Lapland: Aurora Hunting by Minivan with Guide and Transport

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the Northern Lights in their full glory, this Lapland Aurora Hunting by Minivan offers a friendly, no-fuss way to chase the auroras with guidance and comfort. While it might not guarantee a sighting—nature is unpredictable—the tour’s thoughtful approach makes it a smart choice for those who prefer a relaxed, well-organized experience rather than an all-night stakeout in freezing cold.

What truly stands out are two things: the convenience of being picked up right from your accommodation and the warmth and camaraderie fostered by gathering around an open fire to roast sausages. A potential drawback? If you’re a dedicated aurora chaser craving a longer or more immersive experience, this shorter, three-hour tour might feel a little limited. Still, for travelers who want a comfortable, guided outing with good chances of a sighting, this tour hits many marks.

This experience suits first-time visitors to Lapland, families with older children, or anyone wanting a simple, low-stress way to try spotting the Northern Lights without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate small-group settings and local guides who know the area well.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with a cozy minivan makes for a warm chase through Lapland’s winter landscape.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) offers a more intimate experience and personalized attention.
• Open-fire sausage roasting with hot drinks adds a fun, authentic touch to the adventure.
• Flexible stops at the best potential spots increase your chances of witnessing the Aurora.
• Weather considerations: the activity is suitable for conditions down to -25°C, but warm clothing and shoes are essential.
• Booking flexibility: free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later options make planning easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Hunting Experience

The Itinerary and Route

The tour lasts approximately three hours, with about two hours of driving through the scenic Ivalo, Inari, or Saariselkä areas. The route is carefully designed to maximize chances of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights, though the ultimate visibility depends on the weather and solar activity.

The driver and guide will pick you up from your accommodation, which is a big advantage—no need to navigate or find meeting points in the dark. The vehicle itself is a cozy minivan, providing a warm, sheltered environment—you’ll stay comfortable while waiting for the lights to make their appearance.

The Search for the Aurora

The guides are experienced in reading weather conditions and aurora forecasts. They will stop at various potential spots, often away from light pollution, to give you the best viewing opportunities. This flexibility is key—rather than sticking to a fixed schedule, your guides are tuned into real-time conditions, which can significantly improve your chances of seeing the lights dance.

The Open Fire and Hot Drinks

One of the most charming aspects of this tour is the time spent around an open fire. You’ll roast sausages over an open flame, a simple but nostalgic experience that adds an authentic Finnish touch. Along with this, you can enjoy hot drinks—tea, hot chocolate, or homemade hot berry juice. Many reviews praise this part of the tour, calling it a cozy highlight that turns a cold night into a memorable social event.

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The Guide’s Role

The local guides are a calming presence and experts at spotting auroras. They also provide background stories and answer questions about the Northern Lights, Lapland’s winter landscape, and local culture. Having a guide means you’re not just hoping for a sighting; you have someone actively working to increase your chances and explaining what you’re seeing.

Value and Pricing

While the tour’s cost includes transportation, guiding, and the open-fire experience, it does not include warm snow gear—a wise suggestion if you don’t have appropriate winter clothing. Gear rentals are available for an extra fee of 25 euros per person. Considering this, the overall value depends on your comfort level and willingness to layer up.

What Previous Travelers Say

Reviewers often mention the small group size as a major plus, noting that it offers a more personal experience. One said, “The guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and flexible. We appreciated the stops at potential viewing spots.” Others highlight the warmth of the vehicle and the fire, describing it as “a perfect balance of adventure and comfort,” especially during cold nights.

Practical Tips

• Dress warmly, including warm shoes and gloves. The activity is suitable down to -25°C, but staying warm makes the experience much more enjoyable.
• Bring a camera with a tripod if you’re keen on capturing the lights—although the guides are happy to help with camera settings.
• Have your hotel or accommodation address ready for pickup when booking.
• If you have dietary restrictions, specify vegetarian, vegan, or allergies—the guides accommodate these upon request.

The Weather and Aurora Visibility

The success of the tour hinges on weather conditions and aurora activity. Clear, cold nights are best, and the guides use forecasts to select the most promising spots. While no one can promise the Northern Lights, many travelers are pleased with what they see, especially given the convenience and comfort of this planned outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Aurora hunting tour is ideal for light travelers who value comfort and prefer a shorter, guided experience rather than an extended night outdoors. It’s perfect for families with older children, couples, or solo travelers seeking a manageable yet authentic Arctic adventure. If your goal is to maximize chances of seeing the Northern Lights without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself, this tour offers a balanced, friendly approach.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a comfortable, well-organized introduction to Northern Lights hunting, this tour delivers. The small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and the cozy ambiance around the fire all enhance the experience. You’ll leave with memories of a genuine Arctic evening—hot sausages, cold skies, and hopefully, a dazzling display of the auroras.

On the flip side, if you’re a seasoned aurora chaser or wanting a longer, more intense outing, you might find this three-hour adventure a little limited in scope. But for most visitors seeking a relaxed, authentic, and reasonably priced way to witness the Northern Lights in Lapland, this tour hits the sweet spot.

In essence, it’s a great choice for those who want to combine comfort with a taste of Arctic adventure, all wrapped up in the friendly guidance of local experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation is included in the price, and you’ll be taken on a scenic drive through Lapland’s winter landscape.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about three hours, with approximately two hours of driving and one hour by the fire.

Are warm clothing and shoes included?
No, but you can rent warm snow gear for 25 euros per person. It’s highly recommended to dress in layers, warm shoes, gloves, and hats.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, fostering a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years or wheelchair users, mainly due to the cold environment and vehicle constraints.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Since the activity is weather-dependent, poor conditions may prevent Northern Lights sightings, but the guides will do their best to find the best spots and inform you about the forecast.

You can check availability for your dates here: