats, gloves, and thermal wear are recommended.

Is there a guarantee I will see the Northern Lights?
No. Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, which are unpredictable. The tour visits several spots to maximize your chances.

What kind of transportation is used?
Comfortable, climate-controlled vehicles are used for pickup, transfers, and return.

Can the guides take photos for me?
Yes, guides often take photos with their phones and send them to travelers, enhancing the souvenir collection.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially for those who enjoy outdoor winter activities and a relaxed social atmosphere.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

What if the weather is particularly bad?
If conditions are unsuitable, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, but this is rare. Always check the weather forecast and communicate with your provider.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, availability allows for booking close to the date, but it’s best to reserve in advance during peak season.

This tour promises not just a shot at witnessing the Aurora, but an inviting, warm adventure through one of the world’s most enchanting winter landscapes. It’s a solid pick for travelers eager to combine Arctic scenery, cultural comfort, and the hope of a celestial spectacle.

You can check availability for your dates here: