Northern Lights Hunting with Aurora Workshop

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland, the Northern Lights Hunting with Aurora Workshop offers a well-rounded, engaging experience designed for travelers eager to both understand and see this natural spectacle. While it won’t guarantee a sighting every single night (cloud cover is always a wildcard in the Arctic), the combination of educational insight, expert guidance, and carefully chosen viewing spots makes this tour a solid choice for aurora enthusiasts.

We particularly appreciate the focus on learning—from the science behind the lights to photography techniques—making it more than just a “look and hope” adventure. Plus, the small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more intimate, less rushed experience. That said, if you’re sensitive to cold or prefer a more luxurious setup, it’s worth considering how to dress adequately or bringing extra warmth.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of education and adventure, appreciate being guided by knowledgeable locals, and want to maximize their chances of witnessing the aurora while learning how to capture it on camera.

Key Points

• Educational and practical: Combines science, cultural insights, and photography tips.
• Expert guides: Experienced guides monitor forecasts to improve your chances.
• Small groups: Limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.
• Included amenities: Warm drinks, snacks, and photos taken during the tour.
• Weather-dependent: Aurora sightings depend on weather and cloud cover.
• Value for money: Reasonably priced considering the included guidance, equipment, and local expertise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Aurora Experience

What the Tour Entails

This four-hour adventure starts at the Xwander Basecamp in Ivalo, where you’ll gather for a workshop covering the science of the Aurora Borealis and its cultural significance in Lapland. The guides do a commendable job explaining how and why these lights appear, along with forecasts and the best times for viewing. If you’ve ever wondered about the science behind the dancing lights or how to predict their appearance, this is your chance to learn.

Following the workshop, the group is equipped with winter overalls and boots—a thoughtful touch that helps protect against the Arctic chill. Afterward, a comfortable minibus whisks you away into the wilderness of Inari, one of the best areas for clear, dark skies away from city lights.

Why Location Matters

The guides use their extensive network of routes to find the most promising spots, often shifting based on cloud cover or aurora activity forecasts. This flexibility greatly increases your chances of seeing the lights. It’s worth noting that the area has minimal light pollution, which is crucial for optimal viewing. The landscape, with its open, dark skies, makes for a stunning backdrop, whether the aurora makes an appearance or not.

Learning and Photography

One of the most appreciated aspects, according to reviews, is the educational component. The guides share insights about how to photograph the Northern Lights, which can be tricky to capture with a smartphone or beginner camera. You’ll learn about settings, timing, and how to frame your shots to make the most of this fleeting phenomenon.

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What to Expect During the Evening

As the night unfolds, guides keep constant watch on weather conditions and aurora forecasts. If the skies cooperate, you’ll be treated to a spectacular display—or at least a faint glow if clouds obscure the full display. In one review, a participant noted, “We were lucky and actually able to see the aurora,” which highlights how chance still plays a role despite the planning.

Warm drinks and snacks are offered during the wait, making the experience cozy and social. Since infrared headlamps are used, you won’t disturb the night’s tranquility or interfere with your night vision. Guides also snap photos of your group, giving you some memories to take home.

How the Experience Renders Value

At $192 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package: expert guidance, proper gear, education, and the opportunity to photograph the aurora. When you compare this to other options that might only offer a drive or simple viewing, this experience’s added learning component and small-group intimacy stand out. It’s a good choice for travelers who want more than just a quick look, but rather a meaningful understanding of the phenomenon.

However, it’s important to note that the tour does not include thermal clothing—you’ll need to bring your own layers or consider renting gear if you’re sensitive to cold. Some reviewers wished for a more sheltered spot (like a cabin) to stay warm while waiting, especially if the weather is particularly harsh. Still, the guides’ use of infrared headlamps and hot drinks help mitigate this.

Authentic Experiences and Customer Feedback

Participants consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides. One reviewer mentioned, “Anne was so sweet; it was great to ask questions and chat,” highlighting how guides make the experience engaging and informative. Even when the weather doesn’t cooperate, many say they still enjoyed the trip and appreciated the effort to maximize their chances.

Another reviewer pointed out the value of the learning experience: “We also learned a lot about Finland itself from our guides Anne and Quentin, which was very nice.” The guides’ local knowledge adds depth beyond just chasing lights, turning the tour into a cultural as well as a natural experience.

A minor comment from a traveler was about wishing for more protection from the cold, emphasizing that comfort depends heavily on your clothing choices.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress warmly: Layer up with thermal underwear, a good insulated jacket, hat, gloves, and warm footwear.
• Bring a camera: Even a smartphone can work with the right settings, but a tripod helps.
• Snacks and flashlight: Pack some extra snacks if you’re hungry, and bring a flashlight for safety and convenience.
• Be flexible: Weather conditions can change rapidly; the guides do their best to adapt, but patience is key.
• Book early: Limited group size means spots can fill quickly, especially during peak aurora season.
• Rescheduling: The provider offers free rescheduling if conditions aren’t right, so don’t worry if your first date doesn’t work out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is best suited for travelers who are curious about the science of the Northern Lights, enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, and want an authentic, small-group experience. It’s perfect if you’re keen to improve your photography skills or simply want to maximize your chance of seeing the aurora with expert help.

However, if you are sensitive to cold or prefer a more luxurious experience, you may need to prepare adequately or consider additional options. It’s not wheelchair accessible, so mobility is a consideration.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Northern Lights Hunting with Aurora Workshop offers a thoughtful, well-organized experience that balances education, adventure, and local insight. Its strength lies in the expert guides who monitor weather and aurora forecasts, making every effort to find the best spots for viewing. The included photography tips and equipment are a bonus for those eager to capture the moment.

While the chance of witnessing the aurora depends on weather conditions—something no tour can fully control—the flexibility and local knowledge significantly improve your odds. The small group size fosters a more personal experience, allowing you to ask questions and connect with your guides.

This tour is a great choice for adventure-minded travelers who value a mix of learning and exploration. It’s particularly appealing for those who want to understand the science behind the lights and learn how to photograph them, making it an enriching part of your Lapland journey. Just come prepared for cold weather, and you’re set for an evening of Arctic wonder.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get a Northern Lights workshop covering science, forecasting, and photography, guide services, hot drinks and snacks, photos taken during the evening, infrared headlamps, and transfers from Ivalo.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 4 hours, with the starting times varying depending on availability. Check in advance for your preferred slot.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is limited to small groups and involves an Arctic outdoor environment, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in cold weather and with good mobility. Not wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
While the tour provides winter overalls and boots, you should bring your own warm clothing, a camera, snacks, and a flashlight.

Can I reschedule if weather conditions aren’t ideal?
Yes, the provider offers free rescheduling and the option to switch to another activity if weather conditions aren’t suitable for viewing auroras.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Even if you don’t see the lights, you’ll have learned about them and enjoyed a scenic Arctic night with guides who do their best to find clear skies.

Is it worth the price?
Considering the educational component, guidance, equipment, and the chance to improve your photography skills, many find the $192 fee reasonable for a memorable Arctic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: